Reading vs Barnsley Prediction: Team News, Lineups and How to Watch – League One Preview
Reading welcome Barnsley to the Select Car Leasing Stadium in a crucial League One clash kicking off at 15:00 GMT on Saturday, May 3, 2025. With playoff hopes on the line, the Royals will be aiming to extend their winning run, while Barnsley look to end their season on a positive note.
Reading vs Barnsley Form Guide
Reading are in solid form heading into this match. Sitting seventh in the table, they are pushing hard for a playoff spot and come into this fixture off the back of two straight away wins, including a confident 2-0 victory over Bristol Rovers.
Barnsley, currently 12th, have struggled to find consistency. They’ve won just one of their last 11 League One matches. That win came last time out, a 2-1 result at home against Shrewsbury, but the Tykes have lacked momentum in recent weeks.
Head-to-Head Record
The recent head-to-head history between Reading and Barnsley is evenly balanced. In the last six encounters, both sides have claimed one victory each, with the remaining four ending in draws.
Their most recent meeting was a 2-2 draw in November 2024, indicating another close contest could be in store.
Team News
Reading are dealing with several injuries ahead of this clash. Dorsett, Elliott, Craig, Dean, and Abrefa remain unavailable. Young forward Wareham is expected to start for the third match in a row following impressive performances.
Barnsley have their own issues, with Smith ruled out and Humphrys a major doubt. Manager Neill Collins may opt to start Bland again following his recent involvement.
Predicted Lineups
Reading (4-3-3):
Pereira; Garcia, Bindon, Mbengue, Rushesha; Savage, Wing, Knibbs; Ehibhatiomhan, Wareham, Campbell
Barnsley (4-2-3-1):
Flavell; Earl, Roberts, de Gevigney, Lembikisa; Russell, Connell; Cotter, Bland, Phillips; Keillor-Dunn
Match Facts
- Reading are unbeaten in 12 of their last 13 matches against Barnsley in all competitions
- Over 2.5 goals have been scored in Reading’s last 3 matches against Barnsley
- Barnsley have conceded at least 2 goals in their last 3 games against Reading
- 5 of Barnsley’s last 6 League One matches have featured over 2.5 goals
- Barnsley have failed to win 10 of their last 11 League One matches
Score Prediction
Reading are in stronger form and are highly motivated by the prospect of a playoff berth. Barnsley’s recent struggles and defensive vulnerabilities suggest the hosts are likely to secure all three points. A home win looks likely, especially with Reading needing a result to keep their promotion hopes alive.
Predicted Score: Reading 3-1 Barnsley
Where to Watch
The match kicks off at 15:00 GMT and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports+.