'It is not either or' Reading protest group launch campaign to protect women's side

Reading protest group Sell Before We Dai have launched a billboard campaign to try and protect the women's team.

Reportedly the entire women's set-up is at risk due to lack of financing, with the first-team potentially dropping divisions and the youth system closing if the club cannot prove funding for next season.

Sell Before We Dai, set up 12 months ago with the intention of ousting Dai Yongge, have campaigned tirelessly for new ownership throughout last season.

Organising marches, banners, sit-ins and in-game disruption, a billboard outside Reading Train Station has been used in the past to support the campaign.

From 5 pm on Wednesday, June 26, a message of 'Don't let the women's side Dai' will be broadcast.

A statement read: "It’s not true to say that closing the Women’s setup will save the Men’s team. It costs a very small fraction of what the club pays for the Men’s setup. It is not an ‘either/or’ decision.

"Neglecting the Women’s team has broader repercussions. If we allow the Women’s team to be decimated, it opens the door for the Academy and Men’s team to be next.

"Supporting the Women’s team is not just about football; it’s a matter of community pride, gender equality, and preserving the club’s heritage. The Women’s team contributes significantly to the overall identity and reputation of Reading FC.

"Together, we can secure a sustainable future for Reading FC - one that includes the invaluable contributions of our Women’s team."