West Brom suffered their first defeat under Steve Clarke when they went down 3-0 to Fulham at Craven Cottage last weekend. It was a performance which will have no doubt frustrated both the manager and the supporters as the team seemed to lack the discipline and organisation that has been evident throughout their positive start to the season. It’s a season which has seen them start very well with victories over Liverpool and Everton at the Hawthorns, either side of a deserved 1-1 draw at White Hart Lane against Spurs. The defeat last Saturday could well serve as a reality check after such a good start but the manner of their loss will have been most disappointing as they lost two first half goals where, defensively, they could have done a lot better. The other frustrating part which Clarke looked to be furious with was the sending off of Peter Odemwingie. The Nigerian forward is an important player to his side but his petulant kick out which resulted in the red card means he misses the next three games and it’s the kind of action which could see Clarke take further punishment with in the future.
It’s fair to say that Reading are finding life back in the Premier League a touch difficult. The Royals have yet to register a victory since their return to the top flight following their Championship success last season. Defeats to Chelsea and Spurs followed a 1-1, last minute salvo at home to Stoke. Brian McDermott can take some solace in the sense that there is no doubt his players have given him everything and have fought right to the end of each of their games. Their performance against Chelsea was probably the best thus far as they troubled the European Champions before eventually losing out 4-2. Their most recent game (on Sunday against Spurs) was the biggest sign yet that they are lacking quality throughout their team. Before the game, Tottenham had failed to hit the heights they are capable of but they were miles ahead of Reading and, if anything, the `1-3 score line flattered the hosts. It’s still very early in the season and there is plenty of time for Reading to climb the table but they have to improve defensively. Even though they may not have the same standard of player as other sides, if McDermott can get them defending well as a unit they can improve their fortunes.
With Odemwingie’s suspension, Clarke will have to change his side. He has several options available to him and it could mean a first league start for on loan Chelsea striker, Romelu Lukaku. He’s came off the bench in three of their four league games but he could start on Saturday and if so, his size and presence in and around the box could prove decisive – especially against a Reading defence who have shipped eight goals in three games.
It was noticeable how much Reading struggled with the movement and pace of Spurs’ attack on Sunday. Ian Harte, who has been their preferred left back this term, is not getting any younger and he was hapless against the threat of Lennon, Bale and Defoe. Chris Gunther who was brought to the club from Championship side Nottingham Forest is making a big step up and it will take a while for him to get fully up to speed with the pace of the Premier League.
West Brom have started the season in flying form at the Hawthorns and it’s no surprise that they are favourites for the game against a struggling Reading side. It’s not original but I strongly fancy the Baggies to record their third home win of the campaign.
West Brom 5/6 BetVictor
