Reading City are targeting a deeper run in the FA Vase as they prepare for their Second Round tie against Northwood this Saturday. The Berkshire side reached the Fourth Round Proper last season before losing to Lymore Gardens at The Rivermoor, and boss Simon Johnson has set his sights on surpassing that achievement.

Johnson confirmed the ambition driving his squad. "The aim is to go further," the Reading City manager said. The club's progress in the national cup competition comes as the first team enjoys a strong League One campaign, sitting sixth in the table on 21 points after a 2-1 win over Barnsley on Tuesday.

Northwood's form and City's experience

Their opponents, Northwood, arrive at The Rivermoor in mixed form, having secured just one win in their last five league games. They currently occupy 18th place in the Combined Counties League Premier Division North, just four points clear of the relegation zone. In contrast, Reading City's squad contains valuable cup pedigree. Alfie Grant, formerly of Ascot United, and Shane Cooper-Clark, previously with Thatcham Town, are both previous FA Vase winners, bringing key experience to the dressing room.

Last season's journey saw City defeat Mendip Broadwalk, Baffins Milton Rovers, Erith & Belvedere and Snodland Town to reach the Fourth Round. That run earned them a bye directly into this season's Second Round, providing a slightly more straightforward path in the early stages. Johnson described last season's Fourth Round tie as a fantastic occasion for the club.

County pride and first-team context

As the sole Berkshire representatives remaining in this year's competition, the Pride of the County rests on Reading City's players. The other Second Round tie involving a Berkshire club sees Wantage Town host St Blazey. The county has seen FA Vase success since 2018, and City hope to add to that legacy.

Their push in the cup aligns with a positive period for the wider club. The senior side's recent form reads three wins and two losses from their last five matches, and they face a key league fixture away to fifth-placed Plymouth on Saturday. Reading City's match against Northwood is scheduled for Saturday, with the development side hoping to emulate last season's heroics and advance.

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