Reading - Reward or Ruin?

Leeds United face their toughest test of the season tonight as high flying Reading come to Elland Road. The Royals have won 8 games on the trot which has propelled them into the play-off spots, and they are now in serious contention for a top 2 finish. Unlike Reading, Leeds have gained just 4 points from their last 5 games which has eliminated their aspirations for automatic promotion and put their play-offs hopes in jeopardy.

Simon Grayson's side could slip out of the Play-offs tonight if they fail to beat Reading. The fitness of Luciano Becchio has caught the attention of all United fans. The Argentine was injured after stepping off the bench against Watford on Saturday. Questions have been raised to whether he was injured by a fan who invaded the pitch after Becchio opened the scoring. Grayson has ruled him as a doubt for tonight's clash. Davide Somma who started on Saturday is favourite to head the line for the Whites tonight. Ross McCormack could also stake a claim after stepping off the bench in Leeds' last few encounters, finally Billy Paynter will be striving to get back in action after serving his 3 match suspension.

It is all poised to be an action packed game with both sides needing a victory to achieve their goals. Leeds are still the leagues top scorers (78) whereas Reading are the country's form side. Leeds are defiant at home having not lost in 15 league encounters. As well as this The Royals have never recorded a victory at Elland Road.

Reading have not lost a game this season in which they have opened the scoring, they have also bagged 18 goals in the last 10 minutes of games. Ian Harte will face his former club and insists he is entirely focused on what is current club is doing.

The pressure is building on a Leeds side that has by far exceeded expectations this term however the fans always have high standards and nothing but the play-offs will do. Grayson has said individual errors have cost his United side and although the Yorkshire outfit have been entertaining they have lacked a certain mental strength at times. The players must be all focused when they cross that white line tonight and play for the famous badge and try to capture the dreams of the Elland Road faithful.

Key Players: Leeds - Max Gradel and Barry Bannan
Key Players: Reading - Jimmy Kebe and Shane Long

My Prediction: Leeds 4-3 Reading