Reading are dealt with the unenviable task of ending Swansea City's 14-game unbeaten run in all competitions between the two sides when they meet at the Madejski Stadium this weekend.
This Sunday's game is played against the backdrop of promotion. Whereas the Swan's automatic promotion chances were diminished last time out, the Royals must rely on a victory and a Barnsley defeat to keep them within reach of a playoff finish.
An overwhelming feeling of disappointment reverberated among the Royals fanbase on Wednesday night. A goalless draw at midtable Luton Town emphasised the fact that Reading are still a long way from their former best, and their promotion dreams consistently fail to become reality.
At different stages of the season, Reading have breathed an air of confidence, embarking on unbeaten streaks of seven and eight games throughout the league, insinuating the initial foundations of a promotion push.
They have fallen out of reckoning in the last ten games, suffering as a result of a Barnsley and Bournemouth resurgence. So, when they welcome fourth-placed Swansea onto their home turf, all eyes will be on a victory and a victory only.
After watching on as his side has lost five of the last eight Championship fixtures, Steve Cooper will no doubt be concerned over how his team will fare in the playoffs. Nevertheless, avoiding victory at the Madejski Stadium this Sunday will secure Swansea's top-six fate.
The good news for Cooper is that the game against Reading is away; the Swans have enjoyed a lot of success in Berkshire. In the previous two visits, the Swans have put Reading to the sword, triumphing 4-1 on both occasions.
Cooper and his men showed strength in character on Tuesday, coming from two goals down to earn a draw at home to relegation-bound Wycombe Wanderers. That same mentality must be used to full advantage against a Reading side looking to bounce back on Sunday.
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Team news
It was revealed that Andre Ayew will remain missing for one extra game, failing to return in time for the early kick-off following his hamstring injury.
Liam Cullen could be handed a start ahead of Wayne Routledge, while Conor Hourihane will hope to feature having remained as an unused substitute in midweek.
As for Reading, Lewis Gibson is expected to feature after Liam Moore picked up an injury. Meanwhile, Lucas Joao will remain sidelined via a shoulder injury, but there could be a place on the bench for John Swift.
Lastly, after a dismal display in front of goal, it wouldn't be surprising if Sam Baldock was preferred to George Puscas, spearheading the hooped frontline.
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Predicted lineups
Reading XI: Cabral; Yiadom, Gibson, Holmes, Richards; Rinomhota, Laurent; Meite, Swift, Ejaria; Puscas
Swansea City XI: Woodman; Guehi, Bennett, Naughton; Roberts, Hourihane, Grimes, Fulton, Bidwell; Cullen, Lowe
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How to watch
The game will be played on Sky Sports Main Event with kick-off scheduled for 12:00 pm BST. An alternative will be available at a cost on each club's respective streaming services.