Championship Results 20th February Part 1

Blackpool 2-0 Reading
Reading’s four-match unbeaten run came to an end at Blackpool, who are now just one point outside the play-offs, albeit with more games played. Rob Edwards was suspended and Daniel Nardiello missed out with a groin injury while Neal Eardley was only fit enough for the bench. But Blackpool did have David Vaughan and without his excellent block, Reading would almost certainly have been level. David also came close to scoring and looks certain to be included in the Wales squad against Swindon, a call-up he thoroughly deserves. Simon Church played the first 54 minutes before injuring his foot. He’s now a doubt for the FA Cup replay against West Bromwich Albion which is very bad news for Reading.

Cardiff City 0-2 Barnsley
The injury list again took its toll on Cardiff as Barnsley beat them for the second time in the league this season – the first time this has happened for 51 years. Aaron Wildig did his best to play through an ongoing back injury but he was forced to withdraw after 35 minutes. Adam Matthews came off the bench at half-time, appearing for the first time in four matches, and certainly Barnsley didn’t score any more goals after that. Darcy Blake, who has had back and leg problems, stayed on the bench. Manager Dave Jones and coach Terry Burton have both talked to Darcy about his timekeeping and his diet and general attitude to training (which would explain why such a good player spends so much time in the bench, even during an injury crisis) and he’s determined to try to improve.

Crystal Palace 0-1 Coventry City
Crystal Palace look deep in trouble again as Coventry claimed an away win late on. Coventry were in Palace’s position not so long ago but now they’re just five points outside the play-offs. A knock kept Freddy Eastwood on the bench but apparently he’s very much in John Toshack’s thoughts.