Crystal Palace-Reading



With the defeat against Barnsley, Eagles are definitely out from play-off race. Twelve points under the 6th Burnley with eight rounds left. Even Neil Warnock said that story is over. Injuries, less experience and not so good roster are the main reasons for that. The good thing is they're on the same distance from the relegation, as from play-off. Now, they only have to bring this unsuccessful season till the end. Neil Warnock has described his defensive injury list as a "nightmare"  (Paddy McCarthy-shoulder, Claude Davis-thigh, Matt Lawrence-hamstring and Jose Fonte-thigh) are all set to miss out. Youngster Johnny Ertl could make his first league start.

On the other side Royals are coming fully motivated. Four points behind Birmingham (and direct promotion). After two draws and a defeat (just one win from previous eight games), win against Doncaster on the road (1-0) returned a confidence. Maybe it was a start of new good run of results. Steve Coppell has no big concerns about the squad. Ivar Ingimarsson is out for the season, and Graeme Murty is currently sidelined as well. Sam Sodje got 90 minutes for the reserves in midweek as they beat Millwall 3-1.

One side is sick of life, second is thirsty for blood. Boring saturday against D day.Wounded defence against killing attack. Johnny Ertl against Kevin Doyle. Odds on Reading are in slightly drop, but 2.40 (expekt, unibet, pinnacle) looks more than good. I don't care about double chance, my money goes on clear away win.