Ref-Watch: Ipswich Town (A)

There will be a case of Deja vu at Ipswich on Saturday, as Eddie Ilderton takes charge, just as he did when Reading visited Portman Road in the 2011-12 season.

The Royals won 3-2 that day, one of three victories we have had with Ilderton in charge. Unfortunately, we've also drawn three and lost three games which he has overseen since, including a 5-2 defeat at Sheffield Wednesday last season.

Garath McCleary does have a fond memory of playing when the Tyne-Wear official has been in charge though, with the winger scoring four in one game when Nottingham Forest beat Leeds 7-3 back in 2012.

Enough of the history though, as by looking at Ilderton's statistics this season, you could suggest he is a very lenient official, as he has only given one red card and one penalty in 21 games so far in 2014-15 (as well as 70 yellows).

Talking of penalties and red cards, Ilderton was involved in a controversial incident last season in Sheffield United's 0-0 draw with Brentford.

The match official had no hesitation in pointing to the penalty spot when Brentford striker Marcello Trotta was tackled in the Blades' penalty area.

United defender Kieron Freeman then couldn't believe his eyes when the ref flashed the red card as he clearly played the ball but, after protests from his team-mates, Ilderton consulted his assistant Mark Dwyer.

He then recalled Freeman from the stands , rescinding the red and the spot-kick. Brave.

Let's hope for a more stable performance this weekend with Reading's trip to Suffolk...