No Testimonial For Parky
Added by HNA? on 28/09/01
Despite demands from fans the club are refusing to organise a testimonial for club captain Phil Parkinson. Parkinson has been a popular player throughout his long Reading career for his dedication to the club. Phil is well known not only for his determination and effort on the pitch but for getting involved in other activities to promote the club, such as the Young Royals. Despite Parkinson's service to the club after signing in 1992 and making nearly 400 first team appearances John Madejski has stated that no players will receive testimonials. The last player to earn a testimonial at Reading was Michael Gilkes, although groundsman Gordon Neate also benefited from a testimonial match at Elm Park. Parkinson is expected to finish his playing career with the club this season and move into coaching, and is certain to remain disappointed at the club's decision.
Rumour Rating: Definite

No Joy In Dorchester
Added by HNA? on 26/09/01
Reading's league form took another turn downwards last night with a 1-0 defeat against Bournemouth at Dorchester's Avenue Stadium. A crowd of less than four thousand, perhaps a quarter in the away end, saw a Reading performance that was in complete contrast to Saturday's. Despite the Royals using the same team and formation that won so convincingly against Wycombe on Saturday, we never looked like winning the game against only an average Bournemouth side. In a game that never flowed Bournemouth created the better chances, but Butler looked out of form and failed to produce anything when he was rarely provided the ball. Bournemouth took the lead with twenty minutes to play and it clear there was no way back for the Royals who failed to force the Bournemouth keeper into a single decent save all evening.

Charity T-Shirts Still Available
Added by HNA? on 24/09/01
We still have plenty of Hob Nob Anyone? charity t-shirts available to buy. The shirts are available for just nine pounds (including postage and packing) in a range of sizes and feature the fans number thirteen. All profits from t-shirt sales will be donated to the Imperial Cancer Research Fund and to the Royals Academy. Buy a t-shirt and you can support this site, have a great t-shirt, and give to charity all at once!

Wycombe Well Beaten
Added by HNA? on 22/09/01
Reading returned to form this afternoon with an impressive 2-0 home victory over Wycombe Wanderers. The game was similar to the match at Stoke City last week - but in reverse - with Reading unlucky not to have won by a greater margin after creating plenty of chances to extend the lead. The only real disappointment was our inability to put away our chances in the second half when Butler had a couple well saved by the keeper, and Cureton ended up second best after a one-on-one with the Wycombe keeper. Reading wrapped the game up in the opening twenty minutes after an impressive start saw us score the only two goals of the game. A corner from the left was tucked home by Adrian Williams at the far post in a crowded area, and Murty set up the second a few minutes later. Murty's cross was met with perfection by Henderson's head to send the ball back across goal and into the far side of the net. Keith Jones, the man of the match, was at the centre of Reading's strong on-the-floor passing game, and helped win the game well before Wycombe were reduced to ten men after a sending off on the hour. Williams and Forster were both booked for diving, when there was really no need for it with Reading in full control of the match.

Fixture And Ticket News
Added by HNA? on 22/09/01
Reading's match at Colchester United has been moved forward a day to prevent the game clashing with England's game on the Saturday. The Royals will now travel to Essex on Friday 5 October for a 7:45pm kick-off. Colchester were keen to move the match to help increase their gate for the tie, and Reading were against the move of date which would mean a smaller away following for the Royals. Despite Reading's protest the match has been moved after the game scheduled to take place the Tuesday before was postponed. Reading were due to play Wrexham but that match has been moved yet again and will take place at the Madejski Stadium on Tuesday 6 November.
Meanwhile Reading's third round league cup tie at Aston Villa will take place on Wednesday 10th October. Tickets are on sale now to season ticket holders at a cost of ten pounds - a maximum of two tickets can be bought per person. The remainder of Reading's allocation of 3,500 seats will go on general sale from next Friday (28th September). Reading are also involved in the LDV Trophy this season, but were one of eight sides to receive a bye straight into round two. Our second round game will take place on Tuesday 30 October, but we have to wait to find out the opposition.

Royals Return To Winning Ways
Added by HNA? on 18/09/01
Reading returned to winning ways tonight to earn three vital league points over Cambridge United at the Madejski Stadium. The game followed two straight defeats for Reading, and a win was essential to keep us in touch with the early leaders of the Division. Reading's victory was far from spectacular though, with James Harper's goal midway through the second half being the only goal of the game. Reading were improved from Saturday but seemed always likely to be victorious over a Cambridge side that came for the draw and seemed happy to settle for a single goal defeat. Reading had most of the game and should have taken the lead during the first half after both Butler and Cureton had shots saved by the United keeper. Cambridge brightened up in the second half but failed to trouble Whitehead before Reading secured the win when Harper made the most of a loose ball after their keeper failed to hold it. Reading's win was a fair reflection of the play, after the Royals managed fourteen shots compared to Cambridge's single effort. Not an exciting game, but an important result that takes us back to sixth in the table.

RFSC Offer For Old Young Royals
Added by HNA? on 17/09/01
If you were a Young Royal last season (2000/01), but you're now too old, you can join Reading Football Supporters' Club for absolutely nothing this season! Although you can be a Young Royal and in RFSC at the same time, RFSC felt that it was time to reward your loyalty as a Young Royal with a free year in RFSC. For more details on this scheme and information on the Northern branch of RFSC please see the Reading Football Supporters' Club area of this site.

Stoke Outplay Poor Reading
Added by HNA? on 15/09/01
Reading were completely outplayed at Stoke this afternoon and went down by two goals to nothing in front of nearly 12,000 fans at the Britannia Stadium. A decent away following for Reading were given a below average Reading performance. In the end we were just thankful that it was only a two goal defeat with Stoke having plenty of chances to increase their score in the second half. Reading started brightly but fell to pieces as the game continued, and Phil Whitehead was Reading's player of the match as he produced some great saves to keep the score down. Martin Butler had an early chance to give Reading the lead, but Reading's poor passing game let them down against a Stoke side that was always in control.

Royals To Play At Aston Villa
Added by HNA? on 15/09/01
Reading will travel to Premiership side Aston Villa in the third round of the League Cup after the draw was made this afternoon. Although it's a shame we didn't win another home tie, it's a decent reward following our performances against Luton Town and West Ham in the previous two rounds. The game will be Aston Villa's first in the League cup this season. The match will take place on either the Tuesday 9th October or Wednesday 10th October at Villa Park, with ticket details to be announced.

Fantastic Royals Win On Penalties
Added by HNA? on 11/09/01
A packed Madejski Stadium filled with Reading fans in full voice saw the Royals outclass their Premiership opposition tonight. Tonight was a dream come true as Reading pulled off a thoroughly deserved victory over Premiership West Ham United in front of 21,173 fans. The game had everything apart from goals - until a penalty shoot-out in which Reading emerged victorious. West Ham might have got off to a better start with plenty of shots - but they were restricted to long range efforts and Reading gradually got more and more on top to eventually dominate the second half. The Royals never stopped working and were rewarded for plenty of possession and plenty of great football with chances to win the game. Butler and Henderson both had a couple of second half chances from close range that needed saves from ex-Reading keeper Shaka Hislop. In extra time West Ham seemed favourites to topple a tired Reading side - but we kept playing and Henderson almost won the game with a fine header that was tipped over the bar. Reading continued to press for the late winner, but Reading needed to clear a West Ham shot off the line, against the run of play, to send the game to penalties. Reading went 3-4 down on penalties after Harper's penalty was saved and we looked to be heading out of the cup. West Ham then hit the post, and Phil Whitehead completed a great performance in goal with a penalty save - allowing Viveash to score the winning penalty in sudden death. An amazing game, an amazing night, and a result to rememeber.

Bournemouth Ticket Details
Added by HNA? on 11/09/01
As expected Reading's trip to Bournemouth has been made all-ticket with a limited number of tickets available for Reading fans. With building work continuing at Bournemouth, the match, which takes place on 25th September, has been switched to the Avenue Stadium in Dorchester. Reading have been allocated 1,100 tickets for the game which will go on sale to season ticket holders only from tomorrow (12 September). With the limited number of tickets available it seems certain that there will be no tickets available for general sales. Tickets are limited to one per season ticket holder - so if you're not a season ticket holder you're out out of luck. Reading's allocation is standing only with the tickets sold at 12 quid for adults and 5 pounds for concessions. To be in with a chance of getting your ticket then call the ticket office tomorrow on 0118 9681000.
Rumour Rating: Almost Certain

West Ham Game Sold Out
Added by HNA? on 10/09/01
Tomorrow's League Cup second round fixture against West Ham United at the Madejski Stadium is now sold out. The game could bring the Madejski Stadium's biggest ever crowd - with a chance of beating the 22,034 that watched Reading's play-off semi-final victory against Wigan in May. If you don't have a ticket for the game it's too late, so don't turn up on the night expecting to get in. After Reading's home defeat against Cardiff City on Saturday it's Premiership West Ham that are firm favourites to progress to round three. Reading fans will welcome back ex-Reading goalkeeper Shaka Hislop who should be appearing between the posts for the Hammers.

Tribute To Deano
Added by HNA? on 10/09/01
All Reading fans who can remember the 1980's will remember the late Dean Horrix. Deano was signed for just ten thousand in 1983 by Maurice Evans and the South Bank quite rightly loved him. He went on to form one of the best lower Division partnerships of the eighties alongside record goal scorer Trevor Senior. Horrix set them up and Senior scored them - but Horrix stuck home a couple of memorable beauties himself. Thanks to Alec MacKechnie you can now read a tribute to one of Elm Park's true greats.
Dean Horrix Tribute
Rumour Rating: Definite

Cardiff End Royals Run
Added by HNA? on 08/09/01
Cardiff City ended Reading's undefeated start to the season, and became the first team to score against the Royals with a 1-2 victory this afternoon at the Madejski Stadium. Reading started the match as favourites for another win but Cardiff were the best side on the day to pull off a huge victory in front of a vocal away support. City got off to the best start and followed up a disallowed goal with one that counted. A free kick on the edge of the area was stuck home after Whitehead couldn't hold the initial shot. Reading could have gone two behind before we pulled level after great work from Murty down the right wing. Murty set up Cureton who had his shot saved, but the ball came out in the middle to Smith who stuck it in. The Royals weren't level for long though after a whole load of pressure on the Reading goal saw Cardiff regain the lead from a corner. Cureton hit the crossbar during the first half and Igoe sent a shot onto the post in the second half, but it was Cardiff that always looked the most likely to take the full three points home. It got worse for the Royals in the last ten minutes when captain Phil Parkinson was sent off after a late tackle and a resulting bundle involving players from both sides.

Academy To Benefit From Shirt Sales
Added by HNA? on 04/09/01
The Royals Academy has been selected to be one of two funds that will receive money from the sale of Hob Nob Anyone? t-shirts. Hob Nob Anyone? t-shirts are available to buy now with The Imperial Cancer Research Fund and The Royals Academy both receiving half of the proceeds. Money donated to the Academy will help pay towards the development of local young footballers - the future of Reading Football Club. The Imperial Cancer Research Fund uses donations to continue it's research into the treatment of cancer. The shirt features a tasteful blue and white design and costs just 9 pounds, including postage and packing. Buy a Hob Nob Anyone? shirt, which features the fans number 13, and show your support for this site as well. Thanks for your support!

West Ham Tickets To Sell Out
Added by HNA? on 04/09/01
Tickets for Reading's second round league cup tie against West Ham United at the Madejski Stadium are expected to sell out this week. There are only 1,900 tickets remaining for the entire stadium at the moment, with the East and Lower West stands sold out. The club have applied the usual pricing structure for the game - meaning the usual league cup discount price does not apply. The club have made all stands reserved seating for the match which kicks off at 7:45pm on Tuesday 11th September. Season ticket holders have their seats reserved until the end of today (Tuesday). Any unclaimed seats will then be released for general sale. To book your ticket call the ticket office on 0118 9681000.
Rumour Rating: Definite

Fifty Quid To Turn Up Early
Added by HNA? on 03/09/01
Fifty lucky fans will earn fifty quid just for turning up early on Saturday as the Royals take on Cardiff City at the Madejski Stadium. A mobile phone company are going to be filming an advert at the ground and need fifty Reading fans. If you'd like to take part you must register your interest. You'll need to turn up on the day at 9.30am in your Reading gear and stay right up until kick-off. You'll get contacted if you've been selected to take part. In your e-mail please state the following: name, address, mobile phone number (if any), email address (if any) and age. Update: The fifty places have now been taken and there's a big waiting list - sorry!
Rumour Rating: Definite

Cureton Double Beats Vale
Added by HNA? on 01/09/01
Reading made it 10 points from four league games and 450 minutes without conceeding a goal, as the fantastic start to the season continued at Vale Park this afternoon. Jamie Cureton, making his first start of the season, scored one in each half to earn Reading's second away win of the season. It was another deserved victory for the Royals who look the most likely side in the division to go up on current form. After a quiet start to the game Reading dominated the last stages of the first half with the Vale keeper making a couple of decent saves. Just before the break Cureton blasted the ball home after some continued Reading pressure. On the hour Cureton made it two after heading home the ball from well inside the area after Igoe set it up. Reading could have increased their lead but Rougier missed a header after Cureton put the ball on the crossbar, and Hughes failed to score after getting in a one-on-one with the Port Vale goalkeeper. If the result and performance wasn't positive enough, there was more good news with Martin Butler completing his return from injury by coming off the bench later in the game. Reading go third in the Second Division table.

Hob Nob Charity T-Shirts
Added by HNA? on 31/08/01
Hob Nob Anyone? is delighted to be able to offer fans some rather special deals on getting the fans shirt - the number 13 shirt. If you're buying an official club shirt then make sure you buy it with the number 13 on the back. The new home shirt is available now from the club megastore and you can buy it complete with number 13 for 47 pounds. As an extra incentive Hob Nob Anyone? is going to donate 50p to charity for every purchase of an official number 13 shirt from the club. To qualify you need to send us your receipt and a photograph of yourself wearing the shirt. See the t-shirt page for more details.
In addition we're proud to present the first ever Hob Nob Anyone? t-shirt. The Hob Nob Anyone? t-shirt is available to order now and features a rather tasteful blue and white design. It gets better though - the shirt is just 9 pounds, including postage, and all profits go straight to charity. Buy a Hob Nob Anyone? t-shirt which features the fans number 13, and show your support for this site and for the charities we're supporting. All donations to charity will be split between The Imperial Cancer Research Fund and a charity or scheme selected directly by Reading Football Club.

Butler To Miss Vale Trip
Added by HNA? on 31/08/01
Reading striker Martin Butler looks set to miss out on Saturday's trip to Port Vale, but the good news is that the player is now back in full training after recovering from his ankle problems. Butler is expected to return to action in the following weeks home tie against Cardiff City at the Madejski Stadium. Butler's absense means Cureton, Forster, Rougier and Henderson are all likely to feature - either in the first eleven or on the bench. Jamie Cureton could make his first start of the season alongside Nicky Forster up front. Meanwhile Port Vale are without two players that may have featured with midfielder Marc Bridge-Wilkinson and defender Liam Burns both sidelined. Bridge-Wilkinson is out with a hamstring problem and Burns picked up an injury during a reserve fixture.

West Ham Tickets On Sale
Added by HNA? on 29/08/01
Tickets for Reading's second round league cup tie against West Ham United at the Madejski Stadium are now on general sale. As expected the club have applied the usual pricing structure for the game - meaning the usual league cup discount price does not apply. The club are expecting a big crowd for the fixture, which kicks off at 7:45pm on Tuesday 11th September, and have made all stands reserved seating. Season ticket holders have their seats reserved until the end of next Tuesday. Any unclaimed seats will then be released for general sale. To book your ticket call the ticket office on 0118 9681000. Ticket sales are off to a fast start already with Madejski Stadium phones jammed with callers trying to get tickets - don't forget you can also pick up your tickets in person at the ticket office.
Rumour Rating: Definite

Nathan Tyson Loaned To Swansea
Added by HNA? on 29/08/01
Reading youngster Nathan Tyson has today joined Third Division side Swansea City on a months loan. With Cureton and Butler both returning from injury the Royals have plenty of options up front. Tyson will find it very difficult to find any first team opportunities at Reading and goes to Swansea with the hope of some first team action. Tyson has twice appeared for Reading as a substitute - most recently towards the end of the 4-0 home victory over Luton Town in the league cup. Tyson replaced Smith to play on the wing and put in a decent twenty minutes to show he has plenty to offer. The player could well be looking to make the move permanent depending on how the loan goes.
Rumour Rating: Almost Certain

Competition Winner
Added by HNA? on 28/08/01
Congratulations to Mark Sugar of Reading who wins our Fans' Calendar Competition. Mark correctly answered the following question: In Reading's first home league match of last season, against Swindon Town, which player put the ball through to allow Martin Butler to put Reading 1-0 up? The answer of course was Anthony Rougier. Mark wins a copy of the Hoops of Fun charity calendar which will go out in the post shortly. Thanks to all those that entered.
Rumour Rating: Definite

Royals Earn Draw At QPR
Added by HNA? on 26/08/01
Reading were very unlucky to only come away with a draw from Loftus Road yesterday, after another decent performance against a side expected to do well in Division Two this season. Reading looked the better of the two sides and should have won the game after James Harper scored from a free-kick. Strangely the goal was disallowed letting the home side off the hook. Reading failed to sit back though and could have gone on to win the game with Jamie Cureton, back from injury, coming close after coming off the bench. The draw means Reading are yet to conceede a goal all season and now have seven points from the opening three league ties.

West Ham To Visit Madejski
Added by HNA? on 26/08/01
Reading have been rewarded for the 4-0 stuffing of Luton Town in the first round of the League cup with a game against West Ham in the second round. The Royals were drawn at home against the Premiership side in yesterday's draw, giving Reading exactly the kind of game we'd hoped for. The game is bound to produce a huge Madejski Stadium attendance as Reading attempt a bit of giant killing in the cup. Popular ex-Reading player Shaka Hislop remains first choice goalkeeper at West Ham at the moment - so there's a good chance he'll make an appearance on the night.
The game is expected to take place on Tuesday 11 September with a 7:45pm kick-off, and ticket prices should be usual league prices. Details are yet to be confirmed by the club however.
Rumour Rating: Definite

QPR Release More Away Tickets
Added by Justin on 24/08/01
QPR have today announced they will be making 1000 extra tickets available for Reading fans to pay on the day for tomorrow's match. Prices are £15 for adults, £7 concessions.

Meanwhile Jamie Cureton is set for a place on the bench at Loftus Rd after recovering from his groin injury. Martin Butler is still sidelined so Rougier and Henderson will compete for a starting place alongside Nicky Forster.
Rumour Rating: Definite

Hughes Tribunal Sets Fee At £250,000
Added by Justin on 22/08/01
The FA tribunal to decided the transfer fee of Andy Hughes from Notts County settled on a figure of £250,000 today, with a possible further £50,000 based on appearances. The midfielder, who joined County three summers ago for around £150k, was valued at £400k by his old club, whereas Reading wanted to pay no more than the original £150k. The tribunal, as expected, split the difference.
Rumour Rating: Definite

Royals Hit Luton For Four
Added by HNA? on 21/08/01
Reading put on a superb home performance tonight to go flying through to the second round of the League Cup. Reading outclassed their third division opposition with a clear 4-0 victory at the Madejski Stadium. The only bad point of the night was that just 5,115 fans were there to watch a quality Reading performance that was more than worth the reduced entry fee. Those that didn't turn up missed Reading turn on the style in parts with dazzling performances from Sammy Igoe, Alex Smith, and Graeme Murty. Luton certainly took part in the match - with postitive signs for them, but despite their early pressure on the Reading goal they were unable to score on the night meaning Reading are yet to conceed a goal this season. Henderson opened the scoring for the Royals after a Smith cross following a corner. It was 2-0 just before the break when Parkinson powered a loose ball right through the back of the net. Reading had chances to go three goals up before Alex Smith got a deserved second half goal after Henderson did all the hard work to cross the ball. Henderson wrapped up his first really impressive Reading performance in injury time after hard work by Rougier, leaving Luton well beaten.

Wrexham Game Called Off
Added by HNA? on 20/08/01
Reading's game scheduled to take place on Tuesday 28 August against Wrexham at the Madejski Stadium has been called off. Wrexham took the decision to postpone the match after a number of their squad where called up for under 21 international duty. No new date has been set yet. Meanwhile Reading look set to test a few youngsters in tomorrow's home league cup tie against Luton Town at the Madejski Stadium. Hughes will miss the match after limping off on Saturday with a muscle strain, leaving Igoe with another chance to impress. Cureton, Tyson and Shorey could well appear for the Royals during the match.

Win A Fans' Calendar
Added by HNA? on 19/08/01
If you're yet to purchase your Reading FC fan's charity calendar then here's a chance to win one for free. Hob Nob Anyone? has a copy of the Hoops Of Fun calendar, which features some unusual pictures of Reading fans and Reading's full fixture list, to give away. The winner will be picked from those who can correctly answer the following question:
In Reading's first home league match of last season, against Swindon Town, which player put the ball through to allow Martin Butler to put Reading 1-0 up?
To enter the competition send your name, address and answer to the following e-mail address: competition@royals.org. Competition entries must be received by 7pm on Wednesday 22 August. If you can't quite remember that far back then you can cheat by selecting the Previous Seasons link from the left menu!
Rumour Rating: Definite

Forster Makes It Six Points
Added by HNA? on 18/08/01
Reading followed up last week's victory at Blackpool with a 1-0 win over Huddersfield Town at the Madejski Stadium this afternoon, in front of nearly 12,000 fans. The Royals' second victory from two games was a deserved win against a Huddersfield side expected to be fighting Reading for promotion this season. The first home match of the season gave Reading fans plenty to be optimistic about without every really exploding into life. The Royals did all that had to do to keep the away side at bay after Nicky Forster scored his second goal of the season after just eight minutes. Smith's corner from the right came out to Forster, who drove it home through a crowd of players into the bottom right corner to set Reading on their way. Reading could have extended their lead with a Parkinson header from another corner before Huddersfield had chances of their own to pull level. Town failed to take a couple more chances in the second half as Reading defended well, but Reading were never really under much pressure as they held out for the full three points.

Fans Calendar On Sale
Added by HNA? on 17/08/01
Watch out for fans selling a unique football season based calendar at the Huddersfield Town match at Madejski Stadium on Saturday. The calendar, which features Reading fans in a variety of unusual poses around the Madejski Stadium, has been produced by Reading fans with profits going to charity. Bring along an extra 7 pounds and 50 pence to enable you to take one of the calendars home. The calendar includes Reading FC's full fixture list, and a competition to win a signed football. If you don't pick up your calendar at the game then you'll find them available to buy at the following outlets: Madejski Stadium Megastore, Town News in Reading, Village News in Headley. Also on sale on Saturday will be the season's first issue of top fanzine The Whiff - so bring along an extra quid for that too.

Classic Gold Royals Show Returns
Added by HNA? on 15/08/01
Classic Gold Radio's coverage of Reading FC returns this season after a season without a license to cover matches. The show returns with the popular forumla of commentary followed by a phone in where Reading fans can discuss the game and any other topical talking points. The show will give coverage of Saturday's home tie against Huddersfield Town at the Madejski Stadium - the first home match of the season. The Royals Footy Show, hosted by Ben Whitmarsh, can be found on your radio on 1431 or 1485 MW whenever the Royals are playing. To voice your opinions on air call 0118 9282828 after the final whistle.
Rumour Rating: Definite

England U21s Shine At The Madejski
Added by Justin on 15/08/01
A superb night of football was enjoyed by nearly 20,000 fans last night as England U21s took on Holland U21s. The friendly, which on paper looked to be quite evenly matched, was won in devastating style by an England side composed entirely of premiership players. Aston Villa's Darius Vassell opened the scoring after just five minutes with a brilliant turn and volley from the edge of the area. England took until the start of the second half to add to their lead - Jermaine Defoe scored just seconds after coming on as a sub for Vassell, sidefooting home after the Dutch keeper fumbled John Terry's header. Thanks to a stadium announcement warning supporters of bad traffic after the game, hundreds of fans left early and missed England's final two goals - the first a beauty by Derby's Malcolm Christie, latching on to Defoe's throughball, rounding the keeper and slotting home. The extremely impressive Defoe made it 4-0 in the dying seconds as he broke through a tired defence and placed the ball into the far corner of the net. In summary - a brilliant night, some tremendous football on display and another good advert for Reading's stadium.

Rumour Rating: Definite

Full Fans' Forum Report
Added by HNA? on 14/08/01
The full report, provided by RFSC, from last Thursday's fans' forum is now available using the link below. The forum allowed fans to put questions directly to John Madejski, Alan Pardew, Martin Allen, Nicky Hammond, Kevin Dillon, John Fearn, Niall Clark and Boyd Butler. The management team's answers are detailed in the report.

Injury Update
Added by Justin on 27/07/01
Nicky Forster's operation on the troublesome ingrowing toenail this week is likely to keep him out of action for up to two weeks, meaning he faces a race against time to be fit for the season opener at Blackpool, although the club are confident he will make it. Jamie Cureton is still suffering slight reaction from his groin operation. Club physio Jon Fearn said today that Cureton's muscle still needs to strengthen and become used to moving again, and that Jamie is almost back to fitness. Cureton will be hoping to play a part in next Wednesday's prestigious friendly against Spurs, for which up to 12,000 fans are expected. Meanwhile, Butler and Rougier are fighting fit, the latter showing no reaction to his ankle operation.
Rumour Rating: Almost Certain

Quinn Takes Charge At Northwich
Added by HNA? on 27/07/01
Former Reading player and joint manager Jimmy Quinn has been appointed as manager of Conference side Northwich Victoria. Northwich finished three places out of the relegation positions last season - just three points away from dropping out of the Conference. Quinn, who played nearly 200 games for the Royals, played for Northwich last season before moving onto Hereford, Highworth and Hayes to finish his playing career. Quinn is set to concentrate on managing his new side after nearly 20 years of playing professional football.
Rumour Rating: Almost Certain

Decent Spurs Side Expected?
Added by HNA? on 26/07/01
Spurs are suggesting they'll bring a near first team line up to the Madejski Stadium for the pre-season friendly next Wednesday. The game has attracted a lot of interest with it being Reading's only friendly fixture at home and with Spurs' Premiership status. Approximately 10,000 tickets for the fixture have already been sold, with plenty of time to go before the game. A few big names are bound to be missing with Spurs likely to try a few first team fringe players, but there should still be a few household names on the Madejski Stadium pitch. Spurs have won all their first team pre-season friendly matches so far, while Reading remain unbeaten in all theirs.

Henderson Scores In Friendly Win
Added by HNA? on 25/07/01
Reading were once again victorious last night as the first team travelled to Tiverton Town and claimed a 3-1 victory. After a first half without a goal the home side took a shock lead before scoring an own goal themselves to make it 1-1 with about thirty minutes left to play. Anthony Rougier returned to action after his summer operation on his right ankle. The operation was clearly successful with Rougier managing to play the full game and winning the penalty that led to the first goal. Martin Butler stuck it home from the spot to make it 2-1. Henderson, who will seriously struggle to make any impact on the first team this year with several players competing, scored from a Gamble cross to make it 3-1. Cureton was still not quite fit enough to feature in the game.
Played Used: Whitehead, Robinson, A. Williams, Whitbread, Hunter, Murty, Shorey, Harper, Smith, Gamble, Parkinson, Igoe, Rougier, Butler, Henderson, Hughes.
Rumour Rating: Definite

Thornley Leaves
Added by HNA? on 25/07/01
Ex-Manchester United and Hudersfield Town player Ben Thornley has now left Reading after failing to earn a contract offer from Reading manager Alan Pardew. Thornley was seen by a large number of fans during the pre-season friendly victory at Aldershot, and failed to impress against the Aldershot defence. Playing down the wing Thornley failed to create any real chances and was responsible for blasting a few balls way into orbit instead of finding the target. The player will now go on the hunt for another club despite apparantly impressing in training sessions at Reading.

Pre-Season Win At Weymouth
Added by HNA? on 22/07/01
Two goals from Nicky Forster and one from James Harper were more than enough to beat Weymouth in Saturday's pre-season friendly. Weymouth threatened far more than either Maidenhead or Aldershot did last week and nearly took the lead before Forster put the Royals a goal up. Andy Hughes, so impressive at Aldershot, again impressed and set up the first goal by crossing to Henderson. Henderson failed to find the target, but Forster was on hand to stick the ball in. Harper put Reading 2-0 up at half time from a free-kick. Weymouth pulled one back in the second half before Hughes and Forster were involved again with Hughes crossing for Forster to score from close range to make it 3-1 to the Royals. Reading took the opportunity to use make plenty of changes during the match with most of the substitutions taking place at half time as Martin Allen experimented with the side. Jamie Ashdown will be pleased to have put in another full 90 minutes in goal with Whitehead left on the bench.
Players Used: Ashdown, Shorey, Robinson, Whitbread, Viveash, A. Williams, Hunter, Murty, Igoe, A. Smith, Gamble, Parkinson, Harper, Henderson, Forster, Hughes.

Rumour Rating: Definite

New Squad Guide
Added by HNA? on 19/07/01
The club today confirmed the new squad numbers for the 2001/2002 season. For the most part the squad numbers remain the same as last season - but with a few players picking up numbers from players who left during the close season. Rougier will be wearing the number 7 shirt next season after wearing number 37 last year. Murty changes from 7 to 2. Meanwhile new signings Andy Hughes and Alex Smith take shirt numbers 11 and 26. We've updated our squad guide for the new season where you can check full details for Reading FC's current first team squad.

Blackpool Tickets On Sale
Added by HNA? on 19/07/01
Tickets for Reading's first match of the new season, away at Blackpool, go on sale from the Madejski Stadium ticket office tomorrow morning to season ticket holders only. With less than 1,000 tickets available for Reading fans, and around 5,000 season ticket holders, Reading's allocation is likely to sell out fast. Standing tickets only are available.
Rumour Rating: Definite

Draw At Charlton
Added by HNA? on 19/07/01
Reading played out a 0-0 draw against Charlton Athletic this afternoon behind closed doors. Reading's line-up featured a majority of first teams players with Alex Smith making his debut. Reading's defence featured the three Adrians again with Whitbread, Williams and Viveash in the middle. Whithead appeared in goal with Harper, Hughes, Forster and Henderson making up the rest of the eleven.
Rumour Rating: Definite

WorldNet 2001 Report
Added by HNA? on 18/07/01
As reported last week, the Internet Royals FC spent the weekend in Leeds playing in the WorldNet 2001 tournament against other mail list football teams from across the country. As predicted, the group matches played on the Saturday were very tight. A2-0 defeat against Sheffield Wednesday wasn't the best of starts but in their next game the Royals were lucky to catch a strong Dunfermline team before they had fully sobered up from their Friday night party and snatched a 4-0 win.
The eventual group winners, Watford, beat the Royals 2-0 but then a great performance from Reading against Forest ended in a 1-0 win for setting up a tense final game between Dunfermline and Sheff Wed. Watford were confirmed as group winners, Forest were bottom but the 3 other teams could finish in any order depending on this game! A last minute goal from Dunfermline gave them a 2-0 win, the only result which would allow Reading to come second and qualify for a playoff game to get entry into the main competition on Sunday.
The playoff against Spurs was tense. At 0-0 they were awarded a penalty which they missed, in extra time with golden goals counting they missed a second penalty, and in the penalty shoot out they missed 4 more penalties to give the Royals a 2-1 win and a first ever qualification for the final day after 5 years of trying.
The draw for the last 16 was cruel - QPR - who have won the national league for the last 2 years and are well known for their 'committed' approach. A tough game indeed ! The Royals battled hard, despite intense pressure from Rangers, but went down 1-0 with legs tiring fast after almost 4 hours of football. No disgrace to lose to a very good team. The weekend was rounded off with a friendly against Aston Villa, such a friendly that noone kept score, but we think Villa shaded it.
An excellent weekend, over 60 sets of supporters playing football of very varying standards but in a very friendly spirit. There were many fans from teams with traditionally fierce rivalries but it was common to see Rangers fans sat drinking with Celtic fans, West Brom, Wolves and Birmingham playing friendly games with mixed teams and even Swindon came over to watch our game with QPR. The whole weekend was a great advert for football, and football fans in general.
The Internet Royals will be playing in the national Internet Football league next season and anyone who is subscribed to the Royal Mail list is welcome to take part in games. Age, fitness, skill levels unimportant!
Mail football@southbank.i-way.co.uk for more details.
Internet Royals WorldNet 2001 squad: Martin Brailli, Ian Maynard, Garry Griffin, Ant Culham, Dave Morris, Josh Andrews, Richard Saunders, Dave Lovegrove, Tony Dyer, Dave Haylett, Rob McGowan, Simon Hutt, James Pegg, Chris Waite, Dan Hambley, Graham Barber, Andy Reason, Tony Stephens, Kevin Brant.
Thanks to all of them for coming along to make sure Reading were represented in this major event.

Rumour Rating: Definite

Guest Reporter Required!
Added by HNA? on 17/07/01
Hob Nob Anyone? is recruiting a new guest reporter for next season. If you're a Loyal Royal and have an opinion you want to share with Hob Nob Anyone? readers after each match - and get paid for it then click below to find out more.

Alex Smith Signed
Added by HNA? on 17/07/01
Reading have today confirmed the signing of Alex Smith from Port Vale on a free transfer. Twenty-five year old Smith can play on the left side of either defence or midfield and signs a two year contract with the Royals after his contract at Port Vale expired. Smith started his professional career with Everton as a trainee in 1994 but never appeared for the first team before moving to Swindon Town on a free transfer. Smith then moved without fee to Chester and then Port Vale before signing for the Royals. He will be missed at Port Vale after becoming a popular player that was virtually ever-present last season. Smith has made over 100 league starts with five league goals to his name.
Rumour Rating: Definite

Hughes Impresses At Aldershot
Added by HNA? on 14/07/01
New signing Andy Hughes made an impressive debut for the Royals in a 2-1 pre-season victory at Aldershot Town this afternoon. Hughes scored the first goal not long after half time after connecting with a cross from the right. Hughes' header found it's way into the right bottom corner of the net to give Reading a 1-0 lead. Not long after the Royals were two goals up when Hughes powered the ball into the Aldershot box after breaking down the right wing. Hughes' cross eventually found Nicky Forster on the left, deep inside the box, Forster stuck it home to make it 2-0. Aldershot pulled one back later in the game after Ashdown, in the Reading goal, made a mistake, but the Royals played out a simple victory. The match itself was a typical pre-season friendly match with little to get too excited about. The Reading side also saw Ben Thornley, currently on trial, seriously fail to impress - and Henderson will be disappointed with his performance up front. Nicky Shorey put in an impressive performance at full back - and Casper will be pleased to be back playing football after a long lay-off.

Reading Clear Favourites
Added by HNA? on 12/07/01
On-line bookmaker William Hill have installed Reading as clear favourites to win Division Two next season. The Royals are favourites with odds of 9/2, with Stoke City second favourites with odds of 11/2. Relegated Huddersfield, promoted big spending Cardiff City, and play-off defeated Wigan follow as teams most likely for the play-off positions. Swindon Town are 28/1 to win the Division. This time last year the Royals were third or fourth favourites to win the league at odds of up to 10/1. In the end the bookies were quite accurate with their Prediction for Reading, with the Royals just missing out on automatic promotion and finishing third in the table. If the bookies are right this time around then it's the Championship for the Royals next season!

Internet Royals Head For Leeds
Added by HNA? on 12/07/01
You thought Reading playing Aldershot and Maidenhead this weekend was enough, in fact they are also playing Sheffield Wednesday, Derby, Watford and Dunfermline! The last 4 are in the same group as the Internet Royals at the 5th annual WorldNet tournament in Leeds. WorldNet is an 11 a side event played between teams representing club mailing lists (like our own ROYALMAIL). The IRFC squad of 19 travel up to Yorkshire on Friday night and face a tough group with no obvious favourite, but no weak teams either. Qualifying for the knockout stages on the Sunday is likely to be tough but having only lost 3 games last season in the national Internet Football League the Royals are confident of a good weekend. A big bonus for the team is that Reading FC have backed them with the loan of a full kit for the weekend, so at least the team will look smart! Any exiles up in Leeds who fancy turning up to watch the tournament are very welcome, the bar will be open all weekend and is the best place to look for the team! Check http://www.internetfootball.org for further details.
Rumour Rating: Definite

Hughes To Star At Aldershot
Added by HNA? on 12/07/01
Andy Hughes, who put pen to paper to sign for the Royals last week, is set to make his debut for the Royals in Saturday's friendly at Aldershot. Forster, Harper and Parkinson are also all believed to be making the short trip to appear at the Recreation Ground. Ben Thornley, currently on trial with the Royals and expected to sign, has an opportunity to impress at Aldershot. Meanwhile the other half of the first team will be turning up at Maidenhead for the game scheduled to kick-off at the same time. The Maidenhead squad is expected to include a strong defence of Whitbread, Williams, and Viveash with Martin Butler up front. Meanwhile Jamie Cureton will be sidelined as he continues to recover from his summer groin operation. Cureton will feature in the following weekend's fixtures.

Thornley On Contract Hunt
Added by HNA? on 09/07/01
As expected out of contract Huddersfield winger Ben Thornley has joined the Royals on trial this week with a view to a permanent move. Thornley, who previously played for Manchester United, is said to be keen in a move to Reading after failing to agree a new contract at Huddersfield. The player is highly rated after working his way through the ranks of the youth team at Manchester United into the fringes of the first team set-up. Meanwhile ageing midfielder Paul Mortimer is also on trial at Reading after being released by Bristol City. Thirty-three year old Mortimer joins Reading on a week to week basis after a long career at Charlton, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and Bristol City. Mortimer returned to Charlton for 200,000 pounds in 1994 before signing for Bristol City on a free two years ago. It seems highly unlikely that both players would be offered a contract.
Rumour Rating: Almost Certain

Wish Rougier A Speedy Recovery
Added by HNA? on 09/07/01
Anthony Rougier is recovering at the moment following an operation on his right ankle in a London hospital last week. Rougier, having completed his international duty for Trinidad, is expected to be back in training in two to three weeks - and hopes to feature in the first team as Reading start the Division Two campaign. The operation is reported to have gone well, and the Anthony Rougier fan club is busy collecting messages to send on to Anthony to wish him a speedy recovery. If you'd like to pass your best wishes then send your e-mails to Anthony@AnthonyRougier.com by Wednesday and they'll be collected together and passed on.
Rumour Rating: Definite

No Suprises At Press Conference
Added by HNA? on 05/07/01
Today's press conference at the Madejski Stadium held no suprises for Reading fans in confirming the signing of Andy Hughes, Adrian Whitbread, and John Fearn as new physio (see news article below). Whitbread signs on a two contract while Hughes signs on a three year deal. Reading will have to pay a fee for Hughes, despite the player finishing his contract at Notts County, as he is under 24 years of age. More positive news was the new contracts given to Phil Parkinson and Ricky Newman. Both players have signed two year extensions to keep them at the Madejski Stadium until summer 2003. Parky is expected to move into coaching during the next two years and will almost certainly stop playing at the end of his new contract. Meanwhile the new kits for next season were on show. The new home shirt sees a slight dilution of the famous hoops with the top half of the shirt being solid blue. The first white hoop contains the sponsors logo, with a couple of further hoops below. The new away shirt is solid red with yellow and blue trim. The shirts go on sale from the Megastore from the start of August, at the usual crazy price of forty quid a shirt.
Rumour Rating: Definite

Signings To Be Confirmed
Added by HNA? on 03/07/01
Reading are expected to confirm the signings of Andy Hughes, Adrian Whitbread and John Fearn in a press conference scheduled for Thursday at the Madejski Stadium. With contracts expiring at the end of June, the Royals will be free to finally sign Hughes and Whitbread who, up until yesterday, were contracted to Notts County and Portsmouth respectively. Both players are expected to sign on either three or four year contracts. Hughes has been a regular in the Notts County midfield since signing on a free transfer from Oldham in 1998. Whitbread missed out on the play-offs after it was ruled his loan spell had come to an end, but the player will be keen to continue his 19 game run in the side that he enjoyed while on loan at the end of last season. Meanwhile, John Fearn will join Reading as the new first team physio after a spell at Premiership West Ham United. Fearn replaces Paul Turner who left the club last month to concentrate on his own private business. The club are expected to announce one extra signing of a player on a free transfer on Thursday. As previously reported, Benjamin Thornley remains a potential target for the Royals after his contract at Huddersfield expires. The winger was was originally signed by Huddersfield for 175,000 pounds in 1998 from Manchester United.
Rumour Rating: Almost Certain

Spurs Tickets On Sale
Added by HNA? on 02/07/01
Tickets for Reading's pre-season friendly with Premiership Tottenham have gone on sale from the Madejski Stadium ticket office. The game, which is an evening kick-off on Wednesday the 1st of August, is by far Reading's most attractive pre-season match and looks set to attract a decent crowd. All stands are the same price for the fixture with Adult tickets priced at £10, and concessions at £5. Tickets are more expensive if purchased on the night. Meanwhile, tickets for Reading's first friendly match, at Aldershot, will be pay on the gate on the day.

Increase In Season Ticket Sales
Added by HNA? on 02/07/01
The club are reporting that season tickets sales are up by over 30% on sales at this point last year. The increase in sales means that we should expect well over 5,000 season ticket holders next season based on the percentage increase. There has been a slight increase in season ticket sales in the unreserved North Stand, and a 10% increase in sales in the reserved East Stand. Season Tickets are now on general sale which means all untaken seats can now be claimed by new season tickets holders - the discounted price is no longer available. Adult season tickets in the North, Lower West, and East stands are 260 pounds each.
Rumour Rating: Almost Certain

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