Cardiff City v Reading. Match Preview

Last updated : 07 April 2006 By Michael Morris
City welcome the Championship Champions tomorrow for a match that still has something to play for. While a play off place is less likely than more likely City cannot give up just yet in case Preston flounder over the next 5 games.

For Reading it's a chase to reach the 105 points record set by Sunderland in 1999. They are currently on 95.

There's no doubt that Reading have been far and away the best team in the division this campaign. A massive 28 wins from 41 matches. They put 5 past Derby last week, 5 past us in January and before that 5 past Crewe. They have earned the right to Premiership football next season and good luck to them and Steve Coppell.

On the pitch City could be struggling to get Glenn Loovens, Jason Koumas and Steve Thompson fit. Loovens was subbed last Saturday at half time while Thompson was ruled out of the Saints game and is still rated doubtful for tomorrow. Paul Parry could be back in contention after a long injury lay off and there could be late fitness tests on Mulryne, Darlington and Ferretti. Marthyn Margetson is also struggling with a hamstring strain.

Reading will be without Glenn Little and Leroy Lita. Coppell looks set to alter his side with possibly a rare start for keeper Graham Stack and possibly starting places for a couple of regular substitutes.

Reading are said to have sold most of their 1800 tickets for this match so we should get a good atmosphere.

Keeping the slight play off hope is one reason for City to do well, avenging the 5 - 1 hammering they gave us is another.

'Let's face it, Reading are the best side in the Division and are worthy champions,' said skipper Darren Purse.

'They gave us a right old turning over up there and I'd like to think we owe them one on home soil. Reading are a very good side, but they can be beaten like any team.'