Reading FC boss Paul Ince has said he doesn’t want to disrespect the FA Cup but it won’t be a full-strength side out on Saturday to face Watford.
Speaking to Berkshire Live, Ince said: “I definitely won’t go fully for it. You’ve got to be fair to fans because the fans love the FA Cup, the greatest domestic trophy in the world, and they’re spending good money. You look at what we’ve done, three games in under six days, some of my main players and mainstays will get a rest. I’m sure most clubs will do that. I’m sure Watford will be doing that, they have injuries.”
We’ve certainly no beef with the Royals or Ince, in fact, we think Reading should be the pinnacle of the game in this county – it certainly feels like they are getting there.
BUT, Ince’s words mean this weekend you have a choice. Part with your hard-earned cash on Saturday to watch an under-strength Royals against an under-strength Watford OR, get out and support one of the county’s non-league sides.
Reading FC vs Watford FC or..
Choices include Hungerford Town’s fantastic Four For A Score offer at Bulpit Lane in the Vanarama National League South where you can enjoy a match ticket, pint, meal and programme for 20 quid.
Windsor’s magnificent Stag Meadow plays host to the Royalists vs Burnham in the Combined Counties League – with the added lure of possibly catching Barry Hayles in action.
Or you could stay close to home and combine a Double Barrelled Brewery trip with a visit to Scours Lane as Woodley United take on Westside. It’d be worth checking with the club to see if the famous Reading City Chinese Selection boxes will be available.
These three and more besides are listed in full on our Fixtures & Results page here.
Have a recommendation of your own? Let us know in the comments below.
