Aston Villa vs Reading Women Preview: Villa must bounce back

Aston Villa Women have an opportunity to regain some momentum after three defeats on the bounce as they face Reading in the FA Women’s Super League on Saturday afternoon.

It’s been a turbulent start to life in the top-flight for Gemma Davies’ side but a positive result against the Royals will push them closer to safety as they look to secure their status in the WSL.

Villa’s last home fixture on December 5 ended in a 2–0 defeat to Manchester United in a well-fought game, but it’s time to start turning performances into points and edge further up the table.

Both sides find themselves with one win in their last five. The Villans’ last triumph came in a 4–0 away victory against Bristol City, a result that could prove to be season-defining.

The previous meeting

The two sides faced each other back in September on Matchday two at the Madejski stadium but it was Kelly Chambers’ side that emerged victorious with a 3–1 score line.

All three of the Royal’s goals came in the first half following a dominant display. Despite the visitors hitting back late with a penalty from Stine Larsen, Villa fell to a second consecutive defeat making it clear just how challenging the season ahead would be.

Last time out

It’s been a difficult start to 2021 for Davies’ side with no wins to their name and a 7–0 hammering at the hands of Manchester City.

The Villans endured arguably their toughest afternoon of the season so far as City took the lead inside two minutes and Villa were unable to hold their resolve as a further six goals were sent beyond Lisa Weiß.

“We’re a young team with inconsistencies,” Davies said, speaking to Villa TV after the game.

“It’s an anomaly within our season and we must get better at managing those moments of chaos.

“We will ensure, between the staff and players, that we will reach the potential we know we have within this group.

“We’ll prepare as best as possible going into Reading.”

Villa currently sit 11th in the league table on six points, but only having played only nine fixtures following a series of postponements this campaign.

Reading, on the other hand, have fulfilled all 12 fixtures and are sixth with 14 points, highlighting just how tight the table is.

Kick-off is at 12:30 GMT on Saturday January 23 and will be broadcast live on the FA Player.