Reading vs Lincoln City - 06/04/24 | Fast live stats

Reading vs Lincoln City Prediction & Preview

Preview

As the 43rd round of League One action approaches, Reading is set to host Lincoln City at the Select Car Leasing Stadium this Saturday. With both teams locked in for a crucial encounter, the stage is set for an intriguing clash that could have significant implications on their respective league standings.

Rubén Sellés Salvador's Reading side comes into this match looking to improve upon their home record and climb further away from the lower reaches of League One. Currently positioned 18th with 45 points, they've shown some mixed form recently with 2 wins and 3 losses in their last five outings. Their previous match ended in a disappointing defeat against Bolton Wanderers, with a scoreline of 5-2 away from home, highlighting some defensive vulnerabilities they'll be keen to address.

On the other hand, Michael Skubala's Lincoln City arrives in Berkshire riding high on confidence after stringing together an impressive run of five consecutive victories. Sitting comfortably at 6th place with 67 points, they are undoubtedly eyeing promotion possibilities. The Imps' last game saw them triumph over Carlisle United by a margin of three goals to one away from home - showcasing their potent attacking prowess which has been evident throughout the season.

When it comes down to head-to-head encounters between these two sides, history shows little to separate them with one win apiece and one draw over their last three meetings - including a stalemate at LNER Stadium back in December.

Reading boasts an average goal rate of scoring two goals per game at home but will be wary of Lincoln's formidable attack that averages close to three goals per game on their travels. Conversely, while Reading tends to concede more freely overall (1.8 goals per game), Lincoln City has managed an exceptional defensive record recently – conceding just about one goal every four games away from LNER Stadium.

Bet

Given both teams' recent form and considering how closely matched they appear based on historical data and current performances; this fixture presents quite a challenging prospect for bettors. However, taking into account Lincoln City's remarkable winning streak coupled with Reading’s struggles against top-half oppositions despite playing at home – opting for an Away Win seems like an attractive proposition here.

The odds suggest it’s nearly too close to call between these options (Reading: Home Win at odds of 2.6 vs Lincoln: Away Win at odds of 2.62), but given Lincoln’s superior form (15 points taken from possible last five games) compared to Reading’s recent struggles (6 points from last five games), backing Lincoln City emerges as our recommended bet here not just because bigger odds return more money but due credit must be given where it's due; Skubala’s side looks poised for another victory pushing forward toward potential promotion glory.