Reading FC manager Noel Hunt has urged his squad to “embrace” the physical battle they will face against Rotherham United at the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Saturday.
Unbeaten in their last three games, the Royals are just two points outside the League One playoff spots. In contrast, Rotherham are struggling in the bottom half of the table, currently sitting 14th after a three-match winless streak.
Hunt Demands a Strong Response
The Reading boss recognises that Rotherham will adopt a direct style of play, similar to Shrewsbury Town, whom the Royals recently drew 1-1 with. Hunt is determined that his team will not be caught off guard.
“We have to be able to deal with it. They’re a good side—direct like them [Shrewsbury]—and they’re effective at what they do. We have to deal with it, embrace it, and go to compete. We have to do the basics, defending the box and the line well, and try to get the ball down and play more.”
Steve Evans has plenty of experience in navigating League One, and his side’s physicality could present problems for Reading. However, the Millers have struggled away from home this season, managing just two league wins on their travels.
Reading Looking to Regain Momentum
Hunt’s men have experienced a mixed run of results in recent weeks. After a strong start to the season, Reading hit a slump in January with losses to Stockport County, Leyton Orient, and Burton Albion. However, they bounced back with a 1-0 victory over Bolton Wanderers, followed by draws against Huddersfield Town and Shrewsbury.
Despite Tuesday’s draw with Shrewsbury, Reading remain in ninth place with a chance to close the gap on the playoff places. A win on Saturday could propel them back into contention.
Rotherham’s Struggles Continue
Rotherham, meanwhile, have seen their promotion push falter. Evans’ side briefly found form in December and January, picking up 14 points from a seven-game stretch. However, their recent dip has seen them lose to Birmingham City and Shrewsbury before a goalless draw with Blackpool in midweek.
Adding to their difficulties, the Millers are dealing with a growing injury list. Key players such as Sean Raggett, Christ Tiehi, and Jonson Clarke-Harris could miss out, placing extra pressure on forwards Sam Nombe and Jordan Hugill to deliver.
Writer’s View
Reading must be prepared for a battle on Saturday. Rotherham’s direct approach will test their defensive resilience, and Hunt’s side will need to find a way to impose their own game on the visitors. With the playoff race so tight, securing three points at home could be vital. If the Royals can dominate possession and use their attacking quality, they should have enough to overcome a struggling Rotherham side.
