Ref-Watch: Brentford (H)

For the third time this season, we say hello to Keith Stroud here on Ref-Watch. That makes him our most regular official this term, so it’s fitting that he takes charge of the final game of 2015 at home to Brentford.

Earlier in the campaign, Stroud officiated Reading’s 2-0 win at home to Middlesbrough in October, when he awarded the Royals a penalty which Nick Blackman scored. A month later, he was the ref for our trip to Cardiff City which we lost 2-0. In total, the 46 year old has previously taken charge of 10 Reading games, of which we have won four, drawn one and lost three. He has previously sent off three players in games involving the Biscuitmen, with Matt Mills being the culprit on two of those occasions.

So far in 2015-16, the Hampshire official has refereed 25 games in all competitions, awarding 106 yellow cards (illuminati?!) and seven red cards. Stroud, who is a Luton fan, has also given four penalties.

The assistant referees for the Madjeski Stadium clash will be Ryan T Atkin and Mark Russell, whilst the fourth official will be Phil Gibbs.