Sam Smith has discussed the mental effects of the previous summer amidst protests and takeover talks at Reading.
Royals fans have made their discontent known over the ownership of Dai Yongge over recent years, which culminated in a pitch invasion during the game against Port Vale and tennis balls thrown during their FA Cup game against Eastleigh last season. The pressure put on by fan groups has caused the current ownership group to search for a new buyer and Rob Couhig is closing in on securing the club’s future.
On the pitch, after surviving the drop last season, The Berkshire club have made a good start to their second season in the third tier. Occupying eighth place, Reading have won twice and drawn once, with last weekend seeing a 2-0 win over promotion challengers Charlton Athletic.
Smith scored the second, decisive goal at home to secure their win over the Addicks, putting Ruben Selles’ side two points outside of the play-offs. The former Cambridge United striker was interviewed by BBC Radio Berkshire about the game, saying (Quotes via RDG.Today): “We know whenever we are at home we’re a difficult team to beat.
“It’s a massive result especially after the result last week (at Wrexham).
“To have seven points from the first four fixtures we have had has been impressive and we need to keep it going.”
The victory marked the seventh game in a row The Royals have remained unbeaten at the Madjeski Stadium, with their last defeat coming at the start of March against Wycombe Wanderers. They welcome bottom side Leyton Orient next time out in two weeks following the international break.
Reading’s number 10 also spoke about how the uncertainty across the summer has affected him, adding: “Credit to everyone especially after the chaos that’s been going on behind the scenes.
“There’s not much I can really say on the situation. But I hold my hands up – me personally it’s affected me over the transfer window.
“But it’s closed now and we’ve got to keep everyone together and build on what we built last year.
“It’s been difficult but we’ve got the backing of the fans and that’s all that matters.”
Writer’s View
It is very understandably a tough time to be associated with Reading. Through no fault of their own, they have been pushed to the brink of extinction by an owner who seemingly does not understand how important football is to the fans and the community. Thankfully this saga is drawing towards a positive end for all involved and The Royals faithful can hopefully look towards a brighter future.
Despite all the ongoing off-the-field, Ruben Selles has got off to a great start. Whilst the loss to Wrexham will have been a blow, taking points off of heavy title favourites Birmingham City away and now beating Charlton Athletic have put them into a great position early on in the season. Three of their next five games will be at home and will give them plenty off opportunity to claim even more points against tough opposition in Huddersfield Town. The atmosphere around the club is building momentum and will only get better when the takeover is completed.
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