Reading v Wigan: Free-scoring hosts can edge relegation six-pointer

A meeting of two of the Premier League’s bottom three sides ensues as Reading welcome Wigan to the Madejski Stadium.

And the home side look the best bet to improve their survival chances with three points at 11/8.

Boasting the January manager and player of the month in Brian McDermott and Adam Le Fondre, the Royals went six games unbeaten in all competitions from New Year’s Day until February.

Back-to-back defeats away to Stoke and Manchester United followed, but the return to home soil represents a massive plus for McDermott’s men.

That looks especially true considering 19/10 Wigan’s less than sparkling away record this term.

The Latics have lost eight times on their travels, and their winless away streak stretches back to last year.

They have drawn three of their last four matches away from the DW Stadium however, which could encourage some punters to back a stalemate at 12/5 here.

But the 51 goals Roberto Martinez’s side have conceded are of particular concern against a Reading side that has scored 67 per cent of their goals on their own turf this season.

A Royals win involving more than 2.5 goals appeals at 27/10, whilst it could also prove profitable to bet on the time of the home side’s strikes.

Reading have so often notched at the back end of games this season, and in their past six league games alone, have hit nine goals within the last 15 minutes.

The 6/4 that Reading score most of their goals in the second half tempts, whilst the 29/20 odds about the hosts leading at the 75-minute mark may be best left avoided.

Also, McDermott’s charges have come from behind to win or draw three of their last five league games, with that possibility a big 19/5 in this match.

Le Fondre has contributed seven goals in his last eight appearances for the Royals, the majority of which have been late strikes, and he could give last goalscorer punters a run for their money at 13/2.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.