Advertisement

Reading boss looking to 'repay' supporters' backing with win over Bolton Wanderers

Reading manager Noel Hunt applauds fans before the Sky Bet League One match at Adams Park, High Wycombe. Picture date: Saturday December 7, 2024. PA Photo. See PA story SOCCER Wycombe. Photo credit should read: Rhianna Chadwick/PA Wire.

RESTRICTIONS: <i>(Image: Rhianna Chadwick/PA Wire)</i>
Reading manager Noel Hunt applauds fans before the Sky Bet League One match at Adams Park, High Wycombe. Picture date: Saturday December 7, 2024. PA Photo. See PA story SOCCER Wycombe. Photo credit should read: Rhianna Chadwick/PA Wire. RESTRICTIONS: (Image: Rhianna Chadwick/PA Wire)

Reading boss Noel Hunt is looking to reward the supporters' backing with a win over Bolton Wanderers tomorrow.

The Royals have lost their last three matches, including a dramatic 3-2 defeat at struggling Burton Albion after conceding a last-minute goal at the Pirelli Stadium.

Having lost just three times at home all campaign, the Royals rank among the best EFL sides on home soil, however two of the three defeats have come since the former striker took over from Ruben Selles in December.

Looking to return to winning ways and keep up with the play-off pack, Hunt is calling on the supporters to stick behind his team and wants to reward their efforts this weekend.

"The fans are so important. I thought they were magnificent tonight [Tuesday]. Everyone stayed. We know they can get frustrated; I understand that and understand it after Saturday, but tonight I thought they stuck with the team all the way through and I’m proud of that. We just have to pay them back with a win."

Bolton visit the SCL Stadium, and are backed by nearly 2,000 supporters, having won their last two matches under caretaker boss Julian Darby.

Former Plymouth Argyle and Stoke City chief Steven Schumacher is expected to be appointed imminently, replacing the sacked Ian Evatt, but it remains to be seen if he will take charge in Berkshire.

Losing 5-2 to the Trotters in back-to-back fixtures, the Royals will be looking to recreate last year's 2-1 victory on home soil.

If we come out with the same attitude and how we moved the ball tonight [Tuesday] and the same mindset, I’ll be pleased, and we can build on that," Hunt said. "They’re a strong side with good players, as most teams have in this league. We have to compete, show what we did today and do our homework."