The Tilehurst End - Sheffield Wednesday 0-3 Reading: Full CoverageReading FC blog run by fans, for fans.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52568/tte_fav.png2020-02-19T10:32:08+00:00http://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/rss/stream/209037652020-02-19T10:32:08+00:002020-02-19T10:32:08+00:00Anatomy Of A Reading Goal: Yakou Meite vs Sheffield Wednesday
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<img alt="Sheffield Wednesday v Reading - Sky Bet Championship - Hillsborough" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/s7RCPcldEe90nYv3M8W3eHf4zOY=/0x0:1754x1169/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66334662/1200872400.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Dave Thompson/EMPICS/PA Images via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Swift - Ejaria - Meite - goal. </p> <p id="M2vthG">There’s something particularly satisfying about a properly well-worked team goal, and Reading came up with exactly that on Saturday. Yakou Meite’s first-half strike not only opened the scoring and set the Royals on the way to a comfortable 3-0 win, but also capped off a beautiful move from defence to attack. </p>
<p id="kPd55I">Plenty has been said about the two most obvious elements in the goal: Ovie Ejaria’s assist and Meite’s finish. There’s also been praise (albeit to a lesser degree) for George Puscas’ involvement, which is either a deliberate leave or a subtle dummy depending on how you look at it.</p>
<p id="cS8dgq">But, on watching the footage back, there’s plenty more to learn from the move in its entirety. Great team goals aren’t just easy on the eye - they can also say a lot about how a manager wants their side to attack - and Meite’s opener was no exception. </p>
<h3 id="GXNpyK"><strong>Setting the scene</strong></h3>
<p id="VUMKPy">First up, the team selection. Reading 4-2-3-1 on the day as so: <em>Rafael; Yiadom, Morrison, Moore, Richards; Swift, Rinomhota; Meite, Olise, Ejaria; Puscas</em>. But before we get into the move itself, two things are worth bearing in mind:</p>
<ul>
<li id="YMophu">In previous games, key playmakers Ejaria and John Swift had been out of form</li>
<li id="RFkCmI">Reading hadn’t had a clear sight of goal on the day before this point</li>
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<p id="86CR3u">This context is, for me at least, very important. It’s worth remembering that the players involved in this move weren’t necessarily that high on confidence going into the game, and they weren’t in full flow before this point in the match. All in all, it makes the quality, intricacy and ruthlessness of the attack that bit more impressive.</p>
<p id="nJQMFx">That attack pretty much started when Swift, on this occasion lining up as a deep-lying playmaker in front of the back four and slightly behind box-to-box midfielder Andy Rinomhota, picked up possession from centre back Michael Morrison. </p>
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<cite><a class="ql-link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJHEW3XtSko" target="_blank">Sheffield Wednesday on YouTube</a></cite>
<figcaption>John Swift in possession at the start of the move</figcaption>
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<p id="q0T0e5">Great news for fans of Reading playing a midfield diamond: that shape is pretty much what allowed the Royals to open up Wednesday’s midfield at the start of the move. Soon after Swift receives the ball from Morrison, in a deep position but with plenty of space to work in, he essentially has three central midfielders to work with: Rinomhota ahead and slightly to his right, Michael Olise further up and Ejaria on the left.</p>
<p id="9rf8u2">Finding either of the first two is difficult for Swift, but Ejaria’s decision to drift infield from his starting position on the left of midfield handily provides a clear passing option. As shown by the image above, that pass isn’t an overly difficult one, but the key elements are Swift’s quality of pass and Ejaria’s speed in controlling the ball (shown below). Because of those factors, Reading can rapidly seize the space that’s opened up, turning slow build-up into a dangerous attack. </p>
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<p id="cU2mNn">I could watch that sublime touch from Ejaria on loop over and over again. However, even when bearing down on the Owls’ penalty area, he’s still got a lot of work to do, and this is where Bowen’s team selection and tactical tweaks higher up the pitch really come into play. </p>
<p id="lpCNZ0">Reading have used a number ten a fair amount this season, whether under Jose Gomes or Bowen, with that role typically going to either Swift or Ejaria. On this occasion though it was Olise who took it, which allowed Swift and Ejaria to go into positions that afforded them more space (Swift as a deep-lying playmaker, Ejaria on the left of midfield) - the space that both used to devastating effect in this move. </p>
<p id="TIterY">Olise played an important role in his own right too though. It’s his movement in the space between Wednesday’s defence and midfield (shown below) that pulls an Owls player away from Ejaria, thereby giving the Liverpool loanee even more room in the final third; Olise’s marker doesn’t know who to close down and ultimately closes down neither. Take Olise out of the equation and Ejaria’s driving run would get blocked off that bit quicker, thereby possibly shutting down the pass through to Meite too. </p>
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<p id="jrx0PU">When it comes to the pass that ultimately assists Meite for the goal, Ejaria’s quality is clear to see, but it’s worth noting that Ejaria actually has three options in front of him. Meite is making the most dangerous run by going into the penalty area - although playing him in on goal requires a pinpoint delivery, Puscas is a safer option if Ejaria wants to go into feet, and Olise can be slid in on the left - although Ejaria shifting to the right makes that tricky. </p>
<p id="5y34Le">Of course, there being more options doesn’t just help Ejaria - it scares the living daylights out of a backpedalling opposition defence. If there’s just one player around the penalty box in front of Ejaria, they can be crowded out and neutralised fairly easily, but three forwards is another prospect entirely. </p>
<p id="NcF8al">In the end though, Meite’s movement is exquisite. It’s not simply about him charging in behind the defence as fast as he can, but rather a case of timing his run from the exact moment the pass is on for Ejaria. Notice how, in the footage below, Meite holds back slightly before darting into the gap between centre back and full back as Ejaria shifts to the right. The Ivorian’s pure pace leaves no chance for Wednesday’s wrong-footed centre backs. </p>
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<h3 id="UfkCYe"><strong>In summary</strong></h3>
<p id="wUdtP2">I mentioned earlier that team goals can say a lot about how a team wants to attack, so what can we learn from Meite’s opener? Most obviously, it shows that Reading want to play through the lines, making use of their key creative players (Swift and Ejaria), and opening up the opposition with clever movement.</p>
<p id="589l6C">What it <em>doesn’t</em> show is Reading going direct up to lone striker Puscas. In this case, the Romanian’s job is to occupy two centre backs and not touch Ejaria’s through ball for Meite, rather than trying to hold the ball up. He looked better at that on Saturday, but it’s still not his strong suit. </p>
<p id="Xxk0nD">Indeed, playing Swift in a deep role just ahead of the defence allows Reading to build more purposeful, precise attacks than going direct up to Puscas. As shown at the start of the move, Swift has space to work in and express himself from, and the centre backs (in this case Morrison) are only too happy to let him do the complicated stuff rather than overplaying themselves.</p>
<p id="HR2e0I">That leaves just two outfield players to account for: fullbacks Andy Yiadom and Omar Richards. Although neither are involved in this move, you can see both of them in fairly advanced positions at different points, in particular Richards pushing down the left as a wide option for Ejaria. Having two dynamic fullbacks pushing on allows Reading’s advanced wide players - Meite on the right and Ejaria on the left - to come infield into more dangerous areas, which they did to devastating effect against Wednesday.</p>
<p id="BZDSbn">After a bright showing at Wednesday, the obvious question is whether or not this set-up will be used again. Reading have another daunting game at the weekend - Leeds United away - and Marcelo Bielsa’s side will inevitably present the Royals down with more aggression and organisation than Garry Monk’s. For all the praise Reading deserve for Meite’s goal, the Owls’ defending leaves a lot to be desired. </p>
<p id="toPDek">But it’s in games like the one at Elland Road when Reading’s system and method of attacking will be tested heavily, and hopefully learn a lot. </p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2020/2/19/21141331/anatomy-of-a-reading-fc-goal-yakou-meite-vs-sheffield-wednesday-royalsBucksRoyal2020-02-18T21:16:47+00:002020-02-18T21:16:47+00:00Tactics Review: Fluid Royals Comfortably See Off Wednesday
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<img alt="Sheffield Wednesday v Reading - Sky Bet Championship - Hillsborough" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/0SM70ZtyebNJsPXhSMC39yBzwFY=/0x0:2817x1878/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66331955/1200875843.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Dave Thompson/EMPICS/PA Images via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A closer look at the Reading set-up that yielded a much-needed away win at Hillsborough.</p> <p id="HZ5w7U">Reading travelled up to Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday afternoon without a win since New Year’s Day. In response to their defeat at the hands of West Bromwich Albion, Mark Bowen lined the Royals up in a 4-3-3 with three changes to his line-up.</p>
<p id="QzEU7C"><em>Rafael; Yiadom, Moore, Morrison, Richards; Swift, Rinomhota, Olise; Meite, Puscas, Ejaria.</em></p>
<p id="qbfTxU">In addition to the Owls playing the towering Atdhe Nuhiu up top, the wet and blustery conditions made it clear that the home side would be looking to use the weather to their advantage. With no Barry Bannan in the midfield for Wednesday, they lacked creativity and so consistently went long to try and pick out the big Kosovan. Despite a poor patch just after half time, especially for Liam Moore, Reading dealt with this threat relatively comfortably and found it easy to play their own football also.</p>
<p id="f0F5YF">With John Swift dropping into Pele’s holding role just in front of the defence and the tough-tackling Andy Rinomhota in front and next to Michael Olise (who was Reading’s main midfield threat in driving the play forwards), the Royals found a good balance in midfield in order to offer an attacking threat without being overpowered. </p>
<p id="tYWmiZ">Ovie Ejaria moving into the middle to outnumber the opposition midfield and link up some fluent passing moves allowed the fantastic Omar Richards space on the left to push forwards into the vacated space. One such movement from Ejaria was effective in leading to Reading’s opening goal, Ovie receiving the ball infield before driving forwards and slotting the ball through to Yakou Meite. The Ivorian himself had moved in from the wing with a great run, but a lot higher up the field, essentially able to offer a threat as a second striker when needed.</p>
<p id="7BVYor">Ejaria put in one of his best performances on the wing this season, managing to use his trickery to get Osaze Urhoghide sent off and link up with both Swift and Richards in attack. Most of Wednesday’s men were lunging into tackles all over the park and, apart from a short spell after half time, Reading managed to continue to play football while still showing their robustness.</p>
<p id="2qjSJI">With George Puscas putting in a great shift and showing an improved work rate, and Sam Baldock energetic off the bench, Reading always looked a threat and ended up comfortably winning 3-0. The most pleasing stat for Bowen was surely that all three forwards were on the scoresheet, after putting in performances that deserved the rewards they got.</p>
<p id="gblM06">One area in which Reading need to improve is their efficiency on the counter, squandering numerous opportunities with poor passes and replying on defensive mistakes in order to continue the attack (the foul on Rinomhota for Reading’s third). However, the introduction of Ayub Timbe and the explosive pace he showed on a couple of occasions late on in the game will give the Royals a much-needed alternative threat in attack, especially on the counter.</p>
<p id="3JlIxz">With Reading’s next game being a trip to Elland Road, it will most likely prove to be one of the toughest games they’ll play this season, but if they can demonstrate this defensive organisation and attacking threat, the Royals may well be able to continue the feel-good factor which is well and truly back. </p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2020/2/18/21142250/tactics-review-fluid-royals-comfortably-see-off-wednesday-reading-fc-royalsjamiewykes2020-02-17T10:00:00+00:002020-02-17T10:00:00+00:00Five Things From Reading’s Away Win At Sheffield Wednesday
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<img alt="Sheffield Wednesday v Reading - Sky Bet Championship - Hillsborough" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jGzAz3TY03WQo1cYmM0HOXTdUVA=/0x0:2866x1911/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66323860/1200872399.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Dave Thompson/EMPICS/PA Images via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Royals bounced back excellently on Saturday after an underwhelming run of form, and Jack has plenty of praise to dish out. </p> <h3 id="AEbrwW"><strong>Swift and Ejaria on song </strong></h3>
<p id="zWdPfS">In recent games, John Swift and Ovie Ejaria haven’t been at their best and struggled to hit the heights they had earlier in the season. However, both were on song at Hillsborough and usually when they both play well it leads to Reading getting a result. </p>
<p id="A1aMMl">Swift was playing deeper just in front of the defence and Mark Bowen described Swift after the game as being his quarterback. Playing deep allowed Swift to dictate play and he was always looking to move the ball forward quickly. This allowed Reading to transition from defence to attack and create numerous chances on the break. </p>
<p id="0wsWpT">Ejaria was playing out on the left and he gave Wednesday’s right back Urhoghide a torrid afternoon, leading to him being given a second yellow for a late challenge on Ejaria early in the second half. In possession, Ejaria came more central with Omar Richards providing the width on the overlap; coming inside allowed Ejaria a lot more space and allowed him to pick out a beautiful pass for Yakou Meite in the first half. </p>
<p id="5VysvM">Swift and Ejaria performing well again will be key if Reading are going to get anything out of the game next week away at Leeds United.</p>
<aside id="UYLved"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Sheffield Wednesday 0-3 Reading: Making Winning Look Easy ","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2020/2/15/21139174/sheffield-wednesday-0-3-reading-fc-making-winning-look-easy"},{"title":"Sheffield Wednesday 0-3 Reading: Player Ratings","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2020/2/15/21139148/sheffield-wednesday-0-3-reading-fc-player-ratings-royals-owls"}]}'></div></aside><h3 id="okyb94"><strong>Return of Rinomhota</strong></h3>
<p id="8ChYYS">Andy Rinomhota has struggled for game time since the arrival of Bowen and it was his first start in the league since December 21. Much of Rinomhota’s misfortune has been down to the good performances of Pele but the loanee was out of this game with an Achilles and groin injury. </p>
<p id="cgUI9f">Rinomhota wasn’t playing in defensive midfield where he had previously been played under Bowen, but instead was back in his best position as a box-to-box midfielder. This change of position, back to a role more similar to the one that saw him win player of the season last year, allowed him to shine. He was breaking up play and instantly bursting forwards which allowed Reading to stay on the front foot for much of the game. He added much-needed steel to the midfield and provided balance which allowed Swift to impress alongside him. </p>
<h3 id="kGbXAe"><strong>Dynamic fullbacks </strong></h3>
<p id="fnuPqk">Chris Gunter and Jordan Obita have been good for Reading this season but neither offer the dynamism and attacking threat that Richards and Andy Yiadom do. Both were excellent on Saturday - they didn’t give Kadeem Harris or Alessio Da Cruz any time on the ball whatsoever and I can only remember a handful of times that the Wednesday wingers managed to get a cross into the box. </p>
<p id="0g9ApE">Both Reading fullbacks were comfortable in possession and able to dribble past Wednesday players with ease. When Reading were on the attack, Richards and Yiadom provided width constantly, overlapping the players in front of them throughout the game. Then it was Yiadom’s excellent shot from distance which was turned in by George Puscas for Reading’s second goal.</p>
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<img alt="Sheffield Wednesday v Reading - Sky Bet Championship - Hillsborough" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7RP0_1uAFLlX0-ThHxPof_72iGM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19723732/1200872405.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Dave Thompson/EMPICS/PA Images via Getty Images</cite>
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<h3 id="fOWPdK"><strong>Battling Puscas </strong></h3>
<p id="atscZC">Puscas has struggled up front by himself for a while now and in past games his effort has come into question with many fans. However, in this game, Puscas’ effort and application were excellent and he was deserving of his goal during the second half. The Romanian’s hold-up play was much improved and he impressively left Ejaria’s pass during the first half to allow it to go through to Meite. </p>
<p id="N6RKBF">With the money Reading invested in Puscas over the summer and the contract they gave him, I think it is important that Reading stick with Puscas and give him the opportunity to come good. After goals in consecutive games for the first time in a Royals shirt, let’s hope Puscas can push on and score more goals before the end of the season.</p>
<h3 id="kqNO5e"><strong>Midfield movement </strong></h3>
<p id="ARPekb">In my last piece I <a href="https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2020/2/14/21136941/five-things-from-reading-fc-narrow-loss-to-west-brom-royals-baggies">talked about Reading’s lack of movement in attack</a>, but Michael Olise’s introduction to the team was arguably more important for his work out of possession than what he did on the ball. Olise was constantly on the move and often coming deep to collect the ball along with offering out wide when Meite and Ejaria drifted inwards. This movement allowed other players to pick up pockets of space and made Reading a lot more unpredictable going forwards. </p>
<p id="CjnjU1">Olise occasionally gave the ball away cheaply and was subbed off for Charlie Adam in the second half as Bowen looked to add some experience and hold onto the win. However, the youngster was very impressive overall and once again proved to Bowen just how much quality he has.</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2020/2/17/21140021/five-things-from-reading-fc-away-win-at-sheffield-wednesday-royals-owlsThe Tilehurst End Guest Writer2020-02-17T07:30:00+00:002020-02-17T07:30:00+00:00Sheffield Wednesday Fans Verdict: Perfect Response From The Royals
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<p>How the fans reacted to the perfect away performance from the Royals, as they showed once again just what this team could be capable of.</p> <p id="KJOdSH">Fans, manager and players alike would’ve all been expecting a reaction to the disappointment of the last two league games - especially the loss last time out at the hands of league leaders West Bromwich Albion.</p>
<p id="wYZIYR">That is exactly what the players provided, and in some style. Goals from Yakou Meite, George Puscas and Sam Baldock sealed a fantastic result for Mark Bowen’s men and one that the fans are certainly hoping could be the catalyst for a strong end to the season.</p>
<p id="axhYFk">The performance was pretty much the perfect away performance, albeit against 10 men for last 40 minutes. Swift and Ejaria were back to their sumptuous best; all three strikers managed to get themselves on the scoresheet and some fantastic football was played at times - happy days.</p>
<p id="8Zx75G">Despite the horrible weather conditions brought to Sheffield by Storm Dennis, there was certainly a lot for the fans to be gleaming with and they took that glee to social media after the game...</p>
<h2 id="yl1HFb"><strong>Ovie Ejaria</strong></h2>
<p id="OgZq1e">We all know how good this bloke is at football - I’m pretty sure the whole of the league does by now. However, in recent weeks, Ovie has found it difficult as teams have started to target him and try even harder to nullify him - and it’s worked.</p>
<p id="4rwLZC">Ovie has also been accused of lacking end product too recently, but he put those doubts to the sword on Saturday afternoon with a wonderful assist for opening goal - and that is what he has to do consistently to really take his game to the next level.</p>
<p id="2Bs9qk">He’s a supremely talented player, and we are extremely lucky to have him - hopefully we begin to see this kind of end product on a more consistent basis now, because the fans will love him more than they already do if that's possible...</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Have always said if swift and ejaria both have good games. Reading have a good game... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Joel Shelton (@joel_shelton) <a href="https://twitter.com/joel_shelton/status/1228756867977007111?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">That’s a ridiculous pass. If that’s De Bruyne into Aguero people would be going mad about it.</p>— Rob Knight (@robknight95) <a href="https://twitter.com/robknight95/status/1228729517885263872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ejaria doing his magic for the goal <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Miles (@Milesyyy12) <a href="https://twitter.com/Milesyyy12/status/1228701390035353600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">What a pass from Ejaria <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Rob Molloy (@Dobcheck73) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dobcheck73/status/1228701669518643200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<p lang="es" dir="ltr">EJarIa HAs nO EnD PRodUcT <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/q9brvjBzBz">https://t.co/q9brvjBzBz</a></p>— Ed Ryding (@EdRyding) <a href="https://twitter.com/EdRyding/status/1228701773692653569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">After a poor few weeks, Ejaria was much better today, this is what he needs to be doing on a regular basis. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/ILPBbDgXgB">https://t.co/ILPBbDgXgB</a></p>— Harrison Mitchell (@harrison1871rfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/harrison1871rfc/status/1228729278432456704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SkyBetChamp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkyBetChamp</a> Pass/Assist of the day goes to Ovie Ejaria, <a href="https://twitter.com/ReadingFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ReadingFC</a> What a player he is! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/vrt2QFdtCz">https://t.co/vrt2QFdtCz</a></p>— Jamie Gorman (@OfficialJGorman) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialJGorman/status/1228992335159136256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2020</a>
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<h2 id="kopfkO"><strong>Away support</strong></h2>
<p id="u0Hjit">There is no better feeling in football than an away day win - none whatsoever. And that theory was proved to be true yet again against Wednesday. We are, famously, not famed for our away support but the Loyal Royals were in full flow on Saturday afternoon in the torrential rain of Storm Dennis.</p>
<p id="rBsIgd">Hopefully the 3-0 win was the start of a promising end to the season and, if it is, hopefully its also a start of an increase in away and home support because if the players turn up and put performances in like they did on Saturday, then the fans will continue to respond...</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The atmosphere was great again today in the Ding away end. Some great classic chants and some very funny ones too. Another great day out and another great laugh. Especially enjoyed taking my shoes off for the: SHOES OFF IF YOU LOVE READING URRRRZZZZ ⚪️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Oli Bryant (@OliB_RFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/OliB_RFC/status/1228732474576064512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<div id="vSNAOB">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Quality away tbf couldn’t ask for much more <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— jack (@jacklawrfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/jacklawrfc/status/1228726626080481281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<div id="CgAzfI">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The scenes!!!! 2-0 up!! <br><br>Haha absolutely embarrassing!! Sheffield Wednesday FC fans are leaving!!!<br><br>Is there a fire drill?<a href="https://twitter.com/swfc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@swfc</a> 0-2 <a href="https://twitter.com/ReadingFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ReadingFC</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SHWvREA?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SHWvREA</a> <a href="https://t.co/e1BoM612FA">pic.twitter.com/e1BoM612FA</a></p>— Reading FC Blue And White Wall (@bluewhitewall) <a href="https://twitter.com/bluewhitewall/status/1228719845371514881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<div id="Wshedg">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tell you what the was the best away atmosphere I've witnessed from us in a long long time. Roll on Leeds. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Tom Mitchell (@Tom_1871) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tom_1871/status/1228732742688559104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<div id="3vE3vi">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">What an away day <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— cameron macken (@ronniemac93) <a href="https://twitter.com/ronniemac93/status/1228729646625296386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<div id="gSWSWs">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great atmosphere in the away end again today. Socks a bit damp though .. " shoes off if you love Reading! " Reminiscent of Cardiff away 2nd leg play off semi final <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Andy Bryant (@andybryant28) <a href="https://twitter.com/andybryant28/status/1228728290225070082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<h2 id="aNrC8p"><strong>Perfect performance</strong></h2>
<p id="AQhuAV">The fans needed a response, the fans deserved a response and that fans got exactly that. </p>
<p id="r34TbB">The performance was everything you could possibly expect and hope for from a fan’s perspective. The players defended resolutely, hardly gave a Wednesday a clear-cut chance all game and were clinical when chances came their way.</p>
<p id="7PDex5">The fans were given the perfect performance and the biggest reason to travel home to Berkshire happy from a rainy, windy and just all-round awful Yorkshire day...</p>
<div id="r31ryy">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great performance today from the lads 3-0 taken quickly great goal from meite and first win since New Year’s Day hopefully we can kick in from here Leeds (a) next week then Barnsley and Wigan at home should win them then united in the cup we’ll done URZz <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— oliver w (@Wallsy1871) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wallsy1871/status/1228737441600802816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<div id="S2EuAS">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">10 men or not, what a result, up the royals. Celebrating tonight <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Louie Mitchell (@louiemitch4) <a href="https://twitter.com/louiemitch4/status/1228723813594124288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<div id="xs3MkQ">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Super Sam!! What a result urzzzzzzzz <a href="https://twitter.com/ReadingFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ReadingFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Richard Crewdson (@crewy100) <a href="https://twitter.com/crewy100/status/1228723948327587840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<div id="d4e75A">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Fantastic result at a ground where we rarely seem to do well <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/2fb2nsD7tw">https://t.co/2fb2nsD7tw</a></p>— Jonathan Richards (@JR_1871) <a href="https://twitter.com/JR_1871/status/1228725336038346752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<div id="kleTtb">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great result for RFC! all 3 strikers score. Clean sheet. Sheff Wed must be bad. delighted for Puscas especially. Back into mid-table. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Stevie p (@stevie_p1871) <a href="https://twitter.com/stevie_p1871/status/1228726364922138624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<div id="es8y2f">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Top reaction to a poor midweek performance, that. Wednesday were pretty bad overall but still needed a good effort from us to get something. More like that please <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Dave (@shakefon) <a href="https://twitter.com/shakefon/status/1228726766476419075?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<div id="mo6fC9">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Cracking to see Puscas and Meite performing well and Baldock on the score sheet. Really good performance and something to build on. To get a top half finish would be a good season imo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rfc</a></p>— Harry Sands (@SarryHands) <a href="https://twitter.com/SarryHands/status/1228733577325686786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a>
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<h2 id="259mmg"><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2>
<p id="4uYv0K">A fantastic day, a fantastic performance and a fantastic result. Hopefully a day we can look back on on being a little bit of a turning point having struggled in recent weeks. We are still moving in the right direction and have been ever since Bowen took over.</p>
<p id="4nwqwA">URZ</p>
<p id="6xJfdD"></p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2020/2/17/21139750/sheffield-wednesday-fans-verdict-perfect-response-from-the-royals-reading-fcharry.chafer2020-02-16T22:39:42+00:002020-02-16T22:39:42+00:00The Tilehurst End Podcast Episode 221: Sheffield Salvation
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<p>Reading finally recorded a league win with a satisfying stroll past Wednesday.</p> <div id="wlvvKA"><iframe title="The Tilehurst End Podcast Episode 221: Sheffield Salvation" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/rswga-d3e84e?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>
<p id="9bvsh9">Mark Bowen’s Reading FC side won their first Championship game since New Year’s Day in convincing fashion on Saturday, downing Sheffield Wednesday 3-0.</p>
<p id="Q4A7vz">The Tilehurst End Podcast reconvenes to review the game with Marc Mayo joined by Simeon Pickup straight off the train from Yorkshire, the pair recapping the week’s games before answering your mailbag questions, reviewing the club news, and previewing the trip to Leeds.</p>
<p id="X4Lji9">Sponsored by ZCZ Films, The Tilehurst End Podcast can be taken in via <a href="https://thetilehurstend.podbean.com/"><strong>PodBean</strong></a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0T6sVhHKu2snqK8xlmIiUt"><strong>Spotify</strong></a>, Acast, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6aQZnCxP2bn6zlQS5zJOcA"><strong>YouTube </strong></a>or <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fgb%2Fpodcast%2Ftilehurst-end-reading-fc-podcast%2Fid683251263%3Fmt%3D2&xcust=xid:fr1574717727752bah%7Cxid:fr1578928485207gfd%7Cxid:fr1581890828528iib" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>iTunes</strong></a>. Furthermore, thanks to all listeners who continue to pledge to our <a href="http://www.patreon.com/thetilehurstend"><strong>Patreon </strong></a>campaign.</p>
<p id="liKyUz">Listeners can always get in touch with the podcast via our Twitter and Facebook pages as well as our email, thetilehurstend@gmail.com, with thoughts on the show, opinions on the team, and potential topics to sink our teeth into always welcome.</p>
<p id="YiFHXg"><a href="https://thetilehurstend.podbean.com/mf/play/ekqdgd/Episode_221.mp3"><em><strong>Download the show here</strong></em></a>.</p>
<h2 id="cs3PPA">Show Order</h2>
<p id="fQJQlC">Recap - <strong>02:02</strong></p>
<p id="j3zjCF">Mailbag -<strong> 23:54</strong></p>
<p id="MGYRw7">Newsbites - <strong>46:42</strong></p>
<p id="eZvXHE">Big Match Preview - <strong>49:13</strong></p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2020/2/16/21140193/reading-fc-podcast-tilehurst-end-221-sheffield-wednesdayMarc MayoBucksRoyal2020-02-16T10:36:26+00:002020-02-16T10:36:26+00:00Mark Bowen Highlights ‘Intelligence’ In Comfortable Win At Sheffield Wednesday
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<img alt="Sheffield Wednesday v Reading - Sky Bet Championship - Hillsborough" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/HPdpZj5j9-T6AWwxTvGRszozQzY=/0x0:3234x2156/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66320625/1200875727.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Dave Thompson/EMPICS/PA Images via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The gaffer’s full breakdown of Reading’s 3-0 away win at Hillsborough.</p> <p id="3Afnzw">The Royals returned to form with a brilliant 3-0 victory against Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough. Goals from Yakou Meite, George Puscas and Sam Baldock secured all three points which keeps us 11 points away from the relegation area. It was a comfortable win overall and Mark Bowen praised his side. He spoke to the <a href="http://www.readingfc.co.uk">official club website</a> and <a href="https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/bowen-reaction-reading-sheffield-wednesday-17754865">GetReading</a> after the game.</p>
<h3 id="0EJ11A"><strong>Bowen on getting back to winning ways</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="PkaERu">“It seems to have been a little too long coming! We’ve drawn games and a couple of losses, so it was important that we got back to winning ways. Obviously I’m delighted with the result and the performance. But it was more about what they took on board. Coming into the game, with the conditions being as they were, I was emphasising that we needed to play intelligent football.</p>
<p id="FHhYRb">“Making the right decisions and choices, and not putting yourself under pressure at the wrong times. And when you get a chance to get it down and play, doing that as well. We did all of those things.”</p>
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<h3 id="539kxE"><strong>Bowen on the game</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="NChKGX">“It was about showing the right footballing intelligence in the game and not putting ourselves under pressure. In fairness we started a bit slowly in the first five or 10 minutes but as we grew into the game, Swift, Olise and Ejaria all got onto the ball and were controlling possession.</p>
<p id="qFvd3W">“In the last few games we’ve been in front but have been pegged back so when we did get our noses in front it was about showing what we’re about. Before the Cardiff game when we had been in front we’d gone on to win the game so it was important we managed it right today. It was added pressure at half time so it was about managing it right in the second half.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="bGRsqr"><strong>Bowen on Olise’s penalty shout</strong></h3>
<blockquote><p id="JgypTy">“I thought we should have had a penalty - I asked Olise at half time, he said he got kicked in the box and it was a definite penalty but it wasn’t given. We had that disappointment to deal with and although they got a man sent off we were professional in the way we handled the game.”</p></blockquote>
<h3 id="UNBUOG"><strong>Bowen on Ejaria’s quality</strong></h3>
<blockquote><p id="AP29Bn">“He’s special isn’t he - he picked the right pass. We did some work with him in the week - and Meite too - not just playing in straight lines and making sure they cut inside and joining alongside Puscas - like what West Brom did to us in midweek. They bought into it really well. Yakou made the run and it was a good finish.”</p></blockquote>
<h3 id="ZezAIQ"><strong>Bowen on Swift’s deeper role</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="HJ20Xg">“We had the disappointment of losing Pele. He’s been playing with a groin problem and he’s probably only been 85-90 per cent fit. It flared up again and I’m not sure yet if he will be available for Leeds. </p>
<p id="nSfFVc">“I wanted Rinomhota driving on from midfield and showing those qualities in his game. I wanted John Swift in that quarter back role to get on the ball and play and he did that very well.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="4G0AgS"><strong>Bowen on Obita’s injury</strong></h3>
<blockquote><p id="K3kEnP">“He had a kick on his ankle so we’re waiting on him. He will have a scan. We’ve got seven or eight players out injured but we’ll get on with it and the players who have come in have proved they can do a great job.”</p></blockquote>
<h3 id="h1ZErx"><strong>Bowen on play-off aims</strong></h3>
<blockquote><p id="oyDd2I">“I’ve got to be careful in putting pressure on the players but until it’s mathematically possible all we can do is win as many games as we can. We’ve made it harder for ourselves but we’ve made it possible with the fantastic work we did around Christmas. I’m happy to get a long overdue win on the board. But it is one win - that’s all it is.”</p></blockquote>
<h3 id="D6f2hG"><strong>Bowen on looking up</strong></h3>
<blockquote><p id="wzXMT8">“This club has had too much disappointment over the past few years so we’re trying to build something. Maybe it won’t happen overnight but we’ll try and produce something fans can be happy with and make the club stronger and be able to compete in this league.”</p></blockquote>
<h3 id="tnaQJI"><strong>Bowen on Leeds next weekend</strong></h3>
<blockquote><p id="gxC5sQ">“I have to make a decision - how much to work and how much rest do I give the players. We’ve got five games in 14 days after that game so I have to mix up the work in training and giving them respite. It’s hard for my staff and players. You end up saying the same things at times so you have to keep that freshness.”</p></blockquote>
<p id="6tT3uZ"></p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2020/2/16/21139704/mark-bowen-highlights-intelligence-in-reading-fc-comfortable-win-at-sheffield-wednesday-royals-owlssophierfc102020-02-15T22:13:59+00:002020-02-15T22:13:59+00:00Sheffield Wednesday 0-3 Reading: Making Winning Look Easy
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<img alt="Sheffield Wednesday v Reading - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/iyZ6AajWtp3kNnCeJ0lc1TRjG-Y=/0x0:3927x2618/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66319501/1206460056.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Nigel Roddis/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Goals from Yakou Meite, George Puscas and Sam Baldock were enough for a comfortable win on the road at Hillsborough. </p> <p id="UJGwwa">You’d be forgiven for forgetting that, prior to Saturday’s 3-0 win at Hillsborough, Reading hadn’t won in the league since New Year’s Day. Such was the comfortable nature of the Royals’ victory that, by full time, it felt like the kind of routine Championship three points that only good sides are capable of.</p>
<p id="cpBGok">Reading weren’t at their very best - they didn’t need to be - but all the elements of a comfortable win were there: a show of attacking quality to break the deadlock (thanks to Ovie Ejaria’s defence-splitting pass for Yakou Meite), the home side going down to 10 men after Ejaria proved too hot to handle, an opportunistic second to shore up the lead, and a third to round off the win.</p>
<p id="lfUPmi">Given that worsening performances had both increased worries about the direction Reading are heading in, and prompted doubts from some over Mark Bowen’s new contract, the comprehensive nature of Saturday’s result was hugely valuable. Not just a scrappy, lucky 1-0 win to paper over the cracks, but the kind of day that does an awful lot to expel those worries and doubts.</p>
<p id="FupgZg">What’s more, it was a reminder of just what this side is capable of. The way Reading mixed it up against an admittedly poor Sheffield Wednesday side was reminiscent of how the Royals won games during the December surge: happy to absorb pressure and do the scrappy work at times, but also keen to express ourselves on the ball through chief creators Ejaria and John Swift.</p>
<aside id="kkIasy"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Sheffield Wednesday 0-3 Reading: Player Ratings","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2020/2/15/21139148/sheffield-wednesday-0-3-reading-fc-player-ratings-royals-owls"}]}'></div></aside><p id="iWlKmG">Reading’s system felt familiar too; although there were personnel differences between the December side and the one that beat Sheffield Wednesday, the overall shape was pretty much the same. In both cases, a 4-2-3-1 with a ball-player dictating from deep (Swift/Charlie Adam), Ejaria and Yakou Meite coming infield from their wide positions to support the striker, and a strong focal point. George Puscas did a much better job of replicating the ‘Lucas Joao role’ than he has done previously, and the creative players behind him benefitted as a result. </p>
<p id="wSsEVB">It’s somewhat ironic that, given how much Bowen has experimented tactically over the last month or so, it was (more or less) a return to a previous system that paid off. </p>
<h3 id="rRvV0d"><strong>First half</strong></h3>
<p id="Ep4SIy">Reading took their time to get into their stride. Sights of the Sheffield Wednesday goal were scarce in the first 20 minutes, with Andy Rinomhota having the first really good one, collecting Puscas’ lay off and - instead of shooting from just outside the area - dallying and squaring the ball to his right into empty space, apparently assuming Meite was there when he wasn’t. </p>
<p id="tAgwBq">Shortly after that was the Royals’ first proper show of quality, and of course it came from Ejaria. The loanee charged upfield through the middle, confident as you like, and threaded a through ball into the path of the onrushing Meite, who’d drifted in off the right into goalpoacher territory before slotting the ball home.</p>
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<img alt="Sheffield Wednesday v Reading - Sky Bet Championship" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_CcoNqaAReos7bdc8Q8-rf13dQk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19722599/1206455712.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Nigel Roddis/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="ZEc3gt">That goal pushed Reading up a few gears, and they started to take express themselves more and more thanks to their fluid, dynamic midfield. Michael Olise had license to move away from his number-ten role in search of the ball, which he could use well thanks to his sharp passing ability, Swift put Reading on the counter a few times by driving upfield from his deep position, and Ejaria drifted in off the left to support attacks.</p>
<p id="UNBLhK">When Reading had momentum behind them, that midfield looked bright and positive. But my worry with it going forwards would be that, against better opposition, a lack of steel and presence could be exploited. Indeed, the scrappier the game became - which Garry Monk’s Wednesday were all too keen to make happen - the less convincing the midfield looked. To be fair, that was in large part due to an injury to Pele - who has the strength and clout to impose himself on a scrappy match.</p>
<p id="fkHWVp">His absence meant Reading got to half time fairly comfortably, but not as comfortably as they would have liked. However, we should have had a penalty around half an hour in when Olise was felled in the area - bizarrely waved away by the referee.</p>
<h3 id="OMv58H"><strong>Second half</strong></h3>
<p id="MK7RvL">The next key moment in the match came early in the second half, and it was again thanks to Ejaria. Bursting down the left wing, he was brought down before he could get into the box, earning Osaze Urhoghide a second yellow card and the proverbial early shower that comes with it - although Storm Dennis’ battering of Hillsborough meant that probably wasn’t necessary.</p>
<p id="u6Auhd">Although Reading couldn’t immediately make the most of their man advantage, that red card knocked the stuffing out of an already frustrated Hillsborough crowd. Wednesday have, like Reading, been on poor form recently, and the sending-off was just one a series of refereeing decisions that riled up the Owls faithful and shot the belief of the home team. Even when they started to build a bit of momentum before the Royals’ second, it was easily repelled and came to little.</p>
<p id="vwDcex">In fact, it dissipated entirely when Puscas touched the ball home for 2-0. The ball came out to Andy Yiadom after Charlie Adam’s corner, and the Ghanaian lashed a shot at goal from range. To me in the away end, it looked like his effort had somehow snuck into the net, but replays showed that Puscas had added a decisive touch. It should have been 3-0 not too long later, when the ball fell to Ejaria with only the goalie to beat, but he lacked the composure to finish. </p>
<p id="Y8Fen3">Nonetheless, the closing 20 minutes or so were comfortable for Reading. The away end were in fine voice and took their chance to enjoy an impending win on the road - including singing the praises of goalscorer for Puscas when he went off, Ayub Timbe came on for his debut, and fellow substitute Sam Baldock made it 3-0 from the spot after Rinomhota was brought down in the area. All in all, they were the finishing touches that nicely rounded the victory off.</p>
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<img alt="Sheffield Wednesday v Reading - Sky Bet Championship - Hillsborough" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/rDxJMgAvIIAbLmu34UkptRpOXN0=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19722601/1200875851.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Dave Thompson/EMPICS/PA Images via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h3 id="5zsonx"><strong>Closing thoughts</strong></h3>
<p id="LEMdyK">For the time being, this match keeps Reading ticking over nicely. Had the Royals lost to Sheffield Wednesday, the pressure on both the team and manager would have built up that little bit more, but the manner in which the winless run has been decisively ended feels like it’s calmed a lot of nerves. Reading are still capable of winning comfortably, and repeating this result a few more times - even if we don’t fully rediscover our consistency - means we’ll have enough to stay wedged in mid-table.</p>
<p id="6Kc1ZA">But a lot of the positives to come out will count for little if they’re not built on. Besides the obvious point of Reading needing to now string a few wins together if they’re to push up the table, a few players had good afternoons after being under pressure individually, and must now show they can put that behind them. Swift and Ejaria had lost form in January in tandem with Reading’s mini slide, but were much improved on Saturday, while Puscas put in a strong goalscoring shift as a lone striker to buy himself some goodwill after his inconsistent season. </p>
<p id="QWieqy">We could well look back on this game at the end of the season as one that was the springboard for a revival, or as a good day in an up-and-down finale. </p>
<p id="mxZaqA"></p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2020/2/15/21139174/sheffield-wednesday-0-3-reading-fc-making-winning-look-easyBucksRoyal2020-02-15T20:01:20+00:002020-02-15T20:01:20+00:00Sheffield Wednesday 0-3 Reading: Player Ratings
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<img alt="Sheffield Wednesday v Reading - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/OQA8xqKo_0z42fO_tDpCH4qJnCQ=/59x0:3362x2202/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66319187/1206454405.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Nigel Roddis/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Reading put poor recent performances behind them with an impressive display in Sheffield. </p> <h3 id="7majYd"><strong>Rafael: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="s85N3L">A pretty quiet afternoon for Rafael, who mostly just had to stay in control of his box and deal with long-range efforts that came his way. Probably the biggest scare was a low ball across goal in the early stages that he dealt with well before Richards cleared. </p>
<h3 id="nnSrXp"><strong>Andy Yiadom: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="gw1Tch">Got forward well down the right, and on the whole looked confident in an attacking sense. He essentially created the second goal, with his long-range strike converted by George Puscas, hence being bumped up to a 7/10. Defensively, he had a tough time at points, but wasn’t overly exposed.</p>
<h3 id="xlFYSL"><strong>Michael Morrison: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="HGJIE4">Solid at the back again. He’s looked more vulnerable in recent weeks when he’s had the ball at his feet more, thereby inviting pressure and causing problems for Reading’s defence. But the midfield taking more responsibility creatively, and forwards Puscas and Meite being better targets to hit, made Morrison’s life easier. </p>
<h3 id="RYwywI"><strong>Liam Moore: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="pqCvGV">One worrying moment in the second half when he let a pass forward bounce over his head, allowing a Wednesday forward in to fire into the side netting, but overall he was solid against a poor home side. Also put in some key defensive moments, including blocking a cross in agile fashion in the second half at 1-0.</p>
<h3 id="8L7iFP"><strong>Omar Richards: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="uGjgKQ">Looked a little shaky early on when Wednesday targeted his side of the defence to exploit his relative lack of strength, but he grew into the game nicely. Important clearance early on from a low cross that could have given the hosts a 1-0 lead. </p>
<h3 id="7WwLcS"><strong>John Swift: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="28GdYA">Mostly played as the deepest midfielder on the day, particularly when Reading were in possession and looking to start attacks from the back. He did have a few nervy moments, such as passing straight at a Wednesday player and almost gifting them a one on one - only for the ball to bounce back to him safely, </p>
<p id="PQgwnB">But on the whole he took to that deep-lying role well, showing the all-round maturity that he’s developed so well this season (and had gone off the boil in recent weeks). He also was capable of some confident driving runs forward, which helped put Reading on the counter, particularly in the first half. </p>
<h3 id="TPFCgh"><strong>Andy Rinomhota: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="P0O8Ug">Going into the game, the expectation was that Rinomhota would take up Pele’s screening role in front of the midfield, but in reality he pushed up while Swift was more withdrawn. That’s a better use of Rinomhota, who doesn’t have the same ability to read the play as Pele, and indeed Reading lacked that at times.</p>
<p id="RyC1GR">But Rinomhota made up for it with intensity and energy - qualities that no one else in this midfield has. He won the ball back well and kept it nicely, with the more complicated stuff done by Swift, although it was Rinomhota who won the penalty late on with a run inside the area. </p>
<p id="yji8L2">The dynamism for him to push forward gives Reading an extra element - and of course we saw it against West Brom when he rounded the goalie, albeit to no effect. Pele’s injury means Rinomhota will almost certainly start at Leeds next week, which will be a tough - but big - opportunity for him to properly stake a claim to play more regularly. </p>
<h3 id="Yzi95I"><strong>Yakou Meite: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="j7ebOI">Meite was on paper a right winger in a 4-2-3-1, but his movement when Reading were attacking meant he was at times essentially a centre forward. That movement helped Reading out a lot, both in terms of support for Puscas and allowing Meite to be a goalscoring threat in his own right. </p>
<p id="QdLpUL">He got into double figures for the second season in a row with a great example of that movement, timing his run in behind well and slotting past the goalie. </p>
<h3 id="r337nk"><strong>Michael Olise: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="7NuNv6">A quiet but tidy performance. Olise played as a number ten this time, but had the freedom to drift around the pitch when Reading were in possession, and his movement at those points made the midfield feel a lot more dynamic and fluid. </p>
<p id="aihEkO">His biggest moment came in the first half, when he was hacked down in the area and should have won a penalty. Otherwise, he could have worked harder, but I didn’t have any major worries with his performance, and to paraphrase the manager after the Nottingham Forest game, Olise can be “trusted” in the first team. He’s still only 18, and is maturing really well. </p>
<h3 id="pO5u8C"><strong>Ovie Ejaria: 8</strong></h3>
<p id="iGkDA4">Back to his best. Ejaria oozed the confidence and positivity that we’d come to expect of him previously, but had been lost in the last month or so. As much as getting the most out of him is a tactical issue - I prefer him on the left, which I’ve banged on about <em>ad infinitum</em> - his confidence is more critical.</p>
<p id="IOz8ev">With that confidence back, he properly put a show on at Hillsborough. Ejaria’s close control and dribbling were at times sublime, but he also managed to rid himself of the tendency to overplay that’s held him back recently. </p>
<p id="jZyrng">That doesn’t even touch on the assist, which was Ejaria at peak power. He strode forward powerfully through the middle, looked up for an option, spotted Meite’s infield run and found it with an incisive pass. We know he’s capable of that end product - he just needs to show it more often. </p>
<p id="HXzxdI">He also played a big part in the red card, being brought down by Urhoghide for a second yellow card, and should have scored when presented with a one on one at 2-0. </p>
<h3 id="cKTEnY"><strong>George Puscas: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="oxkjyp">I would have given him an 8/10 if his involvement in the first two goals had been more clear cut, but he did do well for both. For the opener, he cleverly left Ejaria’s through ball for Meite, which seemed to wrong-foot his own marker. In real time I thought it was a dummy from Puscas, but on seeing it back, that would have been too kind. For the second goal, he got the slightest touch on Andy Yiadom’s long-range effort to divert the ball home. </p>
<p id="T0E1wf">Otherwise, his all-round game was noticeably better. He was sharper on the ball, brought others into play nicely when he wasn’t looking for the ball in behind, and on the whole put himself about well. </p>
<h2 id="EXMJdK"><strong>Subs</strong></h2>
<h3 id="dX1Yh7"><strong>Charlie Adam: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="P4T8Cw">Kept things tidy in the midfield without really making too much of an impact. Having someone with his experience to come on when a lead needs to be protected is a big asset. </p>
<h3 id="l0LLAt"><strong>Sam Baldock: N/A</strong></h3>
<p id="WnjDnJ">Unfortunately he came on too late to get a rating, but he still buried his penalty convincingly to make it 2-0.</p>
<h3 id="p6gZED"><strong>Ayub Timbe: N/A</strong></h3>
<p id="otBzx8">Only had a few touches of the ball in his cameo on the left, and mostly played it safe. He did have one rapid run when he knocked the ball past his defender and chased after it, but his electric pace wasn’t quite enough for him to get there. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="aJeQFJ">
<h3 id="6IQ1WV"><strong>Average: 6.58/10</strong></h3>
<p id="sjSjIO"><em>Who was your man of the match against Sheffield Wednesday? Vote below or </em><a href="https://linkto.run/p/IO20Z3FN"><em>through this link</em></a><em>.</em></p>
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