Liverpool v Reading: Ronny Goodlass talks tactics

Mar 15 2008

READING travel to Anfield still looking for their first away win against a side that is scoring goals freely and keeping clean sheets.

Not too many teams have scored four in the Premier League and still lost – but Reading have managed it twice this season.

Defence

The return of Ivar Ingimarsson to the centre of defence has been hugely important for Reading, who have won their last two games and kept clean sheets in both.

Without the former Brentford and Wolves man, who has won 26 caps for Iceland, they do not look as solid because he is a good organiser.

Reading have lacked the consistency at the back that they have shown in recent seasons and Ingirmarsson’s absence has been one of the factors, along with the disappointing early season form of goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann.

The USA international is in his seventh season at Reading and has played more than 250 games. A big, imposing keeper who commands his area well, the fact that he has rediscovered his form has been another factor in Reading halting their slide.

The difficulty for Reading will be picking up on Liverpool’s movement, particularly now Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres are striking up such an understanding. The use of two holding midfielders means manager Rafael Benitez has given Gerrard licence to roam from the middle of the park, which is his best position.

Reading will know their defence is not good enough to shut up shot against Liverpool, especially in the absence of the injured Graeme Murty who does so much to epitomise the spirit of the side.

But the they will work hard to make it difficult for the home side and then use the pace that runs through the team in players like Stephen Hunt, James Harper and Kevin Doyle to break forward swiftly.

Nicky Shorey links well with Stephen Hunt down the left hand side.

Liam Rosenior is a defender whose strength is his pace and he is always looking to push forward and get crosses in from the right hand side.

Midfield

John Oster brings a touch of skill to either flank while James Harper offers a goal threat from the middle of the park.

Harper brings a lot of energy to the side and Liverpool won’t need any reminding about his ability to make runs into the penalty area.

Marek Matejovsky arrived during the transfer window and looks a good acquisition. Like to beat defenders.

Republic of Ireland international Hunt has been Reading’s best player in a difficult season and is a real threat down the left.

Attack

Kevin Doyle has made a big impact since signing from Cork City in 2005.

He has scored 36 times in 96 appearances and uses his pace to good effect up front, harrying defenders and putting them under pressure.

Dave Kitson will use his six feet three inches frame to good effect and is strong in the air and came off the bench to score the second in the win over Manchester City.

Shane Long is another arrival from Cork and has progressed rapidly into the first team. He is good in the air and likes to run the channels between defenders.

Dangerman

STEPHEN HUNT – can score and create goals and must not be overlooked.

Overall verdict

Reading’s confidence will have been helped by two successive wins, but their away record is poor.

Liverpool will want to avenge December’s 3-1 defeat – and will do so.

Ronny Goodlass was talking to RICHARD WILLIAMSON