The Dons FA Cup campaign begins this weekend as they face Reading on the road. Both sides have been struggling in their respective leagues and they will be desperate to win on Saturday.
Reading
This time last season, the Royals were in the Championship, but fast forward to today, and they sit rock bottom of League One. After 14 matches, Reading have lost ten and Ruben Selles has struggled to install his philosophy within the players. They have netted less than once per game on average and conceded the most amount of goals per match (1.71).
Last week, their run of League One games without a win was extended to seven, as they let a two goal lead slip to lose 3-2 against Portsmouth. The fact they put the ball in the back of the net twice is a positive that the squad must take into the next game.
MK Dons
The Dons started life in the League Two with confidence and belief that they would earn instant promotion, with the results posing as evidence. After experiencing a spell of nine league games without a win, MK Dons have won their last two matches. Mike Williamson’s side are in 12th place after 16 matches, scoring 1.63 goals per game on average and conceding 1.5.
Their most recent victory was a chaotic 3-2 win over visitors, Swindon Town. Max Dean opened the scoring just before the break but the travelling side responded around the hour mark. Despite having less possession, MK Dons looked dangerous on the break and wrapped up the game in the 84th minute.
Verdict?
Although MK Dons are a league below Reading, the mood in camp will be much brighter and that will give them an advantage. Selles may view this game as an opportunity for his side to get a win under their belt, or he could rotate to prioritise their League One status.
The final prediction is Reading 1-1 MK Dons.
