The Romance Of The Cup
Why the difference in performance?
Analysing the football league has provided fans with much disappointment and has left us with more questions than answers after too many lacklustre performances. In complete contrast the FA cup has bought a sense of occasion back to the Madejski as last years success and excitement continues. So what's the difference ?
The Glamour
Cameras are rolling, a place on the Match of the Day billing awaits and subsidised tickets increases attendances. All the above are amplifying the performances of the squad as shown by Michael Hector. The Jamaican star produced a defensive midfield master class against West Brom, snuffing out any potential offensive openings of the West Midlands outfit. Hector's performances since his £4 million move to Chelsea had been anything but consistent with his form of last year, seeing young Jake Cooper occupying his place at centre half.
Further accolades are due for the performance of Hal Robson-Kanu, playing out on the right wing, seemingly involved in every attack combined with tireless tracking back showed us why he is a McDermott favourite. Although could the welsh international now be playing for a new contract? or be putting himself in the shop window when the cameras and media are ever present? Such performances have been seldom seen since Wembley last year, unless playing alongside messers Bale and Ramsey, thus providing further evidence of a big game mentality.
Mid Table Mediocrity
For two years now Reading have been meandering in the no man's land territory of England's second tier. Without much to play for, the Reading coaching and playing staff have been able to direct all efforts towards the domestic competition, an advantage most clubs cannot call upon. That old saying "Now we're out the cup we can concentrate on the league," has been the polar opposite for the Royals, thus without doubt aiding a successful cup run.
The Secret Lies With Selection
Regardless of the opposition and competition, in recent fixtures we have seen a marked improvement on performances. The addition of a steely Hector to the midfield alongside the fit again Stephen Quinn has had me reminiscing of an early season Reading, this combination has not only provided a solid base and improved shape, but also provides the foundations to build attacks and pounce on the counter attack. A link which was missing during the busy festive period.
The cup may well bring the glamour, but in reality I believe the keystone of success in this years cup campaign has been the difference in selection and without doubt a lack of bite in the league.
After the adventure the FA cup provided last year, many squad members have now been there, and got the t-shirt which can only put the group in a good place moving forward. Dare we dream of another trip to Wembley? or maybe even two? Call it premature but the final is only two wins away.