A loss would surely end any chance of finishing in the automatic places and Wednesday would then have to face the dreaded playoffs which are always difficult to predict. Therefore this is the last chance the club have to really put pressure on the Blades and I am going to choose a team which I think would be capable of winning the game

Goalkeeper- Nicky Weaver- Tough choice between him and Bywater but out of the two I just think Weaver has more big game experience and will want to win as he is a fan just like the majority will be at Hillsborough. He is the better shot stopper but maybe his communication isn’t the best. He gets the shirt for me as he is very consistent.

Right Back- Lewis Buxton- Possibly the only position on the pitch that not one person would argue with. The best fullback in the league, very solid in defence and provides a good attacking threat when he overlaps.

Left Back- Reda Johnson- Most improved player in the squad by a mile and although not originally a left back, he is the best at the club. His tough tackling has made him a fans favourite this season but can be a bit rash at times so I do expect him to get booked.

Centre Back- Danny Batth- The young loanee from Wolves has performed to a very high standard and is looking better and better every time he plays with him gaining more experience. Needs to stand up and be counted though as he could be in for a tricky afternoon against the Blades strike force.

Centre Back- Miguel LLera- This was a difficult one as Rob Jones is club captain but I just think at home against anyone in this division when teams will sit back you need one of your centre backs to be comfortable on the ball. This is exactly what he gives you and is no worse than Jones at defending anyway.

Left Midfielder- Mike Jones- This was a tricky one but I believe Megson should attack and play with two out and out wingers, pin back the opposition and go for the victory. Try and get in as many crosses as possible and who knows maybe this game will kick start his career at the club.

Centre Midfield- Jose Semedo- Another one that is not really up for debate, a candidate for signing of the season in League 1 never mind player of the year just at Wednesday. Could be crucial against the Blades midfield as whoever wins this battle will probably win the game.

Centre Midfield- Chris Lines- I would go for Lines because he can provide attacking quality from the centre but can be slightly inconsistent and sometimes games pass him by. In a derby there can be no passengers so it could be a risk but when you are at home you need to go for it. Megson may go for Prutton if he hasn’t been shifted to right of midfield just add extra steel in there but I think that is too negative so Lines gets the nod.

Right Midfield- Michail Antonio- Quick winger who will be looking to impress from the off. He will look to put in a lot of crosses and take on his defender so hopefully he will get involved and gets the crowd going every time he touches the ball. This could one of the most memorable debuts if he puts in a good performance and the team get the right result.

Striker- Gary Madine- Yes he is out of form but he is the top scorer and looked good before his injury. Maybe this is the sort of game that will get the fans back on his side and get back to scoring goals at a consistent rate. Sometimes he doesn’t look that bothered but surely when he sees the crowd before kickoff he will realise how big it is and put his all in.

Striker- Ryan Lowe- Another questionable decision but there is no doubt that when he is confident he will score goals at this level. I believe he just needs better balls from out wide instead of long balls from the back and he will produce the goods. He is an intelligent player and Madine will combine better with him as Chris O’Grady is too similar and that partnership hasn’t worked that well.

That is the team I would choose and there may be a lack of communication at the back with no real talkers in there which could prove costly but just because you can communicate well does not mean you will help anyone. Darren Purse was a perfect example of this, good leader, poor defender. The lineup is attacking and it should be the crowd will get right behind the team and the players will respond positively and it will hopefully spur them onto victory.

The winger has signed on loan from Reading until the end of the season after it was revealed that Jermaine Johnson is currently struggling with an injury which could keep him out of action and with the Sheffield Derby just round the corner, the Owls fans know they need some creativity in the midfield if they are to beat the Blades at Hillsborough and this is exactly what Antonio will give them. Megson would have loved to have been able to play both the wingers as they would have scared the life out of any defence in the division with their direct running and pace.

The young winger has played in League 1 before with both Southampton and Colchester and performed quite well, impressing in many games and looking like he could make the difference in crucial games. The fans of every club have taken to him very well even though he has only had short spells there with managers wanting to take him off Reading permanently. But the Royals have rejected any enquiries as they see him as a player with massive potential and one for the future at their club.

He is at Wednesday now and they will be hopeful that between now and the end of the season he can replicate what Ben Marshall did in the first half of the season. He does have the potential and will not be worried about playing in front of large crowds as he has already experienced these in his short career so far. This season he has played 16 games in League 1 and scored four goals which isn’t a bad record for a winger and shows that he can put away chances when he gets the opportunity and is not only in the team to provide assists.

The player and club will be hoping that the team can get themselves into the automatic promotion places by the end of the season but if they don’t and have to go through the playoffs then it could be another chance for Antonio to score on a big stage because he has already scored one goal at Wembley when playing for Southampton in the JP Trophy final in a comfortable 4-1 victory.

The Owls fans needed a lift more than anyone before the Steel City Derby and hopefully this transfer will excite them and make them more confident of victory. The last few weeks have been close to disastrous but maybe this can be the catalyst to a brilliant end to the season and dispel any rumours that Milan Mandaric is losing patience with Gary Megson.

It is getting closer and closer to the big kick off and now United have another player to worry about which they didn’t expect and may have to change their game plan so Antonio doesn’t have a debut that the Wednesday faithful will be talking about for years to come.

Match Preview by Dave Burch

Colchester entertain Chesterfield for their second home game in a week. The U’s were held by Scunthorpe United last week and will be looking to gain all three points against bottom club Chesterfield. The Spireites will be making their first ever visit to the Weston Homes Community Stadium and will be hoping for all three points against an inconsistent Colchester side to keep pace with their fellow strugglers.

The Season So Far – Chesterfield

League Campaign

The league has been a disappointment for the Spireites so far this season. Chesterfield started the season away from home, narrowly losing against Tranmere Rovers. The Spireites first home game was against Stevenage and a Jack Lester goal, deep into injury time secured the first point of the season for the newly promoted side. Preston were next to travel to the B2Net Stadium and they inflicted the second league defeat of the season on the Spireites, coming away 0-2 victors. The next two games came away from home with John Sheridan’s men falling to a 6-2 thrashing at the hands of MK Dons and a poor month was ended with a 2-1 defeat at Exeter.

August proved to be a much better month for Chesterfield and it started with a 0-0 home draw against Leyton Orient. Chesterfield grabbed their first victory of the season in style away to Bournemouth, thrashing their opponents 0-3 and they carried on their form into the next two matches defeating Bury 1-0 and Carlisle 4-1 at the B2Net Stadium. The run of three consecutive wins was ended at the Valley, when the all-conquering Charlton defeated the Derbyshire side 3-1. It had looked like the Spireites had turned the corner in their season, finishing the month in 15th place.

Colchester visited the B2Net stadium for the first time in early October and came away victorious 0-1. Next up for the Spireites was a relatively short journey to Hillsborough, falling to a 3-1 defeat and things were not to get any better in their next two matches as they fell to their third and forth consecutive defeats at home against Notts County (1-3) and Hartlepool (2-3). Chesterfield were able to stop the rot with a draw at Rochdale, with a 74 minute goal from Gary Jones cancelling out Craig Westcarr’s first half opener. A poor month ended on a low note for the side as they lost 2-1 to Brentford at Griffin Park. The result left Chesterfield in 22nd place and one point off the bottom.

A cruel own goal from the veteran Mark Allott denied the Spireites all three points at home against Yeovil Town (2-2) and things were to get even worse in the next match as the Derbyshire side found themselves 3-0 down in under 20 minutes against Oldham, going on to lose the match 5-2 at Boundary Park. The final game of November saw Sheffield United visit Chesterfield. Ched Evans scored the only goal of the game for the Blades eight minutes from time to leave the Spireites bottom of the table at the end of the month.

Chesterfield travelled to Wycombe next and took an early lead through Dean Morgan. The former U’s man grabbed his second of the game following Anthony McNamee’s equaliser, however two late goals from Marcello Trotta and Stuart Beavon in injury time saw the Spireites denied any points. Walsall were up next at the B2Net Stadium and the Spireites were to grab a 90th minute goal of their own through the ever-green Jack Lester to rescue a point for the home side. The festive period saw Chesterfield back on their travels and a difficult game against Huddersfield saw Sheridan’s side slip to their 14th league defeat with Jordan Rhodes scoring the only goal of the game. An equally tough fixture at Scunthorpe’s Glanford Park saw the unfortunate Spireites look set for their first league victory since September, however an injury time goal from Jimmy Ryan denied the visitors.

Oldham were the first visitors to visit the B2Net Stadium in January and they held the home side to a draw after Matt Smith’s equaliser cancelled out Jordan Bowery’s opener. A second home game on the trot saw Exeter leave Derbyshire with all three points following a 0-2 win. The Spireites travelled to Leyton Orient last time out and left East London with a point thanks to a debut goal from Jimmy Juan.

League Cup

Chestefield travelled to Rochdale in the first round of the Carling Cup and took an early lead through an 11th minute Danny Whitaker strike. Ashley Grimes equalised eight minutes later, which took the game into extra time. The Spireites were awarded a penalty five minutes after the restart and Whitaker stepped up to score his second of the night. Rochdale were handed a fortunate lifeline just before half time in extra time when Dwayne Mattis put the ball into the net and it was to cost the visitors dear as Ashley Grimes turned in a cross to hand the Dale victory and knock the Spireites out at the first stage.

JPT

The JPT has been much kinder to Chesterfield with the club progressing to the northern final of the competition. They were given a first round bye in the competition and travelled to Notts County in the second round. Things started badly for the Spireites after Lee Johnson saw red early in the tie and Karl Hawley gave the Magpies the lead just before half time. A resolute second half performance saw Mark Randall, Dean Morgan and Jordan Bowery each score in the space of 13 minutes to hand the visitors an unlikely victory.

A last-minute Craig Westcarr goal gave John Sheridan’s side a 4-3 victory over Tranmere at the B2Net Stadium which set up a difficult quarter-final tie away to Preston. The Lilywhites took the lead in the 16th minute through Jamie McCombe, but just 11th minutes later a deflected shot fell kindly to Craig Westcarr, who buried the ball into an empty net. The match remained goalless until full-time which meant the game would go to penalties. Craig Westcarr missed the first penalty of the shoot out, but a rare Graham Alexander miss saw the shoot out evenly balanced. Spireite ‘keeper Tommy Lee became the hero of the hour as he saved Paul Coutts’ penalty and Alex Mendy stepped up to score and send Chesterfield through to the area final.

Earlier this week the Spireites took on Oldham Athletic in the first leg of the Northern area final at the B2Net Stadium and took a step closer to a trip to Wembley with a Scott Boden strike and a second half Danny Whitaker penalty securing a 2-1 victory.

FA Cup

Torquay United travelled to Chesterfield in the first round of this seasons FA Cup. The Devon club halted the Spireites progress at the first stage winning 1-3. Danny Stevens gave the Gulls the lead in the 20th minutes before Jordan Bowery equalised on the hour mark with a close range header. The scores were not to remain level long as journeyman striker Rene Howe got the better of Dwayne Mattis to give the visitors the lead in the 72nd minute. The victory was secured for the League 2 side in the 88th minute after Kevin Nicholson blasted a 25 yard free kick into the top corner.

Stat Attack

Form Guide

Here is a brief look at the form guide in the last 6 home, away and combined fixtures of both Colchester and Chesterfield, including the goal difference and points gained.

Colchester

Chesterfield

Season Guide

Next up is the Season Guide. I have detailed here the home and away form of both sides so far this season. Also included is the record of both sides against teams from the top half of the table and teams from the bottom half. The other information included is records of both sides from the first and second halves of matches this season.

Colchester have a decent record against teams in the bottom half of the table and also have superior record in the first half of games, whereas Chesterfield have the second poorest first half record in the league. On the flip side, the U’s have a poor record in the second half of games and the Spireites are much improved after the break.

Season Guide – Colchester – 12^th

Season Guide – Chesterfield – 24^th

Top Goal Scorers, Assists, Clean Sheets & Other  Stats

Colchester United

Top Scorers

Assists

Clean Sheets

Goal Times For

Goal Times Against

Averages

Miscellaneous

Chesterfield

Top Scorers

Assists

Clean Sheets 

Goal Times For

Goal Times Against

 Averages 

Miscellaneous

Team Talk

A focus on the Spireites

Chesterfield held Leyton Orient to a 1-1 draw at Brisbane Road last time out in the league. Here is a guide to the men that started the game and a look at other players in their squad.

Player/Position	Age	Season Appearances	Goals	Yellow/Red Cards
(1)   Tommy Lee Goalkeeper	26	18	0	0/0
Spireite #1 - Tommy Lee - © chesterfield-fc.co.uk Lee started his career at the Premier League giants Manchester United. He joined Macclesfield on loan for three months in January 2006 and was allowed to join the club full-time in June 2006 when his United contract expired. Lee was allowed to join Rochdale on loan towards the end of the 2007/08 season helping the club reach the play off final, where they lost out to Stockport. Lee was released from his Macclesfield contract in the summer of 2008 and soon linked up with Chesterfield. He has become a firm favourite with the Spireites faithful, winning the young player of the year award in his first season. He has made 148 appearances in total for Chesterfield and was named in the League Two team of the year last season following the Spireites promotion.
(18) James Hurst Defender	19	2	0	1/0
Hurst made his debut for the Spireites against Leyton Orient last weekend after joining the club on loan from West Bromwich Albion. The youngster came through the youth ranks at the Hawthorns, however he turned down the offer of a professional contract to sign for Portsmouth in 2008. Hurst did not make any appearances for the South coast club spending time on loan at Icelandic Premier League side IBV. Hurst was released from Portsmouth in 2010 following their relegation to the Championship and soon linked up again with West Brom. He has made 3 appearances for the Baggies and has spent time on loan at Blackpool and Shrewsbury this season before joining the Spireites.
(2) Neal Trotman Defender	24	10	0	1/0
Powerful centre back Trotman came through the youth ranks at Burnley and joined Oldham in 2006 after he was not offered a professional deal with the Clarets. Trotman came to prominence in the 2007/08 season putting in a number of excellent displays with the Latics attracting attention from Championship clubs. Preston stumped up £500,000 to take him to Deepdale where the youngster signed a 3-year deal. His time at the club was hindered by injury and upon his return to fitness in March 2009, he found himself sent on loan to Colchester to gain match practice. Trotman spent the rest of his time with the Lilywhites on loan away from the club, joining Southampton and later Huddersfield for the majority of the 09/10 season. He rejoined Oldham for a loan spell the following season before linking up with Steve Eyre at Rochdale this summer after his release from Preston. He made 14 appearances at Spotland, but left the club to join Chesterfield on a 2-month loan in November 2011, with Dean Holden going in the opposite direction. The deal was made permanent on 3rd January 2012.
(3) Gregor Robertson Defender	27	6	0	1/0
Versatile defender Robertson came through the youth ranks at Hearts in Scotland. He left to join Nottingham Forest’s academy side in 2001 and signed his first professional contract the following season. The former Scotland under 21 international spent three seasons at Forest making a handful of appearances before joining Rotherham on a free transfer in 2005. He spent two seasons with the Millers making 56 appearances before joining Chesterfield on a free transfer in 2007. The converted centre back has had an injury-hit time with the Spireites in the last couple of seasons but has managed to make 125 appearances and score 3 goals in his time with the club so far.
(12) Liam Ridehalgh Defender	20	2	0	0/0
Left sided defender is a product of Huddersfield’s youth academy joining the club as a youngster and signing his first professional contract in 2008. He came into the side for his debut against Charlton in 2010 after regular left back Gary Naysmith had a spell on the sidelines through injury. He made some impressive performances during his run in the first team, but soon found himself dropped for the more experienced Naysmith upon his return to fitness. Ridehalgh has found it difficult to break into the Terriers side this term and went on loan to Swindon for two months earlier this season. With first team chances remaining limited, the youngster has joined the Spireites for 6 months this January.
(25) Drew Talbot Forward/Midfielder/Defender	25	31	0	3/0
Versatile - Drew Talbot. © zimbio.com Barnsley Born Talbot has been an ever-present name on the team sheet for the Spireites this season. Talbot rose through the ranks at Sheffield Wednesday signing his first professional deal in 2004. Utilised as a striker, he made most of his appearances for the Owls from the bench in the 04/05 season, scoring in the last-minute of the play-off final to seal a 4-2 victory over Hartlepool and promote the Hillsborough side to the Championship. Talbot’s progress was halted the following season as a back injury ruled the forward out for close to a year. He joined Scunthorpe on loan in January 2007 scoring once in 3 appearances attracting the attentions of Luton Town. The Hatters paid £250,000 to take Talbot to Kenilworth Road and he made an instant impact scoring against his former club Sheffield Wednesday on his home debut. His time at Luton was marred by the clubs financial problems and the following season Talbot rejected the opportunity to move to Italian side Brescia. Talbot was allowed to leave Luton in January 2009 due a clause in his contract triggering a wage rise should he make another appearance for the club. He joined the Spireites on loan shortly afterwards and permanently in the summer rejecting a new deal with Luton. Despite playing the majority of his career as a forward and scoring 10 goals in his first season with the club, an injury crisis saw Talbot played at right back, a position that he surprising excelled in. Since then he has been equally at home at full back or on the right of midfield. He has made 132 appearances in a Chesterfield shirt scoring 15 goals in all competitions.
(22) Jimmy Juan Midfielder	28	2	1	0/0
Recent signing Jimmy Juan scored on his debut last weekend. © thestar.co.uk Juan is a set piece specialist and a recent signing at the Spireites arriving on a free transfer in December after he was left without a club following the liquidation of French side Grenoble 38 Foot earlier this year. The midfield man spent his youth career at Monaco rising through their youth academy playing in a handful of games including a Champions League match against Liverpool in 2004. This is Juan’s second stint in English football with the Frenchman spending the 2005/2006 season at the U’s local rivals Ipswich. He made 35 appearances for the Tractor Boys and scored 5 goals before heading to Grenoble for an undisclosed fee in the summer of 2006. He had a loan spell with Chateauroux in 2008 and looked set for a move to Romania before signing for the Spireites.
(26) David Davis Midfielder	20	2	0	2/0
Davis made his debut for the Spireites last weekend against the O’s after signing on loan from Wolves. He dropped into Non League with Tividale after his release from Walsall as a schoolboy. He was drafted into the Wolves academy in 2008 and signed his first professional deal with the club the following year. He has spent most of his professional career on loan, having spells with Darlington, Walsall and Shrewsbury. He made his Wolves debut in the League Cup against Northampton this season before heading North of the border on another loan deal to Inverness. He rejected the chance to stay in Scotland and returned to Wolves after making 15 appearances and scoring once. He joined Chesterfield on a 3-month loan deal on January 13th.
(10) Danny Whitaker Midfielder	31	24(4)	5	0/0
Experienced midfield man - Danny Whitaker - © guardian.co.uk Experienced midfield man Whitaker came through the youth ranks at Manchester United and failed to make the grade at Old Trafford. He joined Macclesfield in 2001, scoring on his football league debut against Exeter. Whitaker became a popular figure for the Silkman and was linked with moves away from the club due to his excellent form. Despite spending 5 years at the club and being a consistent performer, Whitaker was released in 2006 and signed for Port Vale. He spent 2 years at Vale Park, but rejected the chance to stay at the club after their relegation to League 2 in 2008. He returned to the North West and signed for Oldham Athletic, where he became a near ever-present making 87 appearances and scoring 11 times. He was surprisingly released by the Latics in 2010 and decided to link up once again with former Oldham manager John Sheridan at Chesterfield. He played a big part in the Spireites promotion to League One last season scoring 15 times and being named in the League Two team of the year. He has played 79 times in his time with Chesterfield so far and has scored 20 goals
(21) Jordan Bowery Forward	20	13(15)	7	0/0
Bowery is a pacy forward who has come through the youth team at Chesterfield. He signed his first contract with the club in 2008 and made his debut in a 1-0 defeat against Wycombe Wanderers shortly afterwards, becoming one of the youngest ever players to represent the Spireites. Bowery scored his first goal for the club in a JPT tie against Huddersfield in 2009 and made a handful of substitute appearances for Chesterfield before heading to Barrow for a loan spell. The majority of Bowery’s 82 appearances have come from the substitute’s bench with the youngster said to have a bright future with the club after signing a new 2-year deal in the summer of 2010.
(19) Scott Boden Forward	22	6(11)	4	0/0
Striker Boden spent his youth career at Sheffield United where he failed to make any appearances. He went on loan to the Finnish Premier League side IFK Mariehamn where he scored 6 goals in 5 appearances. Following his release from the Blades, Boden trialled with the Spireites and was awarded with a short-term contract in the summer of 2008. He has spent time on loan at Macclesfield this season, making 8 appearances without scoring. Like Bowery, most of Boden’s appearances have come from the bench. He has played a total 92 times and scored 16 goals for the Spireites.
Subtitutes
(13) Greg Fleming Goalkeeper	25	10(1)	0	0
The Scottish goalkeeper began his career with Livingston and failed to make a first team appearance with the West Lothian club. He moved to Gretna in 2005 during the clubs meteoric rise through the Scottish league pyramid and became a regular during the sides spell in the SPL, earning a call up to the Scotland U21 squad. With the financial problems that crippled Gretna, Fleming found himself released and soon linked up with Oldham Athletic where he penned a 3-year deal. Fleming failed to make much of a breakthrough with the Latics and spent time on loan with Dunfermline before being released in 2011. He inked a short-term deal until the end of the season with Irish side Galway before signing for Chesterfield this summer.
(28) Nathan Smith Defender	25	21(2)	0	2/0
Left Back Smith joined the Spirieites in the summer of 2011 after rejecting a new deal to stay at Yeovil Town. Smith, a computer analyst by profession, began his career in the Non League circuit playing for Enfield, Waltham Forest and Potters Bar Town before joining Yeovil Town on trial. Smith did enough to impress the Glovers management and signed for the club on non-contract terms in order to make his debut against Hartlepool. He signed a 2 year deal shortly afterwards and went on to make 112 appearances for the Somerset side, scoring once. Smith has been capped once at international level making his debut for Jamaica earlier this season against Honduras.
(8) Derek Niven Midfielder	28	4(3)	0	0/0
Combative Scottish midfielder Niven started his professional career with Raith Rovers in 2001. The following year Bolton Wanderers snapped him up for a hefty fee despite the fact he was just 17 and had made only the one substitute appearance for Raith. He did not make the grade at the Trotters however and joined Chesterfield on a free transfer in December 2003. Niven is the longest-serving member of the current squad. He scored the goal of the season against Manchester City in a League Cup tie in 2006, but two years later, he was forced to take a year out of the game due to his battle against testicular cancer. He announced his return to the side following his recovery in March 2009 with another wonder strike against Grimsby Town and was the last player to score at Chesterfield’s former home Saltergate. The long-serving midfielder has made 325 appearances for the Spireites and has scored 21 goals. He spent time on loan at Northampton earlier in the season and came off the subs bench last weekend against Orient.
(16) Alex Mendy Midfielder/Forward	28	24(1)	2	3/0
Well travelled winger - Alex Mendy - © eurosport.com Tricky winger Mendy started his career in his native France with FC Versailles in 2001. He spent two years in the regional game with the French outfit before moving to the Czech Republic to sign for FK Marila Příbram. He spent two seasons with the club, but left in 2006 to join the Gambrinus Liga surprise package FK SIAD Most who finished 10th following their promotion from 2.liga. His high calibre performances for Most saw him lead their scoring charts with 8 goals. High flying FK Mladá Boleslav signed Mendy on loan in 2007 and the winger was able to display his talents in the Europa League. Despite only scoring once all season, the loan move was made permanent in 2008. Mendy helped Boleslav win the Ondrášovka Cup on penalties against SK Sigma Olomouc last season. It was the first time the club had one the Czech Cup, with Mendy scoring one of the penalties in the shoot-out. He left the Czech Republic this summer to try to earn himself a deal in English football, joining Leeds on trial. The Yorkshire club looked set to sign the lanky wide man, however budget constraints put pay to any contract offer. Chesterfield made a move to bring Mendy to the B2Net Stadium, with the Frenchman penning a 1-year deal.
(14) Jack Lester Forward	36	8(5)	2	4/0
Jack Lester is still scoring at 36. © skysports.com Veteran forward Lester has always been a name to strike fear into the opposition. Lester started his career with Grimsby Town in 1994, helping the Mariners to victory in the Auto Windscreens Final against Bournemouth and promotion to Division One via a play-off final victory over Northampton. Despite being a popular figure with Grimsby following he was sold to Nottingham Forest for £300,000 in 2000. The hardworking forward spent 18 months with Forest before being released. He signed for Sheffield United shortly afterwards spending just over a season with his home town club before moving back to Nottingham Forest for £50,000. Lester endured an injury stricken time during his second spell with the Reds. He was released in the summer of 2007 due Forest’s failure to gain promotion to the Championship and soon signed a 3-year deal to sign for Chesterfield, turning down offers from higher-level clubs. Lester had a debut season to remember, scoring an incredible 27 times, a tally that had not been seen for 50 years at Saltergate. He scored 23 times in the following season, however injury problems have restricted his playing time in recent seasons. He has made 169 appearances in total for Chesterfield and has scored 81 goals. He is currently the Spireites 6th highest league goal scorer of all time, 10 goals behind Jimmy Cookson.
Other Players
(6) Simon Ford Defender	30	14(1)	0	0/0
London born Ford started his career with Charlton Athletic. He left the Addicks without making an appearance in 2001 and signed for Grimsby Town. Ford became a key man at the back for the Mariners, but he was unable to help prevent the side slide out of Division One. Despite being a consistent performer in First Division, Ford was a bit part player the following season and was released from his contract in August 2004. He signed non contract terms with Bristol Rovers, but was only at the club a matter of weeks before leaving to join Conference South side Redbridge. The strong centre back only made one appearance for the Non League side before receiving an approach from Kilmarnock. He joined the club initially as an amateur to avoid the SFL regulations and went on to make 163 appearances, scoring 8 times in his six years in Scotland. He left the club to sign for Chesterfield in 2010 and had a successful season helping the club to promotion. He has found life tough in League One this season and has made only a handful of appearances. Ford has represented Jamaica 3 times at international level.
(9) Craig Westcarr Forward	26	23(2)	8	1/0
Craig Westcarr tormented the U's for Notts County last season. © chesterfield-fc.co.uk The lightning quick striker started his career at Nottingham Forest and represented England at youth level. He was loaned to both Lincoln City and MK Dons before being released by the former European Champions. Westcarr joined Cambridge United on a 1-year deal for the 2005/06 season and had a successful season scoring 11 times in 31 appearances. He decided to reject the offer of a new deal to sign for Kettering Town in the Blue Square North. Westcarr became a key man for the Poppies and shot the club to promotion to the Blue Square Premier in the 2007/08 season. He left the club briefly to join Stevenage however, with Steve Morison staying at the Boro his opportunities were sparse and Mark Cooper offered the forward the chance to return to Kettering. He hit the ground running and made national news after scoring twice against Fulham in the FA Cup. He left the Poppies in the summer of 2009 to try his luck in the Football League with Notts County. He adjusted to league football well helping the Magpies to promotion to League 1 and helped score the goals to keep the club from returning to League 2 at the first attempt. He was snapped up by Chesterfield earlier in August this season for an undisclosed fee. He missed the match last week due to an injury problem but is expected to be fit to return against the U’s.
(23) Mark Randall Midfielder	22	5(4)	0	1/0
Creative midfield man Randall came through the youth academy at Arsenal and signing his first professional contract in 2007. The former England youth international made only a handful of appearances in the cup competitions and as a substitute in the league for the Gunners, spending time on loan with Burnley, MK Dons and Rotherham. He was released from his Arsenal contract in 2011 and joined Chesterfield this summer. Injuries have restricted Randall’s playing time with the Spireites this season.
(17) Dean Morgan Midfielder/Forward	28	12(6)	3	1/0
Dean Morgan started his career with the U's. © Eurosport.com Morgan started his career in Essex with Colchester and progressed through the youth team, becoming a first team professional. He looked to have a good future with the club, but his contract was ended all of a sudden in November 2003 due to an alleged incident behind the scenes. He went on to join Division One side Reading, but struggled to make an impact with the Royals. He only made 38 appearances for the Berkshire side before heading to Luton Town in July 2005. Morgan had a rather successful time with the Hatters early in his time there. The side soon struggled financially and with Morgan being one of the highest earners at the club he was sent out on loan to several clubs and rejected the chance to move to Leeds in a permanent deal, as they were unable to meet his wage demands. He played for Southend, Crewe, Leyton Orient and Grays before being released at the end of his Luton contract in 2009. Morgan signed for MK Dons in 1-year deal, but barely featured for the first team and joined Aldershot on loan in March 2010 until the end of the season. The skilful forward became a free agent after his MK Dons contract ended and he soon signed for Chesterfield, declining an offer from Aldershot. He has made 42 appearances for the Spireites and has scored 6 times.
(11)Dwayne Mattis Midfielder/Defender	30	9(2)	0	2/0
Mattis was a member of the Huddersfield youth programme and progressed through to the first team and made his debut in 1998. He did not make his next appearance for the Terriers until 2001/2002 and started to become a more prominent member of the squad. Mattis appeared for the next couple of seasons but found himself on the fringes of the squad in 2003/04 and was subsequently released at the season’s end. The former Republic of Ireland U21 international was signed by Bury in 2004 and became a first team regular with the Shakers. His performances gained many plaudits and he became one of League 2’s most sought after players. Mattis was the subject of a number of bids in January 2007 and returned to Yorkshire to sign for Barnsley in a £50k transfer. He struggled to produce his Bury form for the Tykes and made just 5 appearances before heading to Walsall on loan. Mattis’ misfortune continued with the Saddlers breaking his leg on his 4th appearance. The towering midfielder’s contract was terminated in the summer of 2008 and he rejoined Walsall on a free transfer. He spent two seasons at the Bescott Stadium, but was released in the summer of 2010, and soon became Chesterfield’s first summer signing. He became captain of the side and played most of time at centre back. He has made 54 appearances in total for the Spireites, scoring 4 times.
(7) Mark Allott Midfielder	34	26(2)	0	5/0
Long serving - Mark Allott - © givemefootball.com Allott started his career at Oldham Athletic in 1995 playing predominately as a striker. He made over 100 appearances for the Latics before joining the Spireites on an initial 2-month loan deal in December 2001. The move was made permanent in February 2002 and Allott was converted into a midfield player maker staying with the Spireites for over 4 seasons and winning player of the year before moving back to Oldham. He became a key player for the Boundary Park side and spent two seasons with the club before linking up with Ronnie Moore at Tranmere Rovers in 2009. Moore was controversially sacked shortly after Allott signed and new manager John Barnes allowed the experienced midfielder to seek a move to pastures new after just 8 weeks at the club. Allott was handed a lifeline by Chesterfield and he agreed to move for his third spell at Saltergate where he has remained. He has made 361 appearances in total and scoring 16 goals.
New Signing
Josh Thompson Defender	20	1	0	1/0
New signing - Josh Thompson has joined the Spireites until the end of the season. © derbyshiretimes.co.uk Celtic centre back Thompson has signed for the Spireites on loan until the end of the season. The young defender started his career at Stockport County and attracted interest from a whole host of sides including Manchester United where he had a trial. Celtic signed the defender in 2009 for £250,000 and was slowly integrated in the side. He was allowed to leave the club on loan in the 2010/11 season joining Rochdale, making 12 appearances and scoring once. He joined Peterborough on a season long loan at the start of this season, however his failure to break into the side saw the loan terminated early.

Previous Meeting

It was a ridiculously warm day back in October when the U’s visited the stunning B2Net Stadium. I was really impressed by the facilities and just general look of the stadium. It is by far the best of the new modern stadia in the country in my opinion. It also generated a terrific atmosphere throughout the match too.

Only two points separated the two sides at the start of play, with the U’s sitting in 14th place and the Spireites 15th.

Clarke was the main danger for the Spireites. © chesterfield-fc.co.uk

Chesterfield started the game the better of the two sides and it was only top defending that kept Leon Clarke quiet. Clarke had been a target for Colchester prior to signing for the Spireites and I have to admit he was quite a handful in the first half.

Ben Williams had a moment of madness when he let the ball roll under his foot and out for a corner and it was looking a little bleak for the U’s. But despite the initial bombardment, Colchester held their own through good defending and slowly started to get back into the game.

Michail Antonio's 30th minute strike earned the U's victory. © cu-fc.com

Michail Antonio was the U’s most threatening player with his pace and trickery. The winger was constantly getting the better of Nathan Smith and it was obvious that should the U’s make a breakthrough in the game it would be from the Reading loanee. In the 30th minute the U’s got their lead and amazingly scored from a corner routine. The ball was not cleared by the Chesterfield defence and Antonio spanked a low shot through a forest of legs and under the body of Greg Fleming.

The goal breathed a fresh resurgence in the U’s and for the majority of the half we controlled the play and came agonisingly close to scoring again through Anthony Wordsworth.

Ben Williams came to the rescue just before half time after he saved from Westcarr, but it had been quite a comfortable half for the U’s.

The second half was not so comfortable as the Spireites came flying out of the blocks with Alex Mendy bringing out the best of Williams and Clarke hit the post early doors.

Colchester just could not seem to get going second half, having one decent long-range effort saved by Fleming. The U’s half became a little bit of an Alamo with the home side constantly on the ball, but could not break down a resilient U’s defence.

The closest the Spireites came to scoring after that was when U’s man Ian Henderson smashed the ball towards his own goal that brought a flying save out of Williams.

Colchester finished the stronger side with Bond and Duguid both going close at the death, with the U’s winning the 3 points.

It was not the most impressive performance from the U’s going forward, but certainly a good defensive display to keep Westcarr, Mendy and Clarke quiet for the vast majority of the game. Chesterfield looked a little dodgy at the back at times and lacked that killer instinct at the other end, but they were certainly not the worst team I have seen this season.

Head to Head

Team News

Gavin Massey has joined the club on an initial one month youth loan. © watfordobserver.co.uk

Kayode Odejayi is an injury doubt after lasting just a couple of minutes into a substitute appearance last time out against Scunthorpe. Matt Heath is a doubt after missing last weekends match and Ashley Vincent is still a few weeks away from a first team return. John Ward has finally landed a striker to help bolster the strike force, with 19-year-old Gavin Massey joining the club from Watford. U’s fans may remember Massey opening the scoring against us after about 10 seconds earlier this season against Yeovil.

Prediction

It is going to be interesting to see if the U’s start the game as they did against Scunny. How we did not score more than one last week I’ll never know!

I think the U’s will line up 4-5-1 as usual and be unchanged from last week. I reckon Massey will most probably start from the bench unless a mystery training injury has cropped up for Steven Gillespie!

Gillespie at the double? © cu-fc.com

Chesterfield will be high in confidence after their victory against Oldham in the week and I think they will make things difficult for the U’s. Colchester have a decent first half record and are rubbish in the second half generally, whereas the Spireites have not been so great in the first half of matches, but much improved in the second half which could spell bad news for the U’s.

I believe Steven Gillespie will be the key man for the U’s. He got his first home goal of the season last weekend and should he get the service, I think he could score again this week.

When the U’s win, they usually win big, so I am going to plump for a 3-1 score line with Gillespie scoring a brace and Anthony Wordsworth to score the other.

The Opposition View

Many thanks go to Chesterfield fan Lee Bradley who can be followed on Twitter on: @BearCFC

I’d also like to thank the various fans on Bob’s Board – Chesterfield FC for their input too.

1) Chesterfield romped to the League 2 title last season and looked like a side that could compete at this level. What has gone wrong?

Craig Davies' goals have been a big miss for the Spireites. © guardian.co.uk

Lee Bradbury - Last season we were scoring goals for fun, with the likes of Deane Smalley and Craig Davies, with both of them gone goals are a lot harder to come by. We’ve stuck with too many of the players from last season that just aren’t good enough for the step up. Too many players were being played out of position. Our biggest problem is in the centre of midfield but this has been greatly improved since the transfer window open.

Sheik Yerbooty - Honestly, i think the club , and a lot of fans got caught out by the increase in standard and the loss of 2/3 key players from last season.

MDCCCLXVI – Complacency. The Manager in his team building, selections and tactics; the Board in believing they could run a League One outfit in a new stadium in the same way they ran a League Two club at the old one; the owner in thinking he could sit back and allow them to get on with it. False position? The league table tells no lies.

Rudeboy spireite – Firstly, we didn’t romp away with the league, good in first part of season and didn’t play that well except for a couple of games. What’s gone wrong, underestimated the difference in divisions, (some good sides in this one)lost two strikers that scored over 40 goals between them and have not replaced them. Jack is a year older and had (still got)a bad injury and Tommy has been injured. Def a worse side than last year. Are we in a false position ? League tables never lie.

Coloquix – I think it’s safe to say that the table doesn’t lie, Dave. Last season was fantastic, but it easy to forget that in the end we limped over the finishing line a touch. Thankfully, the majority of our season was so good that it didn’t matter, but our current predicament was perhaps on the cards. In terms of what has actually gone wrong, for whatever reason we didn’t manage to replace key players who left for greener pastures (namely Craig Davies) but confidence, or a lack there of is the biggest issue if you ask me. We might not have a squad of world beaters, but some players are clearly in an odd place at the minute, mentally speaking, and are not performing to their standards. Others, however, are playing to the best of their ability…it’s just that their level isn’t high enough for league 1 sadly.

Spinach chin – Key players last season carried the side, in short we had a couple of very good players that allowed others to appear better than they are. We didnt replace these when they left with anything near as good. We are bottom because, so far we are the worst team in the division.

Bankrobber – We never improved the side from last season. In fact, i think it’s fair to say we went in to this season worse than we left last season after losing the goals of Davies and Smalley. The defence conceded too many last season – we just outscored the opposition. Failing to improve the Defence in particular has really cost us as we’re coming up against teams of higher quality. I don’t think we’re in a false position.

2) Do you think it is time for John Sheridan to go? If so, who would you like to see come in?

Should Sheridan stay? Chesterfield fans are divided on the issue. © skysports.com

LB – If you asked me that a couple of weeks ago I would have said  definitely yes but things are starting to look better, probably too late though. If Sheridan was to go I’d Love Neil Warnock here but is way out of our league.

Sheik Yerbooty - No- seems to be a 50/50 split though.

Rudeboy spireite – Yes, but would be delighted if he proved me wrong.

MDCCCLXVI – Yes, infact he should’ve gone weeks ago and now we’re merely going through the motions until Dave Allen decides enough’s enough. His replacement? I’d see who’s available, but wouldn’t be surprised to see Mark Robins in the frame at some point.

Rudeboy spireite – Yes, but would be delighted if he proved me wrong.

Coloquix – No, and not because it’d cost us financially or because he won the league last season and is therefore immune to the sack, but because I cannot see how another manager could get any more from our squad. If Sheridan goes, it’d make more sense (for me at least) to replace him in the summer. If we are to get out of this mess, I cannot see that a new manager will help at this stage so backing him is still, in my opinion, the right thing to do. If he saves us, and it’s a big if, we’ll be singing him name all summer long!

Spinach chin – I think he will be here for the season. If we stay up, he will be here next season.

Bankrobber – He’s not going to go. The board seem to trust him, at least for now.

3) How would you describe your current style of football, and are you happy with it?

LB -We like passing the ball around and seem to make a lot of chances but aren’t turning the chances into goals. If we can start putting these chances away i’d be very happy, like most football fans i suppose.

Sheik Yerbooty - lacking a comptetitive edge, and no.

MDCCCLXVI – One of the reasons Sheridan enjoyed support as long as he did is his entertaining ethos. However whereas he could compensate for our defensive deficiencies with attacking talent last season, his inadequacies have been exposed this.

Rudeboy spireite – We are not competative,play too many players out of position, don’t defend set peices and final ball into strikers is poor.

Coloquix – We’ve a swear filter on here, so I cant truthfully describe the way we play Seriously though, Sheridan likes us to get the ball down and play it and last season, we were at a level to be able to do that. We’ve always leaked goals under JS but up until this season, we’ve scored plenty too. In fact, if we were tighter at the back, our goals tally this year is not bad enough to see us in this kind of mess. I think the way we play has had to change, and I cannot say that I’m happy with it as it isn’t working currently.

Spinach chin – Tippy tappy powderpuff football. Side until the new signings had no spine, no fight no battling qualities

Bankrobber – Keeganesque.

4) Who has been your key man this season?

Key performer this season - 'Keeper Tommy Lee.© Zimbio.com

LB – Tommy Lee, we really missed him while he was injured. Probably could play at a higher level than this.

Sheik Yerbooty - Tommy Lee has been the most consistent performer for me.

MDCCCLXVI – No one stands out, but i think it’s fair to say we might be marginally better off if the ‘keeper hadn’t been injured for several weeks.

Rudeboy spireite – Not had one, Drew Talbot has been hardest working.

Coloquix – It’s hard to say really. We have players who play their hearts out like Drew Talbot and Jack Lester is, understandably a legend with town fans, but I think we were all pleased (relieved might be a better description) to see Tommy Lee back between the sticks after his injury lay-off. For me, as much as I disagree with blaming individual players for our predicament, I can’t think of one player who has stood out this year. I think a few fans are pleased with Craig Westcarr mind…not a striker really, but has a good cross on him and will probably net a few more times this season too.

Spinach chin – Tommy Lee or Mark Allott, but no one has really stood out.

Bankrobber – Really, no one has stood out this season. I’d say Lester because we missed him so much during the three months he was out injured.

5) You have made a few moves in the January transfer window so far. Are you happy with the players coming in? Would you prefer players with more League 1 experience?

LB – From what I’ve seen of the new players I’m very pleased. We seem to have a lot more fight about us. We just need a goal scorer so we can stop relying on Jack Lester.

Sheik Yerbooty - Couldnt care less as long as they turn our season round.

MDCCCLXVI – If we’d signed several proven pro’s in the first few days of Jan we may, just perhaps, have stood an outside chance of survival. As it is we’re merely rearranging the deckchairs on the Titanic.

Rudeboy spireite – Too early to say, but can’t understand why Jamie Lowry is still on loan at Crewe.

Coloquix – The phrase “beggars can’t be choosers” springs to mind haha. Still, as long as moves are being made to address our current lack of depth, where these players come from and how old they are shouldn’t matter. I don’t think I’m alone in hoping that we can bring in a striker with a bit of experience though. I, like many town fans, am more than willing to see how the loanees can play though. As long as they play with conviction, I’m not against the influx of loanees.

Spinach chin – If they help us win games I dont care.

Bankrobber – The proof’s in the pudding. If they help us to win games, it doesn’t matter how old or experienced they are.

6) Which team has impressed you most in League 1 this season?

Most impressive team this season for Spireite fans - Preston. © mckassociates.co.uk

LB – I was impressed with Preston, totally outplayed us.

Sheik Yerbooty - I only go to home games these days, what with having a family. I cant really say I think any have been outstanding.

MDCCCLXVI – Funnily enough Preston looked a class above during their early season visit to our’s, and i have to say that though they only scored one Huddersfield ran us ragged for periods at their place.

Rudeboy spireite - Charlton, Both Sheffield sides (ouch),Preston, MK Dons, like i say, its a good league.

Coloquix – Don’t wish to admit it, but Notts County were pretty impressive, as were Preston. Seems odd to think that they’ve fallen behind in such a way because they were really good against us at the B2Net. Hume was a class apart. Having said that, I don’t think the standard in this league is quite as good as people think. Hartlepool, Yeovil, even you guys were perhaps lucky to leave the B2Net with the points you did…Not to say that we’ve been unlucky as such because I do agree with the idea that you make your own luck.

Spinach chin – Charlton.

Bankrobber – Preston absolutely played us off the park earlier this season. We were lucky to get a 2-0 defeat. On that performance, it’s quite amazing that they’re where they are.

7) Like Colchester, the Spireites have moved to a new home in recent years. Do you miss Saltergate? Are you happy at the B2Net Stadium?  

Unlike U's fans, Chesterfield supports have grown to love their new stadium. © chesterfield-fc.co.uk

LB – I’m very happy with the b2net Stadium, it’s turned out a lot better than I was expecting. I have a lot of good memories from Saltergate and I do miss it but there was no future for us there.

Sheik Yerbooty - Always thought i would, but i definitely dont.

MDCCCLXVI – Though there’ll always be an emotional attachment, Saltergate was holding us back. Now we can look most lower league fans in the eye.

Rudeboy spireite – Was dead against it, but no its been a real bonus.

Coloquix – For Christmas I received a copy of ‘Saltergate Sunset’ by our resident Mr Basson…it’s excellent and reminded me of so many good times. I grew up on Cobden Road too which is right behind Saltergate so I will miss it when it’s nothing more than a new batch of soul-less houses, but the B2Net has proven to be a real treat. It’s got a lot of character for a new build, and I’m proud to call it our home.

Spinach chin – Saltergate was a crumbling relic from the 1930′s and an embarrassment. The new ground for this level is very good.

Bankrobber – I don’t miss Saltergate at all. We’ve got some great memories at the new ground already. We were well overdue a move and the club is in such a better position than it was this time 3 years ago.

8) What do you think the score will be, and scorers (if any)?

LB – Think it will be a tough game but I’ll go for 1-1 with Massey for you and Davis for us.

Sheik Yerbooty - With respect , i hope we do you 3-0

MDCCCLXVI – Colchester win.

Rudeboy spireite – Draw.

Coloquix – Vs you chaps? Who knows?! We have to win at some point, but I was a little wary about you guys pre-season…I cannot see us winning away but with the new blood involved, anything is possible. If I were a betting man, I’d plump for another 1-1 draw with our goal coming from either Westcarr or Bowery.

Spinach chin – I hope the new signings can help us turn results around in the league – starting at Colchester

Bankrobber – We need to win. 1-2 to us. Juan and Boden. Gillespie for you.

9) Which three teams do you think will get promoted this season?

LB – Charlton, Huddersfield and it’s hard for us to say but Sheff Utd.

Sheik Yerbooty - Dee-dahs 1st and second xi’s (sadly) and charlton.

MDCCCLXVI – Charlton, then anyone but Wednesday. Though it sticks in the throat that Franchise are doing anything but implode.

Rudeboy spireite – Charlton, Sheff Utd(ouch), Sheff WEds(ouch), MK Dons or Preston.

Coloquix – Charlton seem to have it sewn up. They should win the league. I also see either Wednesday or Blades going up, but not both (as I can just see one half of Sheffield ending the season with sour expressions whilst the other half take the pizz). I cannot see Preston meeting expectations with the new boss, just think he needs his own players in and he wont have the time or the budget for that. If Huddersfield hold onto Rhodes, they should claim that third spot. To be honest though, I rarely look at the table above 15th place, it’s like a different league to ours at the minute!!!

Spinach chin – Huddersfield, Sheffield stupidname and Charlton

Bankrobber – Sheff Utd, Sheff Weds and Charlton.

10) Who do you think will go down?

LB- Wycombe, Scunthorpe, Rochdale and sadly us.

Sheik Yerbooty - Please god, anyone but us !!!

MDCCCLXVI – Us, then perm any three from Exeter downwards.

Rudeboy spireite – Us and then not bothered.

Coloquix – Rochdale, Wycombe, Exeter and…..who knows?

Spinach chin – Rochdale, Wycombe,Wallsall and Exeter. CFC 5th bottom.

Bankrobber – Yeovil, Wycombe, Walsall and, sadly, us. I think we’ve left ourselves too much to do and dropped too many points to teams around us.

Ticket News

Tickets are on sale for the U’s League match against Scunthorpe.

Tickets for this GRADE C game are now on sale and can be bought by visiting the Ticket Office or by calling 0845 437 9089. You can also buy online at www.colutickets.com.

Catergory C Pricing.

Match Report by Dave Burch

I had never been to Tranmere before and I was looking forward to making my first visit to their ground. I knew it was in the North West, but I did not realise just how far it was for some reason. Looking at our next three away matches we have some serious miles to travel!

Four of us travelled up to the game and it was interesting to see all the different football shirts on the way up there. Lots of fans from the more illustrious clubs in the Premier League were travelling from the South to the North instead of watching their local sides, which I always find rather amusing.

When we arrived at the ground the car parking supervisors were all friendly, chatty and very pleasant, which makes a real change to some of the bouncer types who can only communicate with a snarled grunt and point vaguely to the direction where you have to go.

We were advised which pub was best to drink at and thankfully it was a stones throw from the ground and was showing live football which helps the couple of hours before the game go a little quicker. The locals were all perfectly friendly and willing to have a chat and it was also nice to speak to some of the exiled U’s fans.

Once inside the ground the concourses well selling food and drink at reasonable prices for football grounds. The food was a better quality than some of the grounds I have visited with the hot dog actually tasting nice and not a watery mess as some have done!

For an old ground which has been redeveloped in the last 20 years it is not a bad looking stadium. The only disappointment for me was the lack of fans in the ground. Prices for the game were really decent and whilst Colchester are not exactly a marquee name, the team are riding high in the league and with the good home form Tranmere are showing, I would have thought more would have come through the door.

Line Ups

Tranmere

 Fon Williams

Raven  Taylor   Goodison  Buchanan

 Welsh          Weir

  Akins          Robinson          McGurk

Tiryaki

Subs: Coughlin, Holmes, Bakayogo, Labadie, Showunmi.

U’s

Williams

Wilson Okuonghae Heath Coker

Antonio  Bond Wordsworth Vincent

Odejayi          Henderson

Subs:  Thomas, James, White, Duguid, Izzet.

First Half

John Ward was forced into making a change to the starting line up from the side that beat Notts County last week. Ashley Vincent came into the side for his first start after recovering from his knee injury, replacing Steven Gillespie who will be out for a few weeks with a hamstring strain. Loan signing Casey Thomas was on the bench for the U’s as John Ward kept faith with the formation change from last week.

The first chance of the match fell to the home side within the opening minute of the game as Adam McGurk launched a shot which went wide of the target.

Both sides began to play careful football early on in the match, having periods of possession but unable to test either keeper with a shot at goal.

The visiting U’s were able to force a couple of corners as the 10 minute mark came, however the home defence stood firm to clear their lines.

In the twelfth minute the Rovers registered the first shot on target as McGurk hit an effort from range straight at Ben Williams in the U’s goal.

Williams was again called into action moments later, as Lucas Akins found space to cut in from the right side of the box and like McGurk before him, he was unable to really test the U’s custodian, with his shot a comfortable height for Williams to hold.

The game was becoming a midfield battle with neither side willing to give any ground. The home side were looking more likely to score though, but were unable to get any real clear cut chances. John Welsh shot from range but his effort did not trouble Williams with the ball going high into the away fans stand.

Missed a sitter - Ash Taylor © eurosport.com

Tranmere had the best chance of the game in the 27th minute as the U’s failed to clear their lines from an Andy Robinson corner. Ash Taylor found himself unmarked at the far post and with the goal at his mercy, the defender somehow headed the ball into the turf and over the bar when he was only a couple of yards out. It was a glorious chance for the home side to take the lead and a huge let off for the U’s.

The missed chance seemed to rally Colchester and they had their first shot on target shortly afterwards. Andy Bond struck a shot at goal, however it was an easy save for Fon Williams to make in the Rovers goal.

It was becoming a more open game towards the end of the first half with both sides having shooting opportunities with both John Welsh for Tranmere and Ashley Vincent for the U’s missing the target.

Forward Adam McGurk was finding space on the left. © tranmererovers.co.uk

Adam McGurk was proving to be a real thorn in the side of the U’s and finding some good shooting opportunities, but he was only able to hit the ball straight at Ben Williams, who despite being the busier of the two ‘keepers had not been truly tested.

Colchester’s best chance of the match came with three minutes left on the clock as Anthony Wordsworth hit a clean strike from 18 yards which Fon Williams had to push wide for a corner. The resulting corner saw an opportunity fall for Ashley Vincent, who volleyed over the bar.

It proved to be the last chance of the half with the team from Essex finishing the half stronger having been on the back foot for long periods.

Second Half

The home side started the second half brightly and could have found themselves a goal ahead in the 46th minute as Adam McGurk rose highest to head the ball over from a Lucas Akins cross.

A battle for possession ensued as the home side attempted to up the ante to claim the first goal. The U’s were able to repel the Rovers attacks with relative ease and restricting the home side to harmless long range efforts.

The crowd were whipped into a frenzy midway through the half as they believed that Matt Heath had handled the ball in the area. The referee was having none of it though and the game continued. The decision seemed to raise the tempo of the hosts and Lucas Akins came close when he hit a curling 25 yard effort at goal which Ben Williams had to save.

Blushes spared by the linesman's flag - Brian Wilson. © news.ladbrokes.com

Colchester came back into the game and the linesman’s flag spared the blushes of full back Brian Wilson as he somehow diverted Anthony Wordsworth’s miscued shot into the side netting from close range.

Moments later, Michail Antonio was guilty of missing a good chance. The wide man playing his last game for the U’s due to the expiration of his loan deal from Reading, was allowed a free run at goal and seemed to be in two minds on what to do, eventually hitting a daisy cutter straight at the ‘keeper.

The game was following a similar pattern of the first half with both sides countering each other. McGurk shot wide for the hosts and Akins’ effort was easily collected by Williams. Further penalty appeals were turned down prior to Akins’ shot as John Welsh went down in the box whilst challenging to get on the end of a cross.

At the other end in the 80th minute, Michail Antonio twisted and turned wonderfully in the box, but hit a tame effort goalwards which Fon Williams had to push wide. From the resulting corner Magnus Okuonghae had a free header cleared off the line by a defender and Matt Heath’s follow up header cleared the cross bar.

Ben Williams pulled of a trio of saves to earn the U's a point. © teamtalk.com

The late scare woke the home side up and they poured forward in the search for a winner. Adam McGurk was the first to try and grab the elusive goal as he hit a well struck shot which Ben Williams had to tip over. Williams had to be alert moments later as again McGurk found himself yards out and saw his nemesis pull off another fine save to deny him a goal.

Andy Robinson had the final chance of the game as he lashed a powerful effort at goal which Ben Williams instinctively palmed to safety.

Kemal Izzet was brought on late in the game, replacing Ashley Vincent to give the U’s an extra bit of grit in the centre of the park.

Two minutes of injury came and went as the U’s held firm to earn a battling point against a tough Tranmere side.

Match Facts

Summary

It was a hard earned point against a decent but unspectacular Tranmere side.

It was a resolute defensive display and I do not think too many teams will come away from Prenton Park with a clean sheet and a point.

Like the U’s, I felt that Tranmere were a well organised side and on another day could have won the game by a few goals. The miss from Taylor was quite unbelievable, but sometimes that is what happens with football.

I could not see either of the penalty appeals and will have to wait for the highlights to pass judgement on those decisions. If the player had been adjudged to have dived, then usually a yellow card is given so it is a strange one. Saying that, I thought the referee did ok. It was not a dirty game and both sides pretty much shut each other out.

Chief string puller - Andy Robinson © sportnetwork.net

I thought Tranmere won the vital midfield battle with Welsh battling away in the centre and Andy Robinson pulling the strings just behind Tiryaki. I thought Robinson was at the heart of most attacks and for me he was probably the overall man of the match.

Lucas Akins and Adam McGurk both worked hard and on another day McGurk could have taken the match ball home with him. Ben Williams was a match for everything that was thrown at him and his three saves right at the death ensured the U’s went back to Essex with a point.

I felt Mustafa Tiryaki struggled up front by himself. He showed some neat hold up play and the ability to link up at some points, but he for such a big guy he seemed to struggle with the physical side of things and was well marshalled by the U’s defence.

I was a little disappointed that the U’s were unable to attack a little bit more. With the benefit of hindsight I personally feel Ward got the tactics wrong, but on the other hand I can understand why he kept faith with a winning side. We started with an attacking line up, but sadly there were not too many attacks to talk about. I felt with an extra midfielder in the centre we would have been able to get our foot on the ball a little better and look to control the game. We got overrun a few times and had the defence to thank for making sure most of Tranmere’s efforts were from range.

I think a lot of credit has to go to Les Parry and for how he has set the Tranmere side up. They look a much more disciplined and hard working unit this season and it is no surprise to see them doing well in the league.

I think they are a couple of players short of being a top 6 side, but should they find a genuine goal scorer for the rest of the season, then it is certainly a possibility that they could be in the mix. Jose Baxter could be a big player for them should he stay for the rest of the season. I just felt they lacked that killer instinct in the final third and only really troubled Williams with 10 minutes left.

I predicted a draw in the match preview and I am happy with a point to be honest. The U’s were under par and struggled to get in to the game. If we can continue to pick up points like this on our travels and improve our home form, I think we’ll finish in the higher places of mid table.

Antonio has had a positive impact in U's colours. © essexcountystandard.co.uk

One last note is a goodbye and good luck to Michail Antonio. He has been a real bright spark to the U’s and I feel he is going to be sorely missed. I hope he gets an opportunity at Reading because he has worked very hard with us and deserves a chance. If that is not forthcoming then I would love to see him back in the U’s colours but I cannot see it happening unfortunately. It looks like Casey Thomas has come in as a direct replacement for Antonio and I hope he is able to make a similar impact.

Player Ratings

Ben Williams - Man of the Match © cu-fc.com

Ben Williams – 8 – Man of the Match - Mainly had to make routine saves, however showed good reactions to save a point at the end with three top saves.

Brian Wilson – 6 - Coped in defence and was lucky to see the linesman’s flag go up after his shocking miss.

Magnus Okuonghae – 7 - Cope well with Tiryaki and was unlucky to see his header cleared off the line.

Matt Heath – 7 - Defended well and did all the simple things correctly.

Ben Coker – 7 - Thought he did well with Akins and did not get exposed as much as he has done on our travels.

Michail Antonio – 6 - Seemed too eager to go out with a bang. Some of his decision making was poor, but he did look threatening with his direct running at times.

Andy Bond – 5 - Bad day at the office for Bondy. Seemed to be overrun in the centre and stuggled to get involved.

Anthony Wordsworth – 6 - Was not able to get his foot on the ball to dictate the play. Tested the keeper in the first half and delivered some decent corners.

Ashley Vincent – 6 - Struggled to get involved but he did well tracking back and helping out Coker.

Ian Henderson – 6 - Did not see much of the ball but worked hard trying to make things happen.

Kayode Odejayi – 5 - Goodison and Taylor had the beating of the big man and really did not make much of an impact at all.

Sub:

Kem Izzet - Had no time to impress.

Match Report by Dave Burch

The U’s took to the road for the second consecutive week as they travelled to Sheffield Wednesday who are undefeated on their own turf so far this season.

Colchester have had a good record at Hillsborough in recent years and have been pretty resolute on their travels, however when I woke up on Saturday morning I had a feeling that this was a bridge too far.

Luckily I was warned of the closure to the M11 north bound, so I missed the majority of the traffic by going the A14/A1 route.

Hillsborough is a ground I was looking forward to going to once again. It is steeped in history and tragedy at the same time, but has a real charm about it. For an old ground it has a lot of character and when the Wednesdayites get behind their team the noise is fantastic.

It made me wonder just how on earth clubs the size of both Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United have fallen so far down the league pyramid when there are Premier League clubs who get similar gates for their home games too.

Line Ups

Sheffield Wednesday

Bywater

Buxton Jones Batth Johnson

O’Connor Semedo Lines Marshall

Madine       O’Grady

Subs: Johnson, Lowe, Palmer, Bennett, O’Donnell

U’s

Williams

Wilson Eastman Heath Coker

Bond Izzet Wordsworth

Antonio                                     Henderson

                                                                                                                                                                         Odejayi

Subs: Duguid, White, James, O’Toole, Gillespie.

First Half

John Ward was forced into making a change to the side that was held to a 2-2 draw with Rochdale last weekend, with the suspended Magnus Okuonghae being replaced by Tom Eastman, who was recalled from his loan at Crawley Town to make his debut for the U’s. Matt Heath was deemed fit enough to start the game despite not training for most of the week.

The game kicked off with the U’s looking good in possession and looking to take the game to the illustrious hosts. The half was only 15 seconds old when Anthony Wordsworth picked out Ian Henderson with a lovely pass, but the wide man lifted his left footed shot over the cross bar.

The U’s continued to pressure and Michail Antonio flashed a lovely cross across the face of the goal and again Ian Henderson was on the end of it, but he was unable to get any direction on his diving header and the ball went wide of the post.

There was claims for a penalty early in the game when Andy Bond appealed for a hand ball against Jose Semedo, but the referee deemed it as accidental and the play continued much the frustration of the U’s.

Colchester continued to look comfortable in possession and had another great opportunity to break the deadlock in the 10th minute. Good build up play involving a number of passes saw the ball being teed up for Brian Wilson to shoot, but again the U’s were wasteful as Wilson sent his powerful effort over the cross bar.

Michail Antonio was causing problems early on. ©gazette-news.co.uk

Michail Antonio was causing havoc on the right side of midfield and he was sent crashing to ground by a simply awful challenge by Rob Jones. The referee again frustrated the U’s as he failed to book the giant centre back. The free kick was poor from Wordsworth as it hit the wall and was cleared away from danger.

Minutes later the Owls registered their first shot of the game as the in form goal machine, Gary Madine, was allowed to turn in the box and shoot straight at Ben Williams. It was an early warning of the threat Wednesday possess.

The hosts began to grow in confidence and were seeing a lot of the ball, trying to get winger Ben Marshall involved in the game.

Colchester nearly shot themselves in the foot with 20 minutes on the clock when Kemal Izzet was caught out in possession and Jose Semedo took advantage and launched a powerful shot, which fortunately for the U’s fizzed harmlessly over the bar. However the Wednesday crowd were in full voice behind their team and the pressure was being cranked up a notch.

Wednesday went close again minutes later as Chris Lines was allowed the freedom of the U’s half to move forward, however his curled effort again went over the cross bar.

Ben Marshall was beginning to get in to the game more and more and was testing Brian Wilson with his direct running into the U’s box, he was unable to get any of his shots on target with one going wide and the other being blocked. Marshall was not just a threat with his running, but also with his long throws in to the box.

In the 30th minute it was one of those throws which saw Gary Madine climb highest to nod the ball into the net. A sharp blast of the referee’s whistle brought the celebrations to a halt however, with Matt Heath being adjudged to have been fouled as the ball was in the air.

Wednesday were the stronger side and looking more likely to go into the interval with the lead and forcing a number of set pieces that required the U’s to clear. One of those clearances inadvertently set up Michail Antonio to some how get on the end of the ball and shoot straight at Stephen Bywater.

The Owls continued to press forward for the opener and came desperately close as Chris Lines saw his low, curled free kick excellently pushed away by Ben Williams.

Perhaps the best chance of the half came against the run of play, when in the 42nd minute, Anthony Wordsworth sent over a corner kick which found Ian Henderson free in the box, but amazingly the wide man put his header wide with the goal gaping.

An entertaining first half ended without incident with the scores level.

Second Half

Gary Megson made a change to his side for the second half with Jermaine Johnson being introduced for James O’Connor.

The U’s came out of the second half looking confident and the U’s dangerman Michail Antonio had the first sight of goal in the second half, but he pulled his shot wide of Bywater’s post.

The Owls soon upped the tempo and Ben Marshall waltzed into the box and his shot had to be saved by Williams and put behind for a corner. From the resulting corner came a comical goal mouth scramble with the ball ping ponging up and down and Madine was unlucky to see an effort rebound off the cross bar and some how the U’s survived the scare.

Rob Jones put the Owls ahead. ©thestar.co.uk

It did not take long afterwards for the Owls to take the lead though. Gary Madine was allowed to turn and fire a rasping effort at goal and Ben Williams was unable to make a clean save. The ball fell kindly to the massive centre back Rob Jones who was on hand to wallop the ball home past the dive of Williams. The goal had been coming and it was a deserved lead for the home side.

Colchester tried to not let the goal get their spirits down, but the quality of Wednesday was beginning to show and it could have been worse for the U’s minutes after the opener as Chris O’Grady brought a save out of Williams.

The U’s were looking increasingly desperate and once Michail Antonio went down after a kick to the calf from Reda Johnson, the creativity was lacking and Antonio was guilty over mis-hitting a couple of crosses for goal kicks.

Gillespie was sent into the action in the place of Antonio, however it was the home side that were the more effective in attack.

Reda Johnson bundled home the second. ©thestar.co.uk

It was 2-0 in the 69th minute as the U’s were caught cold once again. A free kick in to the box by Chris Lines found Gary Madine, who swivelled and put an effort across goal which found Reda Johnson to bundle home.

The U’s were well and truly rattled and were beginning to have no answer to the constant bombardment from the hosts as they searched for more goals. The best chance fell to substitute Jermaine Johnson who was causing all sorts of problems for Brian Wilson. Somehow the Jamaican managed to swivell and smash the ball miles wide when he was only yards out from goal.

Colchester had one opportunity to get a goal back late on with Steven Gillespie, however the striker was unable to test Bywater and was better off squaring the ball to Henderson who was better placed to shoot.

Wednesday played the clock down professionally with the home crowd cheering each pass as the U’s struggled to gain any sort of forward momentum.

The referee’s whistle brought an end to the game and the Owl’s winning streak at home continued, despite the U’s best efforts.

Match Facts

Summary

To be blunt, the U’s were simply outclassed in the second half and just could not match the power and energy levels of the Wednesday side. You cannot really complain about the result too much.

It could have been different in the first half had one of the U’s early chances gone in. Its about taking your chances and the U’s did not do enough in front of goal.

I cannot quite put my finger on the U’s performances of late. We seem to come out of the blocks with all guns blazing, but in the second half we come out looking a different side.

You have to give the Owl’s credit though. They have a team of big players and they play to their strengths effectively. Whilst not the prettiest side to watch, each player works hard and you could see that there was plenty of confidence running through the side. Whilst possessing plenty of power through the side, the Owls showed some capability of spreading the play and they effectively tore the U’s apart in the second half.

Top Performer - Gary Madine. ©eurosport.co.uk

Whilst Madine did not score, he worked so hard for the team. He did not look the most comfortable player with the ball at his feet, but he certainly knows where the net is and a goal was all that was missing from his display. O’Grady is another player who is very hard working and he looks to be an effective foil for Madine.

In the preview the U’s fans learned about Marshall and Semedo. Marshall was kept quiet for the first half hour, but he looked a dangerous threat when given space. He did not look exceptionally quick, but he has quick feet and always looked to cut inside on his right foot to get a shot in. Semedo I was not so impressed by, whilst he seemed to have ability on the ball, he also seemed to me to be one of those players opposition fans love to hate, a niggly battler in midfield doing the ugly role in midfield.

I thought Reda Johnson was quite a niggly player too. He kicked Michail Antonio at every opportunity and whilst being an opposition fan it is not nice to see, it certainly seemed to do the trick as it obviously upset Antonio and effected how he played. I thought John Ward should have switched Antonio to the other flank a long time before he eventually did.

I thought the two centre backs had a fairly comfortable afternoon. Odejayi looked to get involved early on and drew quite a few fouls against both me, but he really struggled to make an impact and the majority of the time the pairing of Jones and Batth had him comfortably in their pockets.

The U’s should not be too downhearted about the result as it is obvious Wednesday were a different quality. It is not every game that an opposition side will leave Hillsborough with the possession percentage in their favour, so the U’s can certaintly take some positives from the game . I do think that Wednesday will be up there at the end of the season, but I still maintain that Charlton are the team to beat this season.

Player Ratings

Ben Williams – 6 - Made a good save to deny Lines from the free kick but I felt that he may have done better with Madine’s initial effort in the run up to the first goal.

Brian Wilson – 6 - Made some good runs in the first half and coped well with Marshall. But really struggled to get to grips with Jermaine Johnson and was lucky not to get himself sent off. Rightly Substituted.

Tom Eastman - Man of the Match - ©cu-fc.com

Tom Eastman – 8 – Man of the Match – Won virtually everything in the air and looked assured in position. Barely put a foot wrong and seemed to take everything in his stride. I think we have a very good prospect on our hands with Tom.

Matt Heath – 7 - I am not convinced of his fitness, but he gave a hardworking performance. Like Eastman was powerful in the air, but always seems to have an error in his game which almost cost us.

Ben Coker – 6 - I don’t really remember him doing much other than getting booked, which looked unlucky considering he had been fouled prior to hauling down Marshall.

Andy Bond – 6 – A decent display from Bondy. He looks in a good run of form at the minute and was getting stuck in a lot more than he usually does.

Kemal Izzet – 6 – Was his usual busy self getting stuck in and causing a nuisance. Almost gifted Wednesday with an opportunity in the first half, but did not do much wrong.

Anthony Wordsworth – 6 - Played some lovely passes and showed a couple of great touches in the first half, but seemed to become slightly anonymous in the second half.

Michail Antonio – 7 - Was full of running and industry, but seemed to struggle against Johnson after receiving a couple of kicks in the first half. Seemed to be target of heavier challenges and struggled in the second half.

Ian Henderson – 6 - Had some great chances to score and again did not see a lot of the ball. Switched to the right in the second half and seemed to have a bit more joy, but the U’s lacked the forward thinking in second half.

Kayode Odejayi – 6 - Lacked support up front and lost his battle with the two Wednesday centre backs. Just could not get involved.

Subs:

Steven Gillespie – 6 - Again played a lot deeper and not off the shoulder of the defender where he would be most effective.

John-Joe O’Toole - No time to really make any impact.

John White - As above.

Another weekend of football and another long trip to Chesterfield for the U’s. It was the first time I have been to Chesterfield’s new home and I was looking forward to seeing how it compared with the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Luckily we managed to avoid the traffic congestion on the M1 and reached the ground shortly before 1pm.

The ground was signposted well and easy to find. When we got closer to the ground we found that there was a dedicated away fans car park which was quite handy! One moan is that the local pubs were not allowing any away fans into them which was a bit of a pain as it was a really hot day and a good pint would have gone down a treat.

The stadium looked really impressive from outside and I could not help thinking that on first impressions it completely eclipses what we have back in Colchester.

B2Net Reception pre match

The away end had a cabin right next to it for fans to purchase tickets and like the WHCS the turnstile was an electronic one in letting you into the ground.

The concourse was compact and had Sky Sports which was handy to wind the time down before the game. The food price and quality was terrific and I kept thinking that this is exactly how it should be back home in Colchester and hopefully lessons can be learned from the Chesterfield model.

Once you get into the stands, the B2Net actually looks smaller, but it actually has 300 more seats than the WHCS. The corners are not filled in, however they are cleverly blocked in and the roof was curved allowing for a decent atmosphere in the ground.

The Match – Line Ups

Chesterfield

Fleming

Talbot Holden Grounds Smith

Mendy Allott Johnson Whitaker

Westcarr     Clarke

Subs: Bowery, Boden, Randall, Smith, Downes.

U’s

Williams

Wilson Baldwin Okuonghae Coker

Bond Izzet Wordsworth

    Antonio                                 Henderson

Odejayi

Subs: James, Gillespie, White, Heath, Duguid.

First Half

The U’s starting line up was unchanged from their victory over Walsall last weekend, with Steven Gillespie recovering from a tight hamstring to take a place on the bench ahead of Michael Rose.

The hosts got themselves off to a good start and showed a good attacking intent from the start. Leon Clarke saw an early attempt blocked well by Pat Baldwin and Craig Westcarr had another shot blocked as the Spireites looked to gain an early advantage.

Colchester were failing to find any sort of rhythm in the early stages of the game and could have found themselves one down when Alex Mendy was allowed to turn Ben Coker, but his shot was pulled high and wide, much to the relief of the travelling U’s fans.

A lapse in concentration from Ben Williams almost gifted the Spireites a bizarre lead. Pat Baldwin’s harmless backpass, rolled under the foot of Williams and just drifted wide of the post and out for a corner. Chesterfield came close to breaking the deadlock from the resulting corner with Holden heading over the bar when he was unchallenged in the box.

The U’s had managed to repel the threat from Chesterfield and looked to get themselves into the game. Michail Antonio made a terrific run, bursting from deep in the Spireites half, before picking out Andy Bond, whose attempt at goal was ballooned over the cross bar from 18 yards.

John Ward’s team were starting to come back into the game and a great intervention from Jonathan Grounds stopped Kayode Odejayi getting onto the end of a Ben Coker cross after a good forward run by the full back.

Michail Antonio opened the scoring. © greenun24.co.uk

Another mazy run from Antonio caused havoc once again in the host’s defence and his super cross was cleared away for corner. Chesterfield failed to clear their lines and Ian Henderson’s rebounded effort found Antonio on the edge of the box and the Reading loanee drilled the ball through a forest of legs and under the dive of Fleming and into the back of the net to give the U’s the lead.

It could have been even worse for the home side minutes later, when Holden completely misjudged a cross into the box and the ball fell kindly for Kayode Odejayi, however the big frontman was unable to get any power into his effort and tamely shot straight at Fleming.

The U’s were well on top at this point and were cutting through the Chesterfield midfield like a warm knife through butter, as Anthony Wordsworth was allowed the freedom of the middle and his 30 yard thunderbolt flew inches wide of doubling the U’s lead.

A handball by Jonathan Grounds, 25 yards from goal gave Wordsworth an opportunity to grab his 4th goal in 4 games; however his free kick was rather poor and floated harmlessly over the bar.

On the stroke of half time, the U’s were nearly struck by a great attacking move, which saw Leon Clarke put Craig Westcarr through on goal. His shot was brilliantly saved by Ben Williams as the U’s went into the break having dealt with some early pressure to take control of the game.

Second Half

The home side came out of the traps the quickest and could have drew level almost immediately after the restart as Alex Mendy was allowed to get forward and beat two men only to see Ben Williams pull of a superb stop to divert the ball past the post.

Moments later, a well worked free kick saw Kemal Izzet tee up Anthony Wordsworth to launch a piledriver which stung the hands of Fleming in the Chesterfield goal and required to be cleared by a defender.

Leon Clarke saw his effort rebound off the post.©chesterfield-fc.co.uk

Chesterfield were beginning to get themselves back into the game and they were nearly gifted an equaliser as slack defending allowed Leon Clarke through on goal from an angle. His placed shot beat the dive of Ben Williams and struck the post. The rebound bounced off Ben Coker and thankfully for the away side bounced out for a corner.

The home side were seeing a lot of the ball, however were unable to create any real threat to the U’s goal and it was the away side who were having the better chances as more spaces appeared at the back as the home side came forward. Greg Fleming was certainly the busier of the two keepers as he had to save well from Michail Antonio and Kayode Odejayi.

As the half wore on both sides had penalty shouts as mistakes crept into both sides game, with the searing heat obviously making an impact as the game pace slowed down. Leon Clarke was the first to ask the referee for a penalty as he fell to the deck far too easily, with Okuonghae using his body to shield the ball. Henderson’s shout was equally as poor, as he looked to go down far too easy after a coming together in the area with a defender.

The home crowd frustrations grew and grew and they almost boiled over when Michail Antonio was felled and showed poor gamesmanship by rolling on and off the pitch, receiving a booking for his troubles. Antonio did appear to have suffered an injury however and was soon replaced for the veteran Karl Duguid.

Time and time again the home side poured forward in a desperate attempt to equalise, but the resolute defence of the U’s was able to deal with all the balls pumped into the box without issue.

Colchester remained dangerous when they did attack with Duguid heading a chance wide and Andy Bond had a fantastic chance to put the game to bed, blazing over after Kayode Odejayi turned the lacklustre home defence with ease.

The Spireites best chance of latter stages of the match came in a comical fashion, as Ian Henderson smashed the ball towards his own goal, bringing out the best of Ben Williams at the same time.

The final chance of the game again fell to the U’s as a ball was pinged into the box, Duguid tried an audacious flick which brought a good save out of Fleming and he did equally well to beat away Bond’s follow up attempt.

Both Odejayi and Wordsworth picked up silly yellow cards for time-wasting right at the death as the U’s picked up the 3 points in a fairly open game of football.

Match Facts

Summary

It was a good professional performance by the U’s. I have often bemoaned the tactics of Ward, but to give him credit he had done his homework on Chesterfield and it showed, especially with Leon Clarke and Craig Westcarr who were constantly caught offside.

Also with the corners, it is obvious we had watched Chesterfield’s set pieces as Wilson did not stand on the near post and was backed up by Wordsworth incase the ball beat Wilson first.

I must admit I feared the proposition of Clarke and Westcarr prior to the match. Last season against Notts County, Westcarr ripped us to shreds in both games and it was lucky in the first game he was injured whilst scoring!

I do think it could hard season for the Spireites this season. Whilst they are not the worst side I have seen this season, they did lack that little bit of quality and cutting edge against a team who have only kept one clean sheet so far this season and that was against an even poorer Walsall side last week.

For all their possession in the second half, Chesterfield were unable to really create anything clear cut with Leon Clarke going close with his effort which struck the post. The U’s were able to repel the attacks of Chesterfield with relative ease for the duration of the match. Clarke was well marshalled all game by Magnus and Baldwin. “Rio” rolled back the years with a confident display and he always seemed to have the edge on Clarke being able to get a boot to divert his efforts in the first half away.

Alex Mendy was the Chesterfield danger man on the right, but he was struggling to make much of an impact because of how the U’s lined up. He was usually doubled up on and when he did get free he did look rather dangerous, but it was not often enough. Michail Antonio absolutely tore Smith to pieces in the first half and even when he was doubled up against, he was still able beat both men and that was a big difference between the sides.

If John Sheridan had watched the U’s at all he would have known that the heartbeat of the side lies in the centre of the park. The U’s had so much freedom at times that they were able to make their opponents look all too pedestrian when knocking the ball around. They never seemed to close us down in the centre and that played right into our hands.

When the Spireites finally did something to stop us in the centre by bringing on Mark Randall, we then reverted to our plan B of picking out Odejayi, who was having so much success against the two centre halves, who appeared to have very little answer to his power, pace and strength.

I do not like the gamesmanship which was showed towards the end of the game, but this has become part and parcel of football. I moaned when we were not professional enough against Leyton Orient and it cost us with them scoring in the 90th minute after we could not keep the ball. But in this game we showed that horrible, dirty side of the game to good effect. It is absolutely horrible for the opposition to watch, but when the boot is on the other foot, if your team does this effectively and it ensures a victory, you are going to go home happy regardless.

Chesterfield are one of those clubs I have always been able to identify with as they are remarkably similar to the U’s in certain aspects. We are both similar sized clubs who have had varying highs and lows in the last few seasons. I really enjoyed my first visit to their new stadium and I must admit to being rather envious.

The atmosphere was absolutely fantastic in the first half with the drum providing a steady beat to keep things ticking over. I wish the U’s could attract 6000 fans in the reverse fixture, but such is the apathy of Colchester fans I just cannot see it.

Whilst Chesterfield have flourished with their move to the B2Net stadium, Colchester have gone completely downhill with fans finding any excuse not to go to games. I think a combined Scunthorpe and Chesterfield model should be followed and I wish the U’s hiercarcy would look at the prices and quality of the food in the concourses.

Player Ratings

Ben Williams – 7 - Was not called into action too many times, but when he was, he showed good reflexes to save from Westcarr and Mendy. Couple of dodgy kicks and an iffy moment in the first half too.

Brian Wilson – 6 - Was comfortable at right back, but did not get forward as often as usual.

Pat Baldwin – 8 - Really good performance. Has a fantastic football brain and made several key interceptions to stop Clarke and Westcarr.

Magnus Okuonghae – 8 - Won everything in the air and gave the U’s a dominant presence. Looks more comfortable alongside Baldwin.

Ben Coker – 6 - Dealt with Mendy well. Got turned a few times, but coped a lot better than usual and he also made several attacking bursts putting good balls into the box.

Andy Bond – 5 - Game largely passed him by. Does not like to get stuck in and cannot head the ball either. His positioning at times was suspect and his ballooned effort in the first half summed up his performance.

Kemal Izzet – 8 - Great all round performance and a real captains performance. Never gave the Chesterfield midfield pairing any time on the ball and constantly snapped at their heels right up until the last minute.

Anthony Wordsworth – 7 - Settled in early and was his usual creative self. Looks full of confidence and was unlucky not to score with a couple of long range efforts.

Man of the Match Michail Antonio ©cu-fc.com

Michail Antonio – 8 -  Man of the Match – Had the beating of his full back time and time again. Was a constant threat out wide, having a good cross and ability to find a team mate. Grabbed a deserved goal to win the game.

Ian Henderson – 5 - Very poor from the usually important wide man. Never seemed to get into the game and his passing was not up to scratch. Did not seem to be able to escape the attentions of his marker and his head seemed to go down quickly.

Kayode Odejayi – 8 - Great hold up player and looked at the top of his game. His afternoon was made easier by the slack defending of Chesterfield, but he did what he needed to do. Just wish he would try and shoot more often.

Subs:

Karl Duguid – 7 - Added a bit of experience and calmness to the U’s game whilst they were under pressure and came close to grabbing a goal.

Match Report by Dave Burch

Colchester and Orient are both sides that like to play football. So in the lead up to the match I was hoping that we would see a game of free flowing football with the excitement factor of the games we saw last season. Obviously with a positive result for the U’s.

We certainly have not been playing brilliantly since Oldham and I am beginning to wonder whether the Latics were just terrible and failed to recover after being behind so early.

We were not brilliant last week and came away from Scunthorpe with an undeserved point, so at least we are showing some steel away from home. Home form is what counts and the U’s have been unpredictable so far on home soil.

Line Ups

U’s

Cousins

Wilson Baldwin Heath Coker

O’Toole James Wordsworth

Henderson                                  Antonio

Odejayi

Subs: Gillespie, Izzet, Bond, Duguid, Eastman

Orient

Alnwick

Cuthbert Forbes Chorley Daniels

Smith Clarke Spring

Lisbie                                                  Cox

Mooney

Subs: Butcher, McSweeney, Odubaju, Laird, Porter.

First Half

The game started at a slow pace with both sides happy to keep the ball in the middle of the field. The U’s have come out of the blocks quite quickly this season so far, but it was not the case in this game.

It was the U’s who registered the first shot at goal however, when Kayode Odejayi muscled his way through a couple of challenges, but he was unable to get a clean strike on his shot and the ball rolled harmlessly wide.

Orient showed they were going to be no pushovers, when in the 5th minute; Dave Mooney threaded the ball through to his new strike partner Lisbie. He hit his shot with power, but the angle was not the easiest and the save was comfortable for Mark Cousins.

The U’s came within inches of taking the lead in the next attack. A free kick from Lloyd James was passed short to Ian Henderson on the edge of the eighteen yard box. The U’s wide man prodded an effort through a forest of bodies only to see the ball strike the post and bounce clear.

The O’s had a penalty shout turned down mid way through the first half as Kevin Lisbie threw himself to the floor after tangling with Ben Coker. It looked like there was some contact, but Andy D’Urso was nonplussed and nothing was given.

Clear cut chances were few and far between for both sides with neither sides looking likely to trouble the scores. Michail Antonio sent an effort over the cross bar after 30 minutes when well positioned and Anthony Wordsworth headed wide from just inside the penalty area from Brian Wilson’s cross.

Anthony Wordsworth kept up his current goalscoring form. © essexcountystandard.co.uk

The U’s did manage to grab the lead just before half time. A corner into the box was not cleared and Anthony Wordsworth was on hand to volley the ball through a crowded box and into the net. The U’s had been a little sprightlier towards the end of the half and the lead was deserved.

Second Half

It was the visitors who came out of the half time break looking more invigorated and they could easily have been level in the first five minutes of the half. Kevin Lisbie got the better of Ben Coker and rifled the ball across the six yard box. The ball cannoned off of Dean Cox and somehow hit the post when it looked easier to score.

The U’s had no answer to the O’s dominance and had Mark Cousins to thank as he produced a great save to deny Dave Mooney a goal scoring return to the Weston Homes Community Stadium from a free kick.

In an attempt to break up the visitors’ dominance, John Ward made his first change of the match, introducing Kemal Izzet in to the fray for the ineffective John-Joe O’Toole.

The U’s finally seemed to wake up and had a mini spell of dominance themselves. Ben Alnwick had to be alert after Ian Henderson’s cross took a deflection and arrowed towards goal, however the stopper was able to claw the ball to safety.

Henderson was coming into the game himself and had a penalty shout turned down after falling similarly to Lisbie in the first half, again Andy D’Urso was not interested and the play resumed.

The U’s should have wrapped the game up in the 68th minute when Kayode Odejayi broke the offside trap and sprinted towards goal. His attempt to chip the onrushing Alnwick failed and the ball made its way to Michail Antonio who blazed over the bar with the goal gaping.

U's Dangerman Michail Antonio © essexcountystandard.co.uk

Antonio was the U’s danger man and should have been awarded a penalty as he chased the ball down after suicidal passing in the Orient penalty box. Cuthbert had obviously been watching the rugby in the morning as he wrestled the speedy U’s winger to the floor for the most blatant penalty you will ever see, however Mr D’Urso, who was miles away from the play, again waved play on much to the fury of the U’s following.

The U’s had several chances to wrap the match up as the game came to a close with the introduction of Andy Bond giving the U’s an attacking licence. None of the efforts were overly troubling for Alnwick in the O’s goal however.

The visitors stepped up a gear in the last five minutes, with substitute George Porter ripping Ben Coker to shreds and putting the perfect ball in for Cox, however he somehow dragged his shot wide with the goal at his mercy.

Jimmy Smith grabbed a late equalised © marmasnews.com

The U’s did not heed the warning and conceded a goal right at the death. Porter again avoided Lloyd James’ tackle and danced around Ben Coker. He once again put a perfect ball into the box and this time Jimmy Smith made no mistake in passing the ball into the back of the net to give the O’s a deserved point.

Match Facts

Summary

I cannot state just how disappointed I am with the U’s after this latest game. When you look at some of the quality we have in our side, you would expect us to be able to take advantage of a side short of confidence and plagued with injury problems.

The U’s did have the majority of the ball in the first half, but are just too wasteful in possession. Had Henderson’s effort which hit the post, gone in maybe it would have been a different game.

With getting the goal just before half time, you would expect the away team to go in to the break a bit demoralised, but straight from the kick off Lloyd James decided to smack the ball for a goal kick. That moment onwards set the standard of the U’s second half performance.

You have to credit Leyton Orient and Russell Slade. He was much more efficient tactically in the second half and with his choice of substitutions to give the O’s an attacking impetus. The possession stats say it all really. 61% of the possession and with a bit of luck should of won the match as the U’s were simply woeful in the second half.

John Ward - lost out in the tactical battle. © skysports.com

I am beginning to think that the U’s could struggle this year. Whilst I really enjoy the creative freedom in midfield that the formation gives us, it means they also have to be at the top of their game to make it work. O’Toole and James simply were not at the races and I felt Ward should have introduced Bond for O’Toole, Gillespie for James and Izzet for either Antonio or Wordsworth and gone 442.

I am often baffled by our substitutions and I felt that the introduction of Karl Duguid was a submission of the chance to earn all three points.

I would like Ward to be more positive in his approach to home games. Odejayi is isolated far too often and it does not help however well he plays, he still looks like a rabbit caught in the headlights when through on goal, which cost the U’s dearly when he was unable to convert his one on one chance.

Orient’s goal could have been avoided yesterday had we have played the possession game better in the dying minutes. Instead of Odejayi shooting straight at Alnwick in the 90th minute, he should have just ran to the corner. It was such a waste of possession as he was never going to score from the angle he was at.

Maybe I am being overly critical of the U’s, but I felt that Orient were quite a poor side defensively, making a lot of errors between themselves with suicidal passing, which the U’s failed to capitalise on, as far too often they were not alert enough. The O’s have plenty of attacking quality to make up for up for their short comings and with Lisbie they now have someone who can score goals. Mooney is not a goal scorer but someone that creates goals, both with his intelligent movement and his ability to find passes for team mates.

I felt the O’s were far better creatively in the second half and had it not been for poor finishing they would have been celebrating three points rather than one. Ben Coker was targeted all game by Lisbie, Mooney and the substitute Porter, yet Ward did nothing to give the young full back any support. The easiest option would have been to go to 442 with Henderson/Antonio being a lot closer to Coker when the O’s attacked.

I think the O’s are in a false position and should they improve the defence then they will soon be shooting up the league. At times it was hard to tell which side was supposedly lacking in confidence and at the bottom of the league as we were virtually outplayed, bar a ten minute spell in the second half. John Ward’s poor interview at the end of the game just about summed the day up for me.

Player Ratings

Mark Cousins – 7 - Made some important saves from Mooney and Lisbie. Looked assured off his line.

Brian Wilson – 6 – Got forward a lot more than he has done this season and delivered some nice balls into the box. Was not tested too much defensively.

Pat Baldwin – 6 – Stepped up to the mark and the read the game well at the back. He was weak in the air and played some nice balls forward to Odejayi.

Matt Heath – 6 – Nothing got past him in the air and he looked comfortable throughout. Looked assured alongside Baldwin.

Ben Coker – 5 -Torrid afternoon for the young full back. He was beaten by the strength of Lisbie and also given the “merry-go-round” by Porter.

John-Joe O’Toole – 5 -The U’s do not play well when O’Toole does not play well. Had a real off afternoon being unable to find time and space on the ball.

Lloyd James – 5 -Tried hard, but a weak performance for the third game in a row and lucky to keep hold of his starting place. Terribly wasteful in possession and very poor set pieces.

Anthony Wordsworth – 6 – Scored the goal but struggled to make an impact. Looked the most comfortable on the ball than his fellow midfielders but found it hard to influence the play.

Ian Henderson – 6 – Found it hard to impose himself. Never really saw much of the ball.

Man of the Match - Michail Antonio © soccermanager.com

Michail Antonio – 7 Man of the Match – Always looks threatening with his pace. Was the most dangerous outlet in the side and should have won a penalty. Could of done better with his effort on goal, but always looked a threat on the counter. Its great news he’ll be here for another month after the extension of his loan.

Kayode Odejayi – 7 - Strong display by the frontman. Grows in confidence with each match. Super hold up play, but lacks the end product to cap of his displays.

Subs:

Kemal Izzet – 5 – He bite and energy to the midfield, but his passing was extremely poor throughout.

Andy Bond – 6 – Always looked to get involved. Made dangerous runs into the opposition half. He is much better making late bursts into the box from a central position and nearly got a goal.

Duguid -  No time to impress.

Brett Williams: On His Way to Rotherham

First up, this could possibly be the last time we report on Jake Taylor, as the young midfielder’s loan spell at Aldershot came to an end. His last game, a 1-1 draw with Oxford on Saturday with Jake an unused sub, pretty much summed up his time at the Shots. It was a frustrating loan spell for the Welshman, who came to League Two side looking for games, but didn’t make his first and only start until last Wednesday in the Carling Cup win over West Ham. It wasn’t a particularly enjoyable start either, as he missed an early one-on-one (0:10 in the video) before being subbed on 55 minutes. Aldershot went on to score two goals without Jake to progress to the 2nd Round with a 2-1 win.
Following Jake’s departure from his club, Aldershot Manager Dean Holdsworth said, “I am very grateful to Brian McDermott and Reading FC for the co-operation in loaning Jake to us. He is a fine young player and I wish him well in what I am sure will be an excellent career.”
It will be interesting to see what happens now with young Taylor. Despite making the bench a number of times for Reading last season, the limitations of just 5 subs means it’s unlikely that he will be able to force his way into the squad. Another loan club looks the most likely probability, and it’s up to McDermott to find a club that can offer Jake plenty of first team action.
Meanwhile, Jake has been called up to the Wales Under-21 squad to face Montenegro on September 6th.

Jake in Action for Aldershot for the Last Time

As one comes in, one goes out. Taylor’s return was soon followed by the news that striker Brett Williams will be joining Rotherham on loan until January 2012. It comes just days after Reading signed fellow striker Adam Le Fondre from the League Two club, and although manager Andy Scott insists Brett is not a direct replacement for ‘Alfie’, there’s every chance the former Eastleigh man could get his first taste of regular league football for the Millers.
Scott said after signing Brett, “Williams is a good size, over six foot, obviously he is untried but this is an opportunity for him to be involved in league football. He is a goalscorer, he is quick, strong and I am sure he will take to League Two.”
This looks like a great move for the young striker, as with 4 natural strikers currently ahead of him in the pecking order, he was only going to be able to get games on loan. Despite a lack of league experience, he’s joined a club at the top of League 2 with a a good chance of getting plenty of game time.
We look forward to following his progress over the coming months.

Next up, striker David Murphy has exploded into life since we last reported on him, scoring 3 goals in two games for Evo-Stik side Cirencester. Despite a disappointing debut (see last week’s Loan Report), the Irish Under-19 international has hit form, even if his loan club hasn’t.
First up, Murphy took on his former club Swindon Supermarine on Wednesday, and after David had put Cirencester 1-0 up, the game sparked into life. The game swung towards either side throughout the match, and when Reading’s Irishman scored his second to make the score 4-3 to Cirencester, it looked like they would hang on. But 3 minutes from time, Supermarine equalised. The game stayed at 4-4, and the Centurions got their first point of the season.
Next up was a less than impressive display from the team. Even though Murphy grabbed his 3rd of the season, their opponents Hitchin Town were already 5 goals to the good by then, and the score finished 6-2 to the home side.
Despite being rules out of Monday’s clash with Chesham, it’s been a successful start for David, and he will hope for more of the same from himself over the coming weeks.

Back in the Football League, and Michail Antonio helped Colchester storm to a 4-1 victory over Oldham. Michail got the assist for the 3rd goal, as Ian Henderson headed in the winger’s cross.
He was substituted last on with the game wrapped up, and it was another successful game for the youngster. Having already scored this season, Antonio will hope to continue his form and keep his place int the starting line up at the League One club.

McHugh: A Regular this Season for Dundalk

Finally, it was a good weekend for the other 3 loanees in action over the last week. Dean Santangelo’s Bromley lost 3-1 to Dartford on Monday, but he will be happy to have kept a clean sheet two days earlier against Sutton Utd. Bromley won 3-0, with former Royal Harry Harding grabbing on of the Non-League side’s goals.
Frankie Raymond played in both of Eastleigh’s last two matches, featuring at left-back on both occasions. It as a successful week, with the Blue Square South side winning both matches, 3-1 away to Dorchester and 2-1 at home to Weston-Super-Mare.
Irishman Carl McHugh will be in action tonight in a cup replay against Drogheda. They drew 1-1 in the original tie on Friday, with Carl once again playing the full 90 in defence. A win would put Dundalk into the Quarter Finals of the FAI Cup.
Nicholas Bignall is still injured.

First up, we have our first goalscorer of the season. Michail Antonio scored a header for League One side Colchester in their game against Huddersfield at the weekend, as they lost 3-2.
Antonio, who didn’t have the most successful debut last week as he was subbed off on 67 minutes in a 2-0 defeat to Charlton, put his new side 2-1 up when he headed home (1:06 on the video) from 6 yards out.
However that was as good as it got for Michail, who was subbed on 46 minutes and then could only watch as Huddersfield scored 2 second-half goals to take the 3 points from Colchester.
The young winger will be hoping to start again on Saturday against Leyton Orient, a side which contains ex-Royals Jamie Cureton and David Mooney, but are struggling down at the bottom of League One.

David Murphy, the Irish Under 19 international who recently grabbed the winner for his national side in a game against Serbia, has joined Evo-Stick Southern League side Cirencester until the 15th of September.
Murphy is a first-year professional at Reading and featured in a number of Development Squad friendlies at the start of the season, scoring a brilliant goal (5:51 on the video) against his former club Swindon Supermarine. The young striker will be hoping to get some good first-team experience at the Non-League club (the Southern League is the 7th tier of English football) to help his attempt for a future at Reading and in the Ireland set up.
He’ll have to do better than Saturday for that however, as despite getting the full 90 minutes, he had “a miserable debut” according to The Wilts & Gloucestershire Standard. He headed a good chance wide on 71 minutes as his Cirencester side lost 1-0 to Oxford City, with The Centurions only mustering one shot on target in the whole game.
Cirencester take on Swindon Supermarine tonight (Wednesday), the club which not only Murphy scored against this season, but spent time on loan at last season. Here’s hoping for a better performance.

David Murphy in action for Cirencester (Robert Saunders)

Speaking of Irishmen, another Ireland Under 19 international Carl McHugh played the full 90 once again for Dundalk, but once again the Irish Premier League side drew 2-2, this time at home to Bray Wanderers.
Carl has played every minute possible for Dundalk since joining back in July and this week was no different, with the young centre-back coming close to scoring his first goal when he almost headed in a corner. He was a little lucky not to give away a penalty after seemingly bringing down Bray’s Jake Kelly, but he survived that worry and will be pleased with another game in Ireland.
Dundalk travel to Drogheda on Friday in the FAI Cup 4th Round.

Speaking of Cup games, Jake Taylor will be desperate to make his first start for Aldershot as the Shots take on West Ham in the Carling Cup tonight. The young midfielder is yet to start for the League 2 side and came on after 78 minutes against Torquay and 81 minutes against Morecambe. Aldershot lost both games, and having gone to the Hampshire club for first team experience, the last couple of weeks will have been mightily disappointing for both Jake and Reading.
With his loan ending on Saturday, this could be his last chance to get some games before he returns to Berkshire.
He told BBC Surrey “With the new five substitute rule it’s going to be pretty hard for me to get on the bench at Reading with all the players we’ve got.
“To get an opportunity to play some League football will help me develop as a player.
“Hopefully I can get a few more minutes and start a game by the end of my loan spell here. I want to go back to Reading a better player.”

One player who won’t be featuring in the Carling Cup this week is the unfortunate Nicholas Bignall, who has been ruled out of Exeter’s 2nd round match against Liverpool with injury. With the game televised, it would have been a good chance for us Royal fans to see how he can compete against top defences. He missed Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Preston, and was in fact at the Madejski Stadium watching Reading’s defeat to Barnsley with those who were not featuring that day.
Exeter may have seen the last of the striker, with Bignall telling the Echo Sport:
“I am devastated. With these type of injuries you have to wait 48 hours to be able to pinpoint exactly what it is.
“I am being assessed by the people at Reading today and it looks like it might be a meniscus knee injury.
“It is very painful and I am on crutches at the moment. I went up for a header and I got nudged in the air and landed in an awkward position.
“As soon as I stood up I felt the pain and I knew something was not quite right. I have never suffered with an injury like this before and all I can do is remain optimistic.
“You can’t let your head drop. You have got to hope that your recovery is swift and if you are out for a while you have to concentrate on getting back as soon as possible.
“I don’t want to miss any games and there is the Liverpool match coming up on Wednesday.
“I would love the chance to pit my wits against top-flight opposition and to play against Liverpool would be a great opportunity.
“It is too early to say whether I am going to be able to come back to Exeter or not.”
Bignall’s loan ends on the 3rd October.

Finally, another 3 Royals featured in the Blue Square South over the week, including 2 academy goalkeepers, once again proving the strength in depth of the Reading goalkeeping department.
Dean Santangelo is first choice between the posts at Bromley, and kept his first clean sheet in professional football in a 4-0 win over Boreham Wood. He even helped play a part in one of their goals. His goal kick was flicked on by Danny Hockton, and Hakeem Araba slotted home.
Bromley lost 1-0 to Maidenhead Utd on Saturday, but more interesting developments took place on Tuesday night.
Santangelo suffered an unfortunate injury (he is set to return on Saturday) and taking his place in goal was Jon Henly. Henly spent time on loan at Hungerford last season aged just 16, and was also called up for England during an eventful 2010/11. With Santangelo out on loan, Henly is currently first choice for Reading’s Under-18 side, and on Tuesday replaced the injured Dean for the Non-League side. It wasn’t a debut to remember, as Bromley lost 5-0 to Eastbourne, but Henly will be pleased to be playing at a decent level at such a young age.
Meanwhile, Frankie Raymond made his Eastleigh debut against Tonbridge Angels on Saturday, although they also suffered a heavy defeat, losing 4-0.

Henly: Yet Another Goalkeeping Prospect

Firstly, although there’s been plenty of action on the pitch, the most notable news of the last week has happened off it, with another Royal heading out on loan.
Michail Antonio signed for Colchester Utd of League One on loan yesterday, with the young winger joining the U’s for a month, with Colchester boss John Ward hopeful of keeping him longer.
Antonio, 21, has enjoyed past loan experience at Cheltenham although most notably at Southampton, where he enjoyed a whole season playing regularly in League One. Michail made 28 appearances while down at the south coast club and scored 6 goals, including one at Wembley, so will be hoping to have further success as he joins promotion hopefuls Colchester, the club where former Royal David Mooney was top scorer last season while out on loan from Reading.
U’s manager John Ward told the official club website, “He is direct and attacking and has all of the right attributes for the way that we play.
“The nice thing is that, although he has been on the edge of getting into a very good Reading team, he has been keen to come here.
“We are pleased to have him here and we will see what’s what at the end of the first month. We would like him for longer, but it will be reviewed at the end of the month.”
Reading’s No.28 (although he will wear No.11 while at Colchester), has made 26 appearances (including 2 league starts at the end of last season) in total for the Royals since joining from non-league Tooting & Mitcham in 2008, scoring once. Despite being a regular on the substitutes bench for Reading last season, as well as seemingly coming very close to breaking into the first-team following a couple of starts in place of the then-injured Jimmy Kebe, Michail’s chances this season did seem to be limited following the breakthrough of Hal Robson-Kanu and to a lesser-extent, youngster Jordan Obita. The new 5-subs rule did the young winger no good, and this move to Colchester will be a good chance of first-team football he would have been unlikely to have got at the Madejski.
Colchester, who currently lie 4th in League One, host Charlton this Tuesday night, and there’s every chance their new wideman could make his debut.

Speaking of debuts, Jake Taylor came off the Aldershot bench to make his first appearance for the club, but could not prevent them going down 1-0 at home to Northampton Town. Jake came on with 77 minutes gone, but by then it was too late, as the Cobbler’s, who incidentally Jake made his Reading debut against, held on for the 3 points.
It will have been double disappointment for the Wales Under-21 midfielder, after missing out on the starting XI as well as the defeat. After being sent down the leagues to get first-team experience, Taylor will be hoping to make a more significant appearance as the Shots take on Torquay tonight.

Over in a different country now, and young Irish defender Carl McHugh played the full 90 as his Dundalk side drew 2-2 away to Drogheda Utd in the League of Ireland Premiership. Dundalk, who currently lie 6th in the League after 26 games, took the lead early on, but had to get another late equaliser (see last week’s Loan Report) to salvage a draw against second-bottom Drogheda.
While being part of a defence that conceded two goals may be seen as a disappointment to young Carl, playing another 90 minutes is a big positive, especially at such a young age. The League of Ireland Premiership is a decent level, and Carl has cemented himself comfortably into their starting line-up, having started every game since joining back in July.
Dundalk are next in action of Friday, as they play host to Bray Wanderers.

Back in England now, and striker Nicholas Bignall has received good reports while playing for League One side Exeter since the start of the season. Exeter manager Paul Tisdale called the youngster ‘invaluable’ while speaking to This is Exeter, saying, “Nicholas has been invaluable to us. We really needed someone to come in and work hard, to be a member of the team, and he has done that.
“He has not got the goal he would have wanted, but he has put a lot of effort in and at times he has given the opposition, especially during the Yeovil game, some real problems.
“At the moment he has contributed and he has been a good team member, which is vitally important when you come to a new club.
“For his benefit I would like to think he can cap it with a goal. I have been very pleased with him.”
Bignall’s lack of goals is a slight worry, having not scored since 2009 while on loan at Stockport. He has played 26 matches for 6 different clubs since that last goal, and will be desperate to start getting on the scoresheet and keep his place in the Exeter team, ahead of the Grecians Carling Cup game against Liverpool on Wednesday 24th August.
He can’t have many complaints however, after nodding a brilliant chance to end the barren run wide as Exeter slumped to a 2-0 defeat to MK Dons on Saturday. His miss can be seen here at 42:05 in.
Exeter take on Bignall’s former club Brentford on Tuesday, hoping to get their first league win of the season.

Finally, Reading have two youngsters currently out on loan in the non-league, which started on Saturday. Academy goalkeeper Dean Santangelo is currently first choice in goal at Bromley, and helped ensure they got off to a winning start with a 2-1 defeat of Hampton & Richmond in the Blue Square South. Dean made a couple of saves before Bromley substitute Mike Jones headed in an injury-time winner to give Bromley all 3 points.
Santangelo will be in action again tonight, as they take on Boreham Wood at Hayes Lane.
Frankie Raymond, a first-year professional who made his first senior Reading appearance in the pre-season friendly against Eastleigh, is currently on loan at the club he made his debut at, although was injured as Eastleigh lost 2-0 to Frankie’s former club Basingstoke Town. Having spent a good period on loan at Basingstoke last season, Raymond will be hoping for similar success at his new team. They travel to Truro City tonight.

So plenty of Royal’s in action this Tuesday night, so when you’re not watching/listening/following the first team’s match against Portsmouth this evening, make sure you check up how our loanee’s clubs are getting on. Who knows, we could see our first goal by a loanee tonight.
We’ll have another round up of how they all get on in next week’s Loan Report, so make sure you check that out.

In the second part of our positional previews, Tommy takes a look at the midfield and what we can expect from the season ahead.

To check out our defensive preview please click here

Going into the new season there are several areas of the side that are undergoing a bit of an upheaval. There is one exception however and that is the midfield. Whilst defensive combinations and strike partnerships are still a little ambiguous, the midfield could not be more settled. Mikele Leigertwood and Jem Karacan have struck up a great understanding and could potentially be a better and more effective duo than James Harper and Steve Sidwell. On the wings Jimmy Kebe is one of the most explosive players in the division and Jobi McAnuff is newly installed as club captain. On paper then the midfield four is about as established as can be.

With all the gnashing of teeth amongst some quarters over the lack of signings this summer one important thing has been missed. We have made a signing and it is probably the most significant one in recent years and that is securing Mikele Leigertwood. Since arriving on loan from QPR in January he has been a revelation and in a short period of time has cemented himself, not just in the side but also in the fans’ affections. You can sense that he is a big presence in the dressing room and the fact that he was willing to make his loan move permanent before knowing which division he’d be playing in is testament to how quickly he has immersed himself in the club.

When we signed Leigertwood on loan there was a bit of surprise because the centre of midfield is not an area we are (or were) short on personnel. However he proved his importance with an amazing undefeaten run of fifteen league games and this season he will be just as important. He is a calming influence on the team and is the perfect catalyst for the bundle of energy that is Jem Karacan next to him. My hope for them as a pairing is that Leigertwood can develop into the ball winning playmaker and allow Karacan to get forward a bit more.

Such is the potential quality of the Antiguan and the Turk (that sounds like the name of a pub) it is hard to really assess the potential challengers for their places. Jay Tabb has consistently performed well for the side but lacks the composure of Leigertwood or the attacking instincts of Karacan. That said there will always be a place for him in any Reading squad. His work rate and professionalism is unmatched but he is hindered somewhat by the fact that his main rival is Leigertwood who is pretty much an automatic starter. Tabb may well have to be content with being the new Brynjar Gunnarsson. Not that there is anything wrong with that!

Brynjar has been a rock for Reading for a long time now and this will probably be his last season for the club. While Jay Tabb is his heir apparent, there’s still no beating the real thing. Even now there is nobody I would rather rely on in case of emergency. If this is to be his final year then I can’t wait for some even more wholehearted cameos.

At the other end of the midfield scale is Brian Howard. Tabb & Gunnarsson are the firefighters whereas Howard is more of an artisan. I’m a little surprised that he’s stayed at the club and I can’t be alone in expecting him to have moved on by now but this is no bad thing. I’m on record of being a fan of his abilities but even so, it’s difficult to see where he’s going to fit into the side. His lack of mobility and defensive abilities mean that he’s not a natural pick in a 4-4-2 and there are better players to play in a more advanced central role in a 4-4-1-1 (McAnuff for example). I may be doing him a bit of disservice and I would personally like to see more of him in the team as I still maintain he’s the most creative player at the club but unless McDermott is looking at changing a system that worked so well last year, he will have another frustrating season ahead of him.

If things look settled in the middle then out on the wings they’re pretty much granite. The enigma that is Jimmy Kebe is guaranteed a place on the right because even on his bad days he is still capable of causing any full back in the league sleepless nights. On the left there is Reading’s new club captain and one would assume that his place is just as secure. McAnuff was one of the most consistent performers last term and after being rewarded with the armband and a new contract he will surely be aiming to repay the faith with a big season.

The only change to this would be if McAnuff was to move into a more central role. If this does happen then Hal Robson-Kanu is the most natural replacement on the left. After a shaky start to last season the Welsh international has really grown in stature and I am expecting a real push from him for a starting berth. He’s not the most conventional of wingers and is a lot bulkier than one would expect but he has a deceptive turn of pace and is learning to use the ball much more efficiently. He has played a lot of the summer friendlies up front and if Shane Long leaves then he may move up there but for the time being Reading are safe in the knowledge that a very capable understudy is waiting, quite literally, in the wings.

Speaking of friendlies it seems an appropriate point to mention one of the standout performers. Not a game seemed to go by without a rave review for young Jordan Obita. At only 17 he will have to be carefully managed but all the signs indicate that Reading have a real gem of a player. Mainly operating on the left wing he has popped up with a few goals and has shown a deftness of touch and awareness that you would normally associate with someone much older. Every season at least one player from the Academy comes through and makes an impact on the first team (Alex McCarthy and Hal Robson-Kanu last year, Gylfi Sigurdsson and Jem Karacan the year before) and I’m backing Obita to do that this term.

One player who may miss out because of Obita’s rise is Michail Antonio who, after a disappointing end to the season will have a few points to prove but he now seems to have slipped further down the pecking order. For all his skills he is still very raw and too often his touch lets him down. He’s made the step up from non-league football very well but if you’re being totally honest, Championship football is probably a level too high.

Of the rest of the youngsters it seems more likely that they will be sent off on loan to get some first team experience. Jake Taylor, Ethan Gage, Lawson D’Ath, Johnny Goddard and the Edwards brothers all show signs of promise but it will probably be too soon for them to be threatening the first team (famous last words!).

Effectively what Reading want from the midfield is more of the same. The only criticism you could perhaps level at them is that, Kebe aside, they don’t contribute enough goals. Karacan and McAnuff in particular are much better attackers than their return last season of 3 and 4 goals respectively. It would certainly help take some of the pressure off the forwards. Otherwise there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic. Reading have some of the best midfielders in the league and a good mix of youth and experience in reserve. Barring any serious injuries, it’s an area that looks healthy.

My friends and I have a saying when going to watch Reading play away, “don’t let the football ruin the day” and it’s a maxim that we try our best to stick to whatever happens. Sometimes this can be bloomin’ hard but Saturday at the Silverlake Stadium was a rare exception. Instead it was the football that saved a day that was almost ruined by an ill-advised trip into Southampton after the game.

Anyway, rather than focusing on how horrible a city can be after a six week strike by the binmen and being stuck in Winchester for over an hour after the M3 was closed, I will instead focus on what was an unusually good friendly.

For a full match report I strongly recommend SamRFC’s excellent summary of the game but I can’t resist the opportunity to share my own thoughts on what was my first glance of most of these youngsters.

Many people will I’m sure look at the result and draw their own conclusions about the players on show but it doesn’t really tell the whole story. Whilst it’s true that the more experienced players didn’t really do themselves any favours, there were several performances that leave room for optimism in what as a fairly evenly matched contest.

Being a Reading fan I’ll start with what comes naturally: having a bit of a moan. To my mind there were a few players who should have been looking at the game as an opportunity to really press their case for a place in the first team. Those players, pretty much to a man, did not deliver.

Let’s start with Sean Morrison. Of all the players on show he was the one that I was most intrigued to see given that on paper he is first choice for the coming season with Alex Pearce. He started well enough, winning a few headers but as the half progressed some cracks began to show. He gave away a really needless and clumsy foul on the edge of the area that brought about Eastleigh’s first goal. If that wasn’t bad enough I was also perturbed by his completely over the top and foul mouthed shouting at the referee after the free kick was given. Not what I want to see from Reading players and certainly not in a friendly. To make matters worse, later on in the half he was caught out of position and was then done for pace and strength by Jamie Slabber to make it 3-1. I appreciate that I only had his first 45 minutes of pre-season to judge him but going purely on first impressions, it’s fair to say wasn’t blown away.

Also playing in that first half was Michail Antonio, a player who tailed off massively at the end of last season and who carried that form into this game. Twice he ran the ball out of play on the sideline and also miscontrolled a simple enough crossfield ball out for a throw in. Added to that he struggled to beat his full back throughout and never really looked threatening. When you compare his performance to that of Ryan Edwards and Jake Taylor in the second half, he looked like a man who was bereft of confidence and expecting to leave the club in the near future.

The same can also be said of Marcus Williams in the second half. The Eastleigh trialist on the wing caused him problems but his low point came when he managed to trip over the ball despite having nobody close to him. Ian Harte need not worry about a challenge from the former Scunthorpe man based on this showing.

I’m going to have to disagree with McDermott on the next point but another who may well be on his way out of the club is Nicholas Bignall who in my opinion looked fairly disinterested for most of the second half. There were some token runs but there was no evidence of the devastating pace that we know he possesses and Eastleigh skipper Tom Jordan (son of Gattuso baiting Joe) was never really troubled by him. If you’re being generous you could say that it’s still early in pre-season but Gozie Ugwu didn’t seem to suffer in the same way playing alongside him.

They are my moans anyway so let’s get on to some positives. Of the first half team there were two standouts for me. The first was the lad who I think could prove to be a real find for the club. Rumour has it that Harry Redknapp turned up at Jordan Obita’s house to try and persuade him to sign pro forms with Spurs and not Reading. That may or may not be true but one thing that is not in doubt is this kid’s talent. His touch is so natural and easy that he seemed to operate completely at his own pace and on several occasions put in some wonderful reverse passes for the ever energetic Jacob Walcott. There may be arguments that he needs to beef up a bit but Reading have to be careful how to nurture this talent.

The second player to impress was one who I have to admit I hadn’t heard of before the game and embarrassingly I had to ask Johnny Fordham who he was! I’ve been told that Johnny Goddard is a central midfielder by trade but you wouldn’t believe it during this game. He slotted in at right back and looked very comfortable both on and off the ball. His first instinct was to look forward and was always available for a pass. Could be one to watch.

Of the rest of the first half lot I was a little disappointed by Brett Williams who struggled to make an impact and by Lawson D’Ath who showed some good touches but too often chose the wrong option and gave the ball away. Eastleigh were very busy and did a very good job closing down the ball, giving Reading no time in possession. Because of this D’Ath and Losasso struggled a bit to impose themselves but both can be fairly pleased how they responded to the physical test.

The second half side had a very unfamiliar look to it and whilst people have raved about Jake Taylor and Ryan Edwards on the flanks, it was the older Australian that caught my eye. Playing in the centre of the midfield Cameron Edwards looked a bit like a taller, skinnier version of Tim Cahill. Like Obita he has a very good touch and seems to exude a kind of calmness when he has the ball. He struck up a good partnership with Albertan Ethan Gage who also impressed breaking up the play and playing the easy ball.

The two wingers were full of energy but I did think they could have used the ball a little better. Edwards Jnr looked quick and bright but a few times ran into cul-de-sacs whilst Taylor was more comfortable on the right. That said it was a fantastic run on the left by the Welsh under 21 international that set up Ugwu’s goal and credit should also be given to the lanky striker who did well to find the space to score.

Brian McDermott said after the game he was a bit disappointed with the performance and he may well have a point. Eastleigh’s side were packed full of trialists (incredibly they only have seven players on the books) and had come off games against powerhouses Winchester FC and the Falkland Islands. There weren’t really enough chances created and it was three sloppy goals conceded, two things I’m sure they will be trying to correct tonight against Swindon Supermarine. However, this was a day for positives and whilst we lost and I had to endure the smell of rotting rubbish in Southampton, I can console myself with the fact that I’ve ticked off a new ground, enjoyed a decent game in the sunshine and most importantly that there are some talented looking youngster in the ranks.

Reading won their first home game of the season with a superb 3-0 thrashing of Crystal Palace to move them up to 7th place in the Championship Table.
It was an even game until the 37th minute, when Shane Long burst into the penalty area before getting brought down, with the referee having no choice but to give the penalty. Long cooly stepped up to score his first of the season and was again the architect for the second goal, collecting a great through ball from Jem Karacan and being again fouled in the penalty area. However this time Long let debutant Ian Harte take responsibility and Harte also delivered, capping off a great debut from the former Carlisle left-back. Reading were never really stretched and got a third in stoppage time. Jimmy Kebe scoring a left-footed drive into the bottom corner.

It was an important win for the Royals who were trying to prove they could cope without Gylfi Sigurdsson and they had the best early chance, with captain Matt Mills heading a corner onto the crossbar.
But three minutes later the Royals went ahead. Long burst past McCarthy on the left wing, and the defender tried his best to catch the Irishman but could only pull him to the floor, leaving referee Keith Hill no choice but to point to the spot. Fans might of been worried about the lack of Sigurdsson meaning the penalty taker wasn’t a certainty, but Long took responsibility and sent the keeper the wrong way, to score his first goal of the season.
Before half time Adam Federici made a terrific stop to deny Andy Dorman, while at the other end Jimmy Kebe cut inside and beat two players but saw his shot go wide of the near post when he really should of done better.
The Royals started the Second Half well and Jobi McAnuff had a curling effort saved after using his pace well to beat the Palace defence.
Minutes later however Reading went two in front. The superb Jem Karacan ran from his own half before playing a great ball through to Long, who was again hacked down in the penalty area. It may have not been given by another referee, but once again, Hill awarded the Royals a spot-kick. This time however, Long let debutant Ian Harte take it, and he buried the penalty into the bottom corner.
Reading then really turned on the pressure on a tiring Palace defence, with Speroni denying Shaun Cummings and Jimmy Kebe. He looked like he would be beaten when Kebe squared it to Brian Howard, but the midfielder somehow shot wide when it looked easier to score.
Then finally in injury time, Reading got a deserved third. Kebe being played through by Howard, he put it onto his left foot and drilled it into the bottom corner to cap off a brilliant win for the Royals and the perfect way to start a tough week with Millwall and Middlesborough coming up.

PLAYER RATINGS:

Federici: 7 – Didn’t really need to do anything but pulled off a top save at 1-0.
Cummings: 8 – Massive improvement form his last home game almost a year ago. Kept the left midfielder quiet and looked a threat going forward. played a peach of a ball to Kebe which should of led to a goal.
Harte: 9 – A class act. His passing was superb and was always cool and composed, including during his spot-kick. Wasn’t caught out in defence at all, miles better than Williams.
Pearce: 7- Solid, but wasn’t really tested.
Mills: 7 – See Pearce.
Kebe: 8 – Quiet first half and didn’t really look dangerous. However when the Palace defence tired, he ripped them to shreds and was a threat every time he touched the ball.
McAnuff: 8 – Best game this season. Looked dangerous on the ball and did well helping out in defence.
Gunnarsson: 6 – Quiet, but did his job well enough.
Karacan: 9 – Superb. Went for every challenge and usually came out on top. Played a more attacking role in the absence of Sigurdsson and it worked. Great passing and his pace showed, skipping past defenders.
Howard: 7 – Missed an absolute sitter towards the end but he did well. His passing was good and was dangerous towards the end of the match.
Long: 9 – Best game in a long time. Gained confidence following his goal and his pace and strength really shined through. Deserves the credit he gets, hopefully he can play like that every week.

Subs:-
Church: (On for Long 89) N/A – Not enough time to make an impact.

RANDOM OTHER RATING:
Gylfi Sigurdsson for Hoffenheim: 6 – Came on with 11 minutes to go on his debut, and fluffed 2 decent opportunities.

Reading (4-2-3-1): Federici; Cummings, Harte, Mills (c), Pearce; Gunnarsson, Karacan; Kebe, McAnuff, Howard; Long.
Subs: McCarthy, Williams, Khizanishvili, Antonio, Robson-Kanu, Church, Hunt
Booked: Mills (foul 10), Howard (dive 89)

Palace (4-4-2): Speroni; Clyne, Gardner, Bennett, McCarthy (c); Danns, Garvan, Dorman (Counago HT), Djalili, Marrow (Cadogan 66), Vaughan (Andrew 80)
Subs: Price, Davis, Barrett, Holness
Booked: Vaughan (foul 15), McCarthy (foul 38), Bennett (foul 65), Clyne (foul 78)

Attendance: 17,291 (2,835 away)

Eddie Greville/Reading Post

Sorry about lack of posting last couple of days, been busy and the computer has had some problems but here is my team for today’s game against Crystal Palace.
Injured: (Griffin, Ingimarsson, Armstrong, Kelly, Tabb)

GK: Federici
DR: Gunnarsson/Khizanishvilli
DL: Harte
DC: Pearce
DC: Mills
DMC: Khizanishvilli/Karacan
AMC: Howard
MR: Antonio
ML: Kebe
ST: Long
ST: Church

Gunnarsson is currently doubtful but if he is playing I’ll have him at Right-Back ahead of Griffin who is expected to be out. If no Gunnarsson, I’d have Khizanishvilli ahead of Cummings as his replacement. Even if Williams recovers from his injury, I’d have Harte starting despite this looking a pretty slow defence.
In midfield, if Gunnarsson is fit then I’d have Khizanishvilli starting behind Howard in the holding role, while Howard has a chance to go forward now Sigurdsson has gone. Karacan will play if Zurab is playing at Right-Back.
On the wings, I have been impressed by Antonio when he has come on and I think he looks more dangerous than McAnuff. Unlikely to happen, but I’d like to see it.
Up front I think we should play two, and I think Long and Church offer the best partnership. I’m still not sure about Hunt and Church and Long did well together last season.

Subs:
McCarthy
Cummings
Karacan/Gunnarsson
Taylor
McAnuff
Hunt
Robson-Kanu

McCarthy is currently the only keeper not on loan so will be backup to Federici. Cummings can play both sides at the back and so is probably a better choice than Williams as cover. If Karacan doesn’t start then he will be on the bench. Taylor can be striker back-up as well as Midfield. McAnuff and Robson-Kanu will be cover for the wingers, with Robson-Kanu also being able to come on as a striker along with Hunt.

Prediction:
Palace are a decent team but I can see Reading coming through with a close win. We won’t keep a clean-sheet but I think it will be similar to the Leicester game.

2-1
Howard, Antonio

Attendance Prediction: 18,124

Reading got their first League win of the season after a late Matt Mills header earned the Royals a 2-1 win.
Gylfi Sigurdsson put Reading ahead with a deft chip on 25 minutes but just after half-time Lloyd Dyer cut inside and fired the ball past Federici from 25-yards. The game was extremely open and Federici pulled off the save of the season to deny Dyer a second goal from close range. Then, on 86 minutes, Matt Mills rose highest from a Brian Howard corner to power a header home and win the game for Reading.

Reading had a high injury count and although not as bad as first thought, Shaun Cummings was forced to start his first game under Brian McDermott at left-back and was immediately given problems by the dangerous Lloyd Dyer.
There were more injury scares for the Royals as Mills and Karacan needed treatment but fortunately they were not too serious, even if Jem had a black eye.
Reading took the lead after good harrying from Long who found Kebe. The Malian crossed to the unmarked Sigurdsson, who chipped the keeper in cool fashion to score his 2nd goal of the season.
But 7 minutes into the second half, Reading were pegged back. The impressive Dyer cut inside from the right and fired a 25 yard screamer with his left foot which powered past the helpless Federici.
Reading pushed but could not regain the lead. Sigurdsson heading just wide and Kebe hitting a one-on-one chance straight at the keeper.
On 83 minutes, Federici looked to have earned Reading a point, when Dyer flicked a shot at the far post from the left, and Federici got the faintest touch with his fingers to tip the ball around the post.
And it proved to have earned Reading not one but three points as Brian Howard floated in an inswinging corner for Matt Mills to fire his 3rd goal in 5 days 3 minutes later. It was a typical powerful header where the Leicester keeper stood no chance.
From being hero at one end to being legend at the other. Federici could only parry a save straight into the path of Leicester’s Steve Howard who had an open goal to aim and at, only for Mills to scramble over and head the ball off the line. Leicester almost equalised deep into stoppage time only for it to be chalked off but Reading held on for a great win from a brave performance.

PLAYER RATINGS:

Federici: 8 – Kicking and throwing (yes, throwing) was much better today and his save from Dyer was the save of the season. Probably couldn’t do anything about the goal.
Gunnarsson: 6 – Not enough time to influence the game.
Cummings: 7 – A mature performance considering his last appearance was 9 months ago. Had to deal with the handful that was Dyer and coped fairly well. Actually went forward to support the winger well. I’d start him ahead of Williams for the next game.
Mills: 9 – Heroic. Saw the physio about 3 times yet managed to head the Royals into the lead and then head the ball off the line to earn them their fist win. Defended well and was never caught out.
Pearce: 7 – Did his job well, but could of attempted to close down Dyer quicker for his goal.
Kebe: 7 – Looked dangerous as usual and it was a great assist. Could of scored after good play by Sigurdsson and went on a great run in the second half.
McAnuff: 7 – Did a great job at right-back and looked good going forward.
Karacan: 6 – Considering he could probably only see out of one eye, it was pretty good, but didn’t influence the game enough.
Howard: 7 – Started poorly but towards the end played some great passes and even beat some players. Good corner for the second goal.
Sigurdsson: 8 – Quality finish, but could of done it after the transfer window closes. Great pass to find Kebe when Jimmy should of scored. A good performance.
Long: 6 – Won a few headers and worked well for the first goal. But that was it.

Subs:-
Antonio: (On for Gunnarsson 45) 7 – Looked dangerous but lacked an end product, went on plenty of threatening runs.
Church: (On for Karacan 62) 5 – Didn’t notice him.

RANDOM OTHER RATING:
Sky Sports: 7 – Looked good in HD and the commentators generally got their facts right about Reading. Didn’t talk about us enough though.

Leicester (4-4-2): Logan; Lamey, Berner, Hobbs, Moreno; Oakley (c) (King 63), Wellens, Dyer, N’Guessan (Moussa 82); Gallagher (Fryatt 55), Howard
Subs: Ikeme, Neilson, Morrison, Kennedy

Reading (4-2-3-1): Federici; Gunnarsson (Antonio 45+3), Cummings, Mills (c), Pearce; Karacan (Church 62), Howard; Kebe, McAnuff, Sigurdsson; Long
Subs: Hamer, Davies, Taylor, Robson-Kanu, Hunt

Attendance: 19,611

Eddie Greville/Reading Post

Reading crashed out of the Carling Cup in the 2nd Round for the second year in a row after losing 4-2 on penalties to League 2 side Northampton.
The game finished 3-3 after extra time and Simon Church and Jake Taylor missed from 12 yards for the Royals to end a miserable night for everyone except the travelling support.

We had looked like we could cruise the game after dominating early on and after Matt Mills had put us in front on 16 minutes, but a shocking Ben Hamer mistake let them back in to equalise. Hal Robson-Kanu got his first Reading goal early in the second half but again we were immediately pegged back 4 minutes later. The game went into Extra Time and Matt Mills put Reading back in front 4 minutes from the end with his second of the night, but in the 125th minute The Cobblers scored a dramatic late equaliser to take the game to penalties. After misses from Church and Taylor, Abdul Osman put the ball past Hamer to send Reading crashing out.

McDermott had named a strong team with only 6 changes from the draw against Nottm Forest on Saturday and they started well with Michail Antonio giving the Northampton left-back all kinds of trouble and Julian Kelly having a very strong penalty shout turned down.
They eventually took the lead through Centre-Back Matt Mills, who skilfully side-footed a Brian Howard free-kick into the goal when totally unmarked.
Most fans expected us to push on and score more goals as Northampton didn’t look to cause much of a threat but 4 minutes after our goal they had equalised after a disastrous error for keeper Ben Hamer. Hamer dropped a corner, and after picking it up dropped it again, allowing Andrew Holt to put the ball in the empty net.
Reading were unable to score again that half but Brian Howard came close, hitting the bar with a free-kick.

The impressive Antonio was unfortunately replaced by Jimmy Kebe after struggling with an injury and he wasn’t the only one who was forced off with an injury. After another mistake by the diabolical Marcus Williams who was constantly torn apart by the right winger, Kelly had to come in and cut out the cross to prevent a certain goal. Unfortunately it proved to be his last action as he was replaced by young Jake Taylor, making his debut.
20 minutes into the half Reading retook the lead. Hal Robson-Kanu had two shots saved and Church one in a large scramble until Robson-Kanu finally put the ball past the unfortunate keeper and scored his first goal for the club.
But yet again immediately, Northampton pegged us back after another error from Hamer, who pushed a cross straight into the path of Kevin Thornton who made the scores 2-2.
Reading didn’t look like scoring and there was drama in the 3rd minute of stoppage time when Northampton had the ball in the net, but thankfully the linesman’s flag was up, something the Northampton players and fans failed to realise for a short while.
So Reading entered extra-time for the second time this season against a League Two side and Shane Long replaced Noel Hunt. But it was Hamer who was tested twice in the first-half but was able to keep them out.
Then on 116 minutes, Matt Mills got his second of the night with a powerful header from a Brian Howard corner, it should of been the winner but what followed was large amounts of controversy.
Despite hardly anything happening during the 15 minutes the 4th Official signalled 3 minutes of added time and in the first of these Long was clearly brought down in the area for a stonewall penalty after Brian Howard hit the post but was somehow not given. Not just that, the referee failed to notice the ball roll miles out of play and waved play on. Then, 1 minute 40 seconds over the allotted injury time. Northampton fired a shot off Matt Mills from a free-kick to take the game to penalties causing the ref to be booed by everyone.
There were hopes Reading could still win the game on penalties but with the first spot-kick saved from Simon Church, it was clear it wasn’t to be our night. While Long and Robson-Kanu scored theirs, Jake Taylor’s miss meant Abdul Osman had the chance to put them through. Hamer should have saved it but it squirmed under him and Reading were out.
It was a dreadful performance and it was the least we deserved. We can moan at the ref but we should not be conceding 3 goals at home to a League 2 side.

PLAYER RATINGS:

Hamer: 3 – Made two dreadful mistakes as well as failing to stop Osman’s penalty which squirmed under his body. Did have two saves but was flapping around from crosses and corners and it’s hard to overlook the mistakes.
Kelly: 7 – Looked quick and bright down the right hand side with Antonio. Defended well so was a shame when he got injured.
Williams: 2 – Bad bad bad. Torn apart by a League Two winger and offered nothing going forward. We desperately need Armstrong back.
Mills: 8 – Scored two goals and and looked solid in defence. Lost a couple of headers but was unlucky for his own goal.
Pearce: 6 – Looked OK in defence but was playing Hoofball. Every time he got the ball he would just thump it up the field in no particular direction.
Antonio: 8 – One of the few positives in the match. Constantly beat the Full-Back but was constantly limping towards the end. Lets hope the injury isn’t serious.
Robson-Kanu: 6 – Average. Played OK but nothing spectacular. Decent goal and a good penalty but I can’t see him pushing McAnuff and Kebe for a place in the team unlike Antonio.
Karacan: 4 – Gave the ball away time and time again. Had a couple of long range shots but they were all very poor. We really need Tabb back.
Howard: 7 – Good set-pieces and tried to play the ball on the floor but I don’t think he won a single tackle and kept dallying on the ball. Unlucky to hit the woodwork twice.
Hunt: 4 – Offered nothing up front. Can’t remember him doing anything apart from being subbed.
Church: 5 – Same as Hunt, but didn’t stop trying and was constantly running. Poor penalty. When you’ve scored penalties going to the right, why go to the left?

Subs :-
Kebe: (On for Antonio 45) 6 – Looked good on the ball but rarely got it. Didn’t look as interested as he usually is.
Taylor: (On for Kelly 52) 3 – Not a Right-Back. He was skinned constantly and was at fault for the last two goals. He looked good on the ball and I still think he is a good prospect, but as a striker. Why did Brian bring him on instead of Bryn?
Long: (On for Hunt 94) 6 – Didn’t really make a big impact but was strong and athletic through all the tired legs. Should have won a penalty. Seemed to scared to shoot for some reason.

RANDOM OTHER RATING:
Northampton: 8 – A lot better than I thought they would be, better than some Championship sides. Showed hunger and desire unlike Reading. Jacobs on the left wing looks a good prospect.

Reading (4-4-2): Hamer; Kelly (Taylor 52), Williams, Mills (c), Pearce; Karacan, Howard, Antonio (Kebe 45), Robson-Kanu; Church, Hunt (Long 94)
Subs: Federici; Gunnarsson, Taylor, McAnuff, Sigurdsson
Booked: Mills (foul 24), Howard (foul 25), Williams (foul 120)

Northampton (4-4-2): Jansson, Rodgers, Hall, Thornton, Beckwith, Osman, Purcell (Konstantinou 110), Holt (c), Wedderburn, Herbert, McKay (Guinan 82)
Subs: Walker, Harris, Jacobs, Death, Slowe
Booked: Purcell, Guinan (dissent 120)

Attendance: 6,986 (644)

The Royals take on Northampton in the 2nd Round of Carling Cup on Tuesday and due to injuries to Andy Griffin and Jay Tabb, who have both been ruled out, it seems as though Shaun Cummings may make his first appearance since the 12th of December and his first under Brian McDermott.

The Right-Back was signed by Brendan Rodgers form Chelsea on a three-year deal in August last year and made his debut in the 0-0 draw against Doncaster. He went on to make 8 appearances but was quickly turned on by the Reading fans, many calling him the “worst player they have ever seen in a Reading shirt” and “more like Short Cummings.” He looked nervy and was torn apart constantly by Right Wingers such as Jerome Thomas, who scored twice for West Brom by skipping past Cummings twice and failed to show his “admirable attacking qualities” Rodgers described him to have.
When McDermott came in, Cummings never featured again that season, immediately losing his place to Tabb and Gunnarsson, neither Right-Backs and eventually Andy Griffin was signed, pushing Cummings into the Reserves where he is now Captain.

Cummings was well thought of by Rodgers when he signed

It could be his last chance, having not played First-Team football in 9 months I think he has no future but maybe he could prove me wrong. It’s been a long time since we last saw him so it will be interesting to see if he has improved since then. I remember a fan standing behind me at the Torquay game said he wanted Cummings to play just because “he’d forgotten how bad he actually was.” It’s unlikely he’ll turn brilliant but Jimmy Kebe did it, and if he was at Chelsea for that long, they must of seen some potential in him

———————————————————————————————————————

MY TEAM FOR NORTHAMPTON:

4-4-2
GK: Hamer
DR: Cummings
DL: Williams
DC: Pearce
DC: Mills
MR: Antonio
ML: Robson-Kanu
DMC: Karacan
AMC: Taylor
ST: Bignall
ST: Hunt

The Goalkeeper is an obvious choice as it gives Hamer some game time and all the other back up keepers are out on loan. The defence is pretty much normal simply as there is no real back-up, and with Griffin out I’d have Cummings over Gunnarsson who should be rested. The midfield has both main back up wingers to show what they can do with Jobi and Jimmy rested, while Karacan can be the holding midfield while Jake Taylor can attack. Up front I’d have Bignall who has impressed in all the Carling Cup games he’s played in and Hunt, so he can get some minutes in on his return from injury.

The Bench:
Locke
Ingimarsson
Obita
Davies
Joyce
Howard
Church

Locke can be on the bench to gain some matchday experience. Ingimarsson I’m not sure if he is fit but I think a place on the bench as defensive cover won’t hurt him too much. Obita didn’t get much time against Torquay and I’d like to see him feature again. Davies probably deserves one more chance despite being told he can leave. Former Ireland Under 17 captain Danny Joyce is a versatile defender or midfield so can provide good cover there. Brian Howard and Simon Church can always come on if we are chasing a result and we need a bit of first team quality.

Prediction:
Northampton will be easier than Torquay, who beat them 3-0 on the opening day of the season, so I expect a comfortable Reading win.

4-0
Bignall, Hunt (2), Williams

Attendance Prediction – 6,153

Also watch out for:
Dave Mooney and Abdulai Bell-Baggie in action for their loan clubs against Premier League opposition. Striker Mooney’s Colchester take on Sunderland, while Bell-Baggie’s Port Vale play Fulham.

After Grzegorz Rasiak’s departure, Reading seem to be left with just 3 main recognised strikers, and not one of them has scored yet this season.
At the moment the formation is 4-5-1 with Shane Long up front on his own and it is clear it is not working. Long is having a very poor start to the season and is nowhere near the player he was towards the end of last season.
It is very difficult as a lone striker, as they must win most of the headers and work hard and they can’t get help from another striker. Long is struggling to win much in the air and if he does there isn’t usually anyone nearby to head it to. The idea is to win the header and flick it on to Kebe or McAnuff to run on to but too often they are not there.

I’ve always believed 4-4-2 is the best option. With this we have more options in the box to cross to and Long usually always has support to find. It may not get the best out of Sigurdsson but when playing 4-4-2 we’ve got the best results. 5-0 v Sheff Wed, 4-1 v Derby, 6-0 v Peterborough and even the defeat to Aston Villa where we looked dangerous in attack to name a few. The obvious 2 up front would be Long and Church but I am not convinced about the Irishman and Hunt and Church together may not be strong or tall enough to play our long ball game.

Church looked good at the end of last season, and despite not too many chances, scored a good number of goals including a cracker in the final minute against Preston. He was also a key player in Pre-Season and looked like he had improved since the 2009 Simon Church we saw missing countless chances. However, for some reason he has had a very few playing minutes this season and when he did he did miss a sitter against Scunthorpe after he came on showing he may still be prone to missing easy chances.

After almost a year out Noel Hunt is finally back but I’m not sure how he will get on. It seems he is 3rd choice striker behind Church and Long at the moment and still seems slightly injury prone. If he can play like he did when he arrived in 2008 then I’m sure he will be leading the line but at the moment I have no idea how good he will be now after that long injury.

After that, we don’t really have another main striker. 4th choice I’m guessing is Nicholas Bignall, who has only made one Sub appearance for the Royals in the League. He did play against Torquay in the Carling Cup and in my opinion looked quite good. He is really pacy and has a good goal scoring record for the reserves. Jake Taylor is another one but it seems like he plays more in the Sigurdsson role just behind the striker so is really just his backup.
Antonio and Robson-Kanu have also been mentioned of being able to play there, but I’m not sure about either of them and would not place them above any of those I’ve written about.

Mooney has impressed at Colchester

We have been linked to forwards form other clubs including Craig Mackail-Smith and Brett Pitman (who looks set to go to Bristol City according to The Times), but McDermott continues to insist we have no cash so making anymore signings is a definite no.

So it seems we will have to go with what’s left, and to many fans it is simply not good enough, but if Long can reach the form of last year, Church improve his finishing and Hunt get back to his best, then I think we’ll be fine. Bignall and Taylor look good prospects and when Mooney returns to Reading in January, I believe he is good enough.
So maybe it’s not too bad after all.

The Royals are still waiting for their first League win of the season after Nottingham Forest striker Robert Earnshaw pounced on an Adam Federici mistake early in the Second Half to leave Reading winless after 3 games.

Forest started brighter with Federici being forced to pull off top saves to deny Majewski and Earnshaw early on and on 14 minutes Reading took the lead against the run of play when after a scramble in the box involving Kebe and Long, Pearce side footed the ball into the net for his first goal of the season.
Reading were lifted by the goal but were unable to find a second and Federici yet again pulled off a top save to deny Anderson with a header.
But it’s unlikely Federici will remember those as early in the Second Half, his drop kick hit Jem Karacan and bounced to Rob Earnshaw, who cooly round our keeper and slotted home a fortunate goal.
Reading came close to a winner with a Hunt shot in his first Madejski Stadium appearance in almost a year, and even a Jimmy Kebe header, but both were saved by Lee Camp and the Royals had to settle for a draw.

Reading (4-2-3-1): Federici, Griffin (Gunnarsson 9), Williams, Mills (c), Pearce; Karacan, Howard, Kebe, McAnuff, Sigurdsson; Long (Hunt 78)
Subs: Hamer, Antonio, Robson-Kanu, Taylor, Church
Booked: Howard (foul 64), Pearce (foul 84)

Forest (4-4-2): Camp; Chambers, Bertrand, Morgan, Wilson; Majewski (McGugan 62), Moussi, Cohen, Anderson; Blackstock (Tyson 74), Earnshaw (Adebola 87)
Subs: Darlow, McCleary, Thornhill, Moloney
Booked: Blackstock (foul 23), Bertrand (foul 80)

Attendance: 17,324 (2,176 away)

Jimmy Kebe scored a late equaliser as Reading drew against cash-strapped Portsmouth.

Portsmouth took a surprise lead on 8 minutes when a Nadir Ciftci strike deflected of Gylfi Sigurdsson and into the Reading goal.
It unsettled the Royals and they failed to make many good chances in the First Half.
But the Second Half Reading stepped it up and Gylfi Sigurdsson hit the post with a long-range freekick.
Then on 86 minutes after a large goal mouth scramble, Jimmy Kebe bundled the ball over the line to score Reading’s equaliser.
Brian Howard came close late on but the points were shared and left Reading still looking for their first win of the season.

Reading (4-2-3-1): Federici; Griffin (Rasiak 83), Williams, Gunnarsson, Pearce; Karacan (Antonio 68), Howard; McAnuff, Kebe, Sigurdsson; Church (Hunt 70)
Subs: Hamer, Davies, Taylor, Robson-Kanu

Portsmouth (4-4-2): Ashdown; Mullins, Dickinson, Sonko, Wilson (c); Brown, Hughes, Ciftci, Ritchie; Nugent, Utaka (Ward 22)
Subs: O’Brien, Gregory, Pack

Attendance: 16,497

The Royals progressed to the 2nd Round of the Caring Cup for the 10th consecutive season thanks to a dramatic 121st minute Gzregorz Rasiak winner against a tough Torquay side.
The game looked set for penalties until Rasiak volleyed home in the dying seconds and send the 716 travelling Reading supporters into raptures.
It was hard on Torquay, who played very well all game and could of easily won, hitting the post twice earlier on.

Brian McDermott had picked a strong side in a 4-4-2 formation and the Royals started off strongly when a Michail Antonio long throw put Nicholas Bignall through. He crossed to Rasiak who looked certain to score only for the Polish striker to scuff his shot straight to Scott Bevan in the Torquay goal.
Torquay however caused the Royals defence problems as Billy Kee had a stinging shot well saved by Ben Hamer and on 38 minutes they should of scored from a goalmouth scramble. Hamer came for the ball from a long throw but failed to connect and the ball squirmed under legs and onto the post. The ball was on the line needing a touch but Hamer quickly fell on the ball saving Reading.
The second half was a very quiet one as neither team dominated. Howard came close with two free kicks but they were both comfortable saves for the giant Bevan in goal. While Andy Griffin had a terrific 30-yard volley brilliantly saved by the keeper.
So surprisingly we had extra time and the Royals pushed for the decisive goal, McDermott bringing on Jem Karacan and 16-year-old wonderkid Jordan Obita to try and break a Torquay defence who hadn't let in a goal in over 900 minutes. But despite these changes the Gulls came the closest when Elliot Benyon comfortably skipped past Brynjar Gunnarsson and cut back before curling the ball past Ben Hamer seemingly goalwards, only to clip the inside of the far post and bounce out to deny Torquay what would of probably been a winning goal.
With 2 minutes signalled at the end of extra time the game looked set to go to Penalties until striker Gzregorz Rasiak, who had played poorly all evening, won a soft free kick towards the corner flag. Brian Howard swung it in and after shots were blocked from Pearce, Obita and Williams, Rasiak clawed the ball behind him into the Torquay net sending the away end wild, so much so some of the wall behind the pitch collapsed, but luckily there were no serious injuries.
It was hard on the League 2 side but Reading can now enjoy what will hopefully be an easier draw against Northampton Town at home, who Torquay beat 3-0 at the weekend, on the 24th of August for a place in the last 32.

PLAYER RATINGS:

Hamer: 7 – Pulled of some top saves to deny Kee a number of times but dropped the ball a couple of times which could of led to goals.
Griffin: 6 – OK in defence but was poor with his passing and going forward was fairly rubbish. Had a great long range effort saved but otherwise was quiet all game.
Williams: 5 – I definitely want Armstrong to recover fast. Was caught out of position far too much and was given a hard time by Chris Zebroskie. Very poor.
Pearce: 6 – Same old problems and was beaten often but did cover well if Williams was out of position.
Gunnarsson 6 – Did reasonably well but is definitely not our answer to our centre-back problems, unfortunately he seems all we've got. Was caught out too easily when Torquay hit the post.
Kebe: 6 – Started well but was moved to the left where he was not effective, even when he went back on the right, was quiet and rarely got to run at the full-back.
Antonio: 6 – Average. Long Throws were dealt with easily and rarely caused the defence problems.
Tabb: 6 – Fairly quiet, won the ball often but too often gave it away. Lets hope he can get back to last seasons form.
Howard: 7 – Set plays were quite dangerous, but didn't control the midfield like he should against a League 2 side.
Bignall: 7 – Looked pretty dangerous and pacy whenever he got the ball, but didn't get it enough. Held up the ball well and could be a decent option on the bench for the League.
Rasiak: 4 – Awful, won headers but only headed straight at an opposition player all the time. Seemed to get in the way of the play and was booed and was abused by the fans who were clearly frustrated at him by extra time. Still, he scored the goal that sent us through.

Subs : -
Karacan: (On for Bignall 90) 7 – Passed the ball well and got the midfield working well when he came on.
Obita: (On for Antonio 112) N/A – Not enough time to make an impact, touched the ball once, but it led to the goal so fair play.

RANDOM OTHER RATING:
Dave Mooney: 9 – Scored 2 goals on his Colchester debut in their 3-0 win over Hereford including a stunning tight angled volley. I'd have him over Rasiak every time.

Torquay United: Bevan, Nicholson, Ellis, Robertson, Mansell, Benyon, Wroe (c), Stevens (Lathrope 111), Branston, Zebroski, Kee (O'Kane 97)
Subs: Rowe-Turner, Macklin, Halpin, Potter, Charnock, Lathrope, O'Kane
Booked: Zebroski, Benyon

Reading: Hamer; Griffin (c), Williams, Gunnarsson, Pearce; Howard, Tabb, Kebe, Antonio (Obita 112); Bignall (Karacan 90), Rasiak
Subs: McCarthy, Cummings, Davies, D'Ath, Bell-Baggie
Booked: Gunnarsson

Attendance: 2,832 (716 away)

GK: Hamer
DR: Cummings
DL: Williams
DC: Pearce
DC: J Mills
MR: Michail Antonio
ML: Abdulai Bell-Baggie
DMC: James Rowe
AMC: Scott Davies
ST: Grzegorz Rasiak
ST: Nicholas Bignall

Hamer should start in goal as just him remains from the International call-ups apart from Locke. Cummings should be given a chance and Pearce and Williams should be playing as more experience as they weren’t convincing against Scunthorpe. Jack Mills deserves a chance ahead of namesake Matt so would like to see him given a go.
I’ve heard good things about James Rowe so hopes he get a chance in the holding role he has played lots for the reserves. I think it’s time to give Scott Davies just one more chance even if he looks set to be sold. Rasiak and Bignall should work well together and I’m not sure if Hunt will be fit yet.

Subs:
Locke
Gunnarsson
Kelly (If Fit)/Griffin
Obita
Howard
McAnuff
Hunt

Locke is the only other goalie availabe so goes straight in. Gunnarsson is good defensive and midfield cover. I’m not sure if Kelly will be fit so if not Griffin will take his place. Jordan Obita is being hailed as one of England’s next big things, however I’m not sure if he will be available as he hasn’t a squad number. Brian Howard could step in for Davies, McAnuff is the only cover on the wings and Hunt is the only attacking cover.

Prediction:
3-1
Bignall (2), Hunt

The Royals went down to a shock 2-1 defeat against expected strugglers Scunthorpe in a controversial game.

Scunthorpe took the lead through a Gary Thompson goal on 9 minutes which was disallowed by the linesman for offside only for the referee to overrule the decision allowing a goal. Reading equalised on 26 minutes after Gylfi Sigursson smashed a 25-yard screamer into the top corner after good play by Jem Karacan. But there was no further joy for Royals fans as Rob Jones powered in a free header on 60 minutes to compound Reading to their first opening day defeat since 2005.

The match started in good atmosphere. A rousing pre-match video got the fans going and Reading started well with Kebe and Karacan missing good chances.
However, on 9 minutes the Madejski was silenced when Jonathan Forte skipped past Matt Mills with no difficulty and found Gary Thompson, who stuck the ball past Federici and into the Reading net. But then there were cheers as the linesman stuck his flag up for offside and large relief, however confusion rang out as referee Fred Graham overruled the decision and gave a goal. The goal seemed to affect the Royals and their supporters, the atmosphere suddenly went silent and Reading seemed to lose momentum.
Reading got their equaliser on 26 minutes when McAnuff turned and found Gylfi Sigurdsson, Readings top scorer from last season dummied past the defender and crashed the ball past Scunthorpe goalkeeper Joe Murphy from outside the area. After scoring 20 goals last season, it was great to see The Sig continue where he left off.
After some awful half-time entertainment the Royals came out strongly and Jobi McAnuff came incredibly close after cutting inside and curling a ball towards goal. It looked destined for the net however it was headed away by a Scunthorpe defender.
Scunthorpe then once again stunned Reading when Rob Jones found himself free in the area from a corner, and powered the ball past the helpless Federici to put Scunthorpe back in front.
Reading kept pushing for an equaliser and Gylfi Sigurdsson hit the bar from a free kick. McDermott brought on Church, Tabb and Antonio and it was Church who missed the chance of the game. Kebe had been moved to the left following Antonio coming on and found space to use his electric pace to get into a crossing position. He squared it to Church and all he had to do was place it past the goalkeeper, but hit it straight at Murphy when it looked easier to score from 12 yards out.
Reading kept going but Mills and Long both picked up knocks and despite having over 6 minutes of stoppage time, couldn’t find their way past the Scunny defence.
It was a disappointing defeat but who can forget 2005/06, when the Royals went 2-1 down to Plymouth, only to lose just one more game that season.

PLAYER RATINGS:

Federici: 6 – Could of done better the first goal but had no chance second. Distribution wasn’t brilliant and could of been quicker when time was running out.
Griffin: 8 – Impressive. Dealt very well with a very dangerous and quick Forte on the wing. Stood up strong when Scunthorpe broke 4 against 1 from a corner. Attacked very well on the overlap. Could of used Kebe better however.
Williams: 6 – I’m not exactly convinced. He’s no Bertrand but he did okay today. Wasn’t particularly strong in attack and was caught out a lot in defence.
Pearce: 4 – Too slow, not good at passing or heading or positioning. We look poor in defence with only 2 fit main center-backs.
Mills: 4 – Completely torn apart for the first goal, outjumped for the second. Poor passing and looked nervy all the time.
Kebe: 7 – When he got the ball he looked very dangerous but couldn’t get into positions to run a the left back. It could be blamed on the service but I expected more.
McAnuff: 8 – Lively at running and almost scored with a curling effort. However I think he still often makes the wrong decision passing/dribbling/shooting wise.
Gunnarsson: 6 – Solid but unspectacular, I still don’t see why we offered him a new contract in the summer. He does his job but there are better players.
Karacan: 7 – Okay, didn’t win the ball very often and missed a great chance to play in McAnuff as well as missing a great header chance from 5 yards. Passed quite well and looked energetic.
Sigurdsson: 8 – Brilliant goal and almost got another from a free kick. Looked dangerous on the ball but shot too often when passing would of been a better option. Didn’t play any defence splitting balls to the wings we’ve seen from him.
Long: 3 – Did nothing, won nothing in the air and had a good run into the box only to shoot into the side netting rather than pull it back. Got injured but he didn’t seem to get worse.

Subs :-
Tabb: (On for Gunnarsson 59) 6 – Did okay but didn’t change the game in any way when he came on. Played a bit too simply.
Church: (On for Karacan 70) 6 – Looked dangerous but won nothing in the air and missed a chance even I could of scored.
Antonio: (On for McAnuff 75) 6 – Looked quick and the long throws were dangerous but first touch was poor and we seemed to go down when he came on and we lost McAnuff.

RANDOM OTHER RATING:
Pre Match Video: 10 – If that doesn’t get you pumped I don’t know what will. Good music and a great selection of clips and editing. I will make sure I am 10 minutes early to every game just to watch the video.

Reading (4-2-3-1): Federici; Griffin, Williams, Mills (c), Pearce; Gunnarsson (Tabb 59), Karacan (Church 70); McAnuff (Antonio 75), Kebe, Sigurdsson; Long
Subs: Hamer, Howard, Robson-Kanu, Rasiak

Scunthorpe (4-4-2): Murphy; McNulty, Nolan, Jones, Mirfin (Raynes 51); O’Connor (Wright 89), Togwell (c), Wright, Thompson; Dagnall (Woolford 73), Forte
Subs: Slocombe, Canavan, Collins, Grant
Booked: Thompson (timewasting 90)

Attendance: 15,914 (656 away)

GK: Federici
DR: Griffin
DL: Williams
DC: Pearce
DC: Mills (C)
MR: Kebe
ML: McAnuff
DMC: Tabb
AMC: Sigurdsson
ST: Long
ST: Church

Now unlike many people I would have 4-4-2. With Kebe constantly beating their Left-Back we’d need options in the box. Times we have played 4-4-2 we’ve looked very dangerous. The argument against it is it leaves us light defensively in Midfield, however I don’t think Scunthorpe will be too much of a danger for us. The only disputable place in this team I believe could be the DMC (defensive midfield role). Karacan has looked very good in Pre-Season but I think Tabb just has more quality. And, being left-footed, naturally wants to get it out to the right wing to Kebe when he wins the ball.
The bench is a tricky one, but I’ve gone for:

McCarthy
Taylor
Gunnarsson
Howard
Antonio
Robson-Kanu
Hunt

I have McCarthy over Hamer as I am still not convinced about Ben and Alex did very well a Yeovil last season and has been called up to the England Under 21′s. Taylor is a great versatility player who could come on for anyone on the pitch including full backs, midfield and up front. Gunnarsson is mainly Center Back cover, Howard could be brought on for Sigurdsson or for a striker if we want to go 4-5-1. Antonio and Robson-Kanu are both winger but I’d have them both on the bench, both could play up front as well. Hunt is the main backup Striker.

Looking at the Scunthorpe team, I think their main weaknesses are the lack of attacking prowess after the sale of Gary Hooper, and their Left-Back after losing Marcus Williams to us is Jim McNulty, on loan from Brighton. When your deemed not good enough for Brighton, problems may arise. Jimmy Kebe could have some fun.

My prediction?
5-0
Church (2), Sigurdsson (Pen), McAnuff and Antonio.

With much of the outward conversation dominated by the ticket prices and how strange it was to be paying £2 more to see the reserves than the first team, it was a nice surprise to find the admission slashed to £8 as we went through the turnstiles. The ground is a nice one, bigger than I expected it to be with the stands as well-maintained as the pitch which, despite the grass being quite long, looked like a nice playing surface. As is often the case with pre-season friendlies, it was also good to be able to stand up and walk around during the game, something sadly missed since the days of Elm Park.

The buzz was all about Michail Antonio, whose transfer to Reading back in October last year was the reason that this friendly had come about and the youngster did not disappoint. He looked lively down the right wing and caused numerous problems before heading home from a Sigurdsson corner for Reading’s second. This assist added to the impressive performance of the Icelandic U21 international who had opened the scoring, following up after David Mooney’s effort had been parried out by the goalkeeper.

Despite being, arguably, the best player on paper, Andre Bikey had one of his more nightmarish games, consistently giving the ball away and gifting chances to the Tooting & Mitchum attack. Bikey usually treads a fine line between the talented and the casual, but today he only managed to pack the latter and was, for the most part, something of a liability at the back. He did provide two of the games most interesting moments though, thumping a free-kick against the post and being the butt of the crowds best joke. As the physio ran on to attend to a fallen player, a wag in the stand shouted: “Bikey, no! It’s only a physio!

Alex McCarthy put in an impressive performance inbetween the sticks after coming on at half-time to keep the team’s clean sheet. Also standing out were David Mooney, who was lively but wasteful, Scott Davies, who looked comfortable on the ball and did well. An honourable mention to for Tooting and Mitcham’s captain in central defence who made some fantastic last ditch challenges and the goalkeeper, who made some decent stops. From somebody who knows all about scoring own goals, I’d also say hard luck to the unfortunate defender who headed into his own net to inflate the scoreline.

If anybody that went to Kettering would like to write a couple of hundred words on the game, please leave your email or HobNob username in the comments and I’ll get in touch.