Hob Nob Anyone? News
July 2004 - September 2004
Hob Nob Anyone? News
July 2004 - September 2004
Early Kick-Off On Boxing Day
Added by HNA? on 30/09/04
Reading's home game against Watford on Boxing Day will kick-off early at 11am. The change to the kick-off time is a result of Sky Sports choosing to screen Reading live - yet again! Obviously our current position as league leaders is pulling in plenty of media attention. Last season the boxing day fixture saw probably Reading's worst performance of the season - nearly 14,500 fans (almost all home supporters) were forced to sit through a 0-3 home thrashing against bottom of the table Wimbledon. Lets home this season produces something a bit better for those fans braving the cold, and hangovers, to attend the Madejski.
Rumour Rating: Almost Certain
Royals Remain Championship Leaders
Added by HNA? on 28/09/04
Reading stayed top of the Championship table tonight with a 1-1 away draw at Ipswich Town. Ipswich had previously won all of their home league games and were looking for another win that could have taken them top in Reading's place. As it was, Reading took away a hard earned point to retain their leadership - thanks to Dave Kitson's seventh goal of the season. Ipswich took the lead on ten minutes after a defensive mix-up but Reading fought back with Hughes nearly putting Reading level. Kitson eventually made it 1-1 when Forster played the ball through and Kitson took on the keeper before putting the ball into the net. Adie Williams limped off injured but Sonko was a worthy replacement with an excellent defensive performance as Reading kept Ipswich at bay. Reading had chances to win the game but will be pleased with a point as Ipswich looked more likely to grab the winner in the second half.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Top Of The League
Added by HNA? on 25/09/04
Reading made history this afternoon as they went top of the Championship table - our highest ever league position in the history of the club. The visit to Watford was settled by a single Reading goal as Sidwell headed home from a Nicky Shorey cross from the left just after the hour mark. Reading's 1-0 victory, our seventh win from ten league games this season, was enough to jump a point ahead of Wigan who could only draw at Derby.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Evening Post Fans' Feedback
Added by HNA? on 24/09/04
Hob Nob Anyone? has teamed up with The Reading Evening Post to publish a Fans' Feedback page every Thursday in the daily paper. The first page was printed yesterday and will be followed up by a regular slot on the same day each week. The page gives fans' the chance to see their opinion in print as well as appearing on-line on this website. To have your say simply e-mail your thoughts to us using our opinion e-mail address - or join up to the Hob Nob Anyone? discussion forums to chat with other fans. For more information, and to see yesterday's Evening Post page, please see the link below.
Rumour Rating: Definite
League Cup Shocker
Added by HNA? on 21/09/04
We were all expecting a poor game tonight - but this exceeded all expectations as
Reading were soundly dumped out of the League Cup by a Watford side that never really
got going themselves. Reading made a couple of changes from the side that impressed
so much on Saturday with Shorey and Forster both rested. Harper started from the
bench and Goater, Newman and Convey all made starts. It was to be a bad night for
Reading across the pitch but especially in defence with Williams and Newman having
poor games. Williams probably should have put in a decent tackle fourteen minutes
into the game but instead went in late to conceed an obvious penalty that was firmly
put past Hahnemann. Reading spent the rest of the game attempting to get on level terms.
There were some glimmers of hope in the first half with Kitson putting one just wide
as he shot across the face of goal, and Goater forcing a close range save from the
keeper. Both strikers had a couple of chances in the first half but opportunities
faded away in the second half along with any hope of a Reading recovery. The Royals
struggled to put together more than a couple of passes with the Reading midfield
looking seriously out of sorts. Watford defended well to close Reading down quickly -
but the Royals did little to put any pressure on the Watford keeper who looked like he
might be capable of making a mistake. Owusu and Morgan were put on as a last ditch
attempt and Owusu had a rare shot for Reading - but put his shot just wide. With
Reading pushing forward, with little effect, Watford polished the game off with two
goals right at the death - Ingimarsson having the dubious honour of making it 0-3.
The thrashing flattered Watford but Reading deserved the defeat - we'll need to
drastically improve on this performance at Vicarage Road to take anything away.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Ashdown Fee Agreed
Added by HNA? on 21/09/04
Portsmouth have agreed a payment plan for former Reading goalkeeper Jamie Ashdown, who left in the summer when his contract with the Royals expired. Reading were entitled to compensation based on the player's age - Ashdown was a product of Reading's academy set-up. The fee was set to go to a tribunal, but Portmouth agreed a payments that sees the Royals receive an initial lump sum and further money based on appearances. Ashdown has appeared on the Portsmouth bench this season but is yet to make his debut for the Premiership club in a competitive fixture.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Kitson Hattrick Puts Royals Second
Added by HNA? on 18/09/04
A David Kitson hat-trick within the opening half hour gave Reading their fifth
straight home league win of the season as the Royals moved into second place in
the Championship table. Reading were much improved from the mid-week victory over
Preston, and despite recording the same scoreline, dominated this afternoon's
fixture. Reading might well consider themselves unlucky not to have scored more
after an entertaining game created a whole series of chances across the ninety
minutes. Nicky Forster did everything but score after breaking through a number
of times only to be denied by the keeper - and his inability to find the target.
The afternoon belonged to Kitson though who put Reading ahead after just a minute
when an excellent Brooker cross from the left was headed home at the near post.
With Reading completely on top the visitors conceeded a penalty with fifteen
minutes gone when Forster tore into the area only to be taken down as he cleared
the defender. Up stepped Kitson to fire his penalty firmly into the bottom right
corner of the net. Fifteen minutes later and Reading's scoring was complete when
Sidwell was taken down and Kitson drove home an identical spot-kick to make it 3-0.
Gillingham looked unlikely to get back into the game but grabbed a potential
lifeline ten minutes into the second half when a low cross from the right was
tucked in from close range. Reading might have let it slip when Gillingham nearly
pulled another back when they broke through and hit the ball against Hahnemann's
right post. However, the best chances continued to fall to Reading who looked more
likely to increase their lead. Kitson nearly grabbed his fourth when he got into
the area and smashed the ball against the crossbar - Forster's luck continued to
evade him as his follow up header was cleared off the line. Goater replaced Forster
and should have got one himself with a good chance from close range that he took
too long over. As time ran out Reading were forced to settle for just the three -
but it was another excellent win and a great performance as Reading continue to
show further signs of improvement.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Forster Double Secures Win
Added by HNA? on 14/09/04
Two excellent goals by Nicky Forster helped Reading to a 3-1 home victory against Preston North End tonight. The result - Reading's biggest win of the season and the fourth straight home victory - was enough to lift the Royals to fifth in the Championship table. Dave Kitson gave Reading the lead after just eleven minutes when a Brooker cross saw the Preston defence in all sorts of confusion. The keeper appeared to get lost in his area and a shot ended up being a pass to Kitson who stuck it home from deep inside the area. Kitson could have had a second but put his shot over the crossbar, however Forster doubled Reading's lead just after the half hour mark when a Brooker through ball saw Forster run past his marker and finish well. Just before the break a Preston free-kick on the edge of the box had it 2-1 off the foot of Hahnemann's right post. The second half was a scrappy affair as Preston enjoyed a fair bit of possession without ever looking that dangerous. With the visitors contained and looking unlikely to pull level it was up to Forster to finish the scoring inside the last five minutes - and it was an impressive end to the goals. Forster picked up the ball well inside the Reading half and ran free shrugging off a couple of Preston defenders, continuing deep inside the Preston half before driving the ball low past the keeper to make it 3-1.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Shorey Contract Extended
Added by HNA? on 14/09/04
Reading full-back Nicky Shorey has agreed to a twelve month extension to his existing contract with the club - to keep him with the Royals until the summer of 2007. With Shorey becoming a key member of the squad, a player who is automatically on the team sheet without fail, the contract is great news. Despite only signing for Reading in February 2001, Shorey has already made 117 league starts. Shorey will of course feature as usual tonight at Reading take on Preston North End at the Madejski Stadum. Glen Little is expected to remain out of action but Convey could return to the starting eleven.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Defeat At Derby
Added by HNA? on 12/09/04
Reading missed out on the chance to go second in the table, and level on points with leaders Wigan, after a disappointing away defeat at Derby County this weekend. With Little out and Convey freshly returned from International duty, the same side that had seen off Sunderland at the Madejski Stadium started against a Derby side that had only notched up two wins prior to Reading's visit. The game started brightly enough with chances for both sides - the home side hit the bar and Hahnemann was needed to make a couple of decent saves to keep Derby out. Sidwell put in a decent effort that was blocked for a corner and Forster hit a couple just wide of target. However, the game quickly settled down to a below average Championship fixture with the number of offsides greatly outnumbering the number of possible chances. It was late on in the game when the fixture finally came to life after Derby took the lead with just twenty minutes left to play. A period of Derby pressure saw Hahnemann tip the ball over for a corner which was driven in with a shot blocked before the rebound was headed home into the bottom of the net. Derby doubled their lead inside the last ten minutes when the ball was crossed from the right and hit home from close range. The second goal saw Reading suddenly look more involved as they went on the hunt to get back in the game at the death. With most of the play deep in the Derby half Reading won a free-kick which was struck home by Nicky Shorey to make it 1-2. It was Reading that had all off the ball as the game drew to a close with the Royals desperate for the equaliser. However, the damage was done and Reading were forced to leave with their third away defeat of the season.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Early Forster Goal Wins It
Added by HNA? on 31/08/04
A Nicky Forster goal within the opening two minutes was enough for the full three points, as Reading moved into fifth in the table with victory over Sunderland at the Madejski. With Little and Convey out of action, Brooker and Hughes started on the wings and the two players were involved for the only goal of the game. Brooker played the ball to Hughes who put over an excellent cross from the right which Forster powered home with his head from deep inside the Sunderland box. After the early goal a Sunderland revival appeared to be on the cards after the visitors had a good period of play - however after hitting the foot of the Reading post they rarely tested Hahnemann. Reading gradually got back on top and Harper nearly doubled the lead with a first half free-kick that required a good save from the Sunderland keeper. The second half saw Sunderland win a series of corners but they were again let down by very poor form in front of goal as they continually blasted it high and wide. A neat piece of play from Kitson set up Sidwell who had two chances to seal the win after his first effort was saved. Later on Sidwell put in a better shot that needed a good save. Down the other end, despite a few chances, the visitors failed to get the ball in on target. With time running out Sunderland's desperation showed with a dive in the area that should have received a booking. At full time it was Reading who looked good for the win against a very average Championship side.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Convey And Little Out Of Action
Added by HNA? on 31/08/04
Three players will be out of action tonight as Sunderland visit the Madejski Stadium. Bobby Convey will be on international duty with the American side and Glen Little is out for up to three weeks after sustaining further problems with his hamstring injury - he managed just 14 minutes of Saturday's 0-1 defeat at Millwall. Ricky Newman will also be unavailable for selection after picking up a back injury during a training session yesterday. Andy Hughes and Paul Brooker are expected to start on the wings in the absense of Convey and Little. The Royals can move up to fifth in the Championship table if they collect three points tonight - the visitors will be looking for only their second win of the season having collected just five points from the five opening games of the season.
Rumour Rating: Almost Certain
Referee Blamed For Defeat
Added by HNA? on 30/08/04
Reading pointed the blame for Saturday's 0-1 defeat at the referee after a series of penalty claims were waved away. Millwall took the three points with a goal with just eleven minutes to play and the Royals will be disappointed after having at least two penalties denied. Early in the second half Convey burst into the area and appeared to be bundled to the floor - but the more certain claims were to follow later in the half. Just before the home side's winner Kitson appeared to have earned a spot kick after taking the ball past the keeper only to be taken down when we attempted to run through. In injury time Reading put on plenty of pressure in an attempt to find the equaliser and at last seemed to have won a penalty when Sidwell was fouled inside the area - the referee was surrounded but the only result was a Hughes booking. In an even fixture the other side to Reading's defeat was a series of missed chances to find the net. It was Millwall that got off to a better start but Reading created an early chance when Kitson had a header saved when he might have done better. Glen Little was working himself into some good positions and put a header just wide of the post before limping off to be replaced by Convey. Forster had a series of chances to score - putting the ball over the target and, in the second half, seeing a decent effort saved by the keeper. Millwall always looked capable of scoring though and, after a couple of misses of their own, they eventually scored the winner when a free-kick was fired into the centre of the area and headed home past Hahnemann. With time running out Coppell threw on Goater and Sonko - who made his Reading debut - to provide some power going forward but there was little impact with Millwall nearly grabbing a second. Hahnemann came forward in the dying minutes to attempt to meet a long throw but despite the effort Millwall kept it tight at the back to hold on for their win.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Watford Drawn In Cup
Added by HNA? on 25/08/04
Reading have drawn fellow Championship side Watford in the second round of the League Cup following tonight's away win at Oxford United in Round One. Watford were victorious last night with a single goal victory over Division Two side Cambridge United at Vicarage Road. Watford will travel to the Madejski Stadium for the fixture to be played on 21 or 22 September.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Oxford Beaten In League Cup
Added by HNA? on 25/08/04
For the second consecutive season Reading have put Oxford out of the League Cup by a two goal margin at the Kassam Stadium. As per last season, all the goals came in the second half with Reading never looking in any great danger from the home side. In front of a crowd of less than 6,000 Goater put Reading ahead just after the hour mark when a Hughes cross found Owusu whose first effort was followed up by a close range drive into the top of the net by Goater. As Reading started to look much the more likely side, a rare Oxford attempt on target was immediately followed by Reading's second with fourteen minutes left to play. A quick Reading move saw Little provide Brooker who crossed from the left to see Andy Hughes smash the ball home with his first touch.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Full Fans Forum Report
Added by HNA? on 25/08/04
The full report from the STAR fans forum, held last week at the Madejski Stadium, is now available on Hob Nob Anyone?. The forum saw over 200 fans present to put questions to the Reading FC management team. The first part of the meeting saw a number of administration issues raised including the problems with on-line ticketing and the increase in ticket surcharge prices. The second part of the meeting featured questions about the team put directly to Royals boss Steve Coppell.
Rumour Rating: Definite
STAR Stewarding Forum
Added by HNA? on 25/08/04
STAR (the Supporters Trust At Reading) will be holding a forum of stewards and fans before the Gillingham home game on 18 September 2004 at 1pm. It is hoped to make this a regular event in an informal atmosphere where fans and stewards can express their views. In order to get an appropriate venue for this meeting and an idea as to numbers, either e-mail help@star-reading.org or contact STAR at the East Stand shop if you wish to attend this meeting.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Reading 1 Rotherham 0
Added by Jay on 21/08/04
Reading won their second game on the bounce today and also maintained their 100% home record with a 1-0 victory against Rotherham United at the Madejski Stadium. It is also the Royals second 1-0 victory and clean sheet on the trot which is sure to breed confidence going into the midweek League Cup first round derby at Oxford United. The Royals made a poor start to the game and didn't create many chances as the visitors sat back looking to hit Reading on the break. The tactic worked for much of the first half with Paul Shaw and Chris Sedgewick going close. Chris Sedgwick ballooned an effort when Adie Williams’ poor clearance from a Richard Barker cross fell nicely for the Rotherham midfielder but he lacked the finish required. Scott Minto saw a well hit free kick well saved by Reading keeper Marcus Hahnemann who reacted well diving at the feet of Barker who rushed in looking for the finish. Reading did have the ball in the back of the net on 20 minutes when James Harper's free kick was turned home by Dave Kitson but the goal was ruled out for offside. Kitson though didn't have to wait long for his second goal of the season as Nicky Forster was brought down in the box as he looked odds on to fire home when Chris Swailes took his legs away and was lucky to only collect a yellow card from what can only be described as a very very poor referee. Bobby Convey made his home debut and did well, most pleasing of all was his ability to run at the Rotherham defence and put his foot in when required. Also worth a mention was Andy hughes who once again was played out of position on the right wing and did very well on occasions, his crossing the most pleasing of all. Overall this was a pleasing victory for the Royals bearing in mind last season we gave many points away to the so called lesser sides, the game wasn't the prettiest but it is another 3 points and Reading now occupy 3rd spot in the Championship as they prepare for their trip to the Kassam Stadium in the League Cup on Wednesday. Reading will have to achieve a third win on the trot Wednesday against Oxford, something we didn’t do last season and then we look forward to a trip to the New Den next Saturday as we take on Dennis Wise’s Millwall in the Championship.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Sheff Utd 0 Reading 1
Added by Jay on 14/08/04
James Harper scored his second goal in three games to send Reading to third in the Championship tonight (Saturday). The midfielder scored with three minutes remaining of the first half and it proved enough to give Reading their third win at Bramall Lane in the past three seasons and give the Royals a much needed clean sheet for the first time this season. United threw many chances in the first half with former Fulham striker Barry Hayles wasting the better of their chances and is still waiting for his first goal for his new club. Neil Warnock was his usual animated self barking away on the touch line as he tried in vain to get the best out of a united side that had drawn both of their previous games. Sheffield Uniteds poor form in front of goal gave Reading their first clean sheet of the season and will give the team as much confidence as they prepare for next Saturday's visit of Ronnie Moore's Rotherham Utd.
Rumour Rating: Definite
West Ham 1 Reading 0
Added by Jay on 10/08/04
Reading went down a goal to nil against West Ham tonight in a very entertaining game at Upton Park. Teddy Sheringham scored his first goal for West Ham on his home league debut and it proved enough to give the hammers their first win of the season. The former Manchester Utd and Spurs striker put the ball in the net from six yards after 82 minutes after Graham Murty's sliced clearance fell to Luke Chadwick who crossed for Sheringham to slot home. In a very entertaining and open game Reading could have taken an early lead within the first 14 seconds when the ball fell to Nicky Forster who layed it off for Andy Hughes who was guilty of a poor finish fireing over from 16 yards. In an end to game both sides could have had a hat full of goals but for some very good defending and on occasions some poor finishing. After a couple of blunders on Saturday Marcus Hahnemann was back to his best denying Marlon Harewood on a number of occasions and although Reading let it slip eight minutes from time they can come away from the game with many positives after a fantastic display and will go to Brammall Lane on Saturday full of confidence. The only concern from the game was Glen little who picked up a hamstring strain but it is hoped he will be fit to play a part in Saturdays visit to Sheffield.
Rumour Rating: Definite
West Ham Vs Reading Preview
Added by Jay on 10/08/04
Reading tonight travel to Upton Park for what is already a massive game in terms of promotion. The Royals started there season off in fine form with a 3-2 win over rivals Brighton on Saturday but West Ham only managed a goalless draw at Leicester City's Walkers Stadium and will be looking for all three points tonight. Last season Reading ran out 2-0 winners on Alan Pardew's first return to the Madejski Stadium but tonight looks to be a tougher affair with West Ham adding Teddy Sheringham and Sergie Rebrov to an already strong squad. Confidence though will be high after the opening day victory over Brighton but Royals boss Steve Coppell knows Reading will have to tighten up at the back if we want to come away with anything tonight saying "We've got to be tighter, pure and simple. A lot of teams in this division are potent going forward so the teams who will get promoted will be the ones who keep it tight. Last season I think the teams with the best defences were promoted - you won't go up conceding 50-odd goals so we've got to pull our socks up." There is the possibility of one change tonight with Ibrahima Sonko added to the 16 that will travel and he could find himself on the bench tonight.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Royals Make Winning Start
Added by HNA? on 07/08/04
Reading made a winning start to the 2004/2005 Championship season with an impressive 3-2 victory over Brighton at the Madejski Stadium this afternoon. The Royals were much the better side throughout and perhaps deserved a more favourable scoreline despite going 0-1 down within the opening 15 seconds of the season. The visitors lead was shortlived however with Dave Kitson pulling Reading level just two minutes later - a long kick from Hahnemann was knocked into the centre of the box from the left and Kitson drove the ball home into the roof of the net for an excellent goal. Reading were looking the more comfortable side and went ahead just before half time when Little put over a cross from the right which was played onto Harper who came storming through and volleyed home from the centre on the edge of the Brighton area. At 2-1 up Reading started stroking the ball around with ease with Brighton looking ready to go home with 45 minutes still to play. The second half saw Reading increase their lead on the hour mark when Forster broke free to fire past the keeper and it could have been more when Little again was the provider and Kitson put a header against the Brighton post. The visitors pulled one back a few minutes later from a rare attack but never really looked likely to pull level as Reading held on for a convincing victory.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Royals Start Season With A Win
Added by Jay on 07/08/04
Reading started the new season with a terrific win over Championship rivals Brighton and Hove Albion. Goals from Dave Kitson, James Harper and Nicky Forster gave the Royals a 3-2 win in front of an attendance of just over 15,600. Reading couldn't have started the game any worse when Brighton took the lead within 16 seconds but Royals replied within a minute and went from strength to strength and went in at half time 2-1 up after James Harper struck from just outside the box. The second half started with Brighton coming at Reading more but Reading caught the Seagulls out when Nicky Forster chased down an attempted clearance and went on to blast home from 16 yards. A great start to the new season for the Royals and although it's early days Reading currently occupy top spot!
Rumour Rating: Almost Certain
New Season Kicks-Off
Added by HNA? on 06/08/04
The new 2004/2005 Football League Championship season kicks-off tomorrow as Reading entertain Brighton at the Madejski Stadium. It's been a reasonably quiet pre-season for Reading with the Bobby Convey signing being the highlight of a small set of new players. Until Convey's potential signing hit the news many Reading fans were starting to doubt our chances for the new season. However the confirmation of American International Convey arriving, on a deal approaching a club record, signing soon changed that. Other players signed in the summer were former loan players Glen Little and Paul Brooker - players already well known to Reading fans. Sonko, who arrived from Brentford, appears to be a good signing to fill the gap in defence caused by Steve Brown's retirement. Meanwhile goalkeeper Ashdown defected to Portsmouth to keep the bench warm and Salako and Watson left the club after their contracts weren't renewed. Also out the door were youngsters Andre Boucaud, Joe Gamble, and Andre Fashanu.
Steve Coppell has a fully fit squad to pick from tomorrow with Murty available after recovering from flu, and star signing Bobby Convey is expected to make his debut even if he starts on the bench.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Thankyou And farewell Steve Brown
Added by Jay on 06/08/04
The Supporters of Reading Football Club will have a chance to say thank you and farewell to our former central defender Steve Brown who was forced to hang up his boots this summer, Steve will be doing the Golden Gamble draw at half time aswell as being guest of honour for the day. The former Charlton defender was forced to retire at the age of 32 after suffering a number of knee injuries last season but this summer it was decided it was time to hang up his boots. There were some many emails sent to the football club from members on hobnob anyone? and supporters in general wishing to have the chance to say thank you and farewell and I'm sure many supporters will be glad of the chance to do so on Saturday.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Club Admit Ticket Shambles
Added by HNA? on 03/08/04
The club have issued an apology to unhappy supporters after hundreds of fans were forced to queue for anything up to an hour to get tickets for last night's pre-season friendly defeat against Manchester City. For not the first time in recent Madejski Stadium history, the ticket office simply couldn't cope with demand, despite a low overall attendance, following yet more changes to the ticketing system. It might have worked fine before, but new changes saw problems with ticket printing that saw some fans miss the entire first half of the game - despite turning up plenty of time before kick-off. The club are implementing a new membership card scheme for the new season that is set to cause even more problems. With a large number of membership applications yet to be processed it is being shelved until September - non-season ticket holders are being told to use paper tickets for Saturday's season kick-off against Brighton. The new membership scheme will mean new supporters will need to pay an additional £2 for their first game to get one of the cards - another obstacle to the new fan.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Big Defeat Ends Pre-Season
Added by HNA? on 02/08/04
Reading's run of pre-season fixtures ended tonight with a second straight defeat - a 1-4 home reverse against Manchester City at the Madejski Stadium. The Royals were well beaten despite taking an early lead and making a promising start - when the game eventually got underway after a delayed kick-off. Williams went close with a header before finding the net to put Reading 1-0 up within ten minutes. The lead was short lived when Sidwell lost possession and the visitors pulled level. It was mostly one-way traffic after that point with City taking the lead before the break and then hitting two more to end up clear winners. Macken, Sibierski and two goals from Reyna completed the City scoresheet. New signing, American International Bobby Convey made his debut with thirty minutes left to play but wasn't given much opportunity to impress. However he should be set to feature on Saturday when Reading start the new league season when Brighton visit the Madejski Stadium for a much higher key fixture.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Predictions Win Prizes!
Added by HNA? on 02/08/04
The Hob Nob Anyone? Reading FC Prediction League is back once again for it's tenth season. The Prediction League allows you to pit your skills against other Reading fans to see who can most accurately predict Royals results over the season. As usual it's entirely free to take part - you just need to make sure you complete the entry form before each game of the season to enter your prediction into our competition database. It's as simple as that! This season there's £40 worth of vouchers for the Reading FC megastore to be snapped up for players of the league - including £10 for a random winner. To be in with a chance of winning something make sure you visit the competition and put in your entry for a minimum of ten games over the season - of course the more games you predict the more likely you are to win.
Rumour Rating: Definite
STAR Fans' Forum Date
Added by HNA? on 27/07/04
STAR (Supporters' Trust At Reading) will be holding its AGM and fans forum on Thursday 19 August at 8pm in the Princess Suite at the Madejski Stadium. The forum allows STAR members to put questions to the team manager and other members of staff. Following a short AGM the first part of the fans forum will be on football administration matters and to ensure that the responsible Reading Football Club officer is there STAR are asking for questions in advance, from members, to be sent to: help@star-reading.org or 5 Chapel Lane, Riseley, Reading RG7 1QU. The second part of the fans forum will centre on the team with Steve Coppell and questions for him will also be welcome. For further details contact STAR directly.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Brown Retires Early
Added by HNA? on 27/07/04
Reading central defender Steve Brown has been forced to retire from playing with a year left to run on his contract with the Royals. After continual problems with a recurring knee injury, Brown was left with no choice but to retire or risk further surgery and possibly more damage to his knee. He has reached an agreement with the club to settle his final year and is now free to leave. Steve made 47 starts for the Royals after signing from Charlton on a free transfer in December 2002. Last season Brown started the season strongly before his injury restricted him to just a handful of games - his last appearance was during a 0-2 home defeat to Sunderland in March 2004.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Friendly Defeat At Brenford
Added by HNA? on 26/07/04
Martin Allen's Brentford ended Reading's run of pre-season wins by defeating the Royals 0-1 in a dull game at Griffin Park yesterday. Brentford continued their pre-season run of clean sheets by putting an end to Reading's with a first half goal set-up by ex-Reading player John Salako. Salako's cross was headed down before being driven home mid-way through the half and it was enough to give the home side a deserved win. Neither side had many chances in a typical pre-season game, and the crowd of 3,230 had little reason to get excited. Reading fielded a near-enough first team side with a series of substitutions seeing most first team players get a game.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Bobby Convey On His Way
Added by HNA? on 23/07/04
As reported earlier this week American International winger Bobby Convey is expected to be confirmed a
Reading player shortly, as both clubs broke their silence to admit the transfer was nearing completion.
Nicky Hammond confirmed that they were keen on the signing saying: "A left-sided player, which Bobby
is, is something we need." Convey himself is reported to be "very excited" about his move to England
- as is John Madejski who is also "very excited" about signing a "top-class international player".
Convey is expected to make his debut in the friendly with Manchester City on 2 August 2004.
The exact terms of the transfer deal are currently being kept under wraps but the fee is expected
to be in the region of £800,000 with Convey attracting a salary up to four times his previous salary
at D.C. United. Convey will be accepting a three year contract to stay with the Royals until 2007.
Rumour Rating: Almost Certain
Another Big Friendly Win
Added by HNA? on 22/07/04
Reading kept up their impressive pre-season friendly form by completing their Swedish tour with a 6-0 stuffing of IK Brage. Brage were 4-0 down inside twenty minutes after two goals each from Kitson and Brooker. Goater added a further two goals to wrap up another convincing victory. The Royals now return back to England where they face Second Divsion Brentford in the final away friendly at Griffin Park on Sunday. Meanwhile, tickets are currently on-sale for Reading's home friendly against Manchester City on Monday 2 August.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Convey May Sign
Added by HNA? on 21/07/04
American International Bobby Convey is set to join Reading for a transfer fee in the region of £750,000,
according to The Washington Post. Twenty-one year old midfielder Convey has been playing with
Washington side D.C. United, but is reported to be on his way and is no longer training with the side.
The paper quotes a number of sources saying that it is a "done deal" and the player will move to
Reading in the next few days. Convey had problems with obtaining a work permit last time he was
rumoured to be on his way to England - with Spurs unable to complete the transfer. However, he is
expected to be granted a permit this time around after establishing himself in the National side.
There is no word from official sources on either side of the atlantic to confirm the players
movement - and the eventual move will also be subject to fitness tests with Convey on the mend from
a thigh injury.
Rumour Rating: Likely
Royals Hit Thirteen!
Added by HNA? on 20/07/04
Reading disposed of Swedish side IFK Bergvik by a massive 13-0 last night - and it could have been a lot more in their first game of two as they spend pre-season in Sweden. The Royals more than dominated the fixture and also managed to miss two penalties from Forster and Morgan - alongside plenty of other efforts that narrowly missed the target. Savage got the scoring underway after ten minutes with his only goal of the game and it was 4-0 at half-time with Morgan and a Forster double putting Reading clear ahead. The second half was a blitz as Reading added a further nine goals with Forster netting a total of five across the game, Kitston grabbing four, Morgan getting a second, and Andy Hughes finding his way onto the scoresheet. Bottom of the Swedish Fourth Division, IFK Bergvik are no strangers to big defeats - but Wednesday's game against IK Brage should prove more of a test against a side that won their Division in 2003 to move into the Swedish second tier.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Kitson Gets Three
Added by HNA? on 14/07/04
Dave Kitson scored three goals last night as the Royals won 6-0 at Bath City as the pre-season games got underway. Forster, Goater and Newman were also on the scoresheet at Bath. Meanwhile, the other half of the squad travelled to Forest Green Rovers where a single goal in the second half from Owusu was enough to take the win. Reading will now travel to Sweden on pre-season tour facing two sides.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Pre-Season Campaign Kicks-Off
Added by HNA? on 13/07/04
Reading's run of pre-season friendlies gets underway tonight as the squad splits into two and visits Bath City and Forest Green Rovers. Both games kick-off at 7:45pm and see a mixture of first team players at each venue. New signing Ibrahima Sonko is expected to travel to Forest Green along with Williams, Sidwell, Owusu, Hughes and Little. Reading's other new signing Paul Brooker will be with the team off to Bath, which includes first choice keeper Marcus Hahnemann, Murty, Newman, Goater and Forster. Nicky Shorey is expected to return from injury and play alongside Murty in Reading's defence at Bath. Meanwhile tickets for Reading's only home friendly against Manchester City at the Madejski Stadium on 2 August, go on sale tomorrow with adult tickets priced at £10.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Murty And Sidwell Sign New Deals
Added by HNA? on 13/07/04
Key players Graeme Murty and Steve Sidwell have both signed new three year contracts to keep them at Reading Football Club - despite having time left to run on their existing contracts. The players are perhaps the two most vital members of the current squad and the new deals put an end to recent rumours that former Reading manager Alan Pardew was attempting to lure the players away. Although the official line is that no approach has been made, the new contracts are a positive sign that the club are doing what they can to keep hold of their playing assets.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Oxford Drawn In League Cup
Added by HNA? on 08/07/04
For the second season in a row Reading will travel to Oxford United in the League Cup. The Royals have been drawn away in the first round of the competition in today's draw - the game is likely to be played on Tuesday 24th August at the Kassam Stadium. Last season Reading entirely outclassed Oxford in the second round of the competition, running out 3-1 winners with goals from Salako, Forster and Harper.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Brooker Signing Confirmed
Added by HNA? on 05/07/04
Winger Paul Brooker has completed his move to Reading - signing on a two year deal to keep him at the club until the summer of 2006. Brooker's signing was confirmed alongside Sonko who has also completed all the paper-work to make him a Reading player on Friday. Brooker is reported to have turned down an offer from Brighton to join the Royals after his loan period with Reading last season where he made five league starts and come off the bench a further six times. Brooker looked a reasonable player without ever setting the Division alight and will have to work hard to earn a place in the first eleven - his squad number reflects this as he takes number eighteen with Sonko getting the number six shirt.
Rumour Rating: Definite
Sonko To Join From Brentford
Added by HNA? on 01/07/04
Brentford defender Ibrahima Sonko is set to sign for Reading this week after failing to accept a new contract offer from his existing club. Out-of-contract Sonko will accept a two year contract to step up a Division. Although Sonko is yet another player to join from one of Coppell's previous clubs, he didn't play under Reading's current boss who was on his way out of Brentford during the summer Sonko signed. Sonko made 90 competitive starts for the Bees, including 79 league starts, and hit nine goals in the process to look a promising prospect after signing for Brentford in August 2002. Sonko is expected to take a fitness test before signing his new contract, but he has agreed personal terms and is certainly now a Reading player.
Rumour Rating: Almost Certain
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