Real Football Man All of the Football, All of the time
It’s time for another guest article now as Reading fan Oliver Walsh (who you can follow on Twitter here) returns. After the positive feedback from his post last week, he has now been awarded an extended contract and will be giving us a ‘View From The Madjeski’ each week.
So once again Oliver it’s over to you
A Dream Transfer Deadline Day:
As the final day of the January transfer window loomed, the general feeling around the club was one of content concerning our January transfer dealings.
Early on in the window, Brian Tevreden completed the signing of promising young centre back Thiago Ilori from Liverpool for a fee of £3.75m, a player who, when on top form, could comfortably compete in the top flight. Furthermore we finalised the signing of Romanian international Adrian Popa from Steau Bucharest for an undisclosed fee.
Although a striker would’ve been welcomed, the majority of fans were satisfied and assumed our transfer business was over, which couldn’t have been further from the truth.
The Royals managed to wrap three exceptional loan signings in Reece Oxford, Jordan Mutch and Lewis Grabban, all of which strengthen our first team line up in key positions as we enter a season defining period where promotion is becoming a realistic goal.
Moreover, Jaap Stam, despite having a weakened side due to injuries, masterminded an impressive third win in a row against Fulham, who subjected the Royals to a 5 – 0 whitewash earlier in the season.
Mixed Emotions After Ipswich Draw
Off the back off three convincing wins and with promising new players in our ranks, we were understandably confident as we looked forward to the weekend’s game against Ipswich, who sat in the bottom half of the table having not won in their previous four matches.
The line up was encouraging with new signing Jordan Mutch given a start and fellow new boys Oxford, Popa and Grabban on the bench. Liam Kelly’s recent stellar performances earned him a starting place with the only questionable players being Danny Williams at wing back and Tyler Blackett in defence.
In the first half Reading struggled to get a firm grip on the game and strikers Kermogant and Mccleary found themselves isolated up front. At the end of the first half, Ipswich capitalised as exciting youngster Tom Lawrence completed a flowing counter attack by smacking the ball in of off the bar.
At half time Grabban was given his debut, with an injured Swift making way. The Jamaican made an almost immediate impact as he assisted fellow debutant Mutch who slotted the ball past Ipswich shot stopper Bialkowski.
However less than 10 minutes later we were yet again behind as Tom Lawrence finished well following a defence splitting pass from McGoldrick, highlighting our incompetence at scoring when dominating games.
In the 78th minute Jordan Obita saved Reading’s blushes when he scored a brilliant volley from outside of the box; his first goal in three seasons.
Although we fought back twice and showed grit and determination, the Royals must feel that it is two points dropped rather than a point gained. Once again we need to work on finishing our chances when we’re on top.
Moreover we need to ensure that the midfield and wingbacks transition the ball from defence to attack with more urgency, otherwise we resort to hitting the ball long or lose the ball in defence.
Top of the Table Clash Against the Tykes
On Saturday we welcome Barnsley to the Madjeski, where our best football has come so far this season.
Our opponents currently sit in 9th position and, although it is a game we will be expecting to win, must not be underestimated after beating Leeds at the end of January.
I would like to see Mutch, Grabban and Oxford all given starts with Blackett making way for the young centre back.
Despite its lack of atmosphere the Madjeski has become a fortress for us so far this season; only losing two league games at home, hopefully it will prove to be the same this weekend.
Thanks Oliver and I look forward to your next installment
If you would like to give a view from your club on a weekly basis then please get in touch – you can email me at – realfootballmanwordpress@gmail.com
