Bitesize Prediction: Cheltenham vs Reading – 05/11/24

Competition: EFL Trophy

Market: Goal to be scored in both halves

Odds: 4/6 @ BetUS

Two sides turning their attention back to EFL Trophy action on Tuesday night, Cheltenham will welcome Whaddon Road.

Starting with the hosts, while Cheltenham might have endured a major League Two struggle when opening up the new campaign, the Robins have come roaring back in some style. Still dealing of the chance to book an immediate third-tier return this season, Michael Flynn’s men will be desperate to keep up their recent charge here. Extending on their FA Cup adventure last weekend and making what was a real statement as they clinched a 3-1 romp away at Rotherham, the former Newport boss should find the mood in his camp at a red-hot high. Likewise, last seen in EFL Trophy action collecting another 3-1 win against West Ham’s U21s, Cheltenham are unbeaten in all of their previous five appearances across all competitions. With their recent purple patch highlighted by a 2-1 victory against Colchester on October 19th, Flynn’s side could be smelling a potential opportunity in midweek. However, it should be highlighted, the Robins have registered just a sole clean sheet at Whaddon Road so far this season.

As for the visitors, spending the majority of last season scrapping it out at the foot of the League One table, Reading have certainly made plenty of improvements this time around. Extending on their own FA Cup adventure last weekend as they clinched a 2-0 victory at home against Fleetwood, the Royals have won six of their previous eight appearances across all competitions. However, while that run might stem back to a 5-2 drumming against Bolton on September 21st, Ruben Selles’ side are desperately seeking some kind of stability on their travels. Last seen away from the Madejski slumping to a 4-1 defeat at the hands Stockport, Reading have claimed just a single win from any of their first seven away fixtures across all formats. With that rut underlined by a 3-0 loss against Wrexham at the end of August, Tuesday’s guests could have a tricky test on their hands here. Shipping 19 goals in those opening seven contests outside of Berkshire, we are expecting an enjoyable contest in midweek.

Bet: Goal to be scored in both halves at Cheltenham vs Reading 4/6 for Tuesday’s EFL Trophy matchup @ BetUS