Bradford vs Reading Match Recap - Dec 13, 2025

Bradford's Dominance Continues: A 2-0 Victory Over Reading Solidifies Their Promotion Push

Bradford's 2-0 victory over Reading at Valley Parade underscores their relentless pursuit of promotion, marking their ninth win of the season and solidifying their position in the playoff spots. Antoni Sarcevic and Bobby Pointon emerged as key figures, each contributing to a performance that showcased Bradford's tactical discipline and efficiency.

Sarcevic's goal in the 56th minute not only highlighted his importance to the team but also continued his impressive form, having scored in the previous match against Plymouth. His ability to find the net consistently has been pivotal for Bradford, who have relied on his experience and leadership in crucial moments. With this latest strike, Sarcevic has now netted in back-to-back league games, reinforcing his status as a vital cog in Graham Alexander's setup.

Pointon's late goal further emphasized Bradford's attacking prowess, showcasing their ability to capitalize on opportunities when they arise. This match marked a continuation of Pointon's upward trajectory, as he has been instrumental in recent fixtures, contributing significantly to the team's offensive output. His performance today adds to a growing narrative of resilience and determination within the squad.

Reading's struggles were evident throughout the match, as they failed to convert possession into meaningful chances. Despite holding 46% of the ball, they managed only a handful of shots on target, reflecting a lack of cutting edge in the final third. The absence of a consistent goal scorer has plagued Reading this season, with Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan's recent form failing to translate into goals after his earlier contributions. This inconsistency has left them languishing in 17th place, far from the playoff aspirations they once harbored.

The contrast between Bradford's recent form and Reading's is stark. Bradford has now secured two consecutive league victories, following a tough EFL Trophy defeat to Bolton. Their ability to grind out results, even when not dominating possession, speaks volumes about their tactical approach and mental fortitude. In contrast, Reading's recent performances have been marred by inconsistency, with only one win in their last five league matches. This latest defeat adds to their woes and raises questions about their ability to compete effectively in League One.

Statistically, Bradford's efficiency stands out. They averaged three shots on target per game over their last five fixtures, while Reading managed just over two. This disparity highlights Bradford's clinical nature in front of goal, a trait that has been crucial in their ascent up the league table. The defensive solidity provided by players like Joe Wright and Aden Baldwin has also been instrumental, allowing Bradford to maintain a strong foundation upon which their attacking play can flourish.

Reading's tactical setup under coach Noel Hunt has come under scrutiny as well. The 4-2-3-1 formation has not yielded the desired results, particularly against teams that can absorb pressure and hit on the counter. Their inability to control games and create clear-cut chances has left them vulnerable, often relying on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play. The midfield duo of Charlie Savage and Lewis Wing needs to step up if Reading hopes to regain any semblance of form.

Looking ahead, Bradford will face Leyton Orient next, where they will aim to extend their winning streak and further solidify their playoff position. Meanwhile, Reading must regroup quickly before their clash with Luton, as they seek to turn around their fortunes and avoid slipping further into the relegation battle. The stakes are high for both teams; for Bradford, it is about maintaining momentum toward promotion, while for Reading, it is about survival in a league that demands consistency and resilience.

This match serves as a testament to Bradford's growing confidence and tactical acumen under pressure. With key players like Sarcevic and Pointon stepping up when it matters most, they are well-positioned to challenge for promotion as the season progresses. Conversely, Reading must confront their shortcomings head-on if they wish to escape the clutches of mediocrity and reclaim their place among League One's competitive elite.