Live on Skysports 1: Tue 19.45: Cardiff are now 4/6 favs to make Wembley (Coral) but Reading could push them to penalties.
Honours remain even after the Championship play-off semi-final first leg between Reading and Cardiff but with home advantage in the second encounter, it’s the latter that bookies believe are in pole position in terms of reaching the final, Coral installing the Bluebirds as 4/6 favourites to get to Wembley.
However, doubts about Cardiff’s ability to handle the pressure of such huge matches following the 3-0 reverse against Middlesbrough in their last home game and last season’s play-off final defeat, mean that Dave Jones’ men are a risky proposition at such a short price and add this to the doubts surrounding the fitness of skipper Craig Bellamy and Reading start to look a touch more appealing at 6/5 courtesy of Stan James to qualify.
Nevertheless, a close affair appears inevitable and as little separated the two at the Madejski Stadium, it wouldn’t be surprising if this contest was all square after 90 minutes, an outcome quote at 23/10. From there it would be anybody’s all things being even and fans of a speculative flutter might consider backing both teams at 11/1 (Betfred) to prevail on penalties.
Recommended Bets:
Cardiff to win on penalties – 11/1 (Betfred)
Reading to win on penalties – 11/1 (Betfred)
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