Thursday, August 31, 2006
Paladini Generously Helps Out With Toddler's Treatment
-
Liverpool Echo - Paladini -
I will pay for Callum's jab
By Luke Traynor, Liverpool Echo - August 31, 2006
A MILLIONAIRE Italian football chairman is helping a Merseyside toddler to walk.
Three-year-old Callum Boan is desperate for life-changing botox injections which will treat the disabling condition he suffers from.
But as the ECHO revealed this week, the St Helens family must pay for the treatment which could make the youngster's dream of playing football with his friends come true.
After hearing about the story, Queens Park Rangers supremo Gianni Paladini stepped in. The ex-football agent's grandson, Gianluca, seven, suffers with the same condition, cerebral palsy spastic diplegia, and his life has been transformed following the treatment.
Now, Mr Paladini is pledging Callum and his family the thousands of pounds they need. Mr Paladini said: "Anything Callum wants, he can have. Send me the bill, I'll sort it out."
The condition affects muscle tone, meaning affected children have difficulty moving from one position to another.
Botox, commonly used in cosmetic treatments, would freeze Callum's calves and allow him to place his heel on the floor, allowing him to walk.
Liverpool Echo
Echo Story couple days before "My son is being denied the treatment to help him walk"
And Callum Boan's Websit
Liverpool Echo - Paladini -
I will pay for Callum's jab
By Luke Traynor, Liverpool Echo - August 31, 2006
A MILLIONAIRE Italian football chairman is helping a Merseyside toddler to walk.
Three-year-old Callum Boan is desperate for life-changing botox injections which will treat the disabling condition he suffers from.
But as the ECHO revealed this week, the St Helens family must pay for the treatment which could make the youngster's dream of playing football with his friends come true.
After hearing about the story, Queens Park Rangers supremo Gianni Paladini stepped in. The ex-football agent's grandson, Gianluca, seven, suffers with the same condition, cerebral palsy spastic diplegia, and his life has been transformed following the treatment.
Now, Mr Paladini is pledging Callum and his family the thousands of pounds they need. Mr Paladini said: "Anything Callum wants, he can have. Send me the bill, I'll sort it out."
The condition affects muscle tone, meaning affected children have difficulty moving from one position to another.
Botox, commonly used in cosmetic treatments, would freeze Callum's calves and allow him to place his heel on the floor, allowing him to walk.
Liverpool Echo
Echo Story couple days before "My son is being denied the treatment to help him walk"
And Callum Boan's Websit
Ex-QPR Kevin McLeod Links Up With Jamie Cureton at Colchester
-
BBC - McLeod completes Colchester move
Colchester United have signed wide midfielder Kevin McLeod from League One side Swansea City.
McLeod had been told he could leave Swansea on a free transfer despite having two years left on his contract.
Swansea accepted Championship side Colchester's offer to take over McLeod's contract, although the 25-year-old did have other suitors.
U's boss Geraint Williams is thought to be keen to strengthen further before the transfer window shuts on Thursday.
McLeod was omitted from Swansea's squad for last Saturday's game after Colchester registered their interest.
He almost left Swansea last season after being placed on the transfer list for "not showing enough application".
But he was given the chance to resurrect his career in April and overcame a broken ankle to play a part in the club's play-off final defeat.
Swansea then announced in June that McLeod had been taken off the transfer list, but manager Kenny Jackett recently told the winger his opportunities would be limited this season.
BBC
Colchester Official Site
Kevin McLeod - The Story So Far
KEVIN MCLEOD: The third signing of Geraint Williams' reign
Another Welsh club has been raided in Geraint Williams' pursuit of players to add to the squad and we bring you the lowdown on Kevin McLeod.
The twenty-five year old began his professional career at Everton and made his debut just after his twentieth birthday when he came on as a second half substitute in the 3-0 defeat at home to Ipswich.
He went on to make seven appearances for the Toffees, five of which came as a substitute in the Premier League. His only start for the Premiership outfit came in a League Cup tie against Crystal Palace, where Kevin played alongside Paul Gascoigne in midfield.
After two loan spells at Loftus Road, which yielded two goals from eight league starts, the Liverpoool born player moved to QPR on a permanent basis for a quarter of a million pounds in August 2003.
Kevin then spent eighteen months in West London, scoring a further six times for Rangers before another move saw him on his way to Swansea City in February 2005.
It was a great start to his career with the Swans as he made eleven appearances between then and the end of the season that helped his new club to promotion into League One.
His first full season in South Wales saw Kevin get off to a flying start with seven goals in the first six matches, including a hat trick in the 7-1 drubbing of Bristol City at the Liberty Stadium.
The winger recovered from a mid season broken ankle to help the Swans into the Play-offs last season but they fell at the final hurdle and now manager Kenny Jackett has allowed Kevin to move to Layer Road for Championship football.
Colchester
Colchester Official Site
George Floating On McLeod
Geraint Williams has added some attacking flair to his squad as former Evertonian, Kevin McLeod joins the U's from League One Swansea City, subject to the transfer getting Football League and FA approval.
McLeod signed for Williams and the U's on Wednesday afternoon and joins Chris Barker, who signed on loan, in returning to England from over the Welsh border.
This signing adds another body to the U's squad and leaves manager Geraint just over twenty-four hours to bring in any other players he feels are required for the Championship challenge.
The U's boss has made no secret of the fact that he wants to bring in players and has explained on many occasions that he and his staff are pulling out all the stops as the transfer window deadline approaches.
Since Williams took over as the new boss, he has added McLeod, Barker and young Lawrie Wilson but feels there is still room to add to his squad, even after the impressive 4-3 victory over Derby County on Saturday.
McLeod will train with his new team mates for the first time on Thursday afternoon and will have plenty of time to get to know his new teammates before the U's next game, the away fixture at Burnley on Saturday 9th September.
Colchester
Swansea Official Site - Mcleod Leaves the Swans
Swansea City winger Kevin McLeod has completed his free transfer to Championship new-boys Colchester United.
McLeod completed talks with the U's this afternoon and has signed subject to the transfer getting Football League, FA and FAW approval.
He joined the Swans for an undisclosed fee in February 2005 from QPR, but suffered a bad case of laryngitis which prevented him making an early impact.
The former Everton wide-man grabbed a hat-trick at the start of last season against Bristol City, but failed to cement a regular place in the side before suffering a broken ankle towards the end of the season.
He was placed on the transfer list back in March following a breach of club discipline and ''not showing enough application'', but Swans boss Kenny Jackett gave him a reprieve and took him off the list in June.
But the 25-year-old failed to impress early on this season and has been allowed to leave the Liberty Stadium with nearly two years left on his contract.
The moves comes 24-hours before tomorrow's transfer deadline.
Swansea
BBC - McLeod completes Colchester move
Colchester United have signed wide midfielder Kevin McLeod from League One side Swansea City.
McLeod had been told he could leave Swansea on a free transfer despite having two years left on his contract.
Swansea accepted Championship side Colchester's offer to take over McLeod's contract, although the 25-year-old did have other suitors.
U's boss Geraint Williams is thought to be keen to strengthen further before the transfer window shuts on Thursday.
McLeod was omitted from Swansea's squad for last Saturday's game after Colchester registered their interest.
He almost left Swansea last season after being placed on the transfer list for "not showing enough application".
But he was given the chance to resurrect his career in April and overcame a broken ankle to play a part in the club's play-off final defeat.
Swansea then announced in June that McLeod had been taken off the transfer list, but manager Kenny Jackett recently told the winger his opportunities would be limited this season.
BBC
Colchester Official Site
Kevin McLeod - The Story So Far
KEVIN MCLEOD: The third signing of Geraint Williams' reign
Another Welsh club has been raided in Geraint Williams' pursuit of players to add to the squad and we bring you the lowdown on Kevin McLeod.
The twenty-five year old began his professional career at Everton and made his debut just after his twentieth birthday when he came on as a second half substitute in the 3-0 defeat at home to Ipswich.
He went on to make seven appearances for the Toffees, five of which came as a substitute in the Premier League. His only start for the Premiership outfit came in a League Cup tie against Crystal Palace, where Kevin played alongside Paul Gascoigne in midfield.
After two loan spells at Loftus Road, which yielded two goals from eight league starts, the Liverpoool born player moved to QPR on a permanent basis for a quarter of a million pounds in August 2003.
Kevin then spent eighteen months in West London, scoring a further six times for Rangers before another move saw him on his way to Swansea City in February 2005.
It was a great start to his career with the Swans as he made eleven appearances between then and the end of the season that helped his new club to promotion into League One.
His first full season in South Wales saw Kevin get off to a flying start with seven goals in the first six matches, including a hat trick in the 7-1 drubbing of Bristol City at the Liberty Stadium.
The winger recovered from a mid season broken ankle to help the Swans into the Play-offs last season but they fell at the final hurdle and now manager Kenny Jackett has allowed Kevin to move to Layer Road for Championship football.
Colchester
Colchester Official Site
George Floating On McLeod
Geraint Williams has added some attacking flair to his squad as former Evertonian, Kevin McLeod joins the U's from League One Swansea City, subject to the transfer getting Football League and FA approval.
McLeod signed for Williams and the U's on Wednesday afternoon and joins Chris Barker, who signed on loan, in returning to England from over the Welsh border.
This signing adds another body to the U's squad and leaves manager Geraint just over twenty-four hours to bring in any other players he feels are required for the Championship challenge.
The U's boss has made no secret of the fact that he wants to bring in players and has explained on many occasions that he and his staff are pulling out all the stops as the transfer window deadline approaches.
Since Williams took over as the new boss, he has added McLeod, Barker and young Lawrie Wilson but feels there is still room to add to his squad, even after the impressive 4-3 victory over Derby County on Saturday.
McLeod will train with his new team mates for the first time on Thursday afternoon and will have plenty of time to get to know his new teammates before the U's next game, the away fixture at Burnley on Saturday 9th September.
Colchester
Swansea Official Site - Mcleod Leaves the Swans
Swansea City winger Kevin McLeod has completed his free transfer to Championship new-boys Colchester United.
McLeod completed talks with the U's this afternoon and has signed subject to the transfer getting Football League, FA and FAW approval.
He joined the Swans for an undisclosed fee in February 2005 from QPR, but suffered a bad case of laryngitis which prevented him making an early impact.
The former Everton wide-man grabbed a hat-trick at the start of last season against Bristol City, but failed to cement a regular place in the side before suffering a broken ankle towards the end of the season.
He was placed on the transfer list back in March following a breach of club discipline and ''not showing enough application'', but Swans boss Kenny Jackett gave him a reprieve and took him off the list in June.
But the 25-year-old failed to impress early on this season and has been allowed to leave the Liberty Stadium with nearly two years left on his contract.
The moves comes 24-hours before tomorrow's transfer deadline.
Swansea
Deadline Day, 2005: Langley and Lomas Join QPR
-
One year ago, today, "Deadline Day, 2005" (August 31, 2005): Richard Langley and Steve Lomas join QPR. One year later, Langley has moved on (to Luton) and Lomas is available if someone would just take him.
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - AUGUST 31, 2005 ON LANGLEY'S RETURN
HE'S BACK!
Rangers today swooped to re-sign former midfield favourite Richard Langley from Cardiff City.
The 25-year-old returns to Loftus Road, and the club where he began his professional career, after almost exactly two years at Ninian Park.
Langley has put pen to paper on an initial one-year deal, with an option to extend it for a further year, this afternoon, having passed a medical at Rangers' Harlington training ground.
And now, after a weekend break from football, he will be available for the Superhoops' next game at Southampton on September 10th.
Langley has long been rated one of the very best of Rangers' youth products, having burst in to the first team as an 18-year-old in 1998.
A serious knee injury interrupted his progress in 2001 and he missed 12 months of football - by which time Rangers had been relegated to Division Two.
He then missed the play-off final in 2003 through suspension before signing for the very side that defeated the Superhoops at the Millennium Stadium in the first weeks of the 2003-04 season.
His last act in a Rangers shirt was to score a fantastic last-gasp winner at Cheltenham in the League Cup before heading to south Wales.
He made 148 appearances in total for Rangers scoring 21 goals, before racking up a further 63 starts and eight goals for the Bluebirds.
Speculation had linked Langley with a return to Loftus Road ever since Rangers' promotion back to the Championship. Meanwhile, Cardiff's well-documented financial problems only added weight to the rumours.
But the rumours have now become fact and one of Rangers' best-loved and most talented players of recent years is back where he belongs.
QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - AUGUST 31, 2005
LOMAS SIGNS
Rangers have completed their second deal of the day with the signing of the hugely experienced Northern Ireland midfielder Steve Lomas.
The 31-year-old leaves West Ham for Loftus Road on a free transfer after eight years with the East London club.
In his time at the Boleyn Ground he has made 227 appearances and his first class total is well over 300 having begun his league career with Manchester City.
He made 25 appearances in West ham's promotion season last year, including both league games against Rangers.
Lomas has also played 45 times for Northern Ireland, scoring three times.
He becomes Rangers' second signing of the day following the arrival of Richard Langley from Cardiff City and the player himself is excited by the prospect.
"I know both Ian Holloway and Tim Breacker and they both had excellent things to say about the club. They both know what type of player I am and I'm delighted that its happened.
"This is a challenge that I need after such a long time at West Ham, you find yourself having to prove yourself all over again.
"Sometimes if you stay at one club for too long you can get a bit stale. Now I've got to prove myself to Ian Holloway.
"I think this year the play-offs are what the manager wants and I'm sure that's what everyone here wants to be able to achieve."
QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - August 31, 2005
HOME AGAIN
Richard Langley is delighted to be back 'home' after signing at Loftus Road today.
The 25-year-old midfielder returns after two years at Cardiff and told qpr.co.uk that it was the move he always wanted.
"It's really nice to be back and to see all the familiar faces.
"I've kept in contact with quite a few of the lads. Now I just can't wait to pull on a shirt and start playing.
"There has been talk about a move back almost since I moved to Cardiff! But I'm just delighted to be back here at Loftus Road."
Nevertheless, plenty has changed in the two years Langley has been away from QPR and as far as the player himself is concerned - all of it for the good.
"The club has moved on, the squad is bigger and the training facilites are excellent.
"There is a lot of talent in the squad. But I'd also like to think I have improved as a player.
" I have the same attributes but I've added a few touches to my game."
And now Langley's attentions turn to repaying Ian Holloway's faith and settling back in to life with his home town club.
"QPR has always been a big part of my life. I used to come back and visit when I was at Cardiff.
"I just hope that the fans welcome me back. I'm sure there may be a few sceptics but it is up to me to win them over."
QPR
One year ago, today, "Deadline Day, 2005" (August 31, 2005): Richard Langley and Steve Lomas join QPR. One year later, Langley has moved on (to Luton) and Lomas is available if someone would just take him.
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - AUGUST 31, 2005 ON LANGLEY'S RETURN
HE'S BACK!
Rangers today swooped to re-sign former midfield favourite Richard Langley from Cardiff City.
The 25-year-old returns to Loftus Road, and the club where he began his professional career, after almost exactly two years at Ninian Park.
Langley has put pen to paper on an initial one-year deal, with an option to extend it for a further year, this afternoon, having passed a medical at Rangers' Harlington training ground.
And now, after a weekend break from football, he will be available for the Superhoops' next game at Southampton on September 10th.
Langley has long been rated one of the very best of Rangers' youth products, having burst in to the first team as an 18-year-old in 1998.
A serious knee injury interrupted his progress in 2001 and he missed 12 months of football - by which time Rangers had been relegated to Division Two.
He then missed the play-off final in 2003 through suspension before signing for the very side that defeated the Superhoops at the Millennium Stadium in the first weeks of the 2003-04 season.
His last act in a Rangers shirt was to score a fantastic last-gasp winner at Cheltenham in the League Cup before heading to south Wales.
He made 148 appearances in total for Rangers scoring 21 goals, before racking up a further 63 starts and eight goals for the Bluebirds.
Speculation had linked Langley with a return to Loftus Road ever since Rangers' promotion back to the Championship. Meanwhile, Cardiff's well-documented financial problems only added weight to the rumours.
But the rumours have now become fact and one of Rangers' best-loved and most talented players of recent years is back where he belongs.
QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - AUGUST 31, 2005
LOMAS SIGNS
Rangers have completed their second deal of the day with the signing of the hugely experienced Northern Ireland midfielder Steve Lomas.
The 31-year-old leaves West Ham for Loftus Road on a free transfer after eight years with the East London club.
In his time at the Boleyn Ground he has made 227 appearances and his first class total is well over 300 having begun his league career with Manchester City.
He made 25 appearances in West ham's promotion season last year, including both league games against Rangers.
Lomas has also played 45 times for Northern Ireland, scoring three times.
He becomes Rangers' second signing of the day following the arrival of Richard Langley from Cardiff City and the player himself is excited by the prospect.
"I know both Ian Holloway and Tim Breacker and they both had excellent things to say about the club. They both know what type of player I am and I'm delighted that its happened.
"This is a challenge that I need after such a long time at West Ham, you find yourself having to prove yourself all over again.
"Sometimes if you stay at one club for too long you can get a bit stale. Now I've got to prove myself to Ian Holloway.
"I think this year the play-offs are what the manager wants and I'm sure that's what everyone here wants to be able to achieve."
QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - August 31, 2005
HOME AGAIN
Richard Langley is delighted to be back 'home' after signing at Loftus Road today.
The 25-year-old midfielder returns after two years at Cardiff and told qpr.co.uk that it was the move he always wanted.
"It's really nice to be back and to see all the familiar faces.
"I've kept in contact with quite a few of the lads. Now I just can't wait to pull on a shirt and start playing.
"There has been talk about a move back almost since I moved to Cardiff! But I'm just delighted to be back here at Loftus Road."
Nevertheless, plenty has changed in the two years Langley has been away from QPR and as far as the player himself is concerned - all of it for the good.
"The club has moved on, the squad is bigger and the training facilites are excellent.
"There is a lot of talent in the squad. But I'd also like to think I have improved as a player.
" I have the same attributes but I've added a few touches to my game."
And now Langley's attentions turn to repaying Ian Holloway's faith and settling back in to life with his home town club.
"QPR has always been a big part of my life. I used to come back and visit when I was at Cardiff.
"I just hope that the fans welcome me back. I'm sure there may be a few sceptics but it is up to me to win them over."
QPR
Nick Ward Included in Australia's Asian Cup Qualifier Squad
-
Reuters - Australia name new-look squad to play Kuwait
SYDNEY, Aug 31 (Reuters) - Australia have named a powerful squad of European-based players, including nine World Cup stars, for next week's Asian Cup qualifier against Kuwait.
The Socceroos have already booked their place in next year's finals after beating Kuwait 2-0 in Sydney earlier this month, despite fielding an inexperienced squad made up of players from the domestic A-League.
All but two of Australia's World Cup players missed that match because of their European club commitments but coach Graham Arnold's latest 18-man squad is comprised entirely of European-based players.The squad features nine players who represented Australia at the World Cup in Germany, including striker John Aloisi, first-choice goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer and midfielder Jason Culina.
English Premier League players Mark Viduka, Harry Kewell, Tim Cahill and Lucas Neill were not included but are likely to be added for Australia's double-header in October, when they play Paraguay in a friendly before meeting Bahrain in their last Asian Cup qualifier.....
John Aloisi (Alaves, Spain), Michael Beauchamp (FC Nurnberg, Germany), Jacob Burns (TS Wisla Krakow, Poland), Scott Chipperfield (FC Basel, Switzerland), Ante Covic (Hammarby, Sweden), Jason Culina (PSV Eindhoven, Holland), Ahmad Elrich (Fulham, England), Ryan Griffiths (AFC Rapid Bucuresti, Romania), Brett Holman (NEC Nijmegen, Holland), Patrick Kisnorbo (Leicester City, England), Scott McDonald (Motherwell, Scotland), Jonathan McKain (FC Politechnica AEK Timisoara, Romania), Ljubo Milicevic (BSC Young Boys, Switzerland), Mark Schwarzer (Middlesbrough, England), Josip Skoko (Wigan Athletic, England), Mile Sterjovski (FC Basel, Switzerland), Nick Ward (Queens Park Rangers, England), Luke Wilkshire (FC Twente, Holland)
Guardian
Reuters - Australia name new-look squad to play Kuwait
SYDNEY, Aug 31 (Reuters) - Australia have named a powerful squad of European-based players, including nine World Cup stars, for next week's Asian Cup qualifier against Kuwait.
The Socceroos have already booked their place in next year's finals after beating Kuwait 2-0 in Sydney earlier this month, despite fielding an inexperienced squad made up of players from the domestic A-League.
All but two of Australia's World Cup players missed that match because of their European club commitments but coach Graham Arnold's latest 18-man squad is comprised entirely of European-based players.The squad features nine players who represented Australia at the World Cup in Germany, including striker John Aloisi, first-choice goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer and midfielder Jason Culina.
English Premier League players Mark Viduka, Harry Kewell, Tim Cahill and Lucas Neill were not included but are likely to be added for Australia's double-header in October, when they play Paraguay in a friendly before meeting Bahrain in their last Asian Cup qualifier.....
John Aloisi (Alaves, Spain), Michael Beauchamp (FC Nurnberg, Germany), Jacob Burns (TS Wisla Krakow, Poland), Scott Chipperfield (FC Basel, Switzerland), Ante Covic (Hammarby, Sweden), Jason Culina (PSV Eindhoven, Holland), Ahmad Elrich (Fulham, England), Ryan Griffiths (AFC Rapid Bucuresti, Romania), Brett Holman (NEC Nijmegen, Holland), Patrick Kisnorbo (Leicester City, England), Scott McDonald (Motherwell, Scotland), Jonathan McKain (FC Politechnica AEK Timisoara, Romania), Ljubo Milicevic (BSC Young Boys, Switzerland), Mark Schwarzer (Middlesbrough, England), Josip Skoko (Wigan Athletic, England), Mile Sterjovski (FC Basel, Switzerland), Nick Ward (Queens Park Rangers, England), Luke Wilkshire (FC Twente, Holland)
Guardian
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Simon Royce Injury Update - Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
-
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
Injured Royce faces D-Day
SIMON Royce will be forced to undergo surgery if he fails to meet his make-or-break deadline of returning to training by Friday.
The QPR goalkeeper, who has been sidelined with a groin problem since April, has set himself a cut-off date of September 1 to prove his fitness or face an operation.
Royce aggravated the injury in the summer - ironically, during a fitness programme he had devised himself - and will make a firm decision on his future later this week.
He told the Times: "I sat down with the physio [Prav Mathema] and decided to give it until September 1 to get myself right.
"I'd started doing some fitness work and that went fine for two or three days, so things were looking quite good. Then I did a session with Tony Roberts and I felt a reaction.
"If I keep getting that I'm going to have to see the surgeon who operated on me a few years ago, when I was at Leicester, and go back under the knife.
"It'll be a case of going in, having the scar tissue trimmed and accepting I'll be out for probably another six weeks. This has been very frustrating for me, a complete nightmare."
Until the beginning of February, Royce's career at Loftus Road seemed to be anything but a nightmare - a string of excellent performances in goal had made him a strong candidate for the club's Player of the Year award.
Then a back injury ruled him out of what proved to be Ian Holloway's last match in charge at Rangers and Gary Waddock promptly enlisted the experienced Paul Jones as cover.
And the outstanding form of Jones meant that, through no fault of his own, Royce was unable to regain his place even before the groin tear ended his season.
"Everything was going so well that, at the back of my mind was always this kind of feeling that it was almost going too well," admitted the former Southend, Leicester and Charlton goalkeeper.
"But this has happened to me before - I'd just got into the first team at Charlton, played eight games in a row and equalled the club record for clean sheets, then ruptured my knee ligaments.
"So it's not the first time I felt like I'd missed the boat. Fortunately I'm a strong kind of character and I wasn't going to react by throwing in the towel - I want to get this fixed and then I want my shirt back."
Whether or not he manages to dislodge Jones at some stage this season, the 34-year-old is keen to show Waddock and the Rangers board that he is worthy of a new contract when his current deal expires next summer.
"I'd like to think I don't actually need to get in the team to show what I can do," said Royce. "But the fitness side is a concern and I'm not getting any younger.
"If I'm injured for half the season and haven't played much football, the club might feel they need to get someone a bit younger. At least if I've played some reserve games they might think differently.
"I'm very happy at QPR - we've got a bright young manager and I want to see the club move forward.
"It's one last shot for me to win promotion and get back to the Premier League"
Kilburn Times">
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
Injured Royce faces D-Day
SIMON Royce will be forced to undergo surgery if he fails to meet his make-or-break deadline of returning to training by Friday.
The QPR goalkeeper, who has been sidelined with a groin problem since April, has set himself a cut-off date of September 1 to prove his fitness or face an operation.
Royce aggravated the injury in the summer - ironically, during a fitness programme he had devised himself - and will make a firm decision on his future later this week.
He told the Times: "I sat down with the physio [Prav Mathema] and decided to give it until September 1 to get myself right.
"I'd started doing some fitness work and that went fine for two or three days, so things were looking quite good. Then I did a session with Tony Roberts and I felt a reaction.
"If I keep getting that I'm going to have to see the surgeon who operated on me a few years ago, when I was at Leicester, and go back under the knife.
"It'll be a case of going in, having the scar tissue trimmed and accepting I'll be out for probably another six weeks. This has been very frustrating for me, a complete nightmare."
Until the beginning of February, Royce's career at Loftus Road seemed to be anything but a nightmare - a string of excellent performances in goal had made him a strong candidate for the club's Player of the Year award.
Then a back injury ruled him out of what proved to be Ian Holloway's last match in charge at Rangers and Gary Waddock promptly enlisted the experienced Paul Jones as cover.
And the outstanding form of Jones meant that, through no fault of his own, Royce was unable to regain his place even before the groin tear ended his season.
"Everything was going so well that, at the back of my mind was always this kind of feeling that it was almost going too well," admitted the former Southend, Leicester and Charlton goalkeeper.
"But this has happened to me before - I'd just got into the first team at Charlton, played eight games in a row and equalled the club record for clean sheets, then ruptured my knee ligaments.
"So it's not the first time I felt like I'd missed the boat. Fortunately I'm a strong kind of character and I wasn't going to react by throwing in the towel - I want to get this fixed and then I want my shirt back."
Whether or not he manages to dislodge Jones at some stage this season, the 34-year-old is keen to show Waddock and the Rangers board that he is worthy of a new contract when his current deal expires next summer.
"I'd like to think I don't actually need to get in the team to show what I can do," said Royce. "But the fitness side is a concern and I'm not getting any younger.
"If I'm injured for half the season and haven't played much football, the club might feel they need to get someone a bit younger. At least if I've played some reserve games they might think differently.
"I'm very happy at QPR - we've got a bright young manager and I want to see the club move forward.
"It's one last shot for me to win promotion and get back to the Premier League"
Kilburn Times">
Rowlands' New Contract...Paladini on Moving Players Out (Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times)
-
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
Rowly ready for new deal
QPR will make at least one key signing ahead of tomorrow's transfer deadline - with Martin Rowlands set to commit himself to the club until 2010.
Rowlands is due to sign a three-year contract by the end of the week,...But there are unlikely to be any new arrivals at Loftus Road before the transfer window closes, unless Rangers can first reduce their squad of 33 players.
Of the eight players transfer-listed at the end of last season, only Ian Evatt has so far left the club on a six-month loan to Blackpool.
Out of favour striker Stefan Moore has joined Rangers' next Carling Cup opponents, Port Vale, on an initial month's loan, while midfielder Tommy Doherty is also a likely candidate for a temporary move.
QPR chairman Gianni Paladini said: "We want to keep our best players, especially the younger ones. But it's also very important we offload two or three players.
"If we do that, maybe we can go back in for a new full-back. It isn't easy to move players on, though, if they are happy just to sit and draw their wages.
"I don't understand that - it doesn't do them any good whatsoever. When your job is to be a footballer and you're not getting in the team, it makes more sense to go somewhere you can play football..."
.Kilburn Times
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
Rowly ready for new deal
QPR will make at least one key signing ahead of tomorrow's transfer deadline - with Martin Rowlands set to commit himself to the club until 2010.
Rowlands is due to sign a three-year contract by the end of the week,...But there are unlikely to be any new arrivals at Loftus Road before the transfer window closes, unless Rangers can first reduce their squad of 33 players.
Of the eight players transfer-listed at the end of last season, only Ian Evatt has so far left the club on a six-month loan to Blackpool.
Out of favour striker Stefan Moore has joined Rangers' next Carling Cup opponents, Port Vale, on an initial month's loan, while midfielder Tommy Doherty is also a likely candidate for a temporary move.
QPR chairman Gianni Paladini said: "We want to keep our best players, especially the younger ones. But it's also very important we offload two or three players.
"If we do that, maybe we can go back in for a new full-back. It isn't easy to move players on, though, if they are happy just to sit and draw their wages.
"I don't understand that - it doesn't do them any good whatsoever. When your job is to be a footballer and you're not getting in the team, it makes more sense to go somewhere you can play football..."
.Kilburn Times
Paladini's Perspective About QPR's Future - From One Year Ago, Today
-
A year ago, today, Offering his persepctive for the first time on the official site after his Boardoom "coup" a couple of days previously, Gianni Paladini (not yet officially the new Chairman) offered this statement:
QPR Official Site - August 30, 2005
BRIGHT FUTURE
Gianni Paladini has promised a bright future for Queens Park Rangers following the changes at Boardroom level last week.
Bill Power is no longer Chairman and Mark Devlin's position as Chief Executive was made redundant following a Board meeting at Loftus Road.
But the Director insists that the decisions taken were made with only the Club's interest at heart and he has played down suggestions of turmoil at the highest level.
"I am still friends with Bill. We go out for lunch and we talk on the phone every day. I have no problem with Bill.
"This is not about individuals or personalities, it is about the future of this great Club and all of us - Bill included -want nothing more than to see QPR continue to grow and improve."
Paladini is also sympathetic with supporters who may have been worried about the situation.
He appreciates that the supporters are concerned and has stressed that their feelings are at the forefront of his mind.
"The supporters are what makes this Club great and from the moment I arrived at Loftus Road I have been overwhelmed by their passion and devotion.
"All supporters will worry when they see change and I can understand that. But I believe that change was necessary for long term stability.
"The investors and directors are ambitious - I am ambitious - but we are not turning things upside down. We are going to make sensible steady progress and take Rangers back to where we belong - the Premiership."
Paladini also believes that the root of stability lies with the manager and that is why he hopes to sit down with Ian Holloway this week to discuss a new contract.
"Ollie is responsible for so much that has happened here during the past few years. Our successes on the pitch are down to him and he should be rewarded accordingly."
QPR
A year ago, today, Offering his persepctive for the first time on the official site after his Boardoom "coup" a couple of days previously, Gianni Paladini (not yet officially the new Chairman) offered this statement:
QPR Official Site - August 30, 2005
BRIGHT FUTURE
Gianni Paladini has promised a bright future for Queens Park Rangers following the changes at Boardroom level last week.
Bill Power is no longer Chairman and Mark Devlin's position as Chief Executive was made redundant following a Board meeting at Loftus Road.
But the Director insists that the decisions taken were made with only the Club's interest at heart and he has played down suggestions of turmoil at the highest level.
"I am still friends with Bill. We go out for lunch and we talk on the phone every day. I have no problem with Bill.
"This is not about individuals or personalities, it is about the future of this great Club and all of us - Bill included -want nothing more than to see QPR continue to grow and improve."
Paladini is also sympathetic with supporters who may have been worried about the situation.
He appreciates that the supporters are concerned and has stressed that their feelings are at the forefront of his mind.
"The supporters are what makes this Club great and from the moment I arrived at Loftus Road I have been overwhelmed by their passion and devotion.
"All supporters will worry when they see change and I can understand that. But I believe that change was necessary for long term stability.
"The investors and directors are ambitious - I am ambitious - but we are not turning things upside down. We are going to make sensible steady progress and take Rangers back to where we belong - the Premiership."
Paladini also believes that the root of stability lies with the manager and that is why he hopes to sit down with Ian Holloway this week to discuss a new contract.
"Ollie is responsible for so much that has happened here during the past few years. Our successes on the pitch are down to him and he should be rewarded accordingly."
QPR
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
As QPR & Port Vale "Interact": For QPR Chairman Paladini, it was nearly Port Vale Chairman
-
There is a certain irony in this week's QPR-Port Vale "interaction" - The first for several years
On Saturday, QPR were drawn to play Port Vale in the Carling Cup Port Vale, September 19. And then today, QPR loaned Stefan Moore to Port VAae on a one month loan
Paladini and Port Vale
If things had gone just a little differently, instead of it being QPR Chairman Gianni Paladini it would probably have been Port Vale Chairman, Gianni Paladini. In late 2003, Gianni Paladini made a bid for Port Vale, and came very close to having his offer accepted. At the time, it was reported that his interest in the club was brought about by his son, Stephen, who was described as being a Port Vale supporter.
December 2003 BBC Stoke An Italian is just the job for vale
BBC - Life-long fan wins race to run Vale
Boardroom Blues
There is a certain irony in this week's QPR-Port Vale "interaction" - The first for several years
On Saturday, QPR were drawn to play Port Vale in the Carling Cup Port Vale, September 19. And then today, QPR loaned Stefan Moore to Port VAae on a one month loan
Paladini and Port Vale
If things had gone just a little differently, instead of it being QPR Chairman Gianni Paladini it would probably have been Port Vale Chairman, Gianni Paladini. In late 2003, Gianni Paladini made a bid for Port Vale, and came very close to having his offer accepted. At the time, it was reported that his interest in the club was brought about by his son, Stephen, who was described as being a Port Vale supporter.
December 2003 BBC Stoke An Italian is just the job for vale
BBC - Life-long fan wins race to run Vale
Boardroom Blues
Ex-QPR Director, Dunga, Returns to London this Week With his New Team, Brazil!
-
Ex-QPR Director(and apparently, continuing QPR Investor)Dunga will be returning to London for this weekend's game between Brazil and Argentina. The game unfortunately will NOT be played at Loftus Road - The spiritual home of Stan Bowles and Rodney Marsh! Instead, the two teams will play at Arsenal's new Emirates Stadium
BBC By Tim Vickery - August 28, 2006
South American football reporter
The rivalry between Argentina and Brazil is a bit different from that between, say, England and Germany.
There is no history of warfare between the two nations. The middle classes of both countries tend to visit each other, but the age of mass tourism has not reached South America.
The majority of Brazilians have never even spoken to an Argentine and vice versa. It is basically a footballing rivalry, and none the worse for it.
Being at an Argentina-Brazil match means getting in touch with the finest that the sport has ever produced - and now they are bringing their rivalry and their stars to London.
Sunday's showdown at Arsenal's new stadium makes it very clear that both these teams have now become global brands.
Brazil's relationship with multinational sponsors is well known, and has made a huge difference in terms of the team's worldwide profile.
Back in 1994, the average English fan would have struggled to recall many of the World Cup winning side.
But by France '98 even some of the substitutes were household names.
Now Argentina have signed a deal with Russian-based company which will help set up the team's friendlies over the next five years.
An obvious consequence is that the bulk of the games will be staged in locations where those putting up the money receive the maximum return on their investment - hence the fact that South America's biggest derby is taking place in Ashburton Grove rather than Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo.
It is good news for the London public, but not so encouraging for the South American supporters.
They have reconciled themselves to losing their best players to the European club game.
Dunga
Dunga will be in charge of Brazil
They accept that their national teams will travel to take on top European sides. Now they have to swallow the fact that the team is taking on the local rivals on the other side of the Atlantic.
Sunday's game fits snugly into Fifa's international calendar but comes at a strange time from a South American point of view.
The continent's teams have no competitive matches until the Copa America next June.
This, then, is a moment of transition, when some of South America's teams have caretaker coaches while some have new coaches - Argentina's Alfio Basile doesn't officially take over until mid-September.
Even so, the event should fully justify the full house it is likely to draw to the Emirates Stadium.
As well as the exciting attacking talent Argentina displayed in the World Cup they also look set to give a debut to wonderfully talented 18-year-old Sergio Aguero, who has been in excellent pre-season form with his new club, Atletico Madrid.
Brazil, meanwhile, are trying to find their way after the World Cup disappointment.
Rather like Roy Keane taking over at Sunderland, the appointment of the inexperienced Dunga to coach the team is fascinating.
This is his second match in charge. On the evidence of the recent 1-1 draw with Norway there will be changes from the essentially counter-attacking approach of the Germany 2006 'Magic Quartet' side.
Instead, rather like the USA '94 team which he captained, Dunga appears to be placing more emphasis on patient possession.
Will his Brazil be able to do it against the best passing side on the planet?
There is plenty to intrigue and excite, then, as the global city plays host to the masters of the world game.
# Tim Vickery takes part in Up All Night's World Football phone-in every Saturday morning at 0230 BST on BBC Radio Five Live
BBC
Ex-QPR Director(and apparently, continuing QPR Investor)Dunga will be returning to London for this weekend's game between Brazil and Argentina. The game unfortunately will NOT be played at Loftus Road - The spiritual home of Stan Bowles and Rodney Marsh! Instead, the two teams will play at Arsenal's new Emirates Stadium
BBC By Tim Vickery - August 28, 2006
South American football reporter
The rivalry between Argentina and Brazil is a bit different from that between, say, England and Germany.
There is no history of warfare between the two nations. The middle classes of both countries tend to visit each other, but the age of mass tourism has not reached South America.
The majority of Brazilians have never even spoken to an Argentine and vice versa. It is basically a footballing rivalry, and none the worse for it.
Being at an Argentina-Brazil match means getting in touch with the finest that the sport has ever produced - and now they are bringing their rivalry and their stars to London.
Sunday's showdown at Arsenal's new stadium makes it very clear that both these teams have now become global brands.
Brazil's relationship with multinational sponsors is well known, and has made a huge difference in terms of the team's worldwide profile.
Back in 1994, the average English fan would have struggled to recall many of the World Cup winning side.
But by France '98 even some of the substitutes were household names.
Now Argentina have signed a deal with Russian-based company which will help set up the team's friendlies over the next five years.
An obvious consequence is that the bulk of the games will be staged in locations where those putting up the money receive the maximum return on their investment - hence the fact that South America's biggest derby is taking place in Ashburton Grove rather than Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo.
It is good news for the London public, but not so encouraging for the South American supporters.
They have reconciled themselves to losing their best players to the European club game.
Dunga
Dunga will be in charge of Brazil
They accept that their national teams will travel to take on top European sides. Now they have to swallow the fact that the team is taking on the local rivals on the other side of the Atlantic.
Sunday's game fits snugly into Fifa's international calendar but comes at a strange time from a South American point of view.
The continent's teams have no competitive matches until the Copa America next June.
This, then, is a moment of transition, when some of South America's teams have caretaker coaches while some have new coaches - Argentina's Alfio Basile doesn't officially take over until mid-September.
Even so, the event should fully justify the full house it is likely to draw to the Emirates Stadium.
As well as the exciting attacking talent Argentina displayed in the World Cup they also look set to give a debut to wonderfully talented 18-year-old Sergio Aguero, who has been in excellent pre-season form with his new club, Atletico Madrid.
Brazil, meanwhile, are trying to find their way after the World Cup disappointment.
Rather like Roy Keane taking over at Sunderland, the appointment of the inexperienced Dunga to coach the team is fascinating.
This is his second match in charge. On the evidence of the recent 1-1 draw with Norway there will be changes from the essentially counter-attacking approach of the Germany 2006 'Magic Quartet' side.
Instead, rather like the USA '94 team which he captained, Dunga appears to be placing more emphasis on patient possession.
Will his Brazil be able to do it against the best passing side on the planet?
There is plenty to intrigue and excite, then, as the global city plays host to the masters of the world game.
# Tim Vickery takes part in Up All Night's World Football phone-in every Saturday morning at 0230 BST on BBC Radio Five Live
BBC
Stefan Moore Joins Port Vale on Loan
-
QPR forward, Stefan Moore has joined Port Vale, initially on a month loan. Moore joined QPR from Aston Villa in the Summer of 2005 as a highly-touted young forward.
QPR play at Port Vale in a couple of weeks, in the next round of the Carling Cup (but Moore won't be permitted to play for Port Vale).
PORT VALE OFFICIAL SITE - STRIKER SIGNS
Stefan Moore - A month's loan initially
Martin Foyle this morning secured the services of Queens Park Rangers striker Stefan Moore for a loan period, but the 22 year-old will not be eligible for our 2nd Round Carling Cup tie against Rangers.
Foyle said: "We are delighted to agree with Queens Park Rangers to take Stefan Moore on a month's loan with a view to extending that, and even a permanent deal.
"He is Championship material and it's a great coup for the club and I know there have been one or two others sniffing round him. Nathan Lowndes is probably still a month away from total match fitness, but this gives me two strikers on the bench.
"We play five out the next games at home, so I want to win games and be attacking and I am still hopeful today of getting an answer on a right winger come midfield player.
"We know we need to tighten up in that area, but it gives us the opportunity to put Danny Whitaker back into the middle if need be, so it is positive at the moment and it is good news for Port Vale supporters.
"It was in the pipeline to bring Stefan in, then we go and pull Queens Park Rangers in the Carling Cup. That means he won't be allowed to play in that game of course, which is quite funny really."
Port Vale
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - STEF'S NO MOORE
Out-of-favour front-man Stefan Moore has joined Port Vale on loan.
The former Aston Villa ace, who signed for the R's in the summer of 2005, has joined Martin Foyle's League One outfit on a one month loan deal.
Moore - who has been starved of first team action since the arrival of Gary Waddock as Manager and was placed on the transfer list at the end of last season - scored just two league goals in 25 appearances for the R's.
Moore will not be available for Vale when the two club's meet in the second round of the Carling Cup on Tuesday September 19th.
QPR
BBC - Vale capture QPR striker on loan
Port Vale have signed Queens Park Rangers striker Stefan Moore on an initial month-long loan.
The 22-year-old will not be allowed to play against his parent club in the second round of the Carling Cup.
Boss Martin Foyle told Vale's website: "We're delighted to take Stefan on a month's loan with a view to extending it, or even a permanent deal.
"He is Championship material, and it's a great coup as there have been one or two other clubs sniffing round him."
BBC
QPR forward, Stefan Moore has joined Port Vale, initially on a month loan. Moore joined QPR from Aston Villa in the Summer of 2005 as a highly-touted young forward.
QPR play at Port Vale in a couple of weeks, in the next round of the Carling Cup (but Moore won't be permitted to play for Port Vale).
PORT VALE OFFICIAL SITE - STRIKER SIGNS
Stefan Moore - A month's loan initially
Martin Foyle this morning secured the services of Queens Park Rangers striker Stefan Moore for a loan period, but the 22 year-old will not be eligible for our 2nd Round Carling Cup tie against Rangers.
Foyle said: "We are delighted to agree with Queens Park Rangers to take Stefan Moore on a month's loan with a view to extending that, and even a permanent deal.
"He is Championship material and it's a great coup for the club and I know there have been one or two others sniffing round him. Nathan Lowndes is probably still a month away from total match fitness, but this gives me two strikers on the bench.
"We play five out the next games at home, so I want to win games and be attacking and I am still hopeful today of getting an answer on a right winger come midfield player.
"We know we need to tighten up in that area, but it gives us the opportunity to put Danny Whitaker back into the middle if need be, so it is positive at the moment and it is good news for Port Vale supporters.
"It was in the pipeline to bring Stefan in, then we go and pull Queens Park Rangers in the Carling Cup. That means he won't be allowed to play in that game of course, which is quite funny really."
Port Vale
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - STEF'S NO MOORE
Out-of-favour front-man Stefan Moore has joined Port Vale on loan.
The former Aston Villa ace, who signed for the R's in the summer of 2005, has joined Martin Foyle's League One outfit on a one month loan deal.
Moore - who has been starved of first team action since the arrival of Gary Waddock as Manager and was placed on the transfer list at the end of last season - scored just two league goals in 25 appearances for the R's.
Moore will not be available for Vale when the two club's meet in the second round of the Carling Cup on Tuesday September 19th.
QPR
BBC - Vale capture QPR striker on loan
Port Vale have signed Queens Park Rangers striker Stefan Moore on an initial month-long loan.
The 22-year-old will not be allowed to play against his parent club in the second round of the Carling Cup.
Boss Martin Foyle told Vale's website: "We're delighted to take Stefan on a month's loan with a view to extending it, or even a permanent deal.
"He is Championship material, and it's a great coup as there have been one or two other clubs sniffing round him."
BBC
25 Years Ago Today: QPR's Cup Final/"Plastic Pitch" Season Begins ...with 3-1 Win at Wrexham!
-
August 29th 1981: QPR win their season opener with a 3-1 at Wrexham.
Two goals from Clive Allen; one from Andy King.
With Terry Venables starting his first full season as QPR Manager; QPR being the first team in England to have put in an artificial playing surface (what became known as "QPR's controversial plastic pitch"; Clive Allen having returned to QPR, in partial exachange for Steve Wicks to Crystal Palace) and John Gregory seeming an expensive 300,000 pound signings from Brighton - QPR were pretty optimistic about their promotion hopes.
QPR's Team for that opening game at Wrexham:
Burridge
Fenwick Hazell Roeder Gregory
Waddock Francis King
Allen Stainrod Flanagan
By the time the Cup Final came around...Burridge, not liking the plastic pitch, had been replaced by Hucker; Andy King, after scoring in the opening 3 games was then sold to WBA (and played against QPR in the FA Cup Semi Final); Gerry Francis was sold to Coventry...and Gregory switched to midfield, where he was a scoring dynamo...While Currie returned from injury!
By the time of the replay, Allen was injured; Roeder was suspended (and the returned Wicks was cup tied)
August 29th 1981: QPR win their season opener with a 3-1 at Wrexham.
Two goals from Clive Allen; one from Andy King.
With Terry Venables starting his first full season as QPR Manager; QPR being the first team in England to have put in an artificial playing surface (what became known as "QPR's controversial plastic pitch"; Clive Allen having returned to QPR, in partial exachange for Steve Wicks to Crystal Palace) and John Gregory seeming an expensive 300,000 pound signings from Brighton - QPR were pretty optimistic about their promotion hopes.
QPR's Team for that opening game at Wrexham:
Burridge
Fenwick Hazell Roeder Gregory
Waddock Francis King
Allen Stainrod Flanagan
By the time the Cup Final came around...Burridge, not liking the plastic pitch, had been replaced by Hucker; Andy King, after scoring in the opening 3 games was then sold to WBA (and played against QPR in the FA Cup Semi Final); Gerry Francis was sold to Coventry...and Gregory switched to midfield, where he was a scoring dynamo...While Currie returned from injury!
By the time of the replay, Allen was injured; Roeder was suspended (and the returned Wicks was cup tied)
Monday, August 28, 2006
Ronaldo Wins the 2006 Golden Foot Award
-
Golden Foot - 28/08/2006 RONALDO IS THE 2006 GOLDEN FOOT WINNER
[Photos: Click on "CLICK HERE to download a pictures set of the event (copyrighted Tonino Mucci)."
Three Times along his career he was elected FIFA World Player of the Year (1996, 1997, 2002), but this time Luis Nazario da Lima, also known as RONALDO, actually part of the Real Madrid roster, put the final mark to a great career thanks to the victory in the Golden Foot 2006, his footprints are since tonight part of the Greatest Open-Air Football Museum in the World.
Ronaldo is now part of The Champions Promenade, close to former winners Roberto Baggio (2003), Pavel Nedved (2004) and Andryi Schevchenko (2005). Also this year the Prince Albert II of Monaco was present at the Footprint ceremony. Not only players in activity on the Champions Promenade, but also a lot of all-time Football Legends like Raymond Kopa, Alcides Ghiggia, Zico and Ferenc Puskas, added their footprints the one of Maradona, Fontaine, Rivera, Eusebio in 2003, Platini, Di Stefano and Zoff in 2004, Best, Rivellino, Weah and Gento in 2005.
Ronaldo won thanks to the 20.343 votes that he received from all over the world – people could vote exclusively from the website www.goldenfoot.com – taking victory before Luis Figo with 17.871 votes and Alessandra Del Piero with 16.011 votes. The Golden Foot website raised 103.768 votes. Ronaldo was candidate with: Ballack (Germany), Beckam (England), Cafu (Brazil), Crespo (Argentina), Del Piero (Italy), Figo (Portugal), Maldini (Italy), Raul (Spain), Zidane (Francia).rasil, Italy, China, United States, Mexico, Turkey the countries with the greatest numbers of votes, whose everage votant age decrease again this year (27 years in 2005, 25 years this years) with an increase of the number of students (45,3% against 43% in 2005). Votes were expressed in period from May 5th 2006 to Friday 25th August. Golden Foot is promoted by World Champions Club and Gazzetta dello Sport.
Golden Foot
Golden Foot - 28/08/2006 RONALDO IS THE 2006 GOLDEN FOOT WINNER
[Photos: Click on "CLICK HERE to download a pictures set of the event (copyrighted Tonino Mucci)."
Three Times along his career he was elected FIFA World Player of the Year (1996, 1997, 2002), but this time Luis Nazario da Lima, also known as RONALDO, actually part of the Real Madrid roster, put the final mark to a great career thanks to the victory in the Golden Foot 2006, his footprints are since tonight part of the Greatest Open-Air Football Museum in the World.
Ronaldo is now part of The Champions Promenade, close to former winners Roberto Baggio (2003), Pavel Nedved (2004) and Andryi Schevchenko (2005). Also this year the Prince Albert II of Monaco was present at the Footprint ceremony. Not only players in activity on the Champions Promenade, but also a lot of all-time Football Legends like Raymond Kopa, Alcides Ghiggia, Zico and Ferenc Puskas, added their footprints the one of Maradona, Fontaine, Rivera, Eusebio in 2003, Platini, Di Stefano and Zoff in 2004, Best, Rivellino, Weah and Gento in 2005.
Ronaldo won thanks to the 20.343 votes that he received from all over the world – people could vote exclusively from the website www.goldenfoot.com – taking victory before Luis Figo with 17.871 votes and Alessandra Del Piero with 16.011 votes. The Golden Foot website raised 103.768 votes. Ronaldo was candidate with: Ballack (Germany), Beckam (England), Cafu (Brazil), Crespo (Argentina), Del Piero (Italy), Figo (Portugal), Maldini (Italy), Raul (Spain), Zidane (Francia).rasil, Italy, China, United States, Mexico, Turkey the countries with the greatest numbers of votes, whose everage votant age decrease again this year (27 years in 2005, 25 years this years) with an increase of the number of students (45,3% against 43% in 2005). Votes were expressed in period from May 5th 2006 to Friday 25th August. Golden Foot is promoted by World Champions Club and Gazzetta dello Sport.
Golden Foot
Ex-QPR, Jamie Cureton Turns 31
-
Jamie Cureton Turns 31
Born August 28, 1975
The ex-Norwich/Reading striker was signed by QPR at the end of our Division 2 Promotion race. Unfortunately, at QPR for the most part, it didn't quite work out as many hoped
QPR Recor: 20+ 23 as sub - 6 goals (including a hatrick). He got another hatrick on Saturday for Colchester versus Derby.
Details
Jamie Cureton Turns 31
Born August 28, 1975
The ex-Norwich/Reading striker was signed by QPR at the end of our Division 2 Promotion race. Unfortunately, at QPR for the most part, it didn't quite work out as many hoped
QPR Recor: 20+ 23 as sub - 6 goals (including a hatrick). He got another hatrick on Saturday for Colchester versus Derby.
Details
For QPR Holdings Chairman, Antonio Caliendo: It's "Golden Foot" Award Day
-
25/08/2006 GOLDEN FOOT ON SKY
The Italian tv SKY Sport will broadcast for the first time the big event Golden Foot 2006, the international award given to players that distinguished themselves during their careers and that will leave their footprint on "The Champions Promenade", a sort of "Walk of Fame" of international football, in Montecarlo. Monday August 28 the images from Montecarlo will be aired on SKY Sport 1 during "Sport Time" and during the show Speciale calciomercato at 23.00 (Italian time). SKY's journalists Pierluigi Pardo and Marco Caineri will be in Montecarlo to tell the atmosphere of the event and to collect opinions and comments of the big champions of the past and of the present days. A wide summary of the event will be aired on SKY Sport 1 Wednesday August 30 at 19.30 with images from Montecarlo and exclusive interviews to the famous football myths attending the Golden Foot 2006.
The first images Monday August 28 during Sport Time and during the Speciale Calciomercato. Wide highlights of the event Wednesday August 30 at 19.30 on SKY Sport 1.
Golden Foot
27/08/2006
2006 GOLDEN FOOT: THE PRESS CONFERENCE AT 15:30
Due to the late arrival of some of the legends and in order to have a press conference with all the players present, we inform you that the press conference has been postponed to 15:30, 28 August 2006, the Sea Club - Meridien Beach Plaza (Monte-Carlo). - Golden Foot
See Also:
re QPR Report Golden Foot
25/08/2006 GOLDEN FOOT ON SKY
The Italian tv SKY Sport will broadcast for the first time the big event Golden Foot 2006, the international award given to players that distinguished themselves during their careers and that will leave their footprint on "The Champions Promenade", a sort of "Walk of Fame" of international football, in Montecarlo. Monday August 28 the images from Montecarlo will be aired on SKY Sport 1 during "Sport Time" and during the show Speciale calciomercato at 23.00 (Italian time). SKY's journalists Pierluigi Pardo and Marco Caineri will be in Montecarlo to tell the atmosphere of the event and to collect opinions and comments of the big champions of the past and of the present days. A wide summary of the event will be aired on SKY Sport 1 Wednesday August 30 at 19.30 with images from Montecarlo and exclusive interviews to the famous football myths attending the Golden Foot 2006.
The first images Monday August 28 during Sport Time and during the Speciale Calciomercato. Wide highlights of the event Wednesday August 30 at 19.30 on SKY Sport 1.
Golden Foot
27/08/2006
2006 GOLDEN FOOT: THE PRESS CONFERENCE AT 15:30
Due to the late arrival of some of the legends and in order to have a press conference with all the players present, we inform you that the press conference has been postponed to 15:30, 28 August 2006, the Sea Club - Meridien Beach Plaza (Monte-Carlo). - Golden Foot
See Also:
re QPR Report Golden Foot
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Buying QPR: The Various Efforts Five Years Ago During Administration
-
In April 2001, went into Administration and spent the next year looking for a buyer, before geting the 'notorious' 10 million pound ABC Loan and exiting administration in May 2002.
Among them -- Tuesday, 3 April, 2001, - Rangers safe, say administrators
The newly-appointed administrators of Queens Park Rangers have insisted the First Division club's future is not under threat.
Ray Hocking and Simon Michaels, of BDO Stoy Hayward Business Recovery Services, have been appointed joint administrators to holding company Loftus Road plc and their wholly-owned subsidiary QPR.
The administration was applied for by directors of Loftus Road plc as the best course of action for their long-term survival. The company have amassed debts of up to £11m.
"I don't see it as an existence-threatening position. I see it as a necessary step to ensure in the future there will be a Queens Park Rangers," said Hocking.
"Our priority is to secure a buyer for the company and the club and to ensure that creditors receive their monies."
There's no panic to dispose of this in the next few days or the next few weeks
Ray Hocking, QPR administrator
Chris Wright, majority shareholder and chairman of Loftus Road plc, will continue to fund the club and Hocking confirmed that rugby union club Wasps - another subsidiary of Loftus Road plc - has not been put into administration.
Hocking insisted he was in no rush to find a buyer for the company and the club and said: "It could take a couple of weeks and it could take a season or more. It really does depend on who comes along.
"We will wait until we get the right offer. There's no panic to dispose of this in the next few days or the next few weeks. We are looking at a long-term survival programme here, not a quick fix."
Hocking also stressed the club's assets were worth more than their liabilities. "The club owns its ground and its training ground and they are worth considerable sums of money," he said.
I think it's fair to say that the atmosphere among the players is pretty good
David Davies, chief executive of Loftus Road plc
"Any offers that include those have got to be considerable. We have got to be looking well above the £15-20m mark."
David Davies, the newly-appointed chief executive of Loftus Road plc, said the players, currently battling against relegation, remained positive.
"I think it's fair to say that the atmosphere among the players is pretty good," he said. " I see it as the beginning of a new era for QPR.
BBC April, 2001, QPR fans hopeful for future
QPR chief executive David Davies and administrator Ray Hocking
David Davies and Ray Hocking say QPR is safe
By BBC Sport Online's Adrian Harte
Queens Park Rangers supporters have given the appointment of an administrator a cautious welcome.
Administrator Ray Hocking painted a bullish picture of the club's future on Tuesday.
And Joe English of the QPR Loyal Supporters Association concurs.
He told BBC Sport Online: "Administration is not necessarily a bad thing.
"The club has been run appallingly in the past few years - it's gone down the tubes."
He has not ripped the heart out of the club. But he has been naïve. For a top businessman, he has really got his fingers burnt
Joe English on Chris Wright
"The most important thing is that the club survives. What division we are in next season is irrelevant," said English.
"Other clubs like Crystal Palace and Portsmouth have come out of administration in a better position than us."
Hocking said there would be an end to the "economics of the madhouse", promising that he would "run the club in a proper way."
English said there was no questioning the commitment of the club's owner Chris Wright.
"He has not ripped the heart out of the club. But he has been naïve. For a top businessman, he has really got his fingers burnt," he said.
However, QPR supporters blame the club's demise as much on the players as on mismanagement.
English said: "We've had players with huge contracts and players who have badly underperformed.
"One good thing is that this summer we have so many players - and I use that word advisedly - out of contract. The sooner they are out the better."
Hocking, of BDO Stoy Hayward Business Recovery Services, disclosed that he has already received two written offers, as well as "half a dozen expressions of interest".
Moving ground
Amid rumours of a sale of Loftus Road and a move to a new ground near Heathrow, Hocking assuaged supporters' fears.
"Offers from property developers will be lowest on my list, " he added.
English, the secretary of the Loyal Supporters' Association, said that while the club should come through administration, moving ground would kill it off.
But he said the supporters would continue to follow the team.
"We will get one of our biggest crowds of the season on Saturday against Blackburn. We have continued to come out and show our colours, and more so now," he concluded.
BBC Sunday, 27 May, 2001, QPR consortium hopeful on deal
The consortium attempting to buy Queens Park Rangers are hoping that their purchase goes through shortly.
Brian Melzack, a member of the group, said: "These things can take some time. The consortium is in good shape though, and the funding is there.
"Remember that when Chris Wright was buying the club it took some time for the sale to go through.
"Back then Rangers were not in administration and in such a desperate position. So this is taking a while."
Wednesday, 4 April, 2001
New takeover bid for QPR
Loftus Road, the home of QPR and London Wasps
Troubled times at Loftus Road
A city-based consortium has launched a fresh takeover bid for Division One club QPR.
A group of eight financiers - comprising fans of both Rangers and sister club London Wasps - have submitted a substantial offer for parent company Loftus Road plc, which went into administration earlier this week.
The consortium intend to move Wasps into Rangers' Acton training ground, which the clubs would share. Both teams would continue to play at Loftus Road.
Should the bid prove successful, the group are also keen to have supporters of both clubs elected to a new-look board of directors.
QPR were put into administration on Monday after plc chairman Chris Wright revealed that the company was losing £570,000 per month.
Monday, 23 July, 2001 - New bid for QPR
A consortium have launched a bid to buy Queens Park Rangers and keep the club at Loftus Road.
The group have tabled an offer, although former director Andrew Ellis has been granted exclusive talks with administrators until 6 August.
Ellis plans to move Rangers to a site near Heathrow Airport.
Maurice Fitzgerald, a member of the new consortium, said: "The bid is based upon keeping QPR at Loftus Road.
"We are backed by a major investment company, and believe (our offer) to be the most financially sound tabled so far.
"We have lodged our bid with the administrators and have shown full proof of funds.
"The administrators have a duty to accept the best bid and we believe that to be ours.
Our consortium is committed to the future success of QPR."
Tuesday, 29 April, 2003, QPR takeover bid tabled
A West End-based businessman is bidding to take control of Queens Park Rangers.
Haleem Kherallah, 37, has tabled an offer for a 26% stake currently held by the present board of directors.
He is also looking to purchase shares still held by former chairman Chris Wright.
Capturing both blocks of shares would enable Kherallah to become QPR's main shareholder and chairman.
Kherallah said: "I am completely and totally committed to this. The club has so much potential and I can give it the stability it has been lacking.
"I'm not looking for an ego trip or to make money out of it. I am a football fanatic and want to make QPR successful again.
"The future is bright if we can get the finances in order. The first and most important step is to tackle the debts and I am determined to do that."
He added: "The potential is there both on and off the pitch. Were it not for a couple of dodgy results we would have been promoted instead of Crewe.
"If we had not lost the points at home to Tranmere because of mistakes, or conceded a flukey goal against Wigan, we would be where Crewe are now - that's how close it was in the end."
BBC - Last Updated: Wednesday, 25 June, 2003
QPR takeover stalemate
Businessman Haleem Kherallah says he is ready to abandon his bid to take over Queens Park Rangers.
I am done with trying to talk to these people
Businessman Haleem Kherallah
Kherallah claims the club's board are hostile to his offer because they are keen to stay in their positions.
"They don't want someone with fresh ideas," he said. "They want to keep their jobs.
"People have asked me not to give up, but it's clear my offer is not going to be accepted.
"I am done with trying to talk to these people."
The current directors are fully prepared to step aside if required
QPR chief executive David Davies
Kherallah's claim has been strongly denied by QPR chief executive David Davies.
Both he and chairman Nick Blackburn have stated that they would be willing to step aside.
"It has always been made clear to interested parties that they would not be prevented from replacing people if it would put the club in a better position," said Davies.
"The accusation that people are holding onto their positions is not justified.
"The current directors are fully prepared to step aside if required."
Meanwhile, QPR veteran Steve Palmer has signed a new one-year deal.
The 35-year-old was recently offered a role as player-coach at Wimbledon, but the move broke down after the Dons went into administration.
A financial dispute with his former club Watford over the deal that saw Palmer join the R's two years ago has also had to be settled in order for him to re-sign at Loftus Road.
BBC Wednesday, 1 August, 2001 - Ellis pulls out of QPR bid
Former Queens Park Rangers director Andrew Ellis has withdrawn his bid for control of the west London club.
The move paves the way for a fans' consortium to ease the troubled club out of administration.
Estate agent Ellis had been granted a three-week lock-out period to prove he had the cash to back up his proposal.
The only other bid tabled so far comes from the fans' consortium headed by Maurice Fitzgerald, who have pledged to keep the club at Loftus Road.
A club statement read: "Andrew Ellis has withdrawn his bid to buy QPR and the period of exclusivity granted to him no longer exists.
"With regards to other bids, the club has received the outline of a possible deal from the consortium led by Maurice Fitzgerald, which the club are also looking at."
Deeply unpopular
The Ellis bid had been deeply unpopular with fans because it proposed moving the club from Loftus Road to a new site near Heathrow, 16 miles away.
Fitzgerald's bid is apparently backed by a major investment company and private investors.
The bid is centred on around keeping the club at Loftus Road, with current manager Ian
Holloway remaining in charge.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/q/qpr/1468635.stm
Monday, 18 March, 2002, QPR bid withdrawn
A consortium led by QPR fan Harold Winton have withdrawn their bid to buy the club.
The group expected to agree a deal with owner Chris Wright but talks were broken off.
Wright had indicated that he was willing to compromise on the debt he is owed by the club and its parent company, Loftus Road PLC.
But in a letter to Wright, Winton states: "It appears that you may have had second thoughts on this matter and are now seeking payment in full.
"It is with much regret that we are withdrawing our bid to acquire QPR FC."
BBC
Thursday, 21 March, 2002, Solution in sight for QPR
Queens Park Rangers are close to coming out of administration after the Loftus Road board launched their own bid for the club.
Board members Ross Jones, Nick Blackburn and David Davies have made an offer to owner Chris Wright in an attempt to acquire Rangers and parent company Loftus Road plc.
The move comes after a consortium fronted by Brian Melzack failed to progress with their bid.
There are fears the Football League will not allow the club to start next season if it is still in administration.
BBC Monday, 27 May, 2002, Survival boost for QPR
David McIntyre
Second Division QPR have been taken out of administration.
The administration order was lifted following a hearing at the High Court on Monday.
Former chairman Chris Wright took a substantial write-off on his loans and handed back a large part of his shareholding in the club a few weeks ago.
We have faced some tough decisions and learned some hard lessons
David Davies
QPR chief executive
His decision helped enable the repayment of debts to all the Loftus Road club's creditors.
Loftus Road chief executive David Davies said in a statement: "This is wonderful news and the conclusion of one of the darkest periods in our history.
"We have faced some tough decisions and learned some hard lessons.
"These are lessons which many clubs are now having to learn.
"We will come out of this experience in a much stronger position.
Wright retains stake
"Gone are the days when players will be paid excessive wages.
"When we first went into administration, QPR was highlighted as being run on the economics of a madhouse.
"What we have done is bring some sanity to the club."
Wright, the main creditor as well as owner, agreed to accept half of the £6.7m he was owed.
But he has retained a 25% stake in the company as well as ownership of the club's training ground.
Rangers failed to get out of the First Division despite a massive investment resulting from a floatation in the summer of 1996.
They were hard hit the money from 'parachute' payments given to relegated clubs ran out.
With a wage bill already far too big for the First Division the club dropped into Division Two last year and in April 2001 administrators BDO Stoy Hayward were called in.
Transfer embargo lifted
But as many clubs struggle following the collapse of ITV Digital, QPR find themselves in a strong position.
They have not budgeted for television money and have slashed their wage bill.
It has been an awful period for QPR but I'm calling us 'the orange club', because the future is bright
Ian Holloway
QPR manager
Current manager Ian Holloway also has highly-rated players in his squad such as Richard Langley, Clarke Carlisle, Terrell Forbes and Dan Shittu.
Holloway said: "QPR were the first into the tunnel and are coming out of it just as everyone else is going in.
"There must be a lot of worried clubs but we have learned hard lessons and now we are on solid ground at last.
"It has been an awful period for QPR but I'm calling us 'the orange club', because the future is bright."
Holloway will now be looking to add to his squad having been restricted by a transfer embargo, which will be lifted with immediate effect after the club was taken out of administration.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/q/qpr/1994269.stm
In April 2001, went into Administration and spent the next year looking for a buyer, before geting the 'notorious' 10 million pound ABC Loan and exiting administration in May 2002.
Among them -- Tuesday, 3 April, 2001, - Rangers safe, say administrators
The newly-appointed administrators of Queens Park Rangers have insisted the First Division club's future is not under threat.
Ray Hocking and Simon Michaels, of BDO Stoy Hayward Business Recovery Services, have been appointed joint administrators to holding company Loftus Road plc and their wholly-owned subsidiary QPR.
The administration was applied for by directors of Loftus Road plc as the best course of action for their long-term survival. The company have amassed debts of up to £11m.
"I don't see it as an existence-threatening position. I see it as a necessary step to ensure in the future there will be a Queens Park Rangers," said Hocking.
"Our priority is to secure a buyer for the company and the club and to ensure that creditors receive their monies."
There's no panic to dispose of this in the next few days or the next few weeks
Ray Hocking, QPR administrator
Chris Wright, majority shareholder and chairman of Loftus Road plc, will continue to fund the club and Hocking confirmed that rugby union club Wasps - another subsidiary of Loftus Road plc - has not been put into administration.
Hocking insisted he was in no rush to find a buyer for the company and the club and said: "It could take a couple of weeks and it could take a season or more. It really does depend on who comes along.
"We will wait until we get the right offer. There's no panic to dispose of this in the next few days or the next few weeks. We are looking at a long-term survival programme here, not a quick fix."
Hocking also stressed the club's assets were worth more than their liabilities. "The club owns its ground and its training ground and they are worth considerable sums of money," he said.
I think it's fair to say that the atmosphere among the players is pretty good
David Davies, chief executive of Loftus Road plc
"Any offers that include those have got to be considerable. We have got to be looking well above the £15-20m mark."
David Davies, the newly-appointed chief executive of Loftus Road plc, said the players, currently battling against relegation, remained positive.
"I think it's fair to say that the atmosphere among the players is pretty good," he said. " I see it as the beginning of a new era for QPR.
BBC April, 2001, QPR fans hopeful for future
QPR chief executive David Davies and administrator Ray Hocking
David Davies and Ray Hocking say QPR is safe
By BBC Sport Online's Adrian Harte
Queens Park Rangers supporters have given the appointment of an administrator a cautious welcome.
Administrator Ray Hocking painted a bullish picture of the club's future on Tuesday.
And Joe English of the QPR Loyal Supporters Association concurs.
He told BBC Sport Online: "Administration is not necessarily a bad thing.
"The club has been run appallingly in the past few years - it's gone down the tubes."
He has not ripped the heart out of the club. But he has been naïve. For a top businessman, he has really got his fingers burnt
Joe English on Chris Wright
"The most important thing is that the club survives. What division we are in next season is irrelevant," said English.
"Other clubs like Crystal Palace and Portsmouth have come out of administration in a better position than us."
Hocking said there would be an end to the "economics of the madhouse", promising that he would "run the club in a proper way."
English said there was no questioning the commitment of the club's owner Chris Wright.
"He has not ripped the heart out of the club. But he has been naïve. For a top businessman, he has really got his fingers burnt," he said.
However, QPR supporters blame the club's demise as much on the players as on mismanagement.
English said: "We've had players with huge contracts and players who have badly underperformed.
"One good thing is that this summer we have so many players - and I use that word advisedly - out of contract. The sooner they are out the better."
Hocking, of BDO Stoy Hayward Business Recovery Services, disclosed that he has already received two written offers, as well as "half a dozen expressions of interest".
Moving ground
Amid rumours of a sale of Loftus Road and a move to a new ground near Heathrow, Hocking assuaged supporters' fears.
"Offers from property developers will be lowest on my list, " he added.
English, the secretary of the Loyal Supporters' Association, said that while the club should come through administration, moving ground would kill it off.
But he said the supporters would continue to follow the team.
"We will get one of our biggest crowds of the season on Saturday against Blackburn. We have continued to come out and show our colours, and more so now," he concluded.
BBC Sunday, 27 May, 2001, QPR consortium hopeful on deal
The consortium attempting to buy Queens Park Rangers are hoping that their purchase goes through shortly.
Brian Melzack, a member of the group, said: "These things can take some time. The consortium is in good shape though, and the funding is there.
"Remember that when Chris Wright was buying the club it took some time for the sale to go through.
"Back then Rangers were not in administration and in such a desperate position. So this is taking a while."
Wednesday, 4 April, 2001
New takeover bid for QPR
Loftus Road, the home of QPR and London Wasps
Troubled times at Loftus Road
A city-based consortium has launched a fresh takeover bid for Division One club QPR.
A group of eight financiers - comprising fans of both Rangers and sister club London Wasps - have submitted a substantial offer for parent company Loftus Road plc, which went into administration earlier this week.
The consortium intend to move Wasps into Rangers' Acton training ground, which the clubs would share. Both teams would continue to play at Loftus Road.
Should the bid prove successful, the group are also keen to have supporters of both clubs elected to a new-look board of directors.
QPR were put into administration on Monday after plc chairman Chris Wright revealed that the company was losing £570,000 per month.
Monday, 23 July, 2001 - New bid for QPR
A consortium have launched a bid to buy Queens Park Rangers and keep the club at Loftus Road.
The group have tabled an offer, although former director Andrew Ellis has been granted exclusive talks with administrators until 6 August.
Ellis plans to move Rangers to a site near Heathrow Airport.
Maurice Fitzgerald, a member of the new consortium, said: "The bid is based upon keeping QPR at Loftus Road.
"We are backed by a major investment company, and believe (our offer) to be the most financially sound tabled so far.
"We have lodged our bid with the administrators and have shown full proof of funds.
"The administrators have a duty to accept the best bid and we believe that to be ours.
Our consortium is committed to the future success of QPR."
Tuesday, 29 April, 2003, QPR takeover bid tabled
A West End-based businessman is bidding to take control of Queens Park Rangers.
Haleem Kherallah, 37, has tabled an offer for a 26% stake currently held by the present board of directors.
He is also looking to purchase shares still held by former chairman Chris Wright.
Capturing both blocks of shares would enable Kherallah to become QPR's main shareholder and chairman.
Kherallah said: "I am completely and totally committed to this. The club has so much potential and I can give it the stability it has been lacking.
"I'm not looking for an ego trip or to make money out of it. I am a football fanatic and want to make QPR successful again.
"The future is bright if we can get the finances in order. The first and most important step is to tackle the debts and I am determined to do that."
He added: "The potential is there both on and off the pitch. Were it not for a couple of dodgy results we would have been promoted instead of Crewe.
"If we had not lost the points at home to Tranmere because of mistakes, or conceded a flukey goal against Wigan, we would be where Crewe are now - that's how close it was in the end."
BBC - Last Updated: Wednesday, 25 June, 2003
QPR takeover stalemate
Businessman Haleem Kherallah says he is ready to abandon his bid to take over Queens Park Rangers.
I am done with trying to talk to these people
Businessman Haleem Kherallah
Kherallah claims the club's board are hostile to his offer because they are keen to stay in their positions.
"They don't want someone with fresh ideas," he said. "They want to keep their jobs.
"People have asked me not to give up, but it's clear my offer is not going to be accepted.
"I am done with trying to talk to these people."
The current directors are fully prepared to step aside if required
QPR chief executive David Davies
Kherallah's claim has been strongly denied by QPR chief executive David Davies.
Both he and chairman Nick Blackburn have stated that they would be willing to step aside.
"It has always been made clear to interested parties that they would not be prevented from replacing people if it would put the club in a better position," said Davies.
"The accusation that people are holding onto their positions is not justified.
"The current directors are fully prepared to step aside if required."
Meanwhile, QPR veteran Steve Palmer has signed a new one-year deal.
The 35-year-old was recently offered a role as player-coach at Wimbledon, but the move broke down after the Dons went into administration.
A financial dispute with his former club Watford over the deal that saw Palmer join the R's two years ago has also had to be settled in order for him to re-sign at Loftus Road.
BBC Wednesday, 1 August, 2001 - Ellis pulls out of QPR bid
Former Queens Park Rangers director Andrew Ellis has withdrawn his bid for control of the west London club.
The move paves the way for a fans' consortium to ease the troubled club out of administration.
Estate agent Ellis had been granted a three-week lock-out period to prove he had the cash to back up his proposal.
The only other bid tabled so far comes from the fans' consortium headed by Maurice Fitzgerald, who have pledged to keep the club at Loftus Road.
A club statement read: "Andrew Ellis has withdrawn his bid to buy QPR and the period of exclusivity granted to him no longer exists.
"With regards to other bids, the club has received the outline of a possible deal from the consortium led by Maurice Fitzgerald, which the club are also looking at."
Deeply unpopular
The Ellis bid had been deeply unpopular with fans because it proposed moving the club from Loftus Road to a new site near Heathrow, 16 miles away.
Fitzgerald's bid is apparently backed by a major investment company and private investors.
The bid is centred on around keeping the club at Loftus Road, with current manager Ian
Holloway remaining in charge.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/q/qpr/1468635.stm
Monday, 18 March, 2002, QPR bid withdrawn
A consortium led by QPR fan Harold Winton have withdrawn their bid to buy the club.
The group expected to agree a deal with owner Chris Wright but talks were broken off.
Wright had indicated that he was willing to compromise on the debt he is owed by the club and its parent company, Loftus Road PLC.
But in a letter to Wright, Winton states: "It appears that you may have had second thoughts on this matter and are now seeking payment in full.
"It is with much regret that we are withdrawing our bid to acquire QPR FC."
BBC
Thursday, 21 March, 2002, Solution in sight for QPR
Queens Park Rangers are close to coming out of administration after the Loftus Road board launched their own bid for the club.
Board members Ross Jones, Nick Blackburn and David Davies have made an offer to owner Chris Wright in an attempt to acquire Rangers and parent company Loftus Road plc.
The move comes after a consortium fronted by Brian Melzack failed to progress with their bid.
There are fears the Football League will not allow the club to start next season if it is still in administration.
BBC Monday, 27 May, 2002, Survival boost for QPR
David McIntyre
Second Division QPR have been taken out of administration.
The administration order was lifted following a hearing at the High Court on Monday.
Former chairman Chris Wright took a substantial write-off on his loans and handed back a large part of his shareholding in the club a few weeks ago.
We have faced some tough decisions and learned some hard lessons
David Davies
QPR chief executive
His decision helped enable the repayment of debts to all the Loftus Road club's creditors.
Loftus Road chief executive David Davies said in a statement: "This is wonderful news and the conclusion of one of the darkest periods in our history.
"We have faced some tough decisions and learned some hard lessons.
"These are lessons which many clubs are now having to learn.
"We will come out of this experience in a much stronger position.
Wright retains stake
"Gone are the days when players will be paid excessive wages.
"When we first went into administration, QPR was highlighted as being run on the economics of a madhouse.
"What we have done is bring some sanity to the club."
Wright, the main creditor as well as owner, agreed to accept half of the £6.7m he was owed.
But he has retained a 25% stake in the company as well as ownership of the club's training ground.
Rangers failed to get out of the First Division despite a massive investment resulting from a floatation in the summer of 1996.
They were hard hit the money from 'parachute' payments given to relegated clubs ran out.
With a wage bill already far too big for the First Division the club dropped into Division Two last year and in April 2001 administrators BDO Stoy Hayward were called in.
Transfer embargo lifted
But as many clubs struggle following the collapse of ITV Digital, QPR find themselves in a strong position.
They have not budgeted for television money and have slashed their wage bill.
It has been an awful period for QPR but I'm calling us 'the orange club', because the future is bright
Ian Holloway
QPR manager
Current manager Ian Holloway also has highly-rated players in his squad such as Richard Langley, Clarke Carlisle, Terrell Forbes and Dan Shittu.
Holloway said: "QPR were the first into the tunnel and are coming out of it just as everyone else is going in.
"There must be a lot of worried clubs but we have learned hard lessons and now we are on solid ground at last.
"It has been an awful period for QPR but I'm calling us 'the orange club', because the future is bright."
Holloway will now be looking to add to his squad having been restricted by a transfer embargo, which will be lifted with immediate effect after the club was taken out of administration.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/q/qpr/1994269.stm
One Year Ago: "Disharmony at QPR"
-
This time last year, post-match press reports focused on the behind-the-scenes "problems" at Loftus Road in the aftermath of the ouster of Bill Power and Mark Devlin. As QPR drew 0-0 at home to Sheffield Wednesday
The Times August 27, 2005
Eccentric Holloway torn by domestic disharmony at QPR
By Tom Dart
Queens Park Rangers 0 Sheffield Wednesday
EVEN by Ian Holloway’s unmatched standards it was an extraordinary post-match press conference. The Queens Park Rangers manager launched an impassioned defence of his club and their two feuding directors after last night’s dull goalless draw against Sheffield Wednesday.
Bill Power, the chairman, was removed from his post, and Mark Devlin, the chief executive, was sacked after Gianni Paladini, a director, ousted Power at a board meeting on Wednesday with the help of Carlos Dunga, the former Brazil captain, who flew in from Japan to vote.
Holloway said that the uncertainty was affecting his players and used the analogy of a dysfunctional family. Given that a director is alleged to have been involved in the threatening of Paladini at gunpoint before the previous home game, dysfunctional may be an understatement.
“Mum and dad are splitting up, nobody likes that as kids, do they? I feel like a nanny, I’ve got to calm down the kids,” Holloway said. “I can’t stand the last couple of weeks, it’s all politics. I don’t do politics, I’m not Tony Blair. I’m proud that this is worth fighting for, we’ve come a damn long way. I love mum, I love dad, and if one ends up with [the club] I’ll go and visit the other. I’ll stay overnight. They both put the money in, they both deserve this club.
“When my Mum and Dad had a row there was Mum’s side, there was Dad’s side and the truth was somewhere in the middle. That’s the same here.”
There are suggestions that Holloway may be destabilised by the uncertainty. John Gregory, the former Aston Villa manager, who knows Paladini, was present last night. “I’ve got to consider my position all the time, haven’t I? I’m a blimmin’ football manager,” Holloway said.
Power intends to challenge his removal on the basis that Dunga, although a director, was ineligible to vote. Paladini and Power were present yesterday, visited the home dressing-room and appeared on friendly terms.
Holloway went on to compare the situation, bizarrely, to Men In Black. No need to use the Will Smith character’s memory-eraser on those who saw this forgettable game. QPR, injury-hit like their opponents, missed the chance to go top of the Coca-Cola Championship even though Wednesday were reduced to ten men for the final 15 minutes when John Halls was sent off for a second bookable offence.
SPORTING LIFE
HOLLOWAY LAMENTS QPR UNCERTAINTY
Ian Holloway revealed the boardroom uncertainty at QPR has left him feeling like a nanny in charge of panicking children.
After his side's 0-0 draw with 10-man Sheffield Wednesday, Holloway was left to reflect on a troubled week that has seen the club announce Bill Power's and Mark Devlin's removal as chairman and chief executive respectively.
Director Gianni Paladini appears to have seized effective control of the club - but the confusion increased when Power and Paladini were seen sitting side by side in the directors box.
Holloway also said Power and Paladini had walked into the dressing room "arm in arm" before the match began.
"I feel a bit like the nanny who is trying to calm down the kids," said Holloway, who went on to compare Power and Paladini to quarrelling parents.
"It looks like mum and dad are splitting up and nobody likes that. I hope they get back together.
"They are the two people who should give me stability, but they are bickering away like they want a divorce - and I'm not going to be their lawyer.
"But I like them both. They showed commitment to QPR when nobody else wanted to - and they both deserve this club."
Former Aston Villa manager John Gregory - a Rangers player in the early 1980s - was in the directors' box and Holloway's position may come under pressure.
The club also announced that Paladini's fellow Italian Gualtiero Trucco - part of the Monaco-based groups of investors who put money into QPR last summer - has been installed as interim chairman.
"Whoever picks up this baton has to be able to carry it forward," Holloway continued.
"If not, they shouldn't pick it up. If they can't take it forward, I'll question my position.
"If they question my position, because change sometimes involves that, what can I do about it? It's not in my control."
Discussing the game, Holloway believed his side had become downhearted too easily towards the end of the match.
He added: "Some players showed disappointment before the fat lady had picked up her mic and started to sing.
"Show disappointment in the dressing room. It takes only a second to score a goal."
Wednesday manager Paul Sturrock was left shaking his head after his injury-hit squad suffered four more losses.
John Hills was sent off for a second bookable offence and will be suspended, while Glenn Whelan, Lee Peacock and Drissa Diallo were added to an already lengthy injury list.
Sturrock said: "There's a Scottish character (Fraser) in [the TV comedy] Dad's Army who always says 'we're doomed' and that's how I feel at the moment.
"We've no rhythm because injuries mean I can't get the players on the training ground - but I'm proud of their performance tonight.
"We worked hard on the shape in training, and that benefited us.
"But I was disappointed with Hills. His sending-off was a bit of a zany moment."
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/nationwide1/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/05/08/26/SOCCER_QPR_2nd_Nightlead.html&TEAMHD=nationwide1
THE GUARDIAN - August 27, 2005
Rangers raise a point despite boardroom chaos
Arindam Rej at Loftus Road
Saturday August 27, 2005
The Guardian
Trouble is mounting at QPR. A boardroom power struggle has unsettled the club to such an extent that this result was peripheral for their fans. The sooner they find out who their next chairman is, the better.
Not that focusing on this point would have cheered them up. They failed to overcome a Wednesday side who picked up three injuries in 51 minutes and were reduced to 10 men for the final 15.
Bill Power is expected to mount a legal challenge after his removal as chairman, during a board meeting this week in which the chief executive Mark Devlin was also sacked. Rangers' director Gianni Paladini has taken control, with Gualtiero Trucco as the interim chairman.
Background worries are not unusual but this month the events have been scarcely believable. Paladini, whose long-held ambition is to run a football club, had his resignation demanded when he was threatened with a gun before the game with Sheffield United.
The club was further startled by this week's news. Power and Paladini had worked together to bring down the previous regime 14 months ago but relations have deteriorated to such an extent that Power, despite remaining a director, has lost his job. More bizarrely Power still claims he is chairman.
Amid the chaos there was a match taking place last night and the first half was encouraging for Rangers. They created the best chances, with Gareth Ainsworth and Kevin Gallen often involved. Ainsworth created the first by forcing his way through, cutting inside and setting up Gallen who curled over a shot from the edge of the area.
Tommy Doherty gave Gallen another opportunity but the striker took a second touch rather than strike it first time and David Lucas was able to charge and snuff out the danger. Ainsworth then came to the fore again with a long-range volley from Gallen's cross that Lucas palmed past a post. Paul Furlong was also close after more good work from Ainsworth but he nodded over.
Wednesday were offering little and their manager Paul Sturrock was forced into two injury-induced substitutions as Lee Peacock and Glenn Whelan succumbed. Then Drissa Diallo became the third casualty and all the replacements were used.
Furlong's deflected free-kick was the first time that the reorganised Wednesday were tested but it was a rare attack. Wednesday looked sharp and should have taken the lead when Chris Brunt's cross was steered wide by David Graham.
QPR were caught unaware by Adam Proudlock in the 70th minute. He wriggled around Danny Shittu before being thwarted by Simon Royce. Craig Rocastle also had a sniff of goal with a low half-volley that Royce again caught.
Wednesday soon abandoned slim hopes of snatching a win, though, as John Hills was booked for a second time for a reckless lunge on Ainsworth.
QPR
Simon Royce, Marcus Bignot, Mauro Milanese, Matthew Rose, Danny Shittu, Gareth Ainsworth, Marc Bircham, Tommy Doherty, Adam Miller (Stefan Moore), Paul Furlong, Kevin Gallen
Sheff Wed
David Lucas, Graham Coughlan, Drissa Diallo (Richard Wood), John Hills, Frankie Simek, Burton O'Brien, Ritchie Partridge, Craig Rocastle, Glenn Whelan (Chris Brunt), David Graham, Lee Peacock (Adam Proudlock)
And Ousted Chairman Bill Power's Pre-Match Post on the QPR.org Messageboard
Bill Power Message Direct To QPR Fans
WWW.QPR.ORG > Message from Bill Power >>
Bill Power
This is the only posting I will be making and, I will not be responding to any questions. Apologies if that is frustrating, but I am sure you will understand.
A lot of things are being said and posted which are wildly off the mark.
As in every board meeting different opinions were expressed, totally normal.
What should be noted is that everybody at that meeting believed they had the interests of QPR in mind. No I didnt agree with everything, but to put things into perspective there was 100% agreement about most of the topics discussed. Obviously I could not comment on the decisions that were made after Kevin and I had to leave the meeting for family reasons and it continued without us.
We are all talking amicably as we must above all else make sure that the club continues its revival.
Everyone of us want only success for the club.
Now what we all ask is that you do your part. When Ollie talks about the effect you have on the team it cannot be underestimated. We all know how unique our ground is when we really get behind the boys. We all remember the feeling around the place the night we beat Oldham in the play-off semi-final and that atmosphere is what we ask you to give us again tonight.
Whoever plays tonight give them your all and you can be sure they will give you the same back.
Finally I would like to thank everyone who has been kind enough to call me, text me and mail me. I have been overwhelmed by the many kind words that I have received and find myself truly humbled.
http://www.gamblog.co.uk/2005_08_01_qpr_archive.htm
This time last year, post-match press reports focused on the behind-the-scenes "problems" at Loftus Road in the aftermath of the ouster of Bill Power and Mark Devlin. As QPR drew 0-0 at home to Sheffield Wednesday
The Times August 27, 2005
Eccentric Holloway torn by domestic disharmony at QPR
By Tom Dart
Queens Park Rangers 0 Sheffield Wednesday
EVEN by Ian Holloway’s unmatched standards it was an extraordinary post-match press conference. The Queens Park Rangers manager launched an impassioned defence of his club and their two feuding directors after last night’s dull goalless draw against Sheffield Wednesday.
Bill Power, the chairman, was removed from his post, and Mark Devlin, the chief executive, was sacked after Gianni Paladini, a director, ousted Power at a board meeting on Wednesday with the help of Carlos Dunga, the former Brazil captain, who flew in from Japan to vote.
Holloway said that the uncertainty was affecting his players and used the analogy of a dysfunctional family. Given that a director is alleged to have been involved in the threatening of Paladini at gunpoint before the previous home game, dysfunctional may be an understatement.
“Mum and dad are splitting up, nobody likes that as kids, do they? I feel like a nanny, I’ve got to calm down the kids,” Holloway said. “I can’t stand the last couple of weeks, it’s all politics. I don’t do politics, I’m not Tony Blair. I’m proud that this is worth fighting for, we’ve come a damn long way. I love mum, I love dad, and if one ends up with [the club] I’ll go and visit the other. I’ll stay overnight. They both put the money in, they both deserve this club.
“When my Mum and Dad had a row there was Mum’s side, there was Dad’s side and the truth was somewhere in the middle. That’s the same here.”
There are suggestions that Holloway may be destabilised by the uncertainty. John Gregory, the former Aston Villa manager, who knows Paladini, was present last night. “I’ve got to consider my position all the time, haven’t I? I’m a blimmin’ football manager,” Holloway said.
Power intends to challenge his removal on the basis that Dunga, although a director, was ineligible to vote. Paladini and Power were present yesterday, visited the home dressing-room and appeared on friendly terms.
Holloway went on to compare the situation, bizarrely, to Men In Black. No need to use the Will Smith character’s memory-eraser on those who saw this forgettable game. QPR, injury-hit like their opponents, missed the chance to go top of the Coca-Cola Championship even though Wednesday were reduced to ten men for the final 15 minutes when John Halls was sent off for a second bookable offence.
SPORTING LIFE
HOLLOWAY LAMENTS QPR UNCERTAINTY
Ian Holloway revealed the boardroom uncertainty at QPR has left him feeling like a nanny in charge of panicking children.
After his side's 0-0 draw with 10-man Sheffield Wednesday, Holloway was left to reflect on a troubled week that has seen the club announce Bill Power's and Mark Devlin's removal as chairman and chief executive respectively.
Director Gianni Paladini appears to have seized effective control of the club - but the confusion increased when Power and Paladini were seen sitting side by side in the directors box.
Holloway also said Power and Paladini had walked into the dressing room "arm in arm" before the match began.
"I feel a bit like the nanny who is trying to calm down the kids," said Holloway, who went on to compare Power and Paladini to quarrelling parents.
"It looks like mum and dad are splitting up and nobody likes that. I hope they get back together.
"They are the two people who should give me stability, but they are bickering away like they want a divorce - and I'm not going to be their lawyer.
"But I like them both. They showed commitment to QPR when nobody else wanted to - and they both deserve this club."
Former Aston Villa manager John Gregory - a Rangers player in the early 1980s - was in the directors' box and Holloway's position may come under pressure.
The club also announced that Paladini's fellow Italian Gualtiero Trucco - part of the Monaco-based groups of investors who put money into QPR last summer - has been installed as interim chairman.
"Whoever picks up this baton has to be able to carry it forward," Holloway continued.
"If not, they shouldn't pick it up. If they can't take it forward, I'll question my position.
"If they question my position, because change sometimes involves that, what can I do about it? It's not in my control."
Discussing the game, Holloway believed his side had become downhearted too easily towards the end of the match.
He added: "Some players showed disappointment before the fat lady had picked up her mic and started to sing.
"Show disappointment in the dressing room. It takes only a second to score a goal."
Wednesday manager Paul Sturrock was left shaking his head after his injury-hit squad suffered four more losses.
John Hills was sent off for a second bookable offence and will be suspended, while Glenn Whelan, Lee Peacock and Drissa Diallo were added to an already lengthy injury list.
Sturrock said: "There's a Scottish character (Fraser) in [the TV comedy] Dad's Army who always says 'we're doomed' and that's how I feel at the moment.
"We've no rhythm because injuries mean I can't get the players on the training ground - but I'm proud of their performance tonight.
"We worked hard on the shape in training, and that benefited us.
"But I was disappointed with Hills. His sending-off was a bit of a zany moment."
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/nationwide1/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/05/08/26/SOCCER_QPR_2nd_Nightlead.html&TEAMHD=nationwide1
THE GUARDIAN - August 27, 2005
Rangers raise a point despite boardroom chaos
Arindam Rej at Loftus Road
Saturday August 27, 2005
The Guardian
Trouble is mounting at QPR. A boardroom power struggle has unsettled the club to such an extent that this result was peripheral for their fans. The sooner they find out who their next chairman is, the better.
Not that focusing on this point would have cheered them up. They failed to overcome a Wednesday side who picked up three injuries in 51 minutes and were reduced to 10 men for the final 15.
Bill Power is expected to mount a legal challenge after his removal as chairman, during a board meeting this week in which the chief executive Mark Devlin was also sacked. Rangers' director Gianni Paladini has taken control, with Gualtiero Trucco as the interim chairman.
Background worries are not unusual but this month the events have been scarcely believable. Paladini, whose long-held ambition is to run a football club, had his resignation demanded when he was threatened with a gun before the game with Sheffield United.
The club was further startled by this week's news. Power and Paladini had worked together to bring down the previous regime 14 months ago but relations have deteriorated to such an extent that Power, despite remaining a director, has lost his job. More bizarrely Power still claims he is chairman.
Amid the chaos there was a match taking place last night and the first half was encouraging for Rangers. They created the best chances, with Gareth Ainsworth and Kevin Gallen often involved. Ainsworth created the first by forcing his way through, cutting inside and setting up Gallen who curled over a shot from the edge of the area.
Tommy Doherty gave Gallen another opportunity but the striker took a second touch rather than strike it first time and David Lucas was able to charge and snuff out the danger. Ainsworth then came to the fore again with a long-range volley from Gallen's cross that Lucas palmed past a post. Paul Furlong was also close after more good work from Ainsworth but he nodded over.
Wednesday were offering little and their manager Paul Sturrock was forced into two injury-induced substitutions as Lee Peacock and Glenn Whelan succumbed. Then Drissa Diallo became the third casualty and all the replacements were used.
Furlong's deflected free-kick was the first time that the reorganised Wednesday were tested but it was a rare attack. Wednesday looked sharp and should have taken the lead when Chris Brunt's cross was steered wide by David Graham.
QPR were caught unaware by Adam Proudlock in the 70th minute. He wriggled around Danny Shittu before being thwarted by Simon Royce. Craig Rocastle also had a sniff of goal with a low half-volley that Royce again caught.
Wednesday soon abandoned slim hopes of snatching a win, though, as John Hills was booked for a second time for a reckless lunge on Ainsworth.
QPR
Simon Royce, Marcus Bignot, Mauro Milanese, Matthew Rose, Danny Shittu, Gareth Ainsworth, Marc Bircham, Tommy Doherty, Adam Miller (Stefan Moore), Paul Furlong, Kevin Gallen
Sheff Wed
David Lucas, Graham Coughlan, Drissa Diallo (Richard Wood), John Hills, Frankie Simek, Burton O'Brien, Ritchie Partridge, Craig Rocastle, Glenn Whelan (Chris Brunt), David Graham, Lee Peacock (Adam Proudlock)
And Ousted Chairman Bill Power's Pre-Match Post on the QPR.org Messageboard
Bill Power Message Direct To QPR Fans
WWW.QPR.ORG > Message from Bill Power >>
Bill Power
This is the only posting I will be making and, I will not be responding to any questions. Apologies if that is frustrating, but I am sure you will understand.
A lot of things are being said and posted which are wildly off the mark.
As in every board meeting different opinions were expressed, totally normal.
What should be noted is that everybody at that meeting believed they had the interests of QPR in mind. No I didnt agree with everything, but to put things into perspective there was 100% agreement about most of the topics discussed. Obviously I could not comment on the decisions that were made after Kevin and I had to leave the meeting for family reasons and it continued without us.
We are all talking amicably as we must above all else make sure that the club continues its revival.
Everyone of us want only success for the club.
Now what we all ask is that you do your part. When Ollie talks about the effect you have on the team it cannot be underestimated. We all know how unique our ground is when we really get behind the boys. We all remember the feeling around the place the night we beat Oldham in the play-off semi-final and that atmosphere is what we ask you to give us again tonight.
Whoever plays tonight give them your all and you can be sure they will give you the same back.
Finally I would like to thank everyone who has been kind enough to call me, text me and mail me. I have been overwhelmed by the many kind words that I have received and find myself truly humbled.
http://www.gamblog.co.uk/2005_08_01_qpr_archive.htm
QPR Drop to 19th
-
QPR are now 19th in the Championship after the other teams got to play yesterday.
Table - http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/table/default.stm
QPR are now 19th in the Championship after the other teams got to play yesterday.
Table - http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/table/default.stm
Saturday, August 26, 2006
"League Cup" Draw - QPR at Port Vale
-
QPR Drawn to Play Port ValeIn the next round of the Carling Cup (League Cup!) QPR are drawn against Port Vale.
Game will be played week beginning September 18
Teams in the draw for the second round:
Seeded teams: Aston Villa, Barnsley, Birmingham, Bolton, Charlton, Derby, Everton, Fulham, Hull, Leeds, Leicester, Luton, Manchester City, Middlesbrough, Norwich, Portsmouth, QPR, Reading, Sheffield United, Southampton, Southend, Watford, West Brom, Wigan.
Non-seeded teams: Accrington Stanley, Barnet, Brentford, Brighton, Bury, Carlisle, Cheltenham, Chesterfield, Crewe, Darlington, Doncaster, Hartlepool, Hereford, Mansfield, Millwall, MK Dons, Notts County, Peterborough, Port Vale, Rotherham, Scunthorpe, Walsall, Wrexham, Wycombe.
BBC
QPR Drawn to Play Port ValeIn the next round of the Carling Cup (League Cup!) QPR are drawn against Port Vale.
Game will be played week beginning September 18
Teams in the draw for the second round:
Seeded teams: Aston Villa, Barnsley, Birmingham, Bolton, Charlton, Derby, Everton, Fulham, Hull, Leeds, Leicester, Luton, Manchester City, Middlesbrough, Norwich, Portsmouth, QPR, Reading, Sheffield United, Southampton, Southend, Watford, West Brom, Wigan.
Non-seeded teams: Accrington Stanley, Barnet, Brentford, Brighton, Bury, Carlisle, Cheltenham, Chesterfield, Crewe, Darlington, Doncaster, Hartlepool, Hereford, Mansfield, Millwall, MK Dons, Notts County, Peterborough, Port Vale, Rotherham, Scunthorpe, Walsall, Wrexham, Wycombe.
BBC
August 26 Nostalgia: QPR Go Top - (1992 beat Coventry & 1969 crush Blackpool)
-
August 26, 1992 Coventry 0 QPR 1 - Impey
Gerry Francis's QPR Go Top - the last time QPR topped the First Division/Premiership -After drawing at Manchester City 1-1 (with Francis complaining about having another game two days later), QPR then beat Southampton, Sheffield United and Covenntry to head the table>. It didnt last!
August 26, 1969: QPR 6 Blackpool 1
Marsh hattrick; Bridges 2 and Venables..
(Blackpool ended the season winning promotion; QPR faded)
Some Other August 26 Games
1967/1968: QPR 2- Norwich 0 - Mike Keen & Ian Morgan
1972/1973: Preston 1 QPR 1 - John O'Rourke
1975/1976 Wolves 2 QPR 2 - Givens (2)\1978/70 QPR 0 Not Forest 0
1986/87 - QPR 3 Watford 2 - Martin Allen, Fereday, Bannister
1989/1990 - Norwich 0 QPR 0
2002 - Wycombe 4 QPR 1
August 26, 1992 Coventry 0 QPR 1 - Impey
Gerry Francis's QPR Go Top - the last time QPR topped the First Division/Premiership -After drawing at Manchester City 1-1 (with Francis complaining about having another game two days later), QPR then beat Southampton, Sheffield United and Covenntry to head the table>. It didnt last!
August 26, 1969: QPR 6 Blackpool 1
Marsh hattrick; Bridges 2 and Venables..
(Blackpool ended the season winning promotion; QPR faded)
Some Other August 26 Games
1967/1968: QPR 2- Norwich 0 - Mike Keen & Ian Morgan
1972/1973: Preston 1 QPR 1 - John O'Rourke
1975/1976 Wolves 2 QPR 2 - Givens (2)\1978/70 QPR 0 Not Forest 0
1986/87 - QPR 3 Watford 2 - Martin Allen, Fereday, Bannister
1989/1990 - Norwich 0 QPR 0
2002 - Wycombe 4 QPR 1
Don Masson Turns SIXTY!
-
Don Masson Turns 60! Born August 26, 1946
Midfielder, Don Masson, bought by Dave Sexton in December 1974 from Notts County for 100,000 pounds. Playing alongside Gerry Francis, Masson played an integral part in QPR's 1975/1976 "Championship side." Scottish International, Masson also played an integral part in QPR's European campaign and League Cup the following season. In October 1977, new manager Frank Sibley sold Masson to Derby County in a straight swop for Derby's winger, Leighton James.
Masson's Playing Record
2002 Ron Norris/QPR Net Interview with Don Masson
Don Masson Turns 60! Born August 26, 1946
Midfielder, Don Masson, bought by Dave Sexton in December 1974 from Notts County for 100,000 pounds. Playing alongside Gerry Francis, Masson played an integral part in QPR's 1975/1976 "Championship side." Scottish International, Masson also played an integral part in QPR's European campaign and League Cup the following season. In October 1977, new manager Frank Sibley sold Masson to Derby County in a straight swop for Derby's winger, Leighton James.
Masson's Playing Record
2002 Ron Norris/QPR Net Interview with Don Masson
QPR vs Ipswich - Additional Reports
-
Independent
Queen's Park Rangers 1 Ipswich Town 3: De Vos lifts Ipswich spirit with deserved first victory
By Conrad Leach -Published: 26 August 2006
Bank Holiday weekend in west London with the Notting Hill Carnival only two days' away but Queen's Park Rangers did nothing for the locals' spirits by becoming Ipswich Town's first victims of this new season.
It may have taken the Tractor Boys five games to make a mark on this campaign for the right reasons but it was no less deserved. That the Suffolk side had to go a goal down before they imposed themselvesmade their comeback even more impressive. When QPR took the lead after 59 minutes it was a slight shock.
That they only held it for 10 minutes was testament to Ipswich's powers of recovery and re-found belief in playing a neat, passing game. Kevin Gallen was on hand at the far post to bustle his shot past Lewis Price from Lee Cook's cross.
Yet three minutes later the Suffolk side were level. Damion Stewart was adjudged to have fouled Gavin Williams, harshly in the view of QPR's manager Gary Waddock. Contact appeared minimal at best, and then Simon Walton's penalty sneaked under Paul Jones's arm.
An indication of Ipswich's revived spirit showed through when Alex Bruce, son of Steve, the Birmingham City manager and possessor of a nose most boxers would be proud of, came back on after treatment for his badly bloodied face.
With a full complement of players, Jason De Vos stuck out a leg from a Mark Noble corner for their second before the substitute Dean Bowditch made sure of the points with his header four minutes from time.
Having also hit the frame of the goal twice and moved out of the relegation zone, the Ipswich manager Jim Magilton, who only took over this summer, was naturally a happy man, as he said: "This could be the springboard for our season."
Queen's Park Rangers (4-4-2): P Jones; Rose, Rehman, Stewart, Milanese (Baidoo, 77); Gallen, Lomas (Bircham, 72), Ward, Cook; Blackstock, R Jones Substitutes not used: Cole (gk), Kanyuka, Oliseh.
Ipswich Town (4-4-2): Price; Wilnis, Bruce, De Vos, Harding; Noble, Walton, Williams (Currie, 90), Richards; Lee (Haynes, 88), Clarke (Bowditch, 77). Substitutes not used: Naylor, Sito.
Referee: L Mason (Lancashire).
Independent
TELEGRAPH
Ipswich break their duck By Tom Cary (Filed: 26/08/2006)
Ipswich Town shrugged off the lethargy that has consumed them over the past few weeks to inflict a first home defeat this term on QPR at Loftus Road last night.
The Suffolk side came from a goal behind to earn their first win of the campaign in some style, though they needed the not inconsiderable fillip of a controversial penalty to do so.
"It was definitely the turning point of the game," said QPR manager Gary Waddock. "It looked like the ref changed his mind. He wasn't going to give it but then he did. I don't think anyone in the ground thought it was a penalty."
The moment came in the 61st minute when Gavin Williams waltzed into the area and flung himself prostrate at the merest of touches by Damion Stewart. Simon Walton side-footed the ball low under the body of Paul Jones.
"If it wasn't a penalty, well, we deserve a bit of luck," said the Ipswich manager, Jim Magilton. "The way everyone at the club has responded and applied themselves, well it's terrific. I feel the luckiest man on earth."
It certainly was lucky, turning the game on its head just minutes after the hosts had taken the lead. In the 58th minute Dexter Blackstock had swung a hopeful cross in from the left wing. The ball found its way through to Rangers captain Kevin Gallen, who controlled it with his right and managed to apply the softest of left-footed touches to nudge it past Lewis Price.
The visitors, who had been on the ropes from the outset, showed good invention down the left wing, where Dan Harding was overlapping well with Matthew Richards.
Billy Clarke then rattled the crossbar as Ipswich grew in confidence but the game erupted after the interval with two goals in quick succession. And once Ipswich levelled, there was only going to be one winner.
First Walton hit a post with a volley from the right of the area, then, from Mark Noble's corner, Alan Lee rose to flick the ball on to Jason De Vos at the far post, who managed to bundle it home.
Ipswich added a third four minutes from time when the influential Gavin Williams surged down the left, beat his man and produced a cross that rebounded to the substitute Dean Bowditch, who managed to guide his header past Jones.
Telegraph
The Times August 26, 2006
New-look Ipswich finally find their form
By Kaveh Solhekol
Queens Park Rangers 1 Ipswich Town 3
IPSWICH TOWN supporters were rubbing their eyes in disbelief last night after watching their side win for the first time this season.
Three points seemed unlikely when Kevin Gallen gave Queens Park Rangers the lead from close range soon after the interval but a controversial penalty converted by Simon Walton, a tap-in by Jason De Vos and a header by Dean Bowditch gave the visiting side the victory that they deserved.
“We showed a lot of character and passed the ball in a manner that is befitting of this club,” Jim Magilton, the Ipswich manager, said.
The Suffolk team were unrecognisable from the side that lost 3-1 away to Leicester City two weeks ago. The arrival of Mark Noble and Walton, signed on loan from West Ham United and Charlton Athletic respectively, has added bite to their midfield.
Gary Waddock was convinced that Damion Stewart was unlucky to concede a penalty after challenging Gavin Williams in the 61st minute. “Everyone knew it wasn’t a penalty,” the QPR manager said.
QUEENS PARK RANGERS (4-4-2): Paul Jones — M Rose, D Stewart, Z Rehman, M Milanese (sub: S Baidoo, 76 min) — K Gallen, S Lomas (sub: M Bircham, 71) N Ward, L Cook — D Blackstock, Ray Jones. Substitutes not used: J Cole, P Kanyuka, E Oliseh. Booked: Bircham
IPSWICH TOWN (4-4-2): L Price — F Wilnis, J De Vos, A Bruce, D Harding — M Noble, G Williams (sub: D Currie, 90) S Walton, M Richards — B Clark (sub: D Bowditch, 76) A Lee (sub: D Haynes, 87). Substitutes not used: R Naylor, C Sito.
Referee: L
The Times
Independent
Queen's Park Rangers 1 Ipswich Town 3: De Vos lifts Ipswich spirit with deserved first victory
By Conrad Leach -Published: 26 August 2006
Bank Holiday weekend in west London with the Notting Hill Carnival only two days' away but Queen's Park Rangers did nothing for the locals' spirits by becoming Ipswich Town's first victims of this new season.
It may have taken the Tractor Boys five games to make a mark on this campaign for the right reasons but it was no less deserved. That the Suffolk side had to go a goal down before they imposed themselvesmade their comeback even more impressive. When QPR took the lead after 59 minutes it was a slight shock.
That they only held it for 10 minutes was testament to Ipswich's powers of recovery and re-found belief in playing a neat, passing game. Kevin Gallen was on hand at the far post to bustle his shot past Lewis Price from Lee Cook's cross.
Yet three minutes later the Suffolk side were level. Damion Stewart was adjudged to have fouled Gavin Williams, harshly in the view of QPR's manager Gary Waddock. Contact appeared minimal at best, and then Simon Walton's penalty sneaked under Paul Jones's arm.
An indication of Ipswich's revived spirit showed through when Alex Bruce, son of Steve, the Birmingham City manager and possessor of a nose most boxers would be proud of, came back on after treatment for his badly bloodied face.
With a full complement of players, Jason De Vos stuck out a leg from a Mark Noble corner for their second before the substitute Dean Bowditch made sure of the points with his header four minutes from time.
Having also hit the frame of the goal twice and moved out of the relegation zone, the Ipswich manager Jim Magilton, who only took over this summer, was naturally a happy man, as he said: "This could be the springboard for our season."
Queen's Park Rangers (4-4-2): P Jones; Rose, Rehman, Stewart, Milanese (Baidoo, 77); Gallen, Lomas (Bircham, 72), Ward, Cook; Blackstock, R Jones Substitutes not used: Cole (gk), Kanyuka, Oliseh.
Ipswich Town (4-4-2): Price; Wilnis, Bruce, De Vos, Harding; Noble, Walton, Williams (Currie, 90), Richards; Lee (Haynes, 88), Clarke (Bowditch, 77). Substitutes not used: Naylor, Sito.
Referee: L Mason (Lancashire).
Independent
TELEGRAPH
Ipswich break their duck By Tom Cary (Filed: 26/08/2006)
Ipswich Town shrugged off the lethargy that has consumed them over the past few weeks to inflict a first home defeat this term on QPR at Loftus Road last night.
The Suffolk side came from a goal behind to earn their first win of the campaign in some style, though they needed the not inconsiderable fillip of a controversial penalty to do so.
"It was definitely the turning point of the game," said QPR manager Gary Waddock. "It looked like the ref changed his mind. He wasn't going to give it but then he did. I don't think anyone in the ground thought it was a penalty."
The moment came in the 61st minute when Gavin Williams waltzed into the area and flung himself prostrate at the merest of touches by Damion Stewart. Simon Walton side-footed the ball low under the body of Paul Jones.
"If it wasn't a penalty, well, we deserve a bit of luck," said the Ipswich manager, Jim Magilton. "The way everyone at the club has responded and applied themselves, well it's terrific. I feel the luckiest man on earth."
It certainly was lucky, turning the game on its head just minutes after the hosts had taken the lead. In the 58th minute Dexter Blackstock had swung a hopeful cross in from the left wing. The ball found its way through to Rangers captain Kevin Gallen, who controlled it with his right and managed to apply the softest of left-footed touches to nudge it past Lewis Price.
The visitors, who had been on the ropes from the outset, showed good invention down the left wing, where Dan Harding was overlapping well with Matthew Richards.
Billy Clarke then rattled the crossbar as Ipswich grew in confidence but the game erupted after the interval with two goals in quick succession. And once Ipswich levelled, there was only going to be one winner.
First Walton hit a post with a volley from the right of the area, then, from Mark Noble's corner, Alan Lee rose to flick the ball on to Jason De Vos at the far post, who managed to bundle it home.
Ipswich added a third four minutes from time when the influential Gavin Williams surged down the left, beat his man and produced a cross that rebounded to the substitute Dean Bowditch, who managed to guide his header past Jones.
Telegraph
The Times August 26, 2006
New-look Ipswich finally find their form
By Kaveh Solhekol
Queens Park Rangers 1 Ipswich Town 3
IPSWICH TOWN supporters were rubbing their eyes in disbelief last night after watching their side win for the first time this season.
Three points seemed unlikely when Kevin Gallen gave Queens Park Rangers the lead from close range soon after the interval but a controversial penalty converted by Simon Walton, a tap-in by Jason De Vos and a header by Dean Bowditch gave the visiting side the victory that they deserved.
“We showed a lot of character and passed the ball in a manner that is befitting of this club,” Jim Magilton, the Ipswich manager, said.
The Suffolk team were unrecognisable from the side that lost 3-1 away to Leicester City two weeks ago. The arrival of Mark Noble and Walton, signed on loan from West Ham United and Charlton Athletic respectively, has added bite to their midfield.
Gary Waddock was convinced that Damion Stewart was unlucky to concede a penalty after challenging Gavin Williams in the 61st minute. “Everyone knew it wasn’t a penalty,” the QPR manager said.
QUEENS PARK RANGERS (4-4-2): Paul Jones — M Rose, D Stewart, Z Rehman, M Milanese (sub: S Baidoo, 76 min) — K Gallen, S Lomas (sub: M Bircham, 71) N Ward, L Cook — D Blackstock, Ray Jones. Substitutes not used: J Cole, P Kanyuka, E Oliseh. Booked: Bircham
IPSWICH TOWN (4-4-2): L Price — F Wilnis, J De Vos, A Bruce, D Harding — M Noble, G Williams (sub: D Currie, 90) S Walton, M Richards — B Clark (sub: D Bowditch, 76) A Lee (sub: D Haynes, 87). Substitutes not used: R Naylor, C Sito.
Referee: L
The Times
Friday, August 25, 2006
QPR Go Down at Home - QPR 1 Ipswich 3
-
QPR 1 Ipswich 3At half time it was 0-0...Gallen put QPR ahead. Ipswich equalized from a controversial penalty. Then got a second. And got their their third a few minutes from time.
UPDATED LEAGUE TABLE
OFFICIAL SITE - WADDOCK'S RESPONSE
Gary Waddock slammed the refereeing decision which ultimately proved to be the turning point in the R's 3-1 defeat to Ipswich.
Goals from Simon Walton, Jason De Vos and Dean Bowditch gave Ipswich maximum points, but Waddock was left bemoaning the crucial decision which sparked the Tractor Boys' revival.
Gavin Williams appeared to go down all too easily under Damion Stewart's innocuous 59th minute challenge, but referee Mr Mason pointed to the spot and Walton did the rest to level the tie.
"I haven't seen the replay but the lads are convinced it was never a penalty.
"The referee was unsighted, but after originally deciding it wasn't, he then blew his whistle and pointed to the spot.
"There's no doubt that was the turning point.''
Waddock was less than happy with his own players though, commenting: "The second half performance wasn't good enough.
"We need to be more compact, because we were wide open in the second half.
"Going forward we looked bright, but defensively we didn't have the two banks of four and it cost us.
"I'll be looking for a massive response against Plymouth.''
QPR
IPSWICH MANAGER, Jim Magilton RESPONSE
Jim hails TV stars
Blues boss Jim Magilton hailed his players as magnificent after Town turned in a TV thriller to beat QPR 3-1 at Loftus Road.
Goals from Simon Walton, a penalty, and close range strikes from Jason De Vos and Dean Bowditch rounded off a superb display in front of the Sky TV cameras showing the game live.
"Every player was outstanding and I'm chuffed to bits for them," said Jim after he celebrated his first win as Blues' boss. "It was nice to play like that with the TV coverage as well.
Simon scores from the spot
"I have total belief in the players and knew they were capable of turning in a performance like that because I have seen them play like that on the training field.
"We passed the ball well all over the pitch and were outstanding for large chunks of the game and our play got our just rewards.
Then celebrates
"The win comes as a welcome relief obviously after the start we have had and we need to build on it over the coming weeks."
Although reluctant to pick out any player for individual praise Jim did add: "Gavin Williams was absolutely outstanding and Billy Clarke showed what he is all about.
"He has been waiting for his chance and showed that he is a terrific prospect for us
Ipswich
BBC REPORT - QPR 1-3 Ipswich
Ipswich came back from a goal down at Loftus Road to claim their first victory under new boss Jim Magilton.
QPR took the lead when Kevin Gallen bundled the ball over the line from close range.
But Simon Walton levelled from the spot soon after when Gavin Williams was brought down in the penalty area.
Jason De Vos put the visitors ahead when he reacted quickest from a corner and subsitute Dean Bowditch sealed their win with a late header.
BBC
SKY SPORTS
Town claim first win
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 25 Aug 2006
Ipswich Town recorded their first victory of The Championship season as they came from behind to claim a 3-1 win.
Town deserved their three points after having the better of the chances throughout the 90 minutes - although Rangers will debate the validity of the penalty which led to Ipswich's equaliser.
The first half could have seen both sides take the lead, with Dexter Blackstock missing a guilt-edged chance for Rangers after being sent clear by strike-partner Ray Jones.
However, it was the visitors who should have taken the lead, with both Jason De Vos and youngster Billy Clarke going close - the latter striking the bar from just 12 yards out.
The second half saw Rangers take the lead just before the hour when captain Kevin Gallen latched upon a clearance in the box and shrugged off a challenge from Clarke before finishing clinically.
Ipswich were given their chance to level courtesy of a penalty, but the home side were left fuming as replays showed that Damion Stewart did not touch Gavin Williams as he went over in the box.
Loanee Simon Walton was tasked with taking the kick and he dispatched the ball into the corner.
Ipswich pushed on looking for a second and it almost came from Williams who fired in a superb volley from the edge of the box but it rebounded off the post.
However, The R's failed to take heed as a less than a minute later the ball fell for skipper De Vos at the back post and he fired home to give Ipswich the victory.
QPR had chances to level, but it was Ipswich who sealed victory as substitute Dean Bowditch headed home with just minutes left
SKY SPORT
QPR Official Site - Starting Line ups
QPR: P Jones, Rose, Stewart, Rehman, Milanese, Gallen, Ward, Lomas, Cook, Blackstock, R Jones.
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Oliseh, Bircham, Baidoo.
Ipswich Town: Price, Wilnis, Richards, De Vos, Bruce, Williams, Lee, Noble, Walton, Harding, Clarke.
Subs: Naylor, Currie, Sito, Bowditch, Haynes.
QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - MATCH REPORT
Two goals in eight crazy second half minutes and a late Dean Bowditch strike gave Ipswich maximum points in a free-flowing, end-to-end contest at Loftus Road.
Trailing to Kevin Gallen's opener, a controversial Simon Walton spot-kick and a simple close range finish from skipper Jason De Vos gave Jim Magilton's men a 2-1 lead.
Bowditch rounded off a great away day for the Tractor Boys with an 85th minute header, to seal Jim Magilton's men their first win of the Championship campaign.
Rangers had earlier taken the lead when Gallen poked home from close range on 57 minutes, but in truth the R's crept back into their shells thereafter and Ipswich were good value for their win.
It was goalless at the break, despite a flurry of goalscoring opportunities at both ends.
Ipswich striker Billy Clarke went closest to breaking the deadlock on 36 minutes, sending a fearsome shot against the face of the crossbar from a tight angle.
Rangers were by no means second best though, with Lee Cook at the heart of most of their positive play.
But it was Dexter Blackstock who squandered the R's best opportunity of the half, firing straight at Lewis Price in an end-to-end contest.
Gary Waddock was forced into two changes from the side which drew 1-1 at Preston on Saturday.
With Martin Rowlands and Gareth Ainsworth both failing late fitness tests, skipper Kevin Gallen was handed his first league start of the campaign on the right wing, while Steve Lomas was recalled in centre midfield.
Ipswich were minus the services of the injured Nicky Forster and Sam Parkin, who today joined Luton Town in a £340,000 deal.
The match was only 60 seconds old when Rangers fashioned their first attack.
Ray Jones played a neat one-two with Gallen and the returning skipper saw his shot blocked by Alex Bruce.
Half-hearted appeals for a handball were waved away by referee Mr Mason, as the R's opened in style.
The curse of the Sky Sports cameras clearly wasn't playing on the minds of the R's players in the opening exchanges and when Nicky Ward was gifted time and space on the edge of the box, only another fantastic block by Bruce prevented the Aussie from registering the hosts' first shot on target.
Despite their precarious league position, Ipswich weren't here to defend for 90 minutes and when Mark Noble sent in an in-swinging free-kick on six minutes, Damion Stewart was in the right place at the right time to clear after Paul Jones failed to catch a routine cross.
Play soon switched to the other end; with the lively Ward sending a piercing drive a yard over the bar after a neat interchange with central midfield partner Lomas.
Cook soon got in on the act too, sending a sweet curling effort into the arms of the perfectly positioned Lewis Price.
Cook soon turned provider on 16 minutes, sending an inch-perfect cross into the box, which Jones headed high and wide under pressure from De Vos.
Clarke's neat turn and shot forced Jones to scramble across his goal two minutes later, but in truth, that was as good as it got for the Tractor Boys early on.
Clarke had the bit between his teeth by now and when Matthew Richards sent him in on the left flank in the 20th minute, his speculative half volley from an acute angle brought the best out of Jones, who tipped the ball wide for a corner.
As the clock hit the 30 minute mark, there was slight cause for concern for the R's when Blackstock went to ground under another heavy challenge from De Vos.
Thankfully for Waddock, his £500,000 signing from Southampton soon returned to the fray after lengthy treatment.
The goal the home faithful were crying out for should've arrived on 34 minutes.
But after Blackstock was sent clean through by strike partner Jones, his weak effort was easily palmed to safety by Price.
The game was really beginning to open up and De Vos squandered an even easier chance for the visitors a minute later, shooting straight at Jones from the edge of the six-yard box.
The Tractor Boys were growing in statute as the half wore on and from their very next attack; Clarke rattled the face of the crossbar from 10 yards after beating Zesh Rehman to Alan Lee's precise through ball.
The Sky Sports viewers were being treated to a feast of end-to-end football by now and when Cook sent in a teasing cross from an unorthodox position on the right flank, first Fabian Wilnis, and then Jones, failed to get the crucial touch that would've surely resulted in the opening goal of a free-flowing contest.
The second half took time to spring into life, but when it did, it was Ipswich loanee Mark Noble who took the initiative.
After picking up the ball on the right flank from Lee, the West Ham United midfielder cut inside before stinging the palms of Jones at his near post.
Ipswich's positive start failed to deter the R's though and when Blackstock sent in an enticing cross from the left flank in the 57th minute, Gallen had two bites at the cherry before poking the ball past Price from little more than a yard.
It may've been scrappy, but Gallen - nor his team-mates - could care less.
Unfortunately, all their hard work was undone a minute later when Damion Stewart was adjudged to have upended Gavin Williams in the box and Walton fired the ball under Jones from the spot for his first goal in an Ipswich shirt
The penalty award looked a harsh one in real time and the Sky Sports cameras only served to confirm what was a shocking decision by referee Mr Mason.
Buoyed by their goal, the visitors were beginning to enjoy the lion's share of possession and on 66 minutes, Harding forced Jones into a fine tip over, before Noble pummelled the right hand post with a stunning volley.
Rangers didn't heed the warning though and from the resultant corner, De Vos fired home at the back post to send the Ipswich fans into raptures.
Waddock threw caution to the wind, with the introduction of Shabazz Baidoo and Marc Bircham seeing the R's switch to an attacking 3-4-3 formation.
A speculative up-and-under from Gallen caused panic in the Ipswich box, with Jones and then Rehman seeing their efforts blocked.
But it was Ipswich who struck gold five minutes from time courtesy of second half substitute Bowditch.
The Town striker gave Jones absolutely no chance, sending his powerful back post header past the Welsh number one from the edge of the six-yard box.
QPR: P Jones, Rose, Rehman, Stewart, Milanese (Baidoo 76), Gallen, Lomas (Bircham 71), Ward, Cook, Blackstock, R Jones.
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Oliseh.
Scorers: Gallen 57
Ipswich Town: Price, Wilnis, Richards, De Vos, Bruce, Williams (Currie 90), Lee (Haynes 86), Noble, Walton, Harding, Clarke (Bowditch 76).
Subs: Naylor, Sito.
Scorers: Walton 59, De Vos 67, Bowditch 85
Referee: L S Mason
Attendance: 10, 918
QPR
SPORTING LIFE
Ipswich beat QPR 3-1 at Loftus Road on Friday to seal their first win of the season.
Trailing to Kevin Gallen's 58th-minute goal, Jim Magilton's men equalised through Simon Walton's penalty before Jason De Vos gave them the lead in the 67th minute and substitute Dean Bowditch sealed the triumph in the closing stages.
It was Ipswich's first victory in 16 attempts - their last came at home to Leicester on February 25 - and they were indebted to Gavin Williams, who had a hand in all three goals and was masterful in midfield.
After QPR took the lead, Ipswich bounced back within three minutes. Referee Lee Mason angered the home fans by ruling Damion Stewart had tripped Williams inside the box, and Walton - on loan from Charlton - steered the penalty under Paul Jones' body.
Williams was desperately unlucky not to give Ipswich the lead with a sweet 20-yard volley from Noble's 67th-minute corner that smacked against the right post and was turned behind for a corner by Gallen.
Ipswich's frustration lasted less than a minute, though, because Noble's resulting corner found the unmarked De Vos, who scored from four yards at the far post.
De Vos then proved his worth in his own area with a brave clearance to deny Stewart - and four minutes from time Ipswich wrapped it up when Williams' cross bounced off Rehman into the path of Bowditch, who headed in from six yards.
Sporting Life
IPSWICH PERSPECTIVE - IPSWICH OFFICIAL SITE
Goals from Simon Walton, Jason De Vos and Dean Bowditch rounded off a superb Town display as Jim Magilton celebrated his first win as Blues boss in style.
Kevin Gallen gave Rangers the lead against the run of play with a close range finish on 58 minutes but Blues were level on the hour, Walton converting from the penalty spot after Gavin Williams had been brought down.
De Vos scored his second goal in successive games on 68 minutes when he guided home Alan Lee's flick on with his left foot and Bowditch completed the scoring with a header after more good work by the outstanding Williams.
Town lined up with seven players under the age of 22, Billy Clarke making his first start of the season. Alex Bruce lined up alongside De Vos at the back in place of Richard Naylor with loanees Walton and Mark Noble both returning to the team after missing the Carling Cup defeat at Peterborough.
Clarke showed a sign of what was to come as early as the fifth minute, a lovely backheel almost putting Lee in on goal.
Matt Richards' free-kick was dropped by Paul Jones in the QPR goal seconds later under De Vos' challenge while at the other end, Nick Ward fired just over from 20 yards.
Clarke's pace again troubled the home defence and his cross was almost met by the onrushing Lee, Zesh Rehman just averting the danger.
Both sides continued to play good football at a high tempo, Ray Jones heading over at the far post, then Clarke sending a 25 yard drive just wide.
The Republic of Ireland U19 striker tested Jones with a powerful near post volley as Blues continued to create openings.
Richards almost embarrassed Jones with a 40 yard free-kick that beat the veteran Welsh international and the crossbar, before the QPR 'keeper's international team-mate, Lewis Price, produced an excellent save to deny Dexter Blackstock from close range on 33 minutes.
That sparked an array of chances at the other end with De Vos denied by Jones from six yards, then Clarke smashing a right foot shot against the bar after a marauding run by Lee.
Fabian Wilnis showed great awareness to avoid sending a dangerous Cook cross past Price into his own net, ducking under the ball at the last second and fooling Jones at the same time.
Price saved well from the lively Cook as an entertaining first-half drew to a close.
Town dominated the early stages of the second-half but it was Gary Waddock's side who took the lead. Bruce was off the pitch with a nose injury and Gallen took advantage,easing the ball past Price from three yards as he shrugged off Clarke's challenge.
Blues were level two minutes later, Williams went down under a challenge from Damion Stewart and Walton scored his first goal for the Club, tucking his strike under Jones from the penalty spot.
Mark Noble and Dan Harding both went close as Blues dominated possession and Williams rattled a post with a brilliant volley, De Vos just failing to force the ball home from the rebound.
From the resultant corner Blues deservedly went ahead, De Vos finding the net after Lee had flicked on.
Bowditch replaced the impressive Clarke on 75 minutes and soon after ended his Town goal drought that has lasted two months short of two years with a header from six yards after Williams had weaved his way into the Rangers' box.
It was the perfect way to end a perfect performance from Blues.
Town: Price, Wilnis, Bruce, De Vos, Harding, Noble, Williams (Currie 90), Walton, Richards, Lee (Haynes 87), Clarke (Bowditch 76). Subs not used: Sito, Naylor.
Ipswich
BBC Minute By Minute
Text Minute by Minute
QPR 1 Ipswich 3At half time it was 0-0...Gallen put QPR ahead. Ipswich equalized from a controversial penalty. Then got a second. And got their their third a few minutes from time.
UPDATED LEAGUE TABLE
OFFICIAL SITE - WADDOCK'S RESPONSE
Gary Waddock slammed the refereeing decision which ultimately proved to be the turning point in the R's 3-1 defeat to Ipswich.
Goals from Simon Walton, Jason De Vos and Dean Bowditch gave Ipswich maximum points, but Waddock was left bemoaning the crucial decision which sparked the Tractor Boys' revival.
Gavin Williams appeared to go down all too easily under Damion Stewart's innocuous 59th minute challenge, but referee Mr Mason pointed to the spot and Walton did the rest to level the tie.
"I haven't seen the replay but the lads are convinced it was never a penalty.
"The referee was unsighted, but after originally deciding it wasn't, he then blew his whistle and pointed to the spot.
"There's no doubt that was the turning point.''
Waddock was less than happy with his own players though, commenting: "The second half performance wasn't good enough.
"We need to be more compact, because we were wide open in the second half.
"Going forward we looked bright, but defensively we didn't have the two banks of four and it cost us.
"I'll be looking for a massive response against Plymouth.''
QPR
IPSWICH MANAGER, Jim Magilton RESPONSE
Jim hails TV stars
Blues boss Jim Magilton hailed his players as magnificent after Town turned in a TV thriller to beat QPR 3-1 at Loftus Road.
Goals from Simon Walton, a penalty, and close range strikes from Jason De Vos and Dean Bowditch rounded off a superb display in front of the Sky TV cameras showing the game live.
"Every player was outstanding and I'm chuffed to bits for them," said Jim after he celebrated his first win as Blues' boss. "It was nice to play like that with the TV coverage as well.
Simon scores from the spot
"I have total belief in the players and knew they were capable of turning in a performance like that because I have seen them play like that on the training field.
"We passed the ball well all over the pitch and were outstanding for large chunks of the game and our play got our just rewards.
Then celebrates
"The win comes as a welcome relief obviously after the start we have had and we need to build on it over the coming weeks."
Although reluctant to pick out any player for individual praise Jim did add: "Gavin Williams was absolutely outstanding and Billy Clarke showed what he is all about.
"He has been waiting for his chance and showed that he is a terrific prospect for us
Ipswich
BBC REPORT - QPR 1-3 Ipswich
Ipswich came back from a goal down at Loftus Road to claim their first victory under new boss Jim Magilton.
QPR took the lead when Kevin Gallen bundled the ball over the line from close range.
But Simon Walton levelled from the spot soon after when Gavin Williams was brought down in the penalty area.
Jason De Vos put the visitors ahead when he reacted quickest from a corner and subsitute Dean Bowditch sealed their win with a late header.
BBC
SKY SPORTS
Town claim first win
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 25 Aug 2006
Ipswich Town recorded their first victory of The Championship season as they came from behind to claim a 3-1 win.
Town deserved their three points after having the better of the chances throughout the 90 minutes - although Rangers will debate the validity of the penalty which led to Ipswich's equaliser.
The first half could have seen both sides take the lead, with Dexter Blackstock missing a guilt-edged chance for Rangers after being sent clear by strike-partner Ray Jones.
However, it was the visitors who should have taken the lead, with both Jason De Vos and youngster Billy Clarke going close - the latter striking the bar from just 12 yards out.
The second half saw Rangers take the lead just before the hour when captain Kevin Gallen latched upon a clearance in the box and shrugged off a challenge from Clarke before finishing clinically.
Ipswich were given their chance to level courtesy of a penalty, but the home side were left fuming as replays showed that Damion Stewart did not touch Gavin Williams as he went over in the box.
Loanee Simon Walton was tasked with taking the kick and he dispatched the ball into the corner.
Ipswich pushed on looking for a second and it almost came from Williams who fired in a superb volley from the edge of the box but it rebounded off the post.
However, The R's failed to take heed as a less than a minute later the ball fell for skipper De Vos at the back post and he fired home to give Ipswich the victory.
QPR had chances to level, but it was Ipswich who sealed victory as substitute Dean Bowditch headed home with just minutes left
SKY SPORT
QPR Official Site - Starting Line ups
QPR: P Jones, Rose, Stewart, Rehman, Milanese, Gallen, Ward, Lomas, Cook, Blackstock, R Jones.
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Oliseh, Bircham, Baidoo.
Ipswich Town: Price, Wilnis, Richards, De Vos, Bruce, Williams, Lee, Noble, Walton, Harding, Clarke.
Subs: Naylor, Currie, Sito, Bowditch, Haynes.
QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - MATCH REPORT
Two goals in eight crazy second half minutes and a late Dean Bowditch strike gave Ipswich maximum points in a free-flowing, end-to-end contest at Loftus Road.
Trailing to Kevin Gallen's opener, a controversial Simon Walton spot-kick and a simple close range finish from skipper Jason De Vos gave Jim Magilton's men a 2-1 lead.
Bowditch rounded off a great away day for the Tractor Boys with an 85th minute header, to seal Jim Magilton's men their first win of the Championship campaign.
Rangers had earlier taken the lead when Gallen poked home from close range on 57 minutes, but in truth the R's crept back into their shells thereafter and Ipswich were good value for their win.
It was goalless at the break, despite a flurry of goalscoring opportunities at both ends.
Ipswich striker Billy Clarke went closest to breaking the deadlock on 36 minutes, sending a fearsome shot against the face of the crossbar from a tight angle.
Rangers were by no means second best though, with Lee Cook at the heart of most of their positive play.
But it was Dexter Blackstock who squandered the R's best opportunity of the half, firing straight at Lewis Price in an end-to-end contest.
Gary Waddock was forced into two changes from the side which drew 1-1 at Preston on Saturday.
With Martin Rowlands and Gareth Ainsworth both failing late fitness tests, skipper Kevin Gallen was handed his first league start of the campaign on the right wing, while Steve Lomas was recalled in centre midfield.
Ipswich were minus the services of the injured Nicky Forster and Sam Parkin, who today joined Luton Town in a £340,000 deal.
The match was only 60 seconds old when Rangers fashioned their first attack.
Ray Jones played a neat one-two with Gallen and the returning skipper saw his shot blocked by Alex Bruce.
Half-hearted appeals for a handball were waved away by referee Mr Mason, as the R's opened in style.
The curse of the Sky Sports cameras clearly wasn't playing on the minds of the R's players in the opening exchanges and when Nicky Ward was gifted time and space on the edge of the box, only another fantastic block by Bruce prevented the Aussie from registering the hosts' first shot on target.
Despite their precarious league position, Ipswich weren't here to defend for 90 minutes and when Mark Noble sent in an in-swinging free-kick on six minutes, Damion Stewart was in the right place at the right time to clear after Paul Jones failed to catch a routine cross.
Play soon switched to the other end; with the lively Ward sending a piercing drive a yard over the bar after a neat interchange with central midfield partner Lomas.
Cook soon got in on the act too, sending a sweet curling effort into the arms of the perfectly positioned Lewis Price.
Cook soon turned provider on 16 minutes, sending an inch-perfect cross into the box, which Jones headed high and wide under pressure from De Vos.
Clarke's neat turn and shot forced Jones to scramble across his goal two minutes later, but in truth, that was as good as it got for the Tractor Boys early on.
Clarke had the bit between his teeth by now and when Matthew Richards sent him in on the left flank in the 20th minute, his speculative half volley from an acute angle brought the best out of Jones, who tipped the ball wide for a corner.
As the clock hit the 30 minute mark, there was slight cause for concern for the R's when Blackstock went to ground under another heavy challenge from De Vos.
Thankfully for Waddock, his £500,000 signing from Southampton soon returned to the fray after lengthy treatment.
The goal the home faithful were crying out for should've arrived on 34 minutes.
But after Blackstock was sent clean through by strike partner Jones, his weak effort was easily palmed to safety by Price.
The game was really beginning to open up and De Vos squandered an even easier chance for the visitors a minute later, shooting straight at Jones from the edge of the six-yard box.
The Tractor Boys were growing in statute as the half wore on and from their very next attack; Clarke rattled the face of the crossbar from 10 yards after beating Zesh Rehman to Alan Lee's precise through ball.
The Sky Sports viewers were being treated to a feast of end-to-end football by now and when Cook sent in a teasing cross from an unorthodox position on the right flank, first Fabian Wilnis, and then Jones, failed to get the crucial touch that would've surely resulted in the opening goal of a free-flowing contest.
The second half took time to spring into life, but when it did, it was Ipswich loanee Mark Noble who took the initiative.
After picking up the ball on the right flank from Lee, the West Ham United midfielder cut inside before stinging the palms of Jones at his near post.
Ipswich's positive start failed to deter the R's though and when Blackstock sent in an enticing cross from the left flank in the 57th minute, Gallen had two bites at the cherry before poking the ball past Price from little more than a yard.
It may've been scrappy, but Gallen - nor his team-mates - could care less.
Unfortunately, all their hard work was undone a minute later when Damion Stewart was adjudged to have upended Gavin Williams in the box and Walton fired the ball under Jones from the spot for his first goal in an Ipswich shirt
The penalty award looked a harsh one in real time and the Sky Sports cameras only served to confirm what was a shocking decision by referee Mr Mason.
Buoyed by their goal, the visitors were beginning to enjoy the lion's share of possession and on 66 minutes, Harding forced Jones into a fine tip over, before Noble pummelled the right hand post with a stunning volley.
Rangers didn't heed the warning though and from the resultant corner, De Vos fired home at the back post to send the Ipswich fans into raptures.
Waddock threw caution to the wind, with the introduction of Shabazz Baidoo and Marc Bircham seeing the R's switch to an attacking 3-4-3 formation.
A speculative up-and-under from Gallen caused panic in the Ipswich box, with Jones and then Rehman seeing their efforts blocked.
But it was Ipswich who struck gold five minutes from time courtesy of second half substitute Bowditch.
The Town striker gave Jones absolutely no chance, sending his powerful back post header past the Welsh number one from the edge of the six-yard box.
QPR: P Jones, Rose, Rehman, Stewart, Milanese (Baidoo 76), Gallen, Lomas (Bircham 71), Ward, Cook, Blackstock, R Jones.
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Oliseh.
Scorers: Gallen 57
Ipswich Town: Price, Wilnis, Richards, De Vos, Bruce, Williams (Currie 90), Lee (Haynes 86), Noble, Walton, Harding, Clarke (Bowditch 76).
Subs: Naylor, Sito.
Scorers: Walton 59, De Vos 67, Bowditch 85
Referee: L S Mason
Attendance: 10, 918
QPR
SPORTING LIFE
Ipswich beat QPR 3-1 at Loftus Road on Friday to seal their first win of the season.
Trailing to Kevin Gallen's 58th-minute goal, Jim Magilton's men equalised through Simon Walton's penalty before Jason De Vos gave them the lead in the 67th minute and substitute Dean Bowditch sealed the triumph in the closing stages.
It was Ipswich's first victory in 16 attempts - their last came at home to Leicester on February 25 - and they were indebted to Gavin Williams, who had a hand in all three goals and was masterful in midfield.
After QPR took the lead, Ipswich bounced back within three minutes. Referee Lee Mason angered the home fans by ruling Damion Stewart had tripped Williams inside the box, and Walton - on loan from Charlton - steered the penalty under Paul Jones' body.
Williams was desperately unlucky not to give Ipswich the lead with a sweet 20-yard volley from Noble's 67th-minute corner that smacked against the right post and was turned behind for a corner by Gallen.
Ipswich's frustration lasted less than a minute, though, because Noble's resulting corner found the unmarked De Vos, who scored from four yards at the far post.
De Vos then proved his worth in his own area with a brave clearance to deny Stewart - and four minutes from time Ipswich wrapped it up when Williams' cross bounced off Rehman into the path of Bowditch, who headed in from six yards.
Sporting Life
IPSWICH PERSPECTIVE - IPSWICH OFFICIAL SITE
Goals from Simon Walton, Jason De Vos and Dean Bowditch rounded off a superb Town display as Jim Magilton celebrated his first win as Blues boss in style.
Kevin Gallen gave Rangers the lead against the run of play with a close range finish on 58 minutes but Blues were level on the hour, Walton converting from the penalty spot after Gavin Williams had been brought down.
De Vos scored his second goal in successive games on 68 minutes when he guided home Alan Lee's flick on with his left foot and Bowditch completed the scoring with a header after more good work by the outstanding Williams.
Town lined up with seven players under the age of 22, Billy Clarke making his first start of the season. Alex Bruce lined up alongside De Vos at the back in place of Richard Naylor with loanees Walton and Mark Noble both returning to the team after missing the Carling Cup defeat at Peterborough.
Clarke showed a sign of what was to come as early as the fifth minute, a lovely backheel almost putting Lee in on goal.
Matt Richards' free-kick was dropped by Paul Jones in the QPR goal seconds later under De Vos' challenge while at the other end, Nick Ward fired just over from 20 yards.
Clarke's pace again troubled the home defence and his cross was almost met by the onrushing Lee, Zesh Rehman just averting the danger.
Both sides continued to play good football at a high tempo, Ray Jones heading over at the far post, then Clarke sending a 25 yard drive just wide.
The Republic of Ireland U19 striker tested Jones with a powerful near post volley as Blues continued to create openings.
Richards almost embarrassed Jones with a 40 yard free-kick that beat the veteran Welsh international and the crossbar, before the QPR 'keeper's international team-mate, Lewis Price, produced an excellent save to deny Dexter Blackstock from close range on 33 minutes.
That sparked an array of chances at the other end with De Vos denied by Jones from six yards, then Clarke smashing a right foot shot against the bar after a marauding run by Lee.
Fabian Wilnis showed great awareness to avoid sending a dangerous Cook cross past Price into his own net, ducking under the ball at the last second and fooling Jones at the same time.
Price saved well from the lively Cook as an entertaining first-half drew to a close.
Town dominated the early stages of the second-half but it was Gary Waddock's side who took the lead. Bruce was off the pitch with a nose injury and Gallen took advantage,easing the ball past Price from three yards as he shrugged off Clarke's challenge.
Blues were level two minutes later, Williams went down under a challenge from Damion Stewart and Walton scored his first goal for the Club, tucking his strike under Jones from the penalty spot.
Mark Noble and Dan Harding both went close as Blues dominated possession and Williams rattled a post with a brilliant volley, De Vos just failing to force the ball home from the rebound.
From the resultant corner Blues deservedly went ahead, De Vos finding the net after Lee had flicked on.
Bowditch replaced the impressive Clarke on 75 minutes and soon after ended his Town goal drought that has lasted two months short of two years with a header from six yards after Williams had weaved his way into the Rangers' box.
It was the perfect way to end a perfect performance from Blues.
Town: Price, Wilnis, Bruce, De Vos, Harding, Noble, Williams (Currie 90), Walton, Richards, Lee (Haynes 87), Clarke (Bowditch 76). Subs not used: Sito, Naylor.
Ipswich
BBC Minute By Minute
Text Minute by Minute
QPR's Updated Club Directory - Penrice & Breaker out..Mackrell in
-
As of today, QPR are no longer listing Gary Penrice and Tim Breaker on the Club Staff Directory. New Chief Operating Officer, Graham Mackrell is added
QPR OFFICIAL SITE NEW Staff Directory
Chairman - Gianni Paladini
Non-executive Directors - Franco Zanotti, Olga Paladini, Antonio Caliendo
Club Secretary - Sheila Marson
Chief Operating Officer - Graham Mackrell
Chief Financial Officer - Chris Pennington
First Team Coaching Staff
Manager - Gary Waddock
Assistant Manager - Alan McDonald
Reserve Team Manager - Justin Skinner
Goalkeeper Coach - Tony Roberts
Physiotherapist - Prav Mathema
Assistant Physiotherapist - Bobby Bacic
Youth and Recruitment
Head of Youth - Joe Gallen
Head of Youth Recruitment - John O'Brien johnob@qpr.co.uk
Box Office
Box Office Manager - Jenny Elliott boxoffice@qpr.co.uk
Press Office
Press & Publications Manager - Jackie Bass: 020 8740 2536 jackieb@qpr.co.uk
Press & Publications Officer - Ian Taylor: 020 8740 2541 iant@qpr.co.uk
New Media Manager - Paul Morrissey: 020 8897 5419 paulm@qpr.co.uk
Commercial Department
Commercial Manager - Gary Hooper: 020 8740 2518 garyh@qpr.co.uk
Sales Administration Manager - Geraldine Field: 020 8740 2588 geraldinef@qpr.co.uk
Football in the Community
Community Scheme Manager - Andy Evans andye@qpr.co.uk
Ladies Football - Martino Chevannes martinoc@qpr.co.uk
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/StaffDirectory/0,,10373,00.html
As of today, QPR are no longer listing Gary Penrice and Tim Breaker on the Club Staff Directory. New Chief Operating Officer, Graham Mackrell is added
QPR OFFICIAL SITE NEW Staff Directory
Chairman - Gianni Paladini
Non-executive Directors - Franco Zanotti, Olga Paladini, Antonio Caliendo
Club Secretary - Sheila Marson
Chief Operating Officer - Graham Mackrell
Chief Financial Officer - Chris Pennington
First Team Coaching Staff
Manager - Gary Waddock
Assistant Manager - Alan McDonald
Reserve Team Manager - Justin Skinner
Goalkeeper Coach - Tony Roberts
Physiotherapist - Prav Mathema
Assistant Physiotherapist - Bobby Bacic
Youth and Recruitment
Head of Youth - Joe Gallen
Head of Youth Recruitment - John O'Brien johnob@qpr.co.uk
Box Office
Box Office Manager - Jenny Elliott boxoffice@qpr.co.uk
Press Office
Press & Publications Manager - Jackie Bass: 020 8740 2536 jackieb@qpr.co.uk
Press & Publications Officer - Ian Taylor: 020 8740 2541 iant@qpr.co.uk
New Media Manager - Paul Morrissey: 020 8897 5419 paulm@qpr.co.uk
Commercial Department
Commercial Manager - Gary Hooper: 020 8740 2518 garyh@qpr.co.uk
Sales Administration Manager - Geraldine Field: 020 8740 2588 geraldinef@qpr.co.uk
Football in the Community
Community Scheme Manager - Andy Evans andye@qpr.co.uk
Ladies Football - Martino Chevannes martinoc@qpr.co.uk
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/StaffDirectory/0,,10373,00.html
Northampton's Jerome Watt on QPR Game "I felt we were the better team..."
-
Northampton Official Site
Jerome enjoyed Carling Cup run out
Jerome Watt was a very happy man after scoring his first Cobblers goal in his first appearance.
"It was great to score a goal on my debut and I really enjoyed it," he said.
"There was no pass on for me and when I got the ball the play opened up in front of me and I fancied my chances of scoring.
"I struck it well and I thought that if it bounced the keeper would not get there and that was the case. The Gaffer told me to make an impact when I went on and hopefully I did that.
"I would love to stay here on a more permanent basis and hopefully the Gaffer and I can sort things out.
"I can play either wide left or wide right and I am happy to do a job wherever the Gaffer asks me to play.
"I had a ligament injury two years ago and it has been a struggle but I am fit now and hopefully I can kick on from here. I just want to play as much football as possible and see where we go from here.
"I thought we played really well on Tuesday night. I felt we were the better team and deserved better than to lose."
Northampton
Northampton Official Site
Jerome enjoyed Carling Cup run out
Jerome Watt was a very happy man after scoring his first Cobblers goal in his first appearance.
"It was great to score a goal on my debut and I really enjoyed it," he said.
"There was no pass on for me and when I got the ball the play opened up in front of me and I fancied my chances of scoring.
"I struck it well and I thought that if it bounced the keeper would not get there and that was the case. The Gaffer told me to make an impact when I went on and hopefully I did that.
"I would love to stay here on a more permanent basis and hopefully the Gaffer and I can sort things out.
"I can play either wide left or wide right and I am happy to do a job wherever the Gaffer asks me to play.
"I had a ligament injury two years ago and it has been a struggle but I am fit now and hopefully I can kick on from here. I just want to play as much football as possible and see where we go from here.
"I thought we played really well on Tuesday night. I felt we were the better team and deserved better than to lose."
Northampton
QPR vs Ipswich
-
The Times -QPR to enjoy Friday night out
CHAMPIONSHIP BY ANDY STEPHENS
QUEENS PARK RANGERS have made an encouraging start to the new season and look a good bet to breach Ipswich Town’s wobbly defence sooner rather than later when the clubs meet in a Championship clash at Loftus Road on Friday night.
*Sporting Index quote the time of QPR’s first goal in the match at between 50 and 53 minutes, and the evidence of this season suggests that is well worth a sell.
QPR scored twice before half-time in their win over Southend United a fortnight ago and followed that up by taking a fifth-minute lead away to Preston North End, only to be pegged back near the finish. Then, on Tuesday night, Lee Cook scored in the eighteenth minute to lay the foundations for a 3-2 win over Northampton Town in the Carling Cup.
Ipswich should, of course, be stronger than Northampton, but the Tractor Boys have yet to get out of first gear this campaign. One point from their first four league matches (gained at home against lowly Hull City) suggests new manager Jim Magilton has his work cut out and, on Tuesday, Town suffered the indignation of being knocked out of the Carling Cup by Peterborough United. The game ended 2-2 after extra-time, before Posh won on penalties.
Ipswich had four players booked and that, perhaps, indicates that tempers in Suffolk are already becoming a little frayed. With that in mind, a buy of the bookings at 38 could also be in order in a market that awards ten points per booking and 25 for each sending off.
Times
Ipswich Official Site
ll black for Blues
Town will be wearing an all black kit for Friday night's visit to QPR.
Blues' home and away shirts clash with QPR's blue and white hoops so a one-off black kit has been produced.
New look
Town have worn black before in similar circumstances, against Blackburn in the 2001/02 Premiership season.
A limited number of the shirts will go on sale in Planet Blue stores and on-line in October and will be sold on a first come first served basis. No facility to pre-order will be available.
Ipswich
Trio back for Rangers
Simon Walton, Mark Noble and Gavin Williams return to the squad for Friday's trip to QPR after missing the midweek Carling Cup defeat at Peterborough.
Gavin has recovered from a toe injury while loanees Mark and Simon were both left out of the Cup-tie at the request of their clubs, West Ham and Charlton.
Nick Forster misses the visit to Loftus Road though with a groin injury.
The squad
Bowditch
Brittain
Bruce
Casement
Clarke
Currie
De Vos
Harding
Haynes
Lee
Naylor
Noble
Price
Richards
Sito
Supple
Walton
Williams
Wilnis
Ipswich
Ipwsich Offical Site - Parkin
Boss wants Sam decision
Jim Magilton wants a conclusion to Sam Parkin's future as soon as possible after confirming Blues have accepted bids from Preston and Luton for the frontman.
The 26-year-old striker has been the subject of interest from both Championship clubs over the past three weeks and the Town boss is keen to see an end to the matter one way or another.
Sam - interest
"Luton and Preston have made bids which have been accepted by the Club and now it's down to Sam what he wants to do," says Jim.
"Things have not really turned out here as well as Sam would have hoped for and I can't see him staying at the Club.
"I would like to get things sorted out as soon as possible, hopefully by the weekend."
Ipswich
QPR Official Site
IPSWICH
After a summer of change at Portman Road, the seemingly complex task of guiding the Tractor Boys back to the promised land of the Premiership now lies in the hands of Jim Magilton.
The rise and fall of Ipswich Town in recent years is a quite remarkable story.
Long gone are the days when the Blues were competing in the upper reaches of the top tier in English football - the harsh reality for Ipswich fans now is the need to safeguard their Championship future.
The high-profile dismissal of Joe Royle in the summer was met with shock in East Anglia and the poor start made by Magilton's men this season has only served to compound such worries.
A pointless return from their opening three Championship fixtures was hardly the start Magilton and his new backroom team would have been craving, although Saturday's point at home to Hull City at least provides them with hope.
"It was a great effort,'' said Magilton in the wake of the 0-0 draw with the Tigers.
"We approached the match in the right manner and on balance deserved to win.
"We must build on the clean sheet and go forward from there. We were nervy to start with but the fans did their best to lift us.
"We created chances and on another day might have won handsomely.''
R's fans will be praying Ipswich's long-awaited maiden win of the campaign doesn't arrive in front of the Sky Sports cameras on Friday tonight.....
Top scorer
Forster, De Vos, Clarke, Richards (all 1)
Last league game
Peterborough 2, Ipswich Town 2 (Posh won 4-2 on pens).
Football League Cup, first round.
August 22nd 2006.
Ipswich Town: Price, Wilnis (Casement 84), De Vos, Naylor, Harding, Currie (Clarke 64), Bruce, Richards, Bowditch, Forster (Brittain 39), Haynes.
Subs Not Used: Sito, Trotter.
Ipswich gaffer Jim Magilton
Magilton on Posh: "We paid the price for giving away two sloppy goals, but we had enough chances to have won the game comfortably.
"We had nine players out there under 22 and that all bodes well for the future. We were obviously under pressure after four games without a win coming into this match and I didn't feel it was right to start with some of them.
"I didn't want them to be put into a pressure-cooker situation, but they handled it well and we have to move on from here and look forward to a big game at QPR on Friday night."
Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds
QPR 6/5
Ipswich 9/4
draw 11/5
Key player: Darren CURRIE
The nephew of former England and Sheffield United midfielder, Tony Currie, Town shelled out £250,000 for the services of Darren Currie (below) in December 2004.
The midfielder marked his debut against the R's 24 hours after signing by scoring in a 4-2 win at Loftus Road.
Star man - Darren Currie
Head to head
Rangers wins: 19
Ipswich wins: 20
Draws: 15
Last meeting
Ipswich Town 2 (De Vos, Haynes), QPR 2 (Moore, Furlong).
Football League Championship.
December 10th 2005.
Latest news on our opponents
Nicky Forster is out of Friday's game at QPR after sustaining a groin injury in the Carling Cup shoot-out defeat at Peterborough.
The Town striker was replaced by Martin Brittain in the first-half of the visit to London Road after falling awkwardly.
"Fozzie has a small tear in his abductor muscle and will definitely miss the QPR game," Town physio Dave Williams told the Club website.
"The injury is likely to keep him out for around two weeks so it's touch and go for the Southampton match as well."
(source: Ipswich Town FC website)
QPR
The Times -QPR to enjoy Friday night out
CHAMPIONSHIP BY ANDY STEPHENS
QUEENS PARK RANGERS have made an encouraging start to the new season and look a good bet to breach Ipswich Town’s wobbly defence sooner rather than later when the clubs meet in a Championship clash at Loftus Road on Friday night.
*Sporting Index quote the time of QPR’s first goal in the match at between 50 and 53 minutes, and the evidence of this season suggests that is well worth a sell.
QPR scored twice before half-time in their win over Southend United a fortnight ago and followed that up by taking a fifth-minute lead away to Preston North End, only to be pegged back near the finish. Then, on Tuesday night, Lee Cook scored in the eighteenth minute to lay the foundations for a 3-2 win over Northampton Town in the Carling Cup.
Ipswich should, of course, be stronger than Northampton, but the Tractor Boys have yet to get out of first gear this campaign. One point from their first four league matches (gained at home against lowly Hull City) suggests new manager Jim Magilton has his work cut out and, on Tuesday, Town suffered the indignation of being knocked out of the Carling Cup by Peterborough United. The game ended 2-2 after extra-time, before Posh won on penalties.
Ipswich had four players booked and that, perhaps, indicates that tempers in Suffolk are already becoming a little frayed. With that in mind, a buy of the bookings at 38 could also be in order in a market that awards ten points per booking and 25 for each sending off.
Times
Ipswich Official Site
ll black for Blues
Town will be wearing an all black kit for Friday night's visit to QPR.
Blues' home and away shirts clash with QPR's blue and white hoops so a one-off black kit has been produced.
New look
Town have worn black before in similar circumstances, against Blackburn in the 2001/02 Premiership season.
A limited number of the shirts will go on sale in Planet Blue stores and on-line in October and will be sold on a first come first served basis. No facility to pre-order will be available.
Ipswich
Trio back for Rangers
Simon Walton, Mark Noble and Gavin Williams return to the squad for Friday's trip to QPR after missing the midweek Carling Cup defeat at Peterborough.
Gavin has recovered from a toe injury while loanees Mark and Simon were both left out of the Cup-tie at the request of their clubs, West Ham and Charlton.
Nick Forster misses the visit to Loftus Road though with a groin injury.
The squad
Bowditch
Brittain
Bruce
Casement
Clarke
Currie
De Vos
Harding
Haynes
Lee
Naylor
Noble
Price
Richards
Sito
Supple
Walton
Williams
Wilnis
Ipswich
Ipwsich Offical Site - Parkin
Boss wants Sam decision
Jim Magilton wants a conclusion to Sam Parkin's future as soon as possible after confirming Blues have accepted bids from Preston and Luton for the frontman.
The 26-year-old striker has been the subject of interest from both Championship clubs over the past three weeks and the Town boss is keen to see an end to the matter one way or another.
Sam - interest
"Luton and Preston have made bids which have been accepted by the Club and now it's down to Sam what he wants to do," says Jim.
"Things have not really turned out here as well as Sam would have hoped for and I can't see him staying at the Club.
"I would like to get things sorted out as soon as possible, hopefully by the weekend."
Ipswich
QPR Official Site
IPSWICH
After a summer of change at Portman Road, the seemingly complex task of guiding the Tractor Boys back to the promised land of the Premiership now lies in the hands of Jim Magilton.
The rise and fall of Ipswich Town in recent years is a quite remarkable story.
Long gone are the days when the Blues were competing in the upper reaches of the top tier in English football - the harsh reality for Ipswich fans now is the need to safeguard their Championship future.
The high-profile dismissal of Joe Royle in the summer was met with shock in East Anglia and the poor start made by Magilton's men this season has only served to compound such worries.
A pointless return from their opening three Championship fixtures was hardly the start Magilton and his new backroom team would have been craving, although Saturday's point at home to Hull City at least provides them with hope.
"It was a great effort,'' said Magilton in the wake of the 0-0 draw with the Tigers.
"We approached the match in the right manner and on balance deserved to win.
"We must build on the clean sheet and go forward from there. We were nervy to start with but the fans did their best to lift us.
"We created chances and on another day might have won handsomely.''
R's fans will be praying Ipswich's long-awaited maiden win of the campaign doesn't arrive in front of the Sky Sports cameras on Friday tonight.....
Top scorer
Forster, De Vos, Clarke, Richards (all 1)
Last league game
Peterborough 2, Ipswich Town 2 (Posh won 4-2 on pens).
Football League Cup, first round.
August 22nd 2006.
Ipswich Town: Price, Wilnis (Casement 84), De Vos, Naylor, Harding, Currie (Clarke 64), Bruce, Richards, Bowditch, Forster (Brittain 39), Haynes.
Subs Not Used: Sito, Trotter.
Ipswich gaffer Jim Magilton
Magilton on Posh: "We paid the price for giving away two sloppy goals, but we had enough chances to have won the game comfortably.
"We had nine players out there under 22 and that all bodes well for the future. We were obviously under pressure after four games without a win coming into this match and I didn't feel it was right to start with some of them.
"I didn't want them to be put into a pressure-cooker situation, but they handled it well and we have to move on from here and look forward to a big game at QPR on Friday night."
Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds
QPR 6/5
Ipswich 9/4
draw 11/5
Key player: Darren CURRIE
The nephew of former England and Sheffield United midfielder, Tony Currie, Town shelled out £250,000 for the services of Darren Currie (below) in December 2004.
The midfielder marked his debut against the R's 24 hours after signing by scoring in a 4-2 win at Loftus Road.
Star man - Darren Currie
Head to head
Rangers wins: 19
Ipswich wins: 20
Draws: 15
Last meeting
Ipswich Town 2 (De Vos, Haynes), QPR 2 (Moore, Furlong).
Football League Championship.
December 10th 2005.
Latest news on our opponents
Nicky Forster is out of Friday's game at QPR after sustaining a groin injury in the Carling Cup shoot-out defeat at Peterborough.
The Town striker was replaced by Martin Brittain in the first-half of the visit to London Road after falling awkwardly.
"Fozzie has a small tear in his abductor muscle and will definitely miss the QPR game," Town physio Dave Williams told the Club website.
"The injury is likely to keep him out for around two weeks so it's touch and go for the Southampton match as well."
(source: Ipswich Town FC website)
QPR
Aug 25 Season Openers...1973-Southampton...1984-WBA...1990-Nottm Forest
-
August 25, 1973: QPR 1 Southampton 1
QPR's First Game back in the First Division under Gordon Jago/Bobby Campbell. At home to Southampton. With John Delve replacing suspended Gerry Francis, QPR drew 1-1
Parkes
Clement Mancini Hazell Watson
Venables Delve Leach
Thomas Bowles Givens
August 25th 1984 QPR 3 WBA 1:
Alan Mullery's first game in charge of QPR having replaced Terry Venables (and the one-week appointment of Gordon Jago).: Things good looked aug 25 1984 ...With 2 wins and 2 draws from our first 4 games things looked good...Then came a 0-5 defeat at Spurs; THE 5-5 draw at home to Newcastle...and after 17 games, Mullery was axed.
Hucker
Neil Wicks Fenwick Dawes
Stewart Gregory Fillery Mickelwhite
Stainrod Bannister
Fereday
Aug 25 1990: Nottingham Forest 1 QPR 1
Don Howe started his first (and only) full season in charge of QPR having replaced Trevor Francis half-way through the previous season.
Roberts
Sansom Bardsley McDonald Maddix
Channing Sinton Wilkins Wilson
Falco Wegerle
Subs: Barker Ferdinand
Goal - Wegerle
Some other August 25 Games - But NOT opening Games
Aug 25, 2003 Rushden 3 QPR 3
Aug 25 2001 QPR 0 Reading 0
Aug 25 1999 QPR 0 Cardiff 1 - League Cup
Aug 25 1993 Chelsea 2 QPR 0
Aug 25 1979 QPR 1 Leicester 4 (Tommy Docherty's Allen/Goddard's QPR!)
August 25, 1973: QPR 1 Southampton 1
QPR's First Game back in the First Division under Gordon Jago/Bobby Campbell. At home to Southampton. With John Delve replacing suspended Gerry Francis, QPR drew 1-1
Parkes
Clement Mancini Hazell Watson
Venables Delve Leach
Thomas Bowles Givens
August 25th 1984 QPR 3 WBA 1:
Alan Mullery's first game in charge of QPR having replaced Terry Venables (and the one-week appointment of Gordon Jago).: Things good looked aug 25 1984 ...With 2 wins and 2 draws from our first 4 games things looked good...Then came a 0-5 defeat at Spurs; THE 5-5 draw at home to Newcastle...and after 17 games, Mullery was axed.
Hucker
Neil Wicks Fenwick Dawes
Stewart Gregory Fillery Mickelwhite
Stainrod Bannister
Fereday
Aug 25 1990: Nottingham Forest 1 QPR 1
Don Howe started his first (and only) full season in charge of QPR having replaced Trevor Francis half-way through the previous season.
Roberts
Sansom Bardsley McDonald Maddix
Channing Sinton Wilkins Wilson
Falco Wegerle
Subs: Barker Ferdinand
Goal - Wegerle
Some other August 25 Games - But NOT opening Games
Aug 25, 2003 Rushden 3 QPR 3
Aug 25 2001 QPR 0 Reading 0
Aug 25 1999 QPR 0 Cardiff 1 - League Cup
Aug 25 1993 Chelsea 2 QPR 0
Aug 25 1979 QPR 1 Leicester 4 (Tommy Docherty's Allen/Goddard's QPR!)
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Penrice and Breaker Set to Join Holloway at Plymouth
-
Plymouth Official Site Announcement
IAN Holloway's back-room team at Argyle will be completed next month when coaches Gary Penrice and Tim Breacker finalise their moves from Queens Park Rangers.
The two have been in limbo since the Pilgrims' new manager himself was put on gardening leave by Rangers' chairman Gianni Paladini towards the end of last season.
However, that situation is set to be resolved, and Holloway believes that Argyle will benefit from the input of his trusted lieutenants.
"They've both got to go back to QPR for their deals to be settled but they have agreed their contracts with us," said Holloway. "That's vital for me, and vital for us.
"Hopefully, they will be starting on September 1, providing their negotiations go okay with Gianni Paladini, which I'm sure they will.
"All I've been doing is trying to get my staff, my players - hopefully those two situations will be sorted in the next couple of days. I'm delighted."
FIFA 07
Plymouth
Plymouth Official Site Announcement
IAN Holloway's back-room team at Argyle will be completed next month when coaches Gary Penrice and Tim Breacker finalise their moves from Queens Park Rangers.
The two have been in limbo since the Pilgrims' new manager himself was put on gardening leave by Rangers' chairman Gianni Paladini towards the end of last season.
However, that situation is set to be resolved, and Holloway believes that Argyle will benefit from the input of his trusted lieutenants.
"They've both got to go back to QPR for their deals to be settled but they have agreed their contracts with us," said Holloway. "That's vital for me, and vital for us.
"Hopefully, they will be starting on September 1, providing their negotiations go okay with Gianni Paladini, which I'm sure they will.
"All I've been doing is trying to get my staff, my players - hopefully those two situations will be sorted in the next couple of days. I'm delighted."
FIFA 07
Plymouth
QPR Appoint Mackrell Chief Operating Officer (A Year to the Day after making CEO Position Redundant)
-
GRAHAM MACKRELL'S QPR'S NEW CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
The appointment of Graham Mackrell in the new position of QPR's Chief Operating Officer comes a year to the day after QPR's Board Meeting which saw Mark Devlin's position as Chief Operating Officer, made redundant (and of course also saw QPR Chairman Bill Power ousted).
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - GRAHAM MACKRELL APPOINT CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
QPR are delighted to announce the appointment of Graham Mackrell, as Chief Operating Officer.
A qualified accountant, Mackrell will offer assistance to the board, with the focus on improving the Club's off-the-field activities.
"I'm really looking forward to the challenge ahead,'' Mackrell told qpr.co.uk.
"QPR is a club with fantastic tradition and I'm excited about the prospect of working with the strong team we already have in place here.
"I'm here to add professionalism and my aim is to ensure the Club's off-the-field ambitions match those on it.''
Mackrell has worked in professional football for 25 years, including spells at Sheffield Wednesday, Luton Town, AFC Bournemouth and West Ham United.
He is also a Venue Director for UEFA.
Chairman Gianni Paladini is delighted to have Mackrell on board, commenting: "Graham will raise our profile within football thanks to his extensive work with UEFA and the League Managers Association.
"He is extremely well-known and respected within the game and also benefits from being a qualified accountant.
"I would like to wish Graham all the best and welcome him to QPR.''
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
League Managers Association Mini Profile
Graham Mackrell - Commercial Consultant
Graham is responsible for handling the Association's Commercial and Sponsorship relationships, including the LMA website.
He has spent over 25 years in professional football and worked in the game at all levels during his time at AFC Bournemouth, Luton Town, Sheffield Wednesday and West Ham United. In addition he has gained international Event Management experience with The Football Association and UEFA
A Fellow of the Chartered Association of Certified Accountants and a Trustee of the Football League Pension Scheme, he is also a UEFA Venue Director in the Champions League and a Match Delegate in the Barclays Premiership
League Managers Association
Mackrell is - or was- listed as one of two directors of Sports Assets Management Ltd.
Graham Mackrell Company Secretary
West Ham Football Club Describing his job
YOU REALLY have to be a football fan to make the most of this job. However, by the same token you can't do the job properly if you aren't able to stand removed from the emotion of football. It's a very delicate balance. You need to have, and keep, strong business discipline in what is an extremely emotive sport. And the decisions you make are important ones, especially with salaries starting to accelerate in the way they are at the moment. Like Marks & Spencer, you are judged by the product you've got in the shops. But you have to balance that with what it'll cost you. You've also got to be a good communicator. Again, it's a question of balance - opinions need to be translated into language accessible to professionals and to the fans. Over the past few years Peter Robinson, vice-chairman of Liverpool, is the person who has brought the greatest amount of professionalism to the industry.
Independent
From Ten Years Ago
STOKED MACKRELL TAKES OVER NEW ROLE
Tuesday 24 December 1996
Sheffield Wednesday's growing in influence off the field in the corridors of football power can be seen by the appointment of secretary Graham Mackrell to yet another prestigious role.
During the summer he was the centre director for Euro 96 at Hillsborough and he has now been chosen as chairman of the Institute of Football Management and Administration.
There has been increasing speculation linking him with the top job of chief executive to the Premier League which is currently held by Rick Parry who will be soon joining Liverpool when his notice has been served.
Mackrell has been an important figure at the FA over the past few years and is tipped as a man to lead the FA into the millennium.
Graham Mackrell said: "It's quite an honour."
The areas of responsibility include four separate associations which govern the affairs of managers, commercial managers, administrators and management staff and its brief is also concerned with training and organisation.
This appointment adds to the role of Owls' chairman Dave Richards who is a member of the FA Council and was recently a Premier League candidate who contested the election to find a new FA Chairman.
Mackrell will take up the new appointment in the New Year.
4 The Game
Resignation from West Ham
Monday, 20 December, 1999,
Hammers' secretary resigns
West Ham company secretary Graham Mackrell has resigned in the wake of the Emmanuel Omoyimni affair.
Omoyimni played for the Hammers in their Worthington Cup quarter-final against Aston Villa, having already represented Gillingham in the same competition this season.
It was a little error but unfortunately it has had large consequences for the club.
Graham Mackrell
Mackrell said: "I thought it was the right decision to make. We acted upon information which was given to me that the player was eligible to play.
"It patently wasn't correct and as a result I'm responsible, and I felt the only honourable thing to do was to resign.
"The club have won a match and they're being forced to replay it.
"That's very unfortunate for the players and particularly our supporters."
Aston Villa have been given a second chance
It was revealed on Friday that the Hammers, who have not played at Wembley since 1981, had fielded an ineligible player.
Villa, who went out of the Worthington Cup after Gareth Southgate missed the crucial penalty, immediately demanded they be reinstated in the competition and on Saturday the Football League announced the game would be replayed at Upton Park next year.
Mackrell has been at the club for just six months after moving from Sheffield Wednesday. He will stay with West Ham until a new appointment is made.
Hammers' football secretary Alison O'Dowd has also resigned.
West Ham chairman Terence Brown said: "The board would like to thank Mr Mackrell for all his hard work on behalf of the club since his appointment in June.
"We feel Graham has made an honourable decision but it seems a high price to have to pay for what was a small and genuine administrative error."
BBC
GRAHAM MACKRELL'S QPR'S NEW CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
The appointment of Graham Mackrell in the new position of QPR's Chief Operating Officer comes a year to the day after QPR's Board Meeting which saw Mark Devlin's position as Chief Operating Officer, made redundant (and of course also saw QPR Chairman Bill Power ousted).
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - GRAHAM MACKRELL APPOINT CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
QPR are delighted to announce the appointment of Graham Mackrell, as Chief Operating Officer.
A qualified accountant, Mackrell will offer assistance to the board, with the focus on improving the Club's off-the-field activities.
"I'm really looking forward to the challenge ahead,'' Mackrell told qpr.co.uk.
"QPR is a club with fantastic tradition and I'm excited about the prospect of working with the strong team we already have in place here.
"I'm here to add professionalism and my aim is to ensure the Club's off-the-field ambitions match those on it.''
Mackrell has worked in professional football for 25 years, including spells at Sheffield Wednesday, Luton Town, AFC Bournemouth and West Ham United.
He is also a Venue Director for UEFA.
Chairman Gianni Paladini is delighted to have Mackrell on board, commenting: "Graham will raise our profile within football thanks to his extensive work with UEFA and the League Managers Association.
"He is extremely well-known and respected within the game and also benefits from being a qualified accountant.
"I would like to wish Graham all the best and welcome him to QPR.''
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
League Managers Association Mini Profile
Graham Mackrell - Commercial Consultant
Graham is responsible for handling the Association's Commercial and Sponsorship relationships, including the LMA website.
He has spent over 25 years in professional football and worked in the game at all levels during his time at AFC Bournemouth, Luton Town, Sheffield Wednesday and West Ham United. In addition he has gained international Event Management experience with The Football Association and UEFA
A Fellow of the Chartered Association of Certified Accountants and a Trustee of the Football League Pension Scheme, he is also a UEFA Venue Director in the Champions League and a Match Delegate in the Barclays Premiership
League Managers Association
Mackrell is - or was- listed as one of two directors of Sports Assets Management Ltd.
Graham Mackrell Company Secretary
West Ham Football Club Describing his job
YOU REALLY have to be a football fan to make the most of this job. However, by the same token you can't do the job properly if you aren't able to stand removed from the emotion of football. It's a very delicate balance. You need to have, and keep, strong business discipline in what is an extremely emotive sport. And the decisions you make are important ones, especially with salaries starting to accelerate in the way they are at the moment. Like Marks & Spencer, you are judged by the product you've got in the shops. But you have to balance that with what it'll cost you. You've also got to be a good communicator. Again, it's a question of balance - opinions need to be translated into language accessible to professionals and to the fans. Over the past few years Peter Robinson, vice-chairman of Liverpool, is the person who has brought the greatest amount of professionalism to the industry.
Independent
From Ten Years Ago
STOKED MACKRELL TAKES OVER NEW ROLE
Tuesday 24 December 1996
Sheffield Wednesday's growing in influence off the field in the corridors of football power can be seen by the appointment of secretary Graham Mackrell to yet another prestigious role.
During the summer he was the centre director for Euro 96 at Hillsborough and he has now been chosen as chairman of the Institute of Football Management and Administration.
There has been increasing speculation linking him with the top job of chief executive to the Premier League which is currently held by Rick Parry who will be soon joining Liverpool when his notice has been served.
Mackrell has been an important figure at the FA over the past few years and is tipped as a man to lead the FA into the millennium.
Graham Mackrell said: "It's quite an honour."
The areas of responsibility include four separate associations which govern the affairs of managers, commercial managers, administrators and management staff and its brief is also concerned with training and organisation.
This appointment adds to the role of Owls' chairman Dave Richards who is a member of the FA Council and was recently a Premier League candidate who contested the election to find a new FA Chairman.
Mackrell will take up the new appointment in the New Year.
4 The Game
Resignation from West Ham
Monday, 20 December, 1999,
Hammers' secretary resigns
West Ham company secretary Graham Mackrell has resigned in the wake of the Emmanuel Omoyimni affair.
Omoyimni played for the Hammers in their Worthington Cup quarter-final against Aston Villa, having already represented Gillingham in the same competition this season.
It was a little error but unfortunately it has had large consequences for the club.
Graham Mackrell
Mackrell said: "I thought it was the right decision to make. We acted upon information which was given to me that the player was eligible to play.
"It patently wasn't correct and as a result I'm responsible, and I felt the only honourable thing to do was to resign.
"The club have won a match and they're being forced to replay it.
"That's very unfortunate for the players and particularly our supporters."
Aston Villa have been given a second chance
It was revealed on Friday that the Hammers, who have not played at Wembley since 1981, had fielded an ineligible player.
Villa, who went out of the Worthington Cup after Gareth Southgate missed the crucial penalty, immediately demanded they be reinstated in the competition and on Saturday the Football League announced the game would be replayed at Upton Park next year.
Mackrell has been at the club for just six months after moving from Sheffield Wednesday. He will stay with West Ham until a new appointment is made.
Hammers' football secretary Alison O'Dowd has also resigned.
West Ham chairman Terence Brown said: "The board would like to thank Mr Mackrell for all his hard work on behalf of the club since his appointment in June.
"We feel Graham has made an honourable decision but it seems a high price to have to pay for what was a small and genuine administrative error."
BBC
Remembering Barry Bridges: 38 Years Ago Today made his QPR Debut...
-
Thirty-eight years ago today, QPR's 50,000 pound record signing from Birmingham, former England International (and ex-Chelsea) forward Barry Bridges made his QPR debut at home to the Champions, Manchester City. (QPR drew 1-1 with Bridges of course scoring). Bridges ended up joint top scorer (along with Mick Leach) with 8 goals in 27 appearances. In our first season back in the second division, Bridges scored 21 goals in 38 games, in a dynamic forward line of Marsh, Clarke and Bridges with Venables in midfield.
Then the following season, Bridges was sold to Millwall. His last QPR game was in September 1970: QPR's 6-2 defeat at Middlesbrough in which QPR were 2-0 in the first five minutes!
See Bridges
Wikipedia
Thirty-eight years ago today, QPR's 50,000 pound record signing from Birmingham, former England International (and ex-Chelsea) forward Barry Bridges made his QPR debut at home to the Champions, Manchester City. (QPR drew 1-1 with Bridges of course scoring). Bridges ended up joint top scorer (along with Mick Leach) with 8 goals in 27 appearances. In our first season back in the second division, Bridges scored 21 goals in 38 games, in a dynamic forward line of Marsh, Clarke and Bridges with Venables in midfield.
Then the following season, Bridges was sold to Millwall. His last QPR game was in September 1970: QPR's 6-2 defeat at Middlesbrough in which QPR were 2-0 in the first five minutes!
See Bridges
Wikipedia
Ex-QPR's Leroy Rosenoir Turns 42
-
Leroy Rosenoir Turns 42
Signed by Jim Smith from Fulham in 1985, Rosenoir was with QPR for two seasons, playing 38 games scoring 7 goals. Was sold back to Fulham in 1987. Now currently manager at Brentford.
Rosenoir
Leroy Rosenoir Turns 42
Signed by Jim Smith from Fulham in 1985, Rosenoir was with QPR for two seasons, playing 38 games scoring 7 goals. Was sold back to Fulham in 1987. Now currently manager at Brentford.
Rosenoir
QPR's Boardroom "Coup" - One Year Later
-
A Year ago, today, QPR's Boardroom "Coup" took place.
Some days after "The alleged Incident" at Loftus Road before the Sheffield United game, Dunga controversially flew in...The Board met...Bill Power and Mark Devlin went home...and Bill Power was controversially voted out and Mark Devlin was made redundant. But this was just the start of quite a year.
BBC- Power is removed as QPR chairman
Gianni Paladini has taken control at Loftus Road
Queens Park Rangers chairman Bill Power has been removed and chief executive Mark Devlin sacked.
Director Gianni Paladini, backed by Monaco-based groups that bought shares in Rangers last year, moved to oust Power at a board meeting on Wednesday.
Power, who was a close ally of the Italian before their relationship turned sour, was voted out and Devlin told he was being fired.
But Power and his supporters are likely to challenge the legality of the move.
Both Power and the Monaco groups were keen to increase their shareholding.
Power's camp were undone by former Brazil captain Carlos Dunga unexpectedly flying in from Japan to vote with Paladini.
Dunga represents one of the Monaco groups but little has been heard of him since he was made a director last summer.
Wednesday's board meeting was the first the World Cup winner has attended.
Power and Paladini joined forces to topple the previous board 14 months ago, but there have been bitter divisions since.
Paladini is now in control at Loftus Road and is likely to take over Devlin's duties.
A new chairman is expected to be named shortly.
BBC
QPR Official Statement - August 25, 2005
TATEMENT
The Board of QPR Holdings Ltd has decided that Mr Mark Devlin's position as Chief Executive Officer is to be made redundant with immediate effect.
Mr Bill Power is no longer Chairman of the Board but remains as a Director.
Mr Gualtiero Trucco has been appointed interim Chairman of the Board.
Bill Power and Director Kevin McGrath do not recognise the validity of these decisions which were taken at yesterday's Board meeting in their absence.
They are currently seeking legal advice with regards to these decisions
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
SPORTING LIFE - QPR POWER STRUGGLE GOES ON
QPR manager Ian Holloway has attacked the boardroom chaos threatening to derail the club - and admitted his future is uncertain.
Bill Power and Mark Devlin were ousted as Rangers chairman and chief executive respectively in a boardroom coup earlier this week, allowing director Gianni Paladini to seize effective control of the club.
Power continues to fight his demotion and is expected to mount a legal challenge, but manager Holloway could now be under pressure - former Rangers player and Aston Villa manager John Gregory was in the directors' box for Friday's home match against Sheffield Wednesday.
"We've had two bad results [at Coventry and Northampton], but whether I remain here is another matter," Holloway said.
"If they want me, great, if they don't then that's life.
"Hopefully the people in the boardroom can sort our their squabbles. They need to sort it out. They are directors - they need to direct the club."
Paladini attracted two Monaco-based groups of investors to the club when it was in dire financial straits last summer and one of their number - fellow Italian Gualtiero Trucco - has been installed as interim chairman.
Holloway led Rangers to 11th place in the Championship last term following their promotion from the old Division Two the previous season.
But Holloway has had to deal with boardroom instability throughout his reign - and he hinted he was growing tired of it.
"The supporters don't know the facts," he told BBC London 94.9 FM.
"It's not a nice situation to be in. I've been through three boards since I've been here and I'm not happy about that.
"We don't want to wash our dirty linen in public. QPR is a baton that's been handed around.
"When the board get fed up, when the supporters get fed up, they can get someone else."
Sporting Life
The Guardian -
Rangers raise a point despite boardroom chaos
"Arindam Rej at Loftus Road
Saturday August 27, 2005
The Guardian
Trouble is mounting at QPR. A boardroom power struggle has unsettled the club to such an extent that this result was peripheral for their fans. The sooner they find out who their next chairman is, the better.
Not that focusing on this point would have cheered them up. They failed to overcome a Wednesday side who picked up three injuries in 51 minutes and were reduced to 10 men for the final 15.
Bill Power is expected to mount a legal challenge after his removal as chairman, during a board meeting this week in which the chief executive Mark Devlin was also sacked. Rangers' director Gianni Paladini has taken control, with Gualtiero Trucco as the interim chairman.
Background worries are not unusual but this month the events have been scarcely believable. Paladini, whose long-held ambition is to run a football club, had his resignation demanded when he was threatened with a gun before the game with Sheffield United.
The club was further startled by this week's news. Power and Paladini had worked together to bring down the previous regime 14 months ago but relations have deteriorated to such an extent that Power, despite remaining a director, has lost his job. More bizarrely Power still claims he is chairman....
Guardian
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - August 30, 2005 -
BRIGHT FUTURE
Gianni Paladini has promised a bright future for Queens Park Rangers following the changes at Boardroom level last week.
Bill Power is no longer Chairman and Mark Devlin's position as Chief Executive was made redundant following a Board meeting at Loftus Road.
But the Director insists that the decisions taken were made with only the Club's interest at heart and he has played down suggestions of turmoil at the highest level.
"I am still friends with Bill. We go out for lunch and we talk on the phone every day. I have no problem with Bill.
"This is not about individuals or personalities, it is about the future of this great Club and all of us - Bill included -want nothing more than to see QPR continue to grow and improve."
Paladini is also sympathetic with supporters who may have been worried about the situation.
He appreciates that the supporters are concerned and has stressed that their feelings are at the forefront of his mind.
"The supporters are what makes this Club great and from the moment I arrived at Loftus Road I have been overwhelmed by their passion and devotion.
"All supporters will worry when they see change and I can understand that. But I believe that change was necessary for long term stability.
"The investors and directors are ambitious - I am ambitious - but we are not turning things upside down. We are going to make sensible steady progress and take Rangers back to where we belong - the Premiership."
Paladini also believes that the root of stability lies with the manager and that is why he hopes to sit down with Ian Holloway this week to discuss a new contract.
"Ollie is responsible for so much that has happened here during the past few years. Our successes on the pitch are down to him and he should be rewarded accordingly."
QPR
BILL POWER STATEMENT, QPR OFFICIAL SITE - September 1, 2005
Today following advice from my doctor and after lengthy discussions with my family and each member of the board I am confirming my departure as chairman of QPR.
I am well aware of the feelings of supporters having received literally hundreds of goodwill messages. But I must be selfish and think of my own health and also the health of two family members, both lifelong R's - my beautiful mum and my lovely father-in-law, who are both in hospital and not in the best of health.
I have been in discussions for the last two months with my fellow board members regarding who could, should or would 'pick up the baton'. I have told Gianni that he should become chairman with immediate effect to help focus everyone on going forward and I have advised him to meet with the supporters groups as quickly as he can.
As I write this, I have just enjoyed a day talking and having lunch with Gianni and on the phone with Ollie discussing possible new signings and things that we thought could take the club forward. I hope, and am sure, that those discussions and my advice will be acted upon and that we all see the benefits for ourselves .
In all honesty, and perhaps selfishly again, I must say it was like a weight being lifted from my shoulders having previously known that a decision I might make as Chairman could affect the hopes and dreams of so many fellow R's. Now it is time to let another friend push us forward. I am not leaving, just taking a well earned rest.
Words fail to express how much I have enjoyed my tenure as chairman, living every fan's dream of helping the club they love. I'm sure I will think of dozens of things I should have said, so for now I will just say a big thank you to everyone I have met and wish you all well.
Once again I ask you to get behind Gianni, Kevin, Ollie and the boys. I know that when we all pull together we are unstoppable.
Come on you R's.
QPR
QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - GIANNI PALADINI
Gianni Paladini has been appointed Chairman of Queens Park Rangers Football Club and QPR Holdings Ltd.
Interim Chairman Gualtiero Trucco has stepped down and the Board of Directors have unanimously chosen Paladini to take on the role on a full-time basis.
The changes were agreed at a Loftus Road Board Meeting on Wednesday afternoon and Paladini is delighted by the honour of this 'challenging but exciting' role.
"The Monaco investors have recommended that I be appointed Chairman and I am deeply honoured that the Directors have allowed me this opportunity.
"I hope now that after a period of instability we can all look forward to the brightest of futures at Loftus Road.
"We have a wonderful manager, an exciting and improving squad and a real opportunity to push for a place in the play-offs and even the Premiership.
"I believe these are wonderful times to be a QPR supporter and I just want to play whatever part I can in bringing both success and stability to this Club.
"I fully appreciate that supporters will have been a little bewildered by recent events and I wish that so much of what has happened could have happened differently.
"But I believe we now have the right people in place, both on the pitch and behind the scenes, to take this club forward.
"I would like to thank every single fan for their continued, passionate support for QPR and I would also like to pay tribute to all the staff here.
"Life hasn't been particularly easy for them recently either but every single one continues to work as hard as ever for the benefit of this club.
"It has never been clearer to me that, both in the stands and behind the scenes, this is a wonderful place full of very special people."
QPR
The Evening Standard offered this minute-by-minute account of the August 24 Board Meeting
A Year ago, today, QPR's Boardroom "Coup" took place.
Some days after "The alleged Incident" at Loftus Road before the Sheffield United game, Dunga controversially flew in...The Board met...Bill Power and Mark Devlin went home...and Bill Power was controversially voted out and Mark Devlin was made redundant. But this was just the start of quite a year.
BBC- Power is removed as QPR chairman
Gianni Paladini has taken control at Loftus Road
Queens Park Rangers chairman Bill Power has been removed and chief executive Mark Devlin sacked.
Director Gianni Paladini, backed by Monaco-based groups that bought shares in Rangers last year, moved to oust Power at a board meeting on Wednesday.
Power, who was a close ally of the Italian before their relationship turned sour, was voted out and Devlin told he was being fired.
But Power and his supporters are likely to challenge the legality of the move.
Both Power and the Monaco groups were keen to increase their shareholding.
Power's camp were undone by former Brazil captain Carlos Dunga unexpectedly flying in from Japan to vote with Paladini.
Dunga represents one of the Monaco groups but little has been heard of him since he was made a director last summer.
Wednesday's board meeting was the first the World Cup winner has attended.
Power and Paladini joined forces to topple the previous board 14 months ago, but there have been bitter divisions since.
Paladini is now in control at Loftus Road and is likely to take over Devlin's duties.
A new chairman is expected to be named shortly.
BBC
QPR Official Statement - August 25, 2005
TATEMENT
The Board of QPR Holdings Ltd has decided that Mr Mark Devlin's position as Chief Executive Officer is to be made redundant with immediate effect.
Mr Bill Power is no longer Chairman of the Board but remains as a Director.
Mr Gualtiero Trucco has been appointed interim Chairman of the Board.
Bill Power and Director Kevin McGrath do not recognise the validity of these decisions which were taken at yesterday's Board meeting in their absence.
They are currently seeking legal advice with regards to these decisions
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
SPORTING LIFE - QPR POWER STRUGGLE GOES ON
QPR manager Ian Holloway has attacked the boardroom chaos threatening to derail the club - and admitted his future is uncertain.
Bill Power and Mark Devlin were ousted as Rangers chairman and chief executive respectively in a boardroom coup earlier this week, allowing director Gianni Paladini to seize effective control of the club.
Power continues to fight his demotion and is expected to mount a legal challenge, but manager Holloway could now be under pressure - former Rangers player and Aston Villa manager John Gregory was in the directors' box for Friday's home match against Sheffield Wednesday.
"We've had two bad results [at Coventry and Northampton], but whether I remain here is another matter," Holloway said.
"If they want me, great, if they don't then that's life.
"Hopefully the people in the boardroom can sort our their squabbles. They need to sort it out. They are directors - they need to direct the club."
Paladini attracted two Monaco-based groups of investors to the club when it was in dire financial straits last summer and one of their number - fellow Italian Gualtiero Trucco - has been installed as interim chairman.
Holloway led Rangers to 11th place in the Championship last term following their promotion from the old Division Two the previous season.
But Holloway has had to deal with boardroom instability throughout his reign - and he hinted he was growing tired of it.
"The supporters don't know the facts," he told BBC London 94.9 FM.
"It's not a nice situation to be in. I've been through three boards since I've been here and I'm not happy about that.
"We don't want to wash our dirty linen in public. QPR is a baton that's been handed around.
"When the board get fed up, when the supporters get fed up, they can get someone else."
Sporting Life
The Guardian -
Rangers raise a point despite boardroom chaos
"Arindam Rej at Loftus Road
Saturday August 27, 2005
The Guardian
Trouble is mounting at QPR. A boardroom power struggle has unsettled the club to such an extent that this result was peripheral for their fans. The sooner they find out who their next chairman is, the better.
Not that focusing on this point would have cheered them up. They failed to overcome a Wednesday side who picked up three injuries in 51 minutes and were reduced to 10 men for the final 15.
Bill Power is expected to mount a legal challenge after his removal as chairman, during a board meeting this week in which the chief executive Mark Devlin was also sacked. Rangers' director Gianni Paladini has taken control, with Gualtiero Trucco as the interim chairman.
Background worries are not unusual but this month the events have been scarcely believable. Paladini, whose long-held ambition is to run a football club, had his resignation demanded when he was threatened with a gun before the game with Sheffield United.
The club was further startled by this week's news. Power and Paladini had worked together to bring down the previous regime 14 months ago but relations have deteriorated to such an extent that Power, despite remaining a director, has lost his job. More bizarrely Power still claims he is chairman....
Guardian
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - August 30, 2005 -
BRIGHT FUTURE
Gianni Paladini has promised a bright future for Queens Park Rangers following the changes at Boardroom level last week.
Bill Power is no longer Chairman and Mark Devlin's position as Chief Executive was made redundant following a Board meeting at Loftus Road.
But the Director insists that the decisions taken were made with only the Club's interest at heart and he has played down suggestions of turmoil at the highest level.
"I am still friends with Bill. We go out for lunch and we talk on the phone every day. I have no problem with Bill.
"This is not about individuals or personalities, it is about the future of this great Club and all of us - Bill included -want nothing more than to see QPR continue to grow and improve."
Paladini is also sympathetic with supporters who may have been worried about the situation.
He appreciates that the supporters are concerned and has stressed that their feelings are at the forefront of his mind.
"The supporters are what makes this Club great and from the moment I arrived at Loftus Road I have been overwhelmed by their passion and devotion.
"All supporters will worry when they see change and I can understand that. But I believe that change was necessary for long term stability.
"The investors and directors are ambitious - I am ambitious - but we are not turning things upside down. We are going to make sensible steady progress and take Rangers back to where we belong - the Premiership."
Paladini also believes that the root of stability lies with the manager and that is why he hopes to sit down with Ian Holloway this week to discuss a new contract.
"Ollie is responsible for so much that has happened here during the past few years. Our successes on the pitch are down to him and he should be rewarded accordingly."
QPR
BILL POWER STATEMENT, QPR OFFICIAL SITE - September 1, 2005
Today following advice from my doctor and after lengthy discussions with my family and each member of the board I am confirming my departure as chairman of QPR.
I am well aware of the feelings of supporters having received literally hundreds of goodwill messages. But I must be selfish and think of my own health and also the health of two family members, both lifelong R's - my beautiful mum and my lovely father-in-law, who are both in hospital and not in the best of health.
I have been in discussions for the last two months with my fellow board members regarding who could, should or would 'pick up the baton'. I have told Gianni that he should become chairman with immediate effect to help focus everyone on going forward and I have advised him to meet with the supporters groups as quickly as he can.
As I write this, I have just enjoyed a day talking and having lunch with Gianni and on the phone with Ollie discussing possible new signings and things that we thought could take the club forward. I hope, and am sure, that those discussions and my advice will be acted upon and that we all see the benefits for ourselves .
In all honesty, and perhaps selfishly again, I must say it was like a weight being lifted from my shoulders having previously known that a decision I might make as Chairman could affect the hopes and dreams of so many fellow R's. Now it is time to let another friend push us forward. I am not leaving, just taking a well earned rest.
Words fail to express how much I have enjoyed my tenure as chairman, living every fan's dream of helping the club they love. I'm sure I will think of dozens of things I should have said, so for now I will just say a big thank you to everyone I have met and wish you all well.
Once again I ask you to get behind Gianni, Kevin, Ollie and the boys. I know that when we all pull together we are unstoppable.
Come on you R's.
QPR
QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - GIANNI PALADINI
Gianni Paladini has been appointed Chairman of Queens Park Rangers Football Club and QPR Holdings Ltd.
Interim Chairman Gualtiero Trucco has stepped down and the Board of Directors have unanimously chosen Paladini to take on the role on a full-time basis.
The changes were agreed at a Loftus Road Board Meeting on Wednesday afternoon and Paladini is delighted by the honour of this 'challenging but exciting' role.
"The Monaco investors have recommended that I be appointed Chairman and I am deeply honoured that the Directors have allowed me this opportunity.
"I hope now that after a period of instability we can all look forward to the brightest of futures at Loftus Road.
"We have a wonderful manager, an exciting and improving squad and a real opportunity to push for a place in the play-offs and even the Premiership.
"I believe these are wonderful times to be a QPR supporter and I just want to play whatever part I can in bringing both success and stability to this Club.
"I fully appreciate that supporters will have been a little bewildered by recent events and I wish that so much of what has happened could have happened differently.
"But I believe we now have the right people in place, both on the pitch and behind the scenes, to take this club forward.
"I would like to thank every single fan for their continued, passionate support for QPR and I would also like to pay tribute to all the staff here.
"Life hasn't been particularly easy for them recently either but every single one continues to work as hard as ever for the benefit of this club.
"It has never been clearer to me that, both in the stands and behind the scenes, this is a wonderful place full of very special people."
QPR
The Evening Standard offered this minute-by-minute account of the August 24 Board Meeting
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Paul Jones & Garreth Ainsworth re Preston, Ipswich Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times
-
Paul Jones Looking Forward to Ipswich & Looking Back on Preston - Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - August 23, 2006
"Jonah can give Jim the Blues"Kosky
Gareth Ainsworth on Preston & his New Contract
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - August 23, 2006
Kilburn Times
Paul Jones Looking Forward to Ipswich & Looking Back on Preston - Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - August 23, 2006
"Jonah can give Jim the Blues"Kosky
Gareth Ainsworth on Preston & his New Contract
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - August 23, 2006
Kilburn Times
Northampton 3 QPR 0 - A Year Ago, Today!
-
Exactly a year ago, August 23, 2005, the score was a little different. Evatt made his debut (and was sent off)....Northampton 3 QPR 0. QPR's team that night was ...Royce, Ukah, Evatt, Shimmin, Milanese, Miller, Bircham (Baidoo 59), Bean, Brown (Bignot 46), Gallen, Moore. - Subs Not Used: Cole, Hislop, Bailey.
Photos from That Game
Sporting Life
August 23, 2005 - Northampton Town 3 QPR 0
Northampton romped to a convincing Carling Cup victory over a Rangers side that played for half the game with only 10 men after defender Ian Evatt was sent off in first half stoppage time.
Already trailing to Andy Kirk's first-half opener, Rangers had no answer to second-half strikes from Scott McGleish and a late Eric Sabin penalty.
Kirk gave Northampton a 19th minute lead, capitalising on a mistake from Ugo Ukah to coolly lob stranded 'keeper Simon Royce.
Evatt was dismissed in first-half stoppage time when he pulled back Kirk on the edge of the area to leave Rangers with an uphill task.
McLeish doubled Northampton's advantage in the 62nd minute with a spectacular overhead kick from a Josh Low free-kick.
And Sabin completed the scoring in the final minute, converting from the penalty spot after being brought down in the area.
Teams:
Northampton Bunn, Bojic, Dyche, Chambers, Crowe, Low (Gilligan 85), Hunt, Taylor, Jess, Kirk (Dudfield 81), McGleish (Sabin 72).
Subs Not Used: Harper, Galbraith.
Goals: Kirk 19, McGleish 62, Sabin 90 pen.
QPR Royce, Ukah, Evatt, Shimmin, Milanese, Miller, Bircham (Baidoo 59), Bean, Brown (Bignot 46), Gallen, Moore.
Subs Not Used: Cole, Hislop, Bailey.
Sent Off: Evatt (45).
Booked: Miller, Bean, Moore, Ukah.
Att: 4,537
Ref: A Hall (W Midlands).
Sporting Life
And Holloway's Comments from a year ago
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - AWFUL NIGHT
While a fuming Ian Holloway waited to talk to the referee at Sixfields, Tim Breacker spoke to qpr.co.uk about a night to forget.
Regulations require managers to wait until at least half an hour after a game before discussing matters of contention with match officials.
Ollie waited and waited but referee Andy Hall remained in his changing room, leaving Tim Breacker to pick the bones over a thoroughly forgettable night in Northampton.
The Cobblers deserved their win but Breacker felt that key decisions had gone against the Superhoops and expressed the coaching team's views in no uncertain terms.
"It might have been a foul at best but there was little in it", he said of Ian Evatt's red card. "The player's gone down easily , Ugo was in the way and yet he didn't even go to the linesman.
"He was 60 yards away - why didn't he consult his linesman?
"We had a weakened team out there and we've got four games in 10 days. But we could have beaten Northampton with that team if the red card hadn't ruined it."
Breacker said that Rangers were also angry with the penalty award in the last minute and a perceived lack of consistency.
"It was the most blatant dive and everyone could see it. It was never a penalty.
"But there player was clean through when he went down and Ugo wasn't sent off. If Ian Evatt deserved a red card, why not Ugo? Where's the consistency?"
Regardless of the refereeing controversies though, Tim Breacker admitted that the Rs had not played well.
"The performance was disappointing. This season we've tried to add to our squad so that when we are struggling with injuries we are more solid than last year.
"Some of these players were playing their first full games and we've learned plenty of things about them tonight."
Holloway
QPR OFFICIAL MATCH REPORT
COBBLERS 3 QPR 0
Rangers have fallen at the first hurdle in a cup competition once again, going down 3-0 to Northampton in Round One of the Carling Cup.
Goals from Andy Kirk, Scott McGleish and Eric Sabin ended the Rs' participation in this season's tournament and Ian Holloway's misery was compounded by an unfortunate debut day red card for Ian Evatt.
The centre back was given his marching orders by referee Andy Hall for 'preventing a goalscoring opportunity' by fouling Kirk, despite the close proximity of another Rangers defender.
This was the third time in less than 90 minutes that Hall had dismissed a Rangers player having sent off both Clarke Carlisle and Stephen Kelly in the second half of a Division Two fixture against Crewe in 2003.
This may have added to a general feeling of injustice in Rangers quarters but in truth a hooped side that lacked 10 players with League experience this season could not really argue with the result.
Ian Holloway began with an experimental 4-2-3-1 formation but with Northampton largely untroubled in the first quarter, Rangers settled on a more conventional formation after the goal went in.
The first genuine goal threat came from Rangers in the fourth minute. Mauro Milanese's floated free kick was headed across goal by Ugo Ukah and claimed well by Mark Bunn in the Cobblers goal before Stefan Moore could pounce.
But Northampton were hardly backward in coming forward themselves and Simon Royce needed to be alert on more than one occasion in the opening 10 minutes to deal with probing Northampton attacks.
Sloppy defending from Dominic Shimmin then almost let the home side in. The former Arsenal youngster gave away possession, allowing Northampton to build an attack which culminated in Scott McGleish hitting the post with a header from a fractionally offside position.
The game continued at a lively pace with both sides enjoying concerted periods of possession. But neither goalkeeper had been properly tested by a shot at goal before Northampton took the lead in the 29th minute.
David Hunt fired a long ball over the top for Andy Kirk to chase and yet just as it seemed that Ukah would shepherd the ball back to Royce, it cannoned off the defender's back in to the path of the Northampton striker who calmly lobbed home from the edge of the area.
As soon as the goal went in, and with Rangers' lack of real penetration in mind, Ian Holloway immediately pushed Kevin Gallen up front and reverted to 4-4-2.
But it was Northampton who continued to improve and grow in confidence and Royce was forced to head clear when Kirk looked to beat the offside trap and repeat the medicine of minutes before.
Rangers were wobbling but enjoyed one of their their best moments of the half so far with 13 minutes remaining. A mad scramble ended with Bunn gratefully clasping the ball but not before Shimmin had crossed for Gallen who turned neatly and was desperately unlucky not to get a shot away.
Rangers continued to press and Mauro Milanese saw a header cleared off the line from a corner before Gallen had another shot blocked by an increasingly busy Northampton defence.
The game appeared to be reaching the interval without further alarm at either end until Evatt's red card on the stroke of half time.
Holloway brought on Marcus Bignot for Aaron Brown for the second period but Northampton continued to press, looking for a killer blow against 10-man Rangers.
Nevertheless, neither side created another clear goalscoring opportunity before the hour mark, at which point Shabazz Baidoo replaced Marc Bircham with Gallen going back in to midfield.
But the young striker had no time to make any impact before a spectacular goal from Scott McGleish. The Cobblers front man fired home an acrobatic overhead kick from Josh Low's cross to double the home side's advantage and leave Rangers with a mountain to climb.
The Superhoops kept their heads up and midway through the half a wicked low cross from Marcus Bignot was only inches away from Baidoo's outstretched boot in front of goal. But in truth Northampton had the measure of Rangers by now and the more energetic football consistently came from the men in maroon.
With 13 minutes left a fierce Adam Miller free kick was tipped behind for a corner but moments later substitute Eric Sabin saw a header go narrowly wide at the other end.
Two minutes later another overhead kick, this time from Low, nestled in Simon Royce's goal only for the Assistant Referee to raise his flag for offside.
Then with three minutes left Sabin hit the post as the home side looked to end the game with a flourish.
That flourish duly came when Sabin was tugged back by Ukah in injury time and the former Ranger made no mistake from the spot.
Northampton: Bunn, Crowe, Chambers, Taylor, Kirk (Dudfield 80), McGleish (Sabin 72), Low (Gilligan 84), Jess, Hunt, Dyche, Bojic
unused subs: Harper, Galbraith
scorers: Kirk 29, McGleish 63, Sabin 90+1
bookings: -
Rangers: Royce, Ukah, Milanese, Shimmin, Evatt, Bircham (Baidoo 58), Bean, Miller, Brown (Bignot 46), Gallen, Moore
unused subs: Cole, Hislop, Bailey
scorers: -
bookings: Miller 27, Bean 34, Moore 39
sent off: Evatt 45+2
attendance: 4,537 (QPR 1,164)
referee: A Hall
Official Report
[And the time before that, November 9, 2002: QPR 0 Northampton 1:
...QPR
Clarke Carlisle, Terrell Forbes, Matthew Rose, Oliver Burgess, Doudou Ebeu Mbombo, Steve Palmer, Marc Bircham, Fraser Digby, Gino Padula, Simon Royce, Daniel Shittu, Tom Williams, Callum Willock, Karl Connolly, Andy Thomson
Northampton
Daryl Burgess, Richard Hope, Ian Sampson, Chris Carruthers, Christian Hargreaves, Nathan Abbey, Jeremy Gill, Lee Harper, Paul Harsley, Greg Lincoln, Paul Rickers, Paul Trollope, Derek Asamoah, Jamie Forrester, Marco Gabbiadini
Guardian
Exactly a year ago, August 23, 2005, the score was a little different. Evatt made his debut (and was sent off)....Northampton 3 QPR 0. QPR's team that night was ...Royce, Ukah, Evatt, Shimmin, Milanese, Miller, Bircham (Baidoo 59), Bean, Brown (Bignot 46), Gallen, Moore. - Subs Not Used: Cole, Hislop, Bailey.
Photos from That Game
Sporting Life
August 23, 2005 - Northampton Town 3 QPR 0
Northampton romped to a convincing Carling Cup victory over a Rangers side that played for half the game with only 10 men after defender Ian Evatt was sent off in first half stoppage time.
Already trailing to Andy Kirk's first-half opener, Rangers had no answer to second-half strikes from Scott McGleish and a late Eric Sabin penalty.
Kirk gave Northampton a 19th minute lead, capitalising on a mistake from Ugo Ukah to coolly lob stranded 'keeper Simon Royce.
Evatt was dismissed in first-half stoppage time when he pulled back Kirk on the edge of the area to leave Rangers with an uphill task.
McLeish doubled Northampton's advantage in the 62nd minute with a spectacular overhead kick from a Josh Low free-kick.
And Sabin completed the scoring in the final minute, converting from the penalty spot after being brought down in the area.
Teams:
Northampton Bunn, Bojic, Dyche, Chambers, Crowe, Low (Gilligan 85), Hunt, Taylor, Jess, Kirk (Dudfield 81), McGleish (Sabin 72).
Subs Not Used: Harper, Galbraith.
Goals: Kirk 19, McGleish 62, Sabin 90 pen.
QPR Royce, Ukah, Evatt, Shimmin, Milanese, Miller, Bircham (Baidoo 59), Bean, Brown (Bignot 46), Gallen, Moore.
Subs Not Used: Cole, Hislop, Bailey.
Sent Off: Evatt (45).
Booked: Miller, Bean, Moore, Ukah.
Att: 4,537
Ref: A Hall (W Midlands).
Sporting Life
And Holloway's Comments from a year ago
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - AWFUL NIGHT
While a fuming Ian Holloway waited to talk to the referee at Sixfields, Tim Breacker spoke to qpr.co.uk about a night to forget.
Regulations require managers to wait until at least half an hour after a game before discussing matters of contention with match officials.
Ollie waited and waited but referee Andy Hall remained in his changing room, leaving Tim Breacker to pick the bones over a thoroughly forgettable night in Northampton.
The Cobblers deserved their win but Breacker felt that key decisions had gone against the Superhoops and expressed the coaching team's views in no uncertain terms.
"It might have been a foul at best but there was little in it", he said of Ian Evatt's red card. "The player's gone down easily , Ugo was in the way and yet he didn't even go to the linesman.
"He was 60 yards away - why didn't he consult his linesman?
"We had a weakened team out there and we've got four games in 10 days. But we could have beaten Northampton with that team if the red card hadn't ruined it."
Breacker said that Rangers were also angry with the penalty award in the last minute and a perceived lack of consistency.
"It was the most blatant dive and everyone could see it. It was never a penalty.
"But there player was clean through when he went down and Ugo wasn't sent off. If Ian Evatt deserved a red card, why not Ugo? Where's the consistency?"
Regardless of the refereeing controversies though, Tim Breacker admitted that the Rs had not played well.
"The performance was disappointing. This season we've tried to add to our squad so that when we are struggling with injuries we are more solid than last year.
"Some of these players were playing their first full games and we've learned plenty of things about them tonight."
Holloway
QPR OFFICIAL MATCH REPORT
COBBLERS 3 QPR 0
Rangers have fallen at the first hurdle in a cup competition once again, going down 3-0 to Northampton in Round One of the Carling Cup.
Goals from Andy Kirk, Scott McGleish and Eric Sabin ended the Rs' participation in this season's tournament and Ian Holloway's misery was compounded by an unfortunate debut day red card for Ian Evatt.
The centre back was given his marching orders by referee Andy Hall for 'preventing a goalscoring opportunity' by fouling Kirk, despite the close proximity of another Rangers defender.
This was the third time in less than 90 minutes that Hall had dismissed a Rangers player having sent off both Clarke Carlisle and Stephen Kelly in the second half of a Division Two fixture against Crewe in 2003.
This may have added to a general feeling of injustice in Rangers quarters but in truth a hooped side that lacked 10 players with League experience this season could not really argue with the result.
Ian Holloway began with an experimental 4-2-3-1 formation but with Northampton largely untroubled in the first quarter, Rangers settled on a more conventional formation after the goal went in.
The first genuine goal threat came from Rangers in the fourth minute. Mauro Milanese's floated free kick was headed across goal by Ugo Ukah and claimed well by Mark Bunn in the Cobblers goal before Stefan Moore could pounce.
But Northampton were hardly backward in coming forward themselves and Simon Royce needed to be alert on more than one occasion in the opening 10 minutes to deal with probing Northampton attacks.
Sloppy defending from Dominic Shimmin then almost let the home side in. The former Arsenal youngster gave away possession, allowing Northampton to build an attack which culminated in Scott McGleish hitting the post with a header from a fractionally offside position.
The game continued at a lively pace with both sides enjoying concerted periods of possession. But neither goalkeeper had been properly tested by a shot at goal before Northampton took the lead in the 29th minute.
David Hunt fired a long ball over the top for Andy Kirk to chase and yet just as it seemed that Ukah would shepherd the ball back to Royce, it cannoned off the defender's back in to the path of the Northampton striker who calmly lobbed home from the edge of the area.
As soon as the goal went in, and with Rangers' lack of real penetration in mind, Ian Holloway immediately pushed Kevin Gallen up front and reverted to 4-4-2.
But it was Northampton who continued to improve and grow in confidence and Royce was forced to head clear when Kirk looked to beat the offside trap and repeat the medicine of minutes before.
Rangers were wobbling but enjoyed one of their their best moments of the half so far with 13 minutes remaining. A mad scramble ended with Bunn gratefully clasping the ball but not before Shimmin had crossed for Gallen who turned neatly and was desperately unlucky not to get a shot away.
Rangers continued to press and Mauro Milanese saw a header cleared off the line from a corner before Gallen had another shot blocked by an increasingly busy Northampton defence.
The game appeared to be reaching the interval without further alarm at either end until Evatt's red card on the stroke of half time.
Holloway brought on Marcus Bignot for Aaron Brown for the second period but Northampton continued to press, looking for a killer blow against 10-man Rangers.
Nevertheless, neither side created another clear goalscoring opportunity before the hour mark, at which point Shabazz Baidoo replaced Marc Bircham with Gallen going back in to midfield.
But the young striker had no time to make any impact before a spectacular goal from Scott McGleish. The Cobblers front man fired home an acrobatic overhead kick from Josh Low's cross to double the home side's advantage and leave Rangers with a mountain to climb.
The Superhoops kept their heads up and midway through the half a wicked low cross from Marcus Bignot was only inches away from Baidoo's outstretched boot in front of goal. But in truth Northampton had the measure of Rangers by now and the more energetic football consistently came from the men in maroon.
With 13 minutes left a fierce Adam Miller free kick was tipped behind for a corner but moments later substitute Eric Sabin saw a header go narrowly wide at the other end.
Two minutes later another overhead kick, this time from Low, nestled in Simon Royce's goal only for the Assistant Referee to raise his flag for offside.
Then with three minutes left Sabin hit the post as the home side looked to end the game with a flourish.
That flourish duly came when Sabin was tugged back by Ukah in injury time and the former Ranger made no mistake from the spot.
Northampton: Bunn, Crowe, Chambers, Taylor, Kirk (Dudfield 80), McGleish (Sabin 72), Low (Gilligan 84), Jess, Hunt, Dyche, Bojic
unused subs: Harper, Galbraith
scorers: Kirk 29, McGleish 63, Sabin 90+1
bookings: -
Rangers: Royce, Ukah, Milanese, Shimmin, Evatt, Bircham (Baidoo 58), Bean, Miller, Brown (Bignot 46), Gallen, Moore
unused subs: Cole, Hislop, Bailey
scorers: -
bookings: Miller 27, Bean 34, Moore 39
sent off: Evatt 45+2
attendance: 4,537 (QPR 1,164)
referee: A Hall
Official Report
[And the time before that, November 9, 2002: QPR 0 Northampton 1:
...QPR
Clarke Carlisle, Terrell Forbes, Matthew Rose, Oliver Burgess, Doudou Ebeu Mbombo, Steve Palmer, Marc Bircham, Fraser Digby, Gino Padula, Simon Royce, Daniel Shittu, Tom Williams, Callum Willock, Karl Connolly, Andy Thomson
Northampton
Daryl Burgess, Richard Hope, Ian Sampson, Chris Carruthers, Christian Hargreaves, Nathan Abbey, Jeremy Gill, Lee Harper, Paul Harsley, Greg Lincoln, Paul Rickers, Paul Trollope, Derek Asamoah, Jamie Forrester, Marco Gabbiadini
Guardian
Further Reports & Comments re QPR vs Northampton
-
Sporting Life
WADDOCK KEEPS FEET ON GROUND
QPR boss Gary Waddock backed super-sub Ray Jones to keep his feet on the ground after the teenager's first career goal sent the Hoops into the second round of the Carling Cup.
Rangers blew a two-goal lead, courtesy of deflected strikes from Lee Cook and Kevin Gallen, as Jerome Watt and Andy Kirk hauled slick League One side Northampton back into the game at Loftus Road.
But Jones, who has been earning some rave reviews for his performances this season, climbed off the bench to head Rangers into the next round with a 3-2 win to avenge a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of the Cobblers at the same stage of the competition last year.
"His life couldn't be much better over the past couple of weeks," said Waddock. "He's had a lot of attention but he's been exactly the same.
"He made his debut this season and everyone was raving but he didn't score, and now he has.
"He's a very talented young man. Young players can reach a certain level but we hope he will develop into a better player."
Waddock admitted Northampton had provided a scare for his side but was full of praise for his players' character.
"Credit to Northampton, they are a good footballing side," he added. "But at 2-2 we could have folded, and last season we might well have done, so that is credit to the players."
Opposite number John Gorman felt hard done by, however, although he too saluted his side's resilience.
"It was a great game and a good advert for the cup," said Gorman. "I don't think we deserved to lose, but then I didn't think we deserve to be two goals down, both to deflected shots.
"Their second goal wasn't a free-kick but then I don't think we got a decision all night.
"But I'm proud of my players, we came back from two goals down, took the game to QPR and created lots of chances for an away team."
Sporting Life
See Also: QPR Net/Simon Skinner Match Report
QPR Rivals/Jawad Laouira Match Report
Sporting Life
WADDOCK KEEPS FEET ON GROUND
QPR boss Gary Waddock backed super-sub Ray Jones to keep his feet on the ground after the teenager's first career goal sent the Hoops into the second round of the Carling Cup.
Rangers blew a two-goal lead, courtesy of deflected strikes from Lee Cook and Kevin Gallen, as Jerome Watt and Andy Kirk hauled slick League One side Northampton back into the game at Loftus Road.
But Jones, who has been earning some rave reviews for his performances this season, climbed off the bench to head Rangers into the next round with a 3-2 win to avenge a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of the Cobblers at the same stage of the competition last year.
"His life couldn't be much better over the past couple of weeks," said Waddock. "He's had a lot of attention but he's been exactly the same.
"He made his debut this season and everyone was raving but he didn't score, and now he has.
"He's a very talented young man. Young players can reach a certain level but we hope he will develop into a better player."
Waddock admitted Northampton had provided a scare for his side but was full of praise for his players' character.
"Credit to Northampton, they are a good footballing side," he added. "But at 2-2 we could have folded, and last season we might well have done, so that is credit to the players."
Opposite number John Gorman felt hard done by, however, although he too saluted his side's resilience.
"It was a great game and a good advert for the cup," said Gorman. "I don't think we deserved to lose, but then I didn't think we deserve to be two goals down, both to deflected shots.
"Their second goal wasn't a free-kick but then I don't think we got a decision all night.
"But I'm proud of my players, we came back from two goals down, took the game to QPR and created lots of chances for an away team."
Sporting Life
See Also: QPR Net/Simon Skinner Match Report
QPR Rivals/Jawad Laouira Match Report
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Reports & Comments on QPR 3 Northampton 2
-
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - MATCH REPORT
A first goal in senior football from Ray Jones finally finished off the Cobblers in a thrilling first round tie.
The R's second half substitute headed home in the 87th minute to clinch the Hoops a deserved place in round two.
In a free-flowing second half, Kevin Gallen handed the R's a dream start with the second goal of the game inside the opening two minutes.
Dexter Blackstock's foray down the left flank resulted in a Rangers free-kick and the skipper curled a low shot past the unsighted Bunn.
But the Cobblers refused to lie down and second half substitute Jerome Watt pulled a goal back seven minutes later with a 25-yard thunderbolt.
And when Andy Kirk pulled the Cobblers level 13 minutes from time, extra time loomed large.
But Jones had other ideas, sparking huge celebrations and the prospect of a plum Premiership draw in round two with a stunning late winner.
Earlier, Rangers led 1-0 at the break courtesy of Lee Cook's 17th minute solo goal.
In an R's side showing wholesale changes from the 1-1 draw with Preston North End on Saturday, Cook repaid the faith shown in him by gaffer Gary Waddock by opening the scoring at a sparse Loftus Road.
Those that did make the effort to attend were duly rewarded when Cook's jinking run and shot was deflected past Mark Bunn to hand the R's a deserved advantage.
In all, Waddock made seven changes for the visit of the League One outfit to Loftus Road - the most significant of which saw 18 year-old Andrew Howell come in for his first team debut.
Jake Cole, Marcus Bignot, Marc Bircham, Stefan Bailey, Shabazz Baidoo and skipper Kevin Gallen were also given their chance, as the R's boss played 'tinkerman' with one eye on the visit of Ipswich Town on Friday night.
It was the returning Gallen who was gifted with Rangers' first chance, when an out-swinging cross from Bignot wasn't dealt with by the Cobblers back three.
Unfortunately for the R's veteran, his impromptu header cannoned off the back of Luke Chambers, before being hacked to safety.
Cole spared the hosts' blushes on five minutes, diving full stretch to his left to claw James Quinn's half volley round for a corner.
It was a Rangers regular that almost opened the scoring six minutes later.
Cook was gifted far too much time and space on the edge of the box and the R's left winger duly let fly, unlucky to see his fizzing 22-yard drive fall narrowly wide of Bunn's left hand post with the keeper seemingly beaten.
Dexter Blackstock's perseverance almost paid dividends on 15 minutes, but after his superb run and cross from the by-line, Gallen's looping header finished inches wide of the post.
The hosts' impressive start deserved a goal and it duly arrived on 17 minutes, courtesy of that man Cook.
Gallen's hooked clearance on the edge of his own box found Blackstock and when he fed Cook, the winger tricked his way past two Cobblers defenders before his deflected shot completely wrong-footed Bunn.
Cook was being gifted the freedom of the park by the League One side and when the Cobblers defenders continued to back off in the 24th minute, only the width of the post stood between the left winger doubling his and his side's tally.
Baidoo - playing in an unorthodox right midfield role - almost got in on the act in the 30th minute, only to see Bunn save his header from the edge of the six-yard box.
The hosts continued to probe as the half reached its conclusion, with the lively Blackstock heading high and wide from an acute angle and Gallen seeing two efforts in as many minutes saved by the overworked Bunn.
Northampton front-man Kirk fired a brief warning shot to the R's when his right footed purler fizzed off the post on the stroke of half-time, but in truth that was as good as it got for the Cobblers in a one-sided first period.
The Cobblers made one change at the break, with Watt entering the fray at the expense of Bradley Johnson.
But the substitution failed to reap dividends for John Gorman's men and it was Rangers who were soon celebrating goal number two on 47 minutes.
Club captain Gallen marked his first start of the season with a goal, curling a daisy-cutter free-kick from an acute angle round the wall and past a static Bunn.
Baidoo was proving a constant menace at the start of the second half, turning his marker inside-out before blasting a fearsome 12-yard shot inches wide of Bunn's left hand post.
Despite the one-way traffic, Northampton refused to lie down and substitute Watt handed them an avenue back into the tie with a speculative long range shot on 54 minutes.
Cole appeared to be in the perfect position as he dived down low to his right, but the ball somehow found its way past him to the delight of the travelling Cobblers faithful.
Blackstock's pace continued to cause problems for the Cobblers defence and when Bailey fed him in an unfamiliar right midfield role, the former Southampton striker' first time shot was gathered at the second attempt by Bunn.
In truth, Rangers were huffing and puffing their way into the next round, until the returning Bircham sprung them into life on 71 minutes.
His fine sliding tackle and cross found Baidoo and the former Arsenal trainee was unlucky to see his stinging shot fire straight at Bunn.
Egutu Oliseh was handed his first start in English football with 16 minutes to go, but it was an opening to forget for the Nigerian, who was on the pitch for just 15 seconds when the Cobblers equalised.
Kirk's superb turn and shot from 15-yards gave Cole absolutely no chance, as all of Rangers' earlier hard work went to waste.
Remarkably, there was still time for a fifth and final goal and it was Ray Jones who leapt off the bench to score it.
The 17 year-old rose tallest on the edge of the six-yard box to head home Bignot's inch-perfect cross, to finally finish off a plucky performance from the Cobblers.
QPR: Cole, Bignot, Stewart (Kanyuka 90), Rehman, Howell, Baidoo, Bircham (R Jones 84), Bailey, Cook, Gallen (Oliseh 76), Blackstock.
Subs: PJones, Donnelly.
Scorers: Cook 17, Gallen 47, R Jones 87
Bookings:
Red Cards:
Northampton Town: Bunn, Crowe, Chambers, Kirk, Aiston, Jess, Burnell, Brett Johnson (Bojic 68), Dyche, Bradley Johnson (Watt 46), Quinn (Gilligan 85).
Subs: Harper, Cross.
Scorers: Watt 54, Kirk 77
Bookings:
Red Cards:
Attendance: 4,569
Referee: P Miller
QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - WADDOCK's POST MATCH COMMENTS
GREAT CHARACTER
Gary Waddock praised the character and mental toughness of his side after the 3-2 victory against the Cobblers in the Carling Cup.
"A lot of credit has to go to the lads who kept plugging away and got the result we deserved over the 90 minutes.
"We showed great character and resilience and if we continue to show that throughout the season, we'll be difficult to beat.''
Waddock continued: "Tonight was a great example of the never-say-die attitude I'm loooking for from my players and I'm just delighted we've progressed.''
Lee Cook, Kevin Gallen and match-winner Ray Jones bagged the all-important goals, to the delight of the R's gaffer.
"It's great that we're sharing the goals around. That breeds confidence and that is the recipe for success.''
The thrilling 3-2 victory also ended a two year run without a victory in Cup competitions for the R's.
"Two years is a long time without a Cup win but we've buried the hatchet tonight.
"I'm absolutely ecstatic that we're in the hat for the next round.''
Waddock spared a final work for the R's youngsters, who again shone.
"It was fantastic for Ray, but all the young lads did well.
"Andrew Howell had an accomplished debut and it bodes well for the future of this football club that we're continuing to bring these players through the ranks.''
QPR Official Site
NORTHAMPTON MANAGER, GORMAN POST MATCH COMMENTS
Gorman praises "magnificent" effort
John Gorman was full of praise for his team after Tuesday's Carling Cup tie at Loftus Road.
"I thought we were magnificent," he said.
"We played fantastic football and I am proud of the players. We had 4 senior lads missing and we put some young players out there but I am proud of every one of them. Our front two were magnificent and we created well from midfield. I thought we caused them a lot of problems and how we were 2-0 down at one stage I will never know.
"Jerome Watt seems to have this terrible problem of scoring every time we play him! Andy Kirk was tremendous and could have had four goals - he scored one and hit the post and looked a class act. QPR left some of their players out but they still had a lot of quality players out there
"We have lost and again the luck deserted us, but some of our play was from a higher league. We passed the ball with a quality and purpose and with a tempo and that is the way we want to play. We might have lost and we are disappointed to be out of the cup, but we can take confidence from the performance and we can look forward to the league games coming up.
"Their first two goals came from deflections and that sums up the way things went. I did not start Jerome Watt because I did not want to put him under too much pressure but now we will talk terms with him and see what we can come up with.
"We played fantastic football and I am proud of the players," - John Gorman
"We have some real quality in our team and I am very pleased with the way the lads played. We were worthy of at least extra time and I would have fancied us if the game had gone that far.
"James Quinn and Andy Kirk linked up well and looked a very good partnership. James was a little under the weather and that's why we took him off but he had a very good game holding the ball up.
"It was an end to end encounter and a thrilling game. There were no league points at stake and we wanted to go and entertain and we did that. We wanted to get through as well and I am so sorry for the lads and the fans that we didn't. They all deserved more for their efforts."
NORTHAMPTON OFFICIAL SITE
NORTHAMPTON MATCH REPORT
* QPR DID NOT CONFIRM THE NUMBER OF COBBLERS FANS IN ATTENDANCE
Northampton Town made the short journey down to London for the first time this season to take on Queens Park Rangers in the first round of the Carling Cup. The Cobblers had claimed the scalp of the R's at this stage of the competition last season, and this time around John Gorman took the opportunity to hand first starts of the season to Brett Johnson, Bradley Johnson and Eoin Jess. Jerome Watt and Scott Cross were among the substitutes, meaning that 8 of the matchday sixteen were in their teens or early twenties. An ankle injury ruled out Andy Holt, a dead leg accounted for Chris Doig and Ian Taylor was rested.
The Cobblers started brightly, and James Quinn was a whisker away from his first Cobblers goal after six minutes. Neat build up play from Joe Burnell found Eoin Jess and his deep cross was met by Quinn on the volley, but Jake Cole made a superb stop at the near post.
Lee Cook had the first effort of the evening for the home side, but his low skimming 25 yard effort was narrowly wide of Mark Bunn's left hand post after twelve minutes.
Rangers had the lead after eighteen minutes. A speedy break out of defence was finished off by Lee Cook, whose low drive appeared to take a deflection beyond Mark Bunn, wrong footing the Cobblers keeper in the process.
Bunn saved well with his feet to deny Kevin Gallen following a short corner routine, before Andy Kirk tried to capitalise on a slip from Damion Stewart. The QPR man's loose pass was picked up by Kirk thirty yards from goal and although he sent in a powerful shot, Cole was equal to the task.
The Cobblers enjoyed a good spell just before half time. Sam Aiston did well to commit a number of defenders before sliding a ball through to James Quinn whose dangerous cross-shot was deflected over the bar by Andrew Howell, and moments later the former Tranmere man was creating another chance, but again Kirk's shot was held by Cole.
John Gorman's side continued their purple patch, and after James Quinn had played Andy Kirk into the area, Kirk saw his shot bounce back off the post with Cole beaten. Bradley Johnson and then Eoin Jess drove over the bar as the first half came to a close, but the Cobblers really did not want the half time whistle to blow, having spent the last 15 minutes of the half firmly in control against their Championship opponents.
The Cobblers made a change at half time with Jerome Watt replacing Bradley Johnson. The recent Sixfields arrival was quickly into the action, releasing Sam Aiston down the left hand side who supplied a cross that was inches away from the head of Andy Kirk.
Against the run of play, Rangers doubled their lead four minutes after half time. Jason Crowe was harshly adjudged to have handled the ball close to the edge of the penalty area, and the angle gave Kevin Gallen the perfect opportunity to drive a low finish into the far corner, again with the help of a deflection.
Shabazz Baidoo twisted and turned and fired a shot just wide of Mark Bunn's left hand post, before Jerome Watt wasted no time in making his mark, deservedly halving the deficit. Just nine minutes after coming on as a half time substitute he drove at the Rangers defence before firing home a low twenty five yard finish beyond Jake Cole.
Baidoo was proving a real threat to the Cobblers defence, and he forced a low save out of Mark Bunn as the game reached the hour mark, before Pedj Bojic replaced Brett Johnson as John Gorman made his second change.
Kevin Gallen was withdrawn to be replaced by Egutu Oliseh with thirteen minutes to play in a defensive switch, but just moments later the Cobblers equalised. The ball was played into the penalty area and after James Quinn had laid the ball back, Andy Kirk sent a curling finish in beyond the reach of Cole.
James Quinn's flick from an eighty second minute corner seemed to be stopped by the hand of a home defender but the referee waved play on, while Ray Jones replaced Marc Bircham for QPR. John Gorman then introduced Ryan Gilligan for James Quinn.
Bunn made the latest in a number of good stops when he parried away from Dexter Blackstock, but it wasn't long before the home side had the lead once more. A cross into the Cobblers box from Marcus Bignot was headed home by Ray Jones.
The Cobblers may have exited the Carling Cup in the first round, but this result was harsh on John Gorman's side, who more than played their part in a thrilling night of cup football.
NORTHAMPTON
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - MATCH REPORT
A first goal in senior football from Ray Jones finally finished off the Cobblers in a thrilling first round tie.
The R's second half substitute headed home in the 87th minute to clinch the Hoops a deserved place in round two.
In a free-flowing second half, Kevin Gallen handed the R's a dream start with the second goal of the game inside the opening two minutes.
Dexter Blackstock's foray down the left flank resulted in a Rangers free-kick and the skipper curled a low shot past the unsighted Bunn.
But the Cobblers refused to lie down and second half substitute Jerome Watt pulled a goal back seven minutes later with a 25-yard thunderbolt.
And when Andy Kirk pulled the Cobblers level 13 minutes from time, extra time loomed large.
But Jones had other ideas, sparking huge celebrations and the prospect of a plum Premiership draw in round two with a stunning late winner.
Earlier, Rangers led 1-0 at the break courtesy of Lee Cook's 17th minute solo goal.
In an R's side showing wholesale changes from the 1-1 draw with Preston North End on Saturday, Cook repaid the faith shown in him by gaffer Gary Waddock by opening the scoring at a sparse Loftus Road.
Those that did make the effort to attend were duly rewarded when Cook's jinking run and shot was deflected past Mark Bunn to hand the R's a deserved advantage.
In all, Waddock made seven changes for the visit of the League One outfit to Loftus Road - the most significant of which saw 18 year-old Andrew Howell come in for his first team debut.
Jake Cole, Marcus Bignot, Marc Bircham, Stefan Bailey, Shabazz Baidoo and skipper Kevin Gallen were also given their chance, as the R's boss played 'tinkerman' with one eye on the visit of Ipswich Town on Friday night.
It was the returning Gallen who was gifted with Rangers' first chance, when an out-swinging cross from Bignot wasn't dealt with by the Cobblers back three.
Unfortunately for the R's veteran, his impromptu header cannoned off the back of Luke Chambers, before being hacked to safety.
Cole spared the hosts' blushes on five minutes, diving full stretch to his left to claw James Quinn's half volley round for a corner.
It was a Rangers regular that almost opened the scoring six minutes later.
Cook was gifted far too much time and space on the edge of the box and the R's left winger duly let fly, unlucky to see his fizzing 22-yard drive fall narrowly wide of Bunn's left hand post with the keeper seemingly beaten.
Dexter Blackstock's perseverance almost paid dividends on 15 minutes, but after his superb run and cross from the by-line, Gallen's looping header finished inches wide of the post.
The hosts' impressive start deserved a goal and it duly arrived on 17 minutes, courtesy of that man Cook.
Gallen's hooked clearance on the edge of his own box found Blackstock and when he fed Cook, the winger tricked his way past two Cobblers defenders before his deflected shot completely wrong-footed Bunn.
Cook was being gifted the freedom of the park by the League One side and when the Cobblers defenders continued to back off in the 24th minute, only the width of the post stood between the left winger doubling his and his side's tally.
Baidoo - playing in an unorthodox right midfield role - almost got in on the act in the 30th minute, only to see Bunn save his header from the edge of the six-yard box.
The hosts continued to probe as the half reached its conclusion, with the lively Blackstock heading high and wide from an acute angle and Gallen seeing two efforts in as many minutes saved by the overworked Bunn.
Northampton front-man Kirk fired a brief warning shot to the R's when his right footed purler fizzed off the post on the stroke of half-time, but in truth that was as good as it got for the Cobblers in a one-sided first period.
The Cobblers made one change at the break, with Watt entering the fray at the expense of Bradley Johnson.
But the substitution failed to reap dividends for John Gorman's men and it was Rangers who were soon celebrating goal number two on 47 minutes.
Club captain Gallen marked his first start of the season with a goal, curling a daisy-cutter free-kick from an acute angle round the wall and past a static Bunn.
Baidoo was proving a constant menace at the start of the second half, turning his marker inside-out before blasting a fearsome 12-yard shot inches wide of Bunn's left hand post.
Despite the one-way traffic, Northampton refused to lie down and substitute Watt handed them an avenue back into the tie with a speculative long range shot on 54 minutes.
Cole appeared to be in the perfect position as he dived down low to his right, but the ball somehow found its way past him to the delight of the travelling Cobblers faithful.
Blackstock's pace continued to cause problems for the Cobblers defence and when Bailey fed him in an unfamiliar right midfield role, the former Southampton striker' first time shot was gathered at the second attempt by Bunn.
In truth, Rangers were huffing and puffing their way into the next round, until the returning Bircham sprung them into life on 71 minutes.
His fine sliding tackle and cross found Baidoo and the former Arsenal trainee was unlucky to see his stinging shot fire straight at Bunn.
Egutu Oliseh was handed his first start in English football with 16 minutes to go, but it was an opening to forget for the Nigerian, who was on the pitch for just 15 seconds when the Cobblers equalised.
Kirk's superb turn and shot from 15-yards gave Cole absolutely no chance, as all of Rangers' earlier hard work went to waste.
Remarkably, there was still time for a fifth and final goal and it was Ray Jones who leapt off the bench to score it.
The 17 year-old rose tallest on the edge of the six-yard box to head home Bignot's inch-perfect cross, to finally finish off a plucky performance from the Cobblers.
QPR: Cole, Bignot, Stewart (Kanyuka 90), Rehman, Howell, Baidoo, Bircham (R Jones 84), Bailey, Cook, Gallen (Oliseh 76), Blackstock.
Subs: PJones, Donnelly.
Scorers: Cook 17, Gallen 47, R Jones 87
Bookings:
Red Cards:
Northampton Town: Bunn, Crowe, Chambers, Kirk, Aiston, Jess, Burnell, Brett Johnson (Bojic 68), Dyche, Bradley Johnson (Watt 46), Quinn (Gilligan 85).
Subs: Harper, Cross.
Scorers: Watt 54, Kirk 77
Bookings:
Red Cards:
Attendance: 4,569
Referee: P Miller
QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - WADDOCK's POST MATCH COMMENTS
GREAT CHARACTER
Gary Waddock praised the character and mental toughness of his side after the 3-2 victory against the Cobblers in the Carling Cup.
"A lot of credit has to go to the lads who kept plugging away and got the result we deserved over the 90 minutes.
"We showed great character and resilience and if we continue to show that throughout the season, we'll be difficult to beat.''
Waddock continued: "Tonight was a great example of the never-say-die attitude I'm loooking for from my players and I'm just delighted we've progressed.''
Lee Cook, Kevin Gallen and match-winner Ray Jones bagged the all-important goals, to the delight of the R's gaffer.
"It's great that we're sharing the goals around. That breeds confidence and that is the recipe for success.''
The thrilling 3-2 victory also ended a two year run without a victory in Cup competitions for the R's.
"Two years is a long time without a Cup win but we've buried the hatchet tonight.
"I'm absolutely ecstatic that we're in the hat for the next round.''
Waddock spared a final work for the R's youngsters, who again shone.
"It was fantastic for Ray, but all the young lads did well.
"Andrew Howell had an accomplished debut and it bodes well for the future of this football club that we're continuing to bring these players through the ranks.''
QPR Official Site
NORTHAMPTON MANAGER, GORMAN POST MATCH COMMENTS
Gorman praises "magnificent" effort
John Gorman was full of praise for his team after Tuesday's Carling Cup tie at Loftus Road.
"I thought we were magnificent," he said.
"We played fantastic football and I am proud of the players. We had 4 senior lads missing and we put some young players out there but I am proud of every one of them. Our front two were magnificent and we created well from midfield. I thought we caused them a lot of problems and how we were 2-0 down at one stage I will never know.
"Jerome Watt seems to have this terrible problem of scoring every time we play him! Andy Kirk was tremendous and could have had four goals - he scored one and hit the post and looked a class act. QPR left some of their players out but they still had a lot of quality players out there
"We have lost and again the luck deserted us, but some of our play was from a higher league. We passed the ball with a quality and purpose and with a tempo and that is the way we want to play. We might have lost and we are disappointed to be out of the cup, but we can take confidence from the performance and we can look forward to the league games coming up.
"Their first two goals came from deflections and that sums up the way things went. I did not start Jerome Watt because I did not want to put him under too much pressure but now we will talk terms with him and see what we can come up with.
"We played fantastic football and I am proud of the players," - John Gorman
"We have some real quality in our team and I am very pleased with the way the lads played. We were worthy of at least extra time and I would have fancied us if the game had gone that far.
"James Quinn and Andy Kirk linked up well and looked a very good partnership. James was a little under the weather and that's why we took him off but he had a very good game holding the ball up.
"It was an end to end encounter and a thrilling game. There were no league points at stake and we wanted to go and entertain and we did that. We wanted to get through as well and I am so sorry for the lads and the fans that we didn't. They all deserved more for their efforts."
NORTHAMPTON OFFICIAL SITE
NORTHAMPTON MATCH REPORT
* QPR DID NOT CONFIRM THE NUMBER OF COBBLERS FANS IN ATTENDANCE
Northampton Town made the short journey down to London for the first time this season to take on Queens Park Rangers in the first round of the Carling Cup. The Cobblers had claimed the scalp of the R's at this stage of the competition last season, and this time around John Gorman took the opportunity to hand first starts of the season to Brett Johnson, Bradley Johnson and Eoin Jess. Jerome Watt and Scott Cross were among the substitutes, meaning that 8 of the matchday sixteen were in their teens or early twenties. An ankle injury ruled out Andy Holt, a dead leg accounted for Chris Doig and Ian Taylor was rested.
The Cobblers started brightly, and James Quinn was a whisker away from his first Cobblers goal after six minutes. Neat build up play from Joe Burnell found Eoin Jess and his deep cross was met by Quinn on the volley, but Jake Cole made a superb stop at the near post.
Lee Cook had the first effort of the evening for the home side, but his low skimming 25 yard effort was narrowly wide of Mark Bunn's left hand post after twelve minutes.
Rangers had the lead after eighteen minutes. A speedy break out of defence was finished off by Lee Cook, whose low drive appeared to take a deflection beyond Mark Bunn, wrong footing the Cobblers keeper in the process.
Bunn saved well with his feet to deny Kevin Gallen following a short corner routine, before Andy Kirk tried to capitalise on a slip from Damion Stewart. The QPR man's loose pass was picked up by Kirk thirty yards from goal and although he sent in a powerful shot, Cole was equal to the task.
The Cobblers enjoyed a good spell just before half time. Sam Aiston did well to commit a number of defenders before sliding a ball through to James Quinn whose dangerous cross-shot was deflected over the bar by Andrew Howell, and moments later the former Tranmere man was creating another chance, but again Kirk's shot was held by Cole.
John Gorman's side continued their purple patch, and after James Quinn had played Andy Kirk into the area, Kirk saw his shot bounce back off the post with Cole beaten. Bradley Johnson and then Eoin Jess drove over the bar as the first half came to a close, but the Cobblers really did not want the half time whistle to blow, having spent the last 15 minutes of the half firmly in control against their Championship opponents.
The Cobblers made a change at half time with Jerome Watt replacing Bradley Johnson. The recent Sixfields arrival was quickly into the action, releasing Sam Aiston down the left hand side who supplied a cross that was inches away from the head of Andy Kirk.
Against the run of play, Rangers doubled their lead four minutes after half time. Jason Crowe was harshly adjudged to have handled the ball close to the edge of the penalty area, and the angle gave Kevin Gallen the perfect opportunity to drive a low finish into the far corner, again with the help of a deflection.
Shabazz Baidoo twisted and turned and fired a shot just wide of Mark Bunn's left hand post, before Jerome Watt wasted no time in making his mark, deservedly halving the deficit. Just nine minutes after coming on as a half time substitute he drove at the Rangers defence before firing home a low twenty five yard finish beyond Jake Cole.
Baidoo was proving a real threat to the Cobblers defence, and he forced a low save out of Mark Bunn as the game reached the hour mark, before Pedj Bojic replaced Brett Johnson as John Gorman made his second change.
Kevin Gallen was withdrawn to be replaced by Egutu Oliseh with thirteen minutes to play in a defensive switch, but just moments later the Cobblers equalised. The ball was played into the penalty area and after James Quinn had laid the ball back, Andy Kirk sent a curling finish in beyond the reach of Cole.
James Quinn's flick from an eighty second minute corner seemed to be stopped by the hand of a home defender but the referee waved play on, while Ray Jones replaced Marc Bircham for QPR. John Gorman then introduced Ryan Gilligan for James Quinn.
Bunn made the latest in a number of good stops when he parried away from Dexter Blackstock, but it wasn't long before the home side had the lead once more. A cross into the Cobblers box from Marcus Bignot was headed home by Ray Jones.
The Cobblers may have exited the Carling Cup in the first round, but this result was harsh on John Gorman's side, who more than played their part in a thrilling night of cup football.
NORTHAMPTON
Northampton's Manager Looks at QPR Game
-
NORTHAMPTON OFFICIAL SITE"Priority is the league, but we still want to win," says Cobblers boss
John Gorman
John Gorman has said he will be taking the Carling Cup tie at QPR seriously.
"We are treating the game properly and we want to go out and win," he said.
"We got the win on Saturday but we know we have played better than that but that's just football. To be honest we played very well in our two home games yet came out with nothing.
"We know we are in for a hard game. QPR went to Preston on Saturday and got a point so we aren't kidding ourselves and we know we are going up against a very good team.
"I've always enjoyed going to QPR, it's a nice stadium and a nice pitch and it's a chance to move on to the next round of the cup if we can.
"We go into the game a bit more relaxed because there are no points at stake but this club has done well in the cups over the last few years and we would love for that to continue.
"If I'm totally honest our priority is always going to be the league, it's been dog eat dog so far in this division and the more points you can get on the board the sooner the better.
"The players have been nice and bright in training and we are all looking forward to the game.
"I was very proud on Saturday that we finished the game with a lot of young players out on the field and they saw us through. That for me is a great plus, the spirit in the camp is really good and hopefully now we can take on the win we got on Saturday."
Northampton
NORTHAMPTON OFFICIAL SITE
Gorman waiting on Doig injury
John Gorman will delay selection for Tuesday's Carling Cup game at QPR after checking on one or two injuries.
"We have got a couple of injuries and we will check on those before making a decision on the team," he confirmed.
"Ian Taylor was fantastic on Saturday but we could consider resting him but because we are not playing another game until next Tuesday I think he would be OK to play.
"If we were playing on Friday this week we would have to be a little bit more careful and that could be the case next week because we play on Tuesday and Friday.
"Chris Doig came off on Saturday but I don't think it's anything serious. He didn't train on Monday but we will have a look at it again on Tuesday and we are quite hopeful that he will be OK to play.
"Joe Burnell got a knock on his calf but I think he should be OK as well.
"We have got a lot of good youngsters here and we may well give Jerome Watt a chance against QPR. He has done so well for us so far and I'd like to see him in a proper game. That's not to say that if he doesn't do well we'll forget about him because he has already proved to us that he can be a very good player."
Northampton
NORTHAMPTON OFFICIAL SITE"Priority is the league, but we still want to win," says Cobblers boss
John Gorman
John Gorman has said he will be taking the Carling Cup tie at QPR seriously.
"We are treating the game properly and we want to go out and win," he said.
"We got the win on Saturday but we know we have played better than that but that's just football. To be honest we played very well in our two home games yet came out with nothing.
"We know we are in for a hard game. QPR went to Preston on Saturday and got a point so we aren't kidding ourselves and we know we are going up against a very good team.
"I've always enjoyed going to QPR, it's a nice stadium and a nice pitch and it's a chance to move on to the next round of the cup if we can.
"We go into the game a bit more relaxed because there are no points at stake but this club has done well in the cups over the last few years and we would love for that to continue.
"If I'm totally honest our priority is always going to be the league, it's been dog eat dog so far in this division and the more points you can get on the board the sooner the better.
"The players have been nice and bright in training and we are all looking forward to the game.
"I was very proud on Saturday that we finished the game with a lot of young players out on the field and they saw us through. That for me is a great plus, the spirit in the camp is really good and hopefully now we can take on the win we got on Saturday."
Northampton
NORTHAMPTON OFFICIAL SITE
Gorman waiting on Doig injury
John Gorman will delay selection for Tuesday's Carling Cup game at QPR after checking on one or two injuries.
"We have got a couple of injuries and we will check on those before making a decision on the team," he confirmed.
"Ian Taylor was fantastic on Saturday but we could consider resting him but because we are not playing another game until next Tuesday I think he would be OK to play.
"If we were playing on Friday this week we would have to be a little bit more careful and that could be the case next week because we play on Tuesday and Friday.
"Chris Doig came off on Saturday but I don't think it's anything serious. He didn't train on Monday but we will have a look at it again on Tuesday and we are quite hopeful that he will be OK to play.
"Joe Burnell got a knock on his calf but I think he should be OK as well.
"We have got a lot of good youngsters here and we may well give Jerome Watt a chance against QPR. He has done so well for us so far and I'd like to see him in a proper game. That's not to say that if he doesn't do well we'll forget about him because he has already proved to us that he can be a very good player."
Northampton
For Kevin Gallen, a Decade since THE Injury at Portsmouth
-
For Kevin Gallen, who hopefully plays tonight against Northampton...It's exactly a DECADE (minus a day)since Gallen got that terrible injury playing at Portsmouth. August 23rd 1996. Definitely a black day for Gallen and QPR
After scoring on opening day at home to Oxford, Gallen scored twice in QPR's first away game at Portsmouth. Unfortunately in scoring that second goal, he got injured with a cruciate knee injury; missed the rest of the season. And to a great extent was never quite the same again.
For Gallen, approaching 31 (born September 25, 1975), it's 12 years since he made his debut at Manchester United as an 18 year old youth/reserve goal-scoring machine, alongside Les Ferdinand. Capped at England U-21 Level (chosing England over Ireland), Gallen was widely tipped for big-time success, with QPR rejecting big offers for him.
Gallen was eventually given a free transfer by Gerry Francis in the summer of 2000. He joined Huddersfield and then Barnsley. And rejoined QPR on a free in November 2001. In his two stints at QPR, has played more than 300 games and scored almost 90 league goals. (He's one short of a century of a league goals, including his Barnsley and Huddersfield period)
Playing Record
BBC "Gallen Back at QPR"
Even see Gallen Website
For Kevin Gallen, who hopefully plays tonight against Northampton...It's exactly a DECADE (minus a day)since Gallen got that terrible injury playing at Portsmouth. August 23rd 1996. Definitely a black day for Gallen and QPR
After scoring on opening day at home to Oxford, Gallen scored twice in QPR's first away game at Portsmouth. Unfortunately in scoring that second goal, he got injured with a cruciate knee injury; missed the rest of the season. And to a great extent was never quite the same again.
For Gallen, approaching 31 (born September 25, 1975), it's 12 years since he made his debut at Manchester United as an 18 year old youth/reserve goal-scoring machine, alongside Les Ferdinand. Capped at England U-21 Level (chosing England over Ireland), Gallen was widely tipped for big-time success, with QPR rejecting big offers for him.
Gallen was eventually given a free transfer by Gerry Francis in the summer of 2000. He joined Huddersfield and then Barnsley. And rejoined QPR on a free in November 2001. In his two stints at QPR, has played more than 300 games and scored almost 90 league goals. (He's one short of a century of a league goals, including his Barnsley and Huddersfield period)
Playing Record
BBC "Gallen Back at QPR"
Even see Gallen Website
Marcus Bignot Turns 32...Ex-Loanee, Lee Camp Turns 22
-
Marcus Bignot Turns 32
Born August 22, 1974
Holloway's first signing from Bristol Rovers when he took over from Gerry Francis in QPR's 2000-2001 relegation season. Played in our first season in Division "Two." Then went to Rushden Diamonds for a couple of seasons, before being signed back on Deadline eve, in our 2002-2003 Promotion season.
Birthday
Lee Camp Turns 22
Goalie Lee Camp joined QPR on loan from Derby in our 2002-2003 Promotion season. Played in our last 12 games which saw us gain promotion. Efforts to sign him failed.
Marcus Bignot Turns 32
Born August 22, 1974
Holloway's first signing from Bristol Rovers when he took over from Gerry Francis in QPR's 2000-2001 relegation season. Played in our first season in Division "Two." Then went to Rushden Diamonds for a couple of seasons, before being signed back on Deadline eve, in our 2002-2003 Promotion season.
Birthday
Lee Camp Turns 22
Goalie Lee Camp joined QPR on loan from Derby in our 2002-2003 Promotion season. Played in our last 12 games which saw us gain promotion. Efforts to sign him failed.
Monday, August 21, 2006
Early Look at Northampton
-
Northampton, managed by John Gorman are currently 15th in Division One....got their first win of the season on Saturday, winning 1-0 at Gillingham. (Their other games an opening 2-2 draw at Crewe: 0-1 defeats at home to Brentford and Nottingham Forest)
Northampton's Squad includes of course, ex-QPR goalie, Lee Harper
QPR OFFICIAL SITE PREVIEW OF NORTHAMPTON
"....Cobblers, no it's true...for the second year running, Rangers lock horns with League One side Northampton Town in the first round of the Carling Cup.
It will mean a spot of revenge could be on the cards for Gary Waddock's men after the R's succumbed to a 3-0 defeat at Sixfields last season.
In fact, the R's are without a victory against the Cobblers since 1962 when both clubs were in the old Division Three...."
BBC Injury News -
Northampton Official Site re Lee Harper, out of the team, Made Available for Loan
Northampton, managed by John Gorman are currently 15th in Division One....got their first win of the season on Saturday, winning 1-0 at Gillingham. (Their other games an opening 2-2 draw at Crewe: 0-1 defeats at home to Brentford and Nottingham Forest)
Northampton's Squad includes of course, ex-QPR goalie, Lee Harper
QPR OFFICIAL SITE PREVIEW OF NORTHAMPTON
"....Cobblers, no it's true...for the second year running, Rangers lock horns with League One side Northampton Town in the first round of the Carling Cup.
It will mean a spot of revenge could be on the cards for Gary Waddock's men after the R's succumbed to a 3-0 defeat at Sixfields last season.
In fact, the R's are without a victory against the Cobblers since 1962 when both clubs were in the old Division Three...."
BBC Injury News -
Northampton Official Site re Lee Harper, out of the team, Made Available for Loan
"Fire Alarm" Neil McNamara's April Jail Sentence
A (non-QPR related) news item from April re "Hotel Fire Alarm" Neil Macnamara which didn't at the time get noticed by QPR Report.
BBC - April 1, 2006
Ex-minder is jailed for tax dodge
An ex-minder of Cardiff City FC's owner has been jailed for using fake business names to avoid a £100,000 tax bill.
Cardiff Crown Court heard Neil MacNamara paid no income tax, national insurance or VAT on money for providing security services to pubs and clubs.
McNamara, 42, from Nantgarw, south Wales was sacked in 2002 as Sam Hammam's bodyguard after it emerged he was a convicted football hooligan.
He was jailed for a year after admitting cheating the Inland Revenue.
Prosecutor Timothy Godfrey told the court on Friday that MacNamara "was in effect cloning the identity of four legitimate companies.
"He issued invoices in these companies' names but the company addresses were false."
The offence is so serious you will have to go to prison.
Judge David Wynn Morgan
Mr Godfrey said that over three tax years, between 2000 and 2003, MacNamara had made a profit of more than £160,000.
The interest on his unpaid tax bill had now reached £17,000 bringing the total owed to the Inland Revenue to £117,000. MacNamara pleaded guilty to four counties of cheating the Inland Revenue.
Defending, Richard Twomlow, said the father-of-three did not profit very much from his fraud.
"He is not a rich man," he said. "He owes money and did not become wealthy from this scheme."
In 1999 MacNamara began working for security firm Unisec but his employment ceased after "widespread and unfair coverage" of a criminal damage conviction, Mr Twomlow said.
MacNamara was found guilty in 2003 of causing criminal damage and giving a false fire alarm at the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport.
The life-long Cardiff City football fan was given a five-year match ban after magistrates in Abergavenny decided that the crime was intended to disrupt rivals Queens Park Rangers before their play-off game against Cardiff City.
But after his appeal Cardiff Crown Court later said there was insufficient evidence to prove the incident was connected to football and lifted the ban.
Mr Twomlow said MacNamara had decided to set up a legitimate company, Guardian Security, after he was jailed in 2002 for six months for driving a stolen sports car and for possession of a can of CS gas.
'Sophisticated cover'
But the court was told the Inland Revenue was already investigating MacNamara's business dealings and he was arrested in 2004.
MacNamara was sacked from the Cardiff City security team when details of his previous convictions emerged in 2002.
Judge David Wyn Morgan told MacNamara: "The offence is so serious you will have to go to prison.
"It was a relatively sophisticated cover using the names of legitimate companies to keep £100,000 of the Inland Revenue's money."
BBC
REMEMBERING...
From BBC June 19, 2003
Ex-soccer minder admits hoax
"...A former minder of Cardiff City Football Club owner Sam Hammam has admitted setting off a fire alarm in the hotel where a rival team was sleeping before a crucial match.
Neil MacNamara, 39, of Nantgarw, south Wales, set off a fire alarm at the Celtic Manor Resort, Newport, in the early hours of 25 May.
Queens Park Rangers players were staying at the hotel before their Division Two play-off final against Cardiff at the Millennium Stadium later that day.
MacNamara pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage and giving a false fire alarm.
But he denied the offence was football-related in the hearing at Newport Magistrates Cour.
Paul Moore, prosecuting, said: "There will be legal argument as to whether the offence was football-related.
"It will be the prosecution's suggestion this was football-related and we will invite a banning order.
"This will be opposed by the defence."
He was released on unconditional bail to reappear at the court on 16 July, when another hearing will decide whether the hoax was aimed at the QPR players.
Some 200 people had to leave the Celtic Manor while the alarm was investigated.
The QPR players were able to stay inside as they were sleeping in a different wing of the hotel.
The alarm went off at 0300 BST, 12 hours before QPR's play-off final kicked off at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium, which the London team lost 1-0 in extra time. ...
BBC
And the Celtic Manor Hotel
BBC - April 1, 2006
Ex-minder is jailed for tax dodge
An ex-minder of Cardiff City FC's owner has been jailed for using fake business names to avoid a £100,000 tax bill.
Cardiff Crown Court heard Neil MacNamara paid no income tax, national insurance or VAT on money for providing security services to pubs and clubs.
McNamara, 42, from Nantgarw, south Wales was sacked in 2002 as Sam Hammam's bodyguard after it emerged he was a convicted football hooligan.
He was jailed for a year after admitting cheating the Inland Revenue.
Prosecutor Timothy Godfrey told the court on Friday that MacNamara "was in effect cloning the identity of four legitimate companies.
"He issued invoices in these companies' names but the company addresses were false."
The offence is so serious you will have to go to prison.
Judge David Wynn Morgan
Mr Godfrey said that over three tax years, between 2000 and 2003, MacNamara had made a profit of more than £160,000.
The interest on his unpaid tax bill had now reached £17,000 bringing the total owed to the Inland Revenue to £117,000. MacNamara pleaded guilty to four counties of cheating the Inland Revenue.
Defending, Richard Twomlow, said the father-of-three did not profit very much from his fraud.
"He is not a rich man," he said. "He owes money and did not become wealthy from this scheme."
In 1999 MacNamara began working for security firm Unisec but his employment ceased after "widespread and unfair coverage" of a criminal damage conviction, Mr Twomlow said.
MacNamara was found guilty in 2003 of causing criminal damage and giving a false fire alarm at the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport.
The life-long Cardiff City football fan was given a five-year match ban after magistrates in Abergavenny decided that the crime was intended to disrupt rivals Queens Park Rangers before their play-off game against Cardiff City.
But after his appeal Cardiff Crown Court later said there was insufficient evidence to prove the incident was connected to football and lifted the ban.
Mr Twomlow said MacNamara had decided to set up a legitimate company, Guardian Security, after he was jailed in 2002 for six months for driving a stolen sports car and for possession of a can of CS gas.
'Sophisticated cover'
But the court was told the Inland Revenue was already investigating MacNamara's business dealings and he was arrested in 2004.
MacNamara was sacked from the Cardiff City security team when details of his previous convictions emerged in 2002.
Judge David Wyn Morgan told MacNamara: "The offence is so serious you will have to go to prison.
"It was a relatively sophisticated cover using the names of legitimate companies to keep £100,000 of the Inland Revenue's money."
BBC
REMEMBERING...
From BBC June 19, 2003
Ex-soccer minder admits hoax
"...A former minder of Cardiff City Football Club owner Sam Hammam has admitted setting off a fire alarm in the hotel where a rival team was sleeping before a crucial match.
Neil MacNamara, 39, of Nantgarw, south Wales, set off a fire alarm at the Celtic Manor Resort, Newport, in the early hours of 25 May.
Queens Park Rangers players were staying at the hotel before their Division Two play-off final against Cardiff at the Millennium Stadium later that day.
MacNamara pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage and giving a false fire alarm.
But he denied the offence was football-related in the hearing at Newport Magistrates Cour.
Paul Moore, prosecuting, said: "There will be legal argument as to whether the offence was football-related.
"It will be the prosecution's suggestion this was football-related and we will invite a banning order.
"This will be opposed by the defence."
He was released on unconditional bail to reappear at the court on 16 July, when another hearing will decide whether the hoax was aimed at the QPR players.
Some 200 people had to leave the Celtic Manor while the alarm was investigated.
The QPR players were able to stay inside as they were sleeping in a different wing of the hotel.
The alarm went off at 0300 BST, 12 hours before QPR's play-off final kicked off at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium, which the London team lost 1-0 in extra time. ...
BBC
And the Celtic Manor Hotel
Coming August 28 in Monaco: "The Golden Foot Award"
-
Coming, August 28, 2006 - The Golden Foot Award
Besides being Chairman of QPR Holdings, Antonio Caliendo also heads the Monaco-based Worlds Champions Club
Each year, World Champions Club cosponsors "The Golden Foot Award" (Description of the Award from the Golden Foot website:
About the Golden Foot Award
"The Golden Foot award is an international award to the career only for at least 29-year-old football players, who stand out for their sport results (both as single players and with their team), for their personality and for the esteem of the public and football experts. The winner is chosen out of a ten nominees list decided by a jury consisting of the Golden Foot media partners representatives and of the fans from all over the world who give their preferential vote through the official site. The peculiarity of this award is that the winner leaves a permanent mould of his footprints on "The Champions Promenade", a sort of "Walk of Fame" of the international football on the seafront of the Principality of Monaco. Therefore, a football player can win the Golden Foot award only once. The 2006 Golden Foot event will take place on 28 August 2006."
The Ten Nominees
Golden Foot August 28 - Schedule of Events
Golden Foot Jury
Organizing Committee
2005 Interview/Press release with Golden Foot's/World Champions Club's Patrizia Pighini
Coming, August 28, 2006 - The Golden Foot Award
Besides being Chairman of QPR Holdings, Antonio Caliendo also heads the Monaco-based Worlds Champions Club
Each year, World Champions Club cosponsors "The Golden Foot Award" (Description of the Award from the Golden Foot website:
About the Golden Foot Award
"The Golden Foot award is an international award to the career only for at least 29-year-old football players, who stand out for their sport results (both as single players and with their team), for their personality and for the esteem of the public and football experts. The winner is chosen out of a ten nominees list decided by a jury consisting of the Golden Foot media partners representatives and of the fans from all over the world who give their preferential vote through the official site. The peculiarity of this award is that the winner leaves a permanent mould of his footprints on "The Champions Promenade", a sort of "Walk of Fame" of the international football on the seafront of the Principality of Monaco. Therefore, a football player can win the Golden Foot award only once. The 2006 Golden Foot event will take place on 28 August 2006."
The Ten Nominees
Golden Foot August 28 - Schedule of Events
Golden Foot Jury
Organizing Committee
2005 Interview/Press release with Golden Foot's/World Champions Club's Patrizia Pighini
QPR's Season Openers...Forty Years Ago...Thirty...Twenty...Ten
-
Forty years ago, (yesterday) QPR's March to Glory began with a 2-2 home draw at Swindon - Les Allen and ROdney Marsh scoring. The team that day. Peter Springett - Watson Hunt Sibley Hazell,Keen, Collins Lazarus, Marsh, Allen R. Morgan
Sanderson replacing Collins and Langley coming in for Watson. (A week later, QPR's "run' Continued with a 0-1 loss at Watford!)
30 Years ago...1976/77, the unbelievable opening result. Four months after finishing the season as "Champions" (for 10 days) by beating Leeds, virtually the same team lost the opening game, August 21 0-4 at home to Everton.
Twenty Years ago...(August 23) QPR, with David Seaman making his QPR debut, Jim Smith's QPR lost 5-1 at Southampton (with future QPR forward Colin Clarke making his Southampton Debut)
And a decade ago (August 17), QPR had just beaten Oxford United 2-1 at Loftus Road.
Forty years ago, (yesterday) QPR's March to Glory began with a 2-2 home draw at Swindon - Les Allen and ROdney Marsh scoring. The team that day. Peter Springett - Watson Hunt Sibley Hazell,Keen, Collins Lazarus, Marsh, Allen R. Morgan
Sanderson replacing Collins and Langley coming in for Watson. (A week later, QPR's "run' Continued with a 0-1 loss at Watford!)
30 Years ago...1976/77, the unbelievable opening result. Four months after finishing the season as "Champions" (for 10 days) by beating Leeds, virtually the same team lost the opening game, August 21 0-4 at home to Everton.
Twenty Years ago...(August 23) QPR, with David Seaman making his QPR debut, Jim Smith's QPR lost 5-1 at Southampton (with future QPR forward Colin Clarke making his Southampton Debut)
And a decade ago (August 17), QPR had just beaten Oxford United 2-1 at Loftus Road.
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Ex-QPR Birthdays Today....Ex-Manager, Stewart Houston & Lee Charles
-
Stewart Houston TURNS 57
Born August 20, 1949.
Houston was appointed QPR Manager exactly a decade ago. Took over from Ray Wilkins and was QPR Manager for just over a year, forming a partnership with Bruce Rioch. Among the players he signed for QPR: John Spencer, Gavin Peacock, Matt Rose, Steve Morrow, Lee Harper and Mike Sheron.
Lee Charles TURNS 35
Born August 20, 1971...
Charles was signed by Ray Wilkins from non-League. Charles made a few appearances in QPR's relegation season and the following season, before moving on to Barnet.
Charles
Stewart Houston TURNS 57
Born August 20, 1949.
Houston was appointed QPR Manager exactly a decade ago. Took over from Ray Wilkins and was QPR Manager for just over a year, forming a partnership with Bruce Rioch. Among the players he signed for QPR: John Spencer, Gavin Peacock, Matt Rose, Steve Morrow, Lee Harper and Mike Sheron.
Lee Charles TURNS 35
Born August 20, 1971...
Charles was signed by Ray Wilkins from non-League. Charles made a few appearances in QPR's relegation season and the following season, before moving on to Barnet.
Charles
Preston 1 QPR 1 - Additional Reports & Comments
-
Photos from Preston
WADDOCK'S POST-MATCH COMMENTS - QPR OFFICIAL SITE
Gary Waddock's Rangers were upset in more ways than one up at Preston after falling victim to a late equaliser.
Not only was the late Paul McKenna goal a blow to the emotions, but Rangers had found their shape upset early on after an injury to Martin Rowlands.
It was certainly a tough test up at Deepdale, but Gareth Ainsworth's early strike had given Rangers every chance of coming away from the North West with the three points.
But Preston didn't give up the chase and equalised late on through a Paul McKenna header to undo all of Rangers' hard graft.
Waddock said: "I'm a bit disappointed that we didn't hold out for the three points, we should have had the win.
"They had a lot of possession but they didn't break us down that often and we're building on getting those wins.
"To lose Martin Rowlands so early on in the game changed our game plan and it did upset the balance a little bit, but we had Steve Lomas available to come on and he is a complete professional.
"We'll have to assess Rowly's injury tomorrow, so we won't know any more until then.
"The players are disappointed in there, they were after the Burnley game and then today it shows you what can happen within a small period of time."
"People can keep tipping us for relegation but we've set our targets in house and the squad know what's expected of them
"We've had three good games now, so let's build on that and see where that takes us."
Former Preston man Ainsworth got on the scoresheet and Waddock had words of praise for his captain.
"Gareth always does well. He was captain today and he puts in a great performance week in week out.
"Nick Ward has also settled in really quickly but as a team I don't feel that we've completely gelled yet and there is still more to come."
And as for the opposition?
"David Nugent is a quality player but I felt our back four dealt with him really well. He didn't have many chances, one before half time and a header than Jonah saved, but Zesh and Damion did well with him."
QPR QPR OFFICIAL SITE
PRESTON MANAGER'S POST MATCH ASSESSEMENT
Frustrating
North End boss Paul Simpson endured a frustrating afternoon as he saw his side encounter their second consecutive home draw.
Paul Simpson
"We definitely deserved at least a point, we had a lot of possession, we had opportunities but the big thing that let us down today was the final ball into the box," Simpson said in the aftermath of the 1-1 draw with QPR.
"It was frustrating at times, we were getting into good areas but too many times there were half-hearted balls going in where the goalkeeper was allowed to come in and take the cross, calm them down and set them on an attack."
It was Paul McKenna's 86th minute header which rescued a point for the Lilywhites after former PNE midfielder Gareth Ainsworth had given the London club a fifth minute lead.
"You can say saved in the nick of time, we have given a goal away sloppily in the first half and we didn't defend the long ball through and we should have cleared our lines earlier with that.
"We didn't do our jobs at the set-piece, it was a horrible goal to look at and concede and from there we are chasing the game.
"Fair play to QPR, they came and they got players supporting Blackstock and Jones quickly and they defended very strongly. If we had had better quality on the crosses we could have caused them more problems but I thought it was a well worked goal that we scored and a goal that we deserved to get."
North End endured more bad news on the injury front with Kelvin Wilson suffering medial ligament damage and he could be out for some time - Alan McCormack deputised very well once Wilson had departed.
Simpson said: "You have to say that we are going through a very unlucky period with Kelvin Wilson getting injured today, we think there is medial knee ligament damage so we don't know how long he is going to be out.
"Alan's not played many and I bet he's not made many as a right-back either, he did very well, I was delighted with Alan McCormack.
"I thought he came and gave us a bit of enthusiasm more than anything, unfortunately Alan was probably a bit guilty more than anybody of putting crosses into the goalkeeper's hands but I thought a lot of the stuff that he did was very good.
"He went in and won tackles and that is something that we have got to get right through the side, too many times I felt that we weren't strong enough going into challenges and when you get supporters turning up week in-week out you have to show them that you have got that real desire to go and win the ball and to win tackles and it something that we have definitely got to improve on."
Preston
BBC
Preston 1-1 QPR
Paul McKenna denied QPR their first away points of the season with a late equaliser for Preston.
Gareth Ainsworth gave Rangers the lead after just five minutes, volleying in Nick Ward's cross from six yards out.
But Preston found their feet in the second half, the lively Danny Pugh twice going close before missing an easy header.
But the hosts finally got their deserved equaliser moments later through McKenna's header.
#Preston boss Paul Simpson:
"It makes it important to get new people into the squad. I am still waiting for players to come back to me at the moment.
"I'll just have to keep being patient. The list is endless of first team players unavailable for selection.
"Today I had 14 outfield players for this game, plus one."
#
QPR boss Gary Waddock:
"Gareth Ainsworth leads by example. He has put in another good performance. He always does that, week-in week-out.
"He gives 100% whether on the training ground, or in a Championship game.
"He's a character in the dressing room, he gets everyone going. He wears his heart on his sleeve, he is a rock and roller and put in a captain's display."
Preston: Nash, Hill (Lewis Neal 73), St. Ledger, Chilvers, Wilson (McCormack 41), Sedgwick (Agyemang 80), McKenna, Jarrett, Pugh, Nugent, Whaley.
Subs Not Used: Lonergan, Stock.
Booked: McKenna.
Goals: McKenna 86.
QPR: Paul Jones, Rowlands (Lomas 12), Rose, Rehman, Milanese, Ainsworth (Baidoo 90), Stewart, Blackstock, Cook, Ray Jones (Gallen 82), Ward.
Subs Not Used: Cole, Kanyuka.
Goals: Ainsworth 5.
Att: 11,879
Ref: M Pike (Cumbria)
BBC
SPORTING LIFE
Paul McKenna denied QPR their first away win of the season as his late equaliser earned Preston a deserved 1-1 draw at Deepdale.
Gareth Ainsworth had given Rangers the lead after just five minutes of the first half and Gary Waddock's men showed steely resolve to hold onto their lead, only to have their hopes of a win dashed by McKenna's late header.
Early pressure from the visitors centred around midfielder Ainsworth, who pulled the strings as QPR won an early corner.
Nick Ward swung the corner dangerously into the centre of the Preston box and Ainsworth was on the end of it, poking the ball home on the volley from six yards out with his right foot, past the flailing arms of North End goalkeeper Carlo Nash.
The visitors continued to control possession of the ball as Preston struggled to get into the contest but Rangers suffered an early blow when Martin Rowlands limped off injured and was replaced by Steve Lomas.
The enforced substitution failed to swing the flow of the game in Preston's favour and some neat play from Rangers striker Dexter Blackstock presented a chance for Ward but the midfielder fired wide from the edge of the box.
Preston finally began to make inroads in attack as Danny Pugh's probing runs caused QPR a number of problems and Paul Simpson's side registered their first shot when David Nugent drove a right-footed effort towards goal from 30 yards, only to see it cleared by Zesh Rehman.
The afternoon saw its second early substitution when an injury to Preston midfielder Kelvin Wilson forced Simpson to replace him with Alan McCormack.
However, the half ended with North End in the ascendancy and a Nugent header forced Jones into an athletic, diving save before Pugh's cross teed the England Under-21s striker up again but he found Jones at full stretch and in fine form.
The second half picked up where the first left off, as Preston pushed forward and Simon Whalley crashed a right-footed shot towards goal from 25 yards, into the arms of Jones.
Pugh threatened to bring Preston an equaliser and he struck a pair of shots within a minute of each other, the first being saved by Jones and the second flying just wide from 20 yards.
Having survived a spell of pressure, QPR pushed forwards after the hour mark and it was Ainsworth again at the centre of their endeavours.
Lee Cook's inswinging corner found the goal-scorer in a similar position to that from which he netted earlier, but his left-footed shot flashed wide of the post.
As the game entered its closing quarter, Preston finally began to show the kind of form that saw them beat Wolves a week earlier and Lewis Neal's introduction as a replacement for Matthew Hill proved key to their recovery.
Pugh should have scored with a header after Neal sent over a superb cross but the miss was forgotten moments later as the scores were levelled.
Neal again looped the ball into the penalty area and this time he found McKenna, who nodded the ball downwards beyond Jones and into the net to clinch a point.
SPORTING LIFE
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/reports/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/06/08/19/SOCCER_Preston.html
Photos from Preston
WADDOCK'S POST-MATCH COMMENTS - QPR OFFICIAL SITE
Gary Waddock's Rangers were upset in more ways than one up at Preston after falling victim to a late equaliser.
Not only was the late Paul McKenna goal a blow to the emotions, but Rangers had found their shape upset early on after an injury to Martin Rowlands.
It was certainly a tough test up at Deepdale, but Gareth Ainsworth's early strike had given Rangers every chance of coming away from the North West with the three points.
But Preston didn't give up the chase and equalised late on through a Paul McKenna header to undo all of Rangers' hard graft.
Waddock said: "I'm a bit disappointed that we didn't hold out for the three points, we should have had the win.
"They had a lot of possession but they didn't break us down that often and we're building on getting those wins.
"To lose Martin Rowlands so early on in the game changed our game plan and it did upset the balance a little bit, but we had Steve Lomas available to come on and he is a complete professional.
"We'll have to assess Rowly's injury tomorrow, so we won't know any more until then.
"The players are disappointed in there, they were after the Burnley game and then today it shows you what can happen within a small period of time."
"People can keep tipping us for relegation but we've set our targets in house and the squad know what's expected of them
"We've had three good games now, so let's build on that and see where that takes us."
Former Preston man Ainsworth got on the scoresheet and Waddock had words of praise for his captain.
"Gareth always does well. He was captain today and he puts in a great performance week in week out.
"Nick Ward has also settled in really quickly but as a team I don't feel that we've completely gelled yet and there is still more to come."
And as for the opposition?
"David Nugent is a quality player but I felt our back four dealt with him really well. He didn't have many chances, one before half time and a header than Jonah saved, but Zesh and Damion did well with him."
QPR QPR OFFICIAL SITE
PRESTON MANAGER'S POST MATCH ASSESSEMENT
Frustrating
North End boss Paul Simpson endured a frustrating afternoon as he saw his side encounter their second consecutive home draw.
Paul Simpson
"We definitely deserved at least a point, we had a lot of possession, we had opportunities but the big thing that let us down today was the final ball into the box," Simpson said in the aftermath of the 1-1 draw with QPR.
"It was frustrating at times, we were getting into good areas but too many times there were half-hearted balls going in where the goalkeeper was allowed to come in and take the cross, calm them down and set them on an attack."
It was Paul McKenna's 86th minute header which rescued a point for the Lilywhites after former PNE midfielder Gareth Ainsworth had given the London club a fifth minute lead.
"You can say saved in the nick of time, we have given a goal away sloppily in the first half and we didn't defend the long ball through and we should have cleared our lines earlier with that.
"We didn't do our jobs at the set-piece, it was a horrible goal to look at and concede and from there we are chasing the game.
"Fair play to QPR, they came and they got players supporting Blackstock and Jones quickly and they defended very strongly. If we had had better quality on the crosses we could have caused them more problems but I thought it was a well worked goal that we scored and a goal that we deserved to get."
North End endured more bad news on the injury front with Kelvin Wilson suffering medial ligament damage and he could be out for some time - Alan McCormack deputised very well once Wilson had departed.
Simpson said: "You have to say that we are going through a very unlucky period with Kelvin Wilson getting injured today, we think there is medial knee ligament damage so we don't know how long he is going to be out.
"Alan's not played many and I bet he's not made many as a right-back either, he did very well, I was delighted with Alan McCormack.
"I thought he came and gave us a bit of enthusiasm more than anything, unfortunately Alan was probably a bit guilty more than anybody of putting crosses into the goalkeeper's hands but I thought a lot of the stuff that he did was very good.
"He went in and won tackles and that is something that we have got to get right through the side, too many times I felt that we weren't strong enough going into challenges and when you get supporters turning up week in-week out you have to show them that you have got that real desire to go and win the ball and to win tackles and it something that we have definitely got to improve on."
Preston
BBC
Preston 1-1 QPR
Paul McKenna denied QPR their first away points of the season with a late equaliser for Preston.
Gareth Ainsworth gave Rangers the lead after just five minutes, volleying in Nick Ward's cross from six yards out.
But Preston found their feet in the second half, the lively Danny Pugh twice going close before missing an easy header.
But the hosts finally got their deserved equaliser moments later through McKenna's header.
#Preston boss Paul Simpson:
"It makes it important to get new people into the squad. I am still waiting for players to come back to me at the moment.
"I'll just have to keep being patient. The list is endless of first team players unavailable for selection.
"Today I had 14 outfield players for this game, plus one."
#
QPR boss Gary Waddock:
"Gareth Ainsworth leads by example. He has put in another good performance. He always does that, week-in week-out.
"He gives 100% whether on the training ground, or in a Championship game.
"He's a character in the dressing room, he gets everyone going. He wears his heart on his sleeve, he is a rock and roller and put in a captain's display."
Preston: Nash, Hill (Lewis Neal 73), St. Ledger, Chilvers, Wilson (McCormack 41), Sedgwick (Agyemang 80), McKenna, Jarrett, Pugh, Nugent, Whaley.
Subs Not Used: Lonergan, Stock.
Booked: McKenna.
Goals: McKenna 86.
QPR: Paul Jones, Rowlands (Lomas 12), Rose, Rehman, Milanese, Ainsworth (Baidoo 90), Stewart, Blackstock, Cook, Ray Jones (Gallen 82), Ward.
Subs Not Used: Cole, Kanyuka.
Goals: Ainsworth 5.
Att: 11,879
Ref: M Pike (Cumbria)
BBC
SPORTING LIFE
Paul McKenna denied QPR their first away win of the season as his late equaliser earned Preston a deserved 1-1 draw at Deepdale.
Gareth Ainsworth had given Rangers the lead after just five minutes of the first half and Gary Waddock's men showed steely resolve to hold onto their lead, only to have their hopes of a win dashed by McKenna's late header.
Early pressure from the visitors centred around midfielder Ainsworth, who pulled the strings as QPR won an early corner.
Nick Ward swung the corner dangerously into the centre of the Preston box and Ainsworth was on the end of it, poking the ball home on the volley from six yards out with his right foot, past the flailing arms of North End goalkeeper Carlo Nash.
The visitors continued to control possession of the ball as Preston struggled to get into the contest but Rangers suffered an early blow when Martin Rowlands limped off injured and was replaced by Steve Lomas.
The enforced substitution failed to swing the flow of the game in Preston's favour and some neat play from Rangers striker Dexter Blackstock presented a chance for Ward but the midfielder fired wide from the edge of the box.
Preston finally began to make inroads in attack as Danny Pugh's probing runs caused QPR a number of problems and Paul Simpson's side registered their first shot when David Nugent drove a right-footed effort towards goal from 30 yards, only to see it cleared by Zesh Rehman.
The afternoon saw its second early substitution when an injury to Preston midfielder Kelvin Wilson forced Simpson to replace him with Alan McCormack.
However, the half ended with North End in the ascendancy and a Nugent header forced Jones into an athletic, diving save before Pugh's cross teed the England Under-21s striker up again but he found Jones at full stretch and in fine form.
The second half picked up where the first left off, as Preston pushed forward and Simon Whalley crashed a right-footed shot towards goal from 25 yards, into the arms of Jones.
Pugh threatened to bring Preston an equaliser and he struck a pair of shots within a minute of each other, the first being saved by Jones and the second flying just wide from 20 yards.
Having survived a spell of pressure, QPR pushed forwards after the hour mark and it was Ainsworth again at the centre of their endeavours.
Lee Cook's inswinging corner found the goal-scorer in a similar position to that from which he netted earlier, but his left-footed shot flashed wide of the post.
As the game entered its closing quarter, Preston finally began to show the kind of form that saw them beat Wolves a week earlier and Lewis Neal's introduction as a replacement for Matthew Hill proved key to their recovery.
Pugh should have scored with a header after Neal sent over a superb cross but the miss was forgotten moments later as the scores were levelled.
Neal again looped the ball into the penalty area and this time he found McKenna, who nodded the ball downwards beyond Jones and into the net to clinch a point.
SPORTING LIFE
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/reports/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/06/08/19/SOCCER_Preston.html
Saturday, August 19, 2006
QPR Draw 1-1 at Preston - Reports & Comments
-
QPR Official Site
Rangers were unable to hold on to a lead that practically lasted the entire game after Gareth Ainsworth had put Rangers ahead early on.
The former Preston man gave Rangers the lead in the fourth minute after the visitors had enjoyed the opening exchanges and were looking particularly lively.
His conversion of Lee Cook's corner was no more than Rangers deserved based on their early work rate.
But Preston began to take hold of the game and Paul McKenna's late header was a cruel blow to Rangers after having led for so long, but in truth, gave a more realistic scoreline to the proceedings.
Gary Waddock named an unchanged side for the Championship fixture against Preston North End.
Rangers flew out of the traps, failing to hide their intentions that they were here for a win.
Gareth Ainsworth steamed down the right wing of his old stomping ground, robbed his man of the ball and whipped a telling ball into the box.
There was no one there to meet it on this occasion, so the winger took matters into his own hands moments later when he put Rangers in the lead.
With just four minutes on the clock, Ainsworth scurried into as much space as he could muster and jabbed home Lee Cook's corner.
But jubilation turned to despair minutes later when Martin Rowlands went to ground unchallenged and signalled to the bench immediately.
Steve Lomas replaced the midfielder and set to commanding his area straight away.
The balls were flying in to the Preston 18 yard box; this time Cook whipped it in and forced Carlo Nash to fly off his line and punch away.
And when Nick Ward let fly from outside the area, the Preston fans voiced their frustrations at their team. At the other end of the field however, "We are QPR" could be heard ringing around the ground.
Any previous fears of Ward being unable to adapt to the tough tackling Championship were proving to become more and more unfounded as the game progressed. In fact, the Australian seemed to be relishing the physical side of football.
Preston then enjoyed their spell in the sun, but squandered their best chance of the game when David Nugent blasted over the bar.
Mauro Milanese then had to be on his guard to head over a Simon Whaley cross as Preston continued to push Rangers at the back.
But when Ray Jones was pushed flat on his face 20 yards out, Rangers were able to regain their composure and enjoy a breather before Cook's free kick.
Although his effort beat the wall, the midfielder also cleared the cross bar.
Preston then suffered an injury worry of their own when Kelvin Wilson was stretchered off, forcing Alan McCormack to take his place.
That led to five minutes of injury time being played out at the end of the first half, which brought on a few jangling nerves as if it were the end of the full 90.
Rangers didn't rest on their lead though and Dexter Blackstock fired a 25 yard shot into the arms of Nash.
Play immediately swung to the other end and Preston had looked certain to equalise when David Nugent's header made its way towards goal, only to be tipped round the post by Paul Jones.
That man Nugent was again causing chaos at the back for Rangers when he ran on to a Matty Hill cross, and despite looking certain to score, he blazed his shot over the bar on the stroke of half time.
With the second half only a minute old, Whaley showed what Preston's intentions were when he sent a low drive straight at Jones.
But in keeping with the theme of this end to end game, it was then Rangers who were on the attack as Ward put his low effort wide of the post.
The second half certainly didn't have as much pace as the first, but considering the Preston pressure Rangers had recently been subjected to, the visitors looked glad of the respite.
Jones was again called into action when Danny Pugh shot from outside the box, but it was bread and butter for the Welsh international.
He was however tested further when Pugh again got his shot in after pushing his way through a crowded six yard box.
Luckily for Rangers, he was again without his shooting boots and the visitors were handed a let off.
The only Preston man who didn't seem to have any haste about him was Carlo Nash, who was only too happy to take his time over free kicks and goal kicks - much to the Rangers' delight.
Ainsworth then almost scored a copycat goal when once again he was on the end of a knock down from a Cook corner.
But a deflection saw his effort land on the roof of the net.
Jason Jarrett then stormed through the Rangers midfield, only to waste his possession by skying his effort into the stand.
With ten minutes left to go, Rangers upped the ante in a bid to secure the three points and exerted yet more pressure on the Preston goal.
And then the tide turned and it was Rangers who were under the kosh, fielding strike after strike from Preston before conceding a free kick which Pugh had deflected over the bar.
A knock to Ray Jones then saw Kevin Gallen replace the youngster as Rangers looked to fend off the late pressure from the home side.
Immediately he set to work on his task of making the ball stick at the 'correct' end of the field, firing a shot wide of the upright.
Patrick Agyemang then had Rangers fans catching their breath, only to slip in the box.
But there was no stopping Paul McKenna when he rose up in the box to head past Jones late, late on.
It was cruel for Rangers, but in truth, no more than Preston deserved.
Shabazz Baidoo then replaced the Rangers goalscorer, but even his super sub presence couldn't help find a way back for Rangers.
Preston: Nash, Pugh, Jarrett, Sedgwick (Agyemang 85), Nugent, St Ledger, Chilvers, Whaley, McKenna, Hill (Neal 78), Wilson (McCormack 40)
Subs: Lonergan, Stock
Scorers: McKenna 87
Bookings:
QPR: P Jones, Milanese, Stewart, Rehman, Rose, Ainsworth (Baidoo 90), Ward, Rowlands (Lomas 10), Cook, R Jones (Gallen 86), Blackstock
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Baidoo
Scorers: Ainsworth 4,
Bookings:
Att: 11,879
Ref: M Pike
QPR OFFICIAL
PRESTON OFFICIAL SITE
A Paul McKenna goal four minutes from time gave North End a well deserved point and they could so well have taken all three after having the better of the chances against Gary Waddock's QPR.
The goal cancelled out an early strike by former Preston man Gareth Ainsworth who opened the scoring after just five minutes but there was more injury drama as Kelvin Wilson was stretchered off in the first half
North End started brightly, with a new look pairing of Nugent and Whaley in attack, it wasn't new to the players though who started plenty of games together as they both came through the ranks at Bury.
With Danny Dichio ruled out through injury the goascoring mantle was on the shoulders of the two youngsters and Chris Sedgwick was handed his first start of the season on the right wing.
After the impressive 3-1 win at Wolves just over a week ago confidence was high in the squad but it was the visitors who were ahead after just five minutes, Gareth Ainsworth scoring against his former club.
The Rangers midfielder, who spent three separate spells at Deepdale was on the end of a flick on by Jones, from a left wing corner, to stab the ball past Nash. There was plenty of pushing and shoving in the area while everyone waited for the corner to come in and Ainsworth certainly looked to be holding off Hill as he netted the opener.
The visitors were forced into an early change when Martin Rowlands limped off after just 11 minutes, to be replaced by Steve Lomas.
It was the visitors who were asking all the questions early on and Nicky Ward went close with a shot that whistled just wide of the left hand post on 16 minutes.
Just seconds later North End won their first corner of the match, Nugent putting Rehman under pressure but they didn't make it count and the effort was cleared at the first attempt.
Jason Jarrett decided to take the game by the scruff of the neck on 27 minutes, after period of sustained possession by North End. The former Norwich man picked the ball up 30 yards from goals and went for it weaving his way into the area before his deflected cross was put behind for a corner.
North End were certainly beginning to dominate after settling down and playing the ball around on the floor but despite the possession Paul Jones, in the QPR goal, was a virtual spectator.
Paul McKenna was the first man in the book a minute later, booked for a late challenge on Blackstock, which left the former Southampton man in a heap on the floor.
Things went from bad to worse for Paul Simpson on 39 minutes when Kelvin Wilson was stretchered off, with his leg in a brace, and with no other defenders available Alan McCormack came on at right back.
Five minutes of injury time was played at the end of the first half and North End could have gone in at the break 2-1 up.
First of all McCormack, playing in an unfamiliar role at right back, linked up well with Sedgwick and whipped in an excellent ball for Nugent in the middle, he rose well to send a header towards the bottom eft hand corner but Jones made a superb save to tip the ball round the post.
With half time edging closer Nugent had another excellent chance, this time the ball coming in from the left, where Hill and Pugh were beginning to form a good partnership. It was Pugh who drilled the ball in and beat two men at the near post before Nugent blazed the ball over the bar.
A snap shot from Whaley, just 45 seconds after the restart, tested Paul Jones in the visitors net but the veteran keeper got down quickly to make the save.
A long range effort from Pugh on the hour mark, was the next action of any real note in a game where conditions of teaming rain did little to help the quality. The former Leeds winger hit a left footed shot from the edge of the area but Jones made the save with relative ease.
Pugh, almost got the home side back on level terms a minute later after some terriorlike play from Nugent, the North End front man was being marked by as many as five Rangers players at times but he did well to shake the majority of them off before laying the ball back for Pugh, he hit a first time effoty which finished just wide of the right hand post.
Lewis Neal replaced Matt Hill on 73 minutes and Agyemang replaced Sedgwick just minutes later as Preston tried in vain to get something out of this one.
North End were camped in the Rangers third as they desperately went in search of the equaliser, from a corner the left Sean St Ledger went close to netting his first for North End. The first ball in was half cleared but Paul McKenna played it back into the mix, it was missed by everyone in the area, including Paul Jones and St Ledger did well at the far post to keep the ball in but he couldn't make it count.
Paul McKenna got North End back on level terms in fine style on 86 minutes, with his first of the season.
Lewis Neal hit a superb first time cross with expert precision to pick out to inrushing Paul McKenna who powered a header beyond Jones into the bottom right hand corner.
In the end a hard fought point at Deepdale to keep the momentum going and now attentions turn to the League Cup and a trip to Port Vale on Wednesday.
PNE LINEUP: Nash, Wilson (McCormack 41), Hill (Neal 73) Chilvers, St Ledger, Sedgwick (Agyemang 80), Jarrett, McKenna, Pugh, Whaley, Nugent
Subs: Lonergan, Agyemang, Stock, McCormack, Neal
QPR LINEUP: Jones, Milanese, Rehman, Rose, Ward, Ainsworth (Shabazz Baidoo 89), Rowlands (Lomas 11), Cook, Stewart, Jones (Gallen 82), Blackstock
Subs: Cole, Gallen, Lomas, Baidoo, Kanyuka
Attendance:11,879
Preston
QPR Official Site
Rangers were unable to hold on to a lead that practically lasted the entire game after Gareth Ainsworth had put Rangers ahead early on.
The former Preston man gave Rangers the lead in the fourth minute after the visitors had enjoyed the opening exchanges and were looking particularly lively.
His conversion of Lee Cook's corner was no more than Rangers deserved based on their early work rate.
But Preston began to take hold of the game and Paul McKenna's late header was a cruel blow to Rangers after having led for so long, but in truth, gave a more realistic scoreline to the proceedings.
Gary Waddock named an unchanged side for the Championship fixture against Preston North End.
Rangers flew out of the traps, failing to hide their intentions that they were here for a win.
Gareth Ainsworth steamed down the right wing of his old stomping ground, robbed his man of the ball and whipped a telling ball into the box.
There was no one there to meet it on this occasion, so the winger took matters into his own hands moments later when he put Rangers in the lead.
With just four minutes on the clock, Ainsworth scurried into as much space as he could muster and jabbed home Lee Cook's corner.
But jubilation turned to despair minutes later when Martin Rowlands went to ground unchallenged and signalled to the bench immediately.
Steve Lomas replaced the midfielder and set to commanding his area straight away.
The balls were flying in to the Preston 18 yard box; this time Cook whipped it in and forced Carlo Nash to fly off his line and punch away.
And when Nick Ward let fly from outside the area, the Preston fans voiced their frustrations at their team. At the other end of the field however, "We are QPR" could be heard ringing around the ground.
Any previous fears of Ward being unable to adapt to the tough tackling Championship were proving to become more and more unfounded as the game progressed. In fact, the Australian seemed to be relishing the physical side of football.
Preston then enjoyed their spell in the sun, but squandered their best chance of the game when David Nugent blasted over the bar.
Mauro Milanese then had to be on his guard to head over a Simon Whaley cross as Preston continued to push Rangers at the back.
But when Ray Jones was pushed flat on his face 20 yards out, Rangers were able to regain their composure and enjoy a breather before Cook's free kick.
Although his effort beat the wall, the midfielder also cleared the cross bar.
Preston then suffered an injury worry of their own when Kelvin Wilson was stretchered off, forcing Alan McCormack to take his place.
That led to five minutes of injury time being played out at the end of the first half, which brought on a few jangling nerves as if it were the end of the full 90.
Rangers didn't rest on their lead though and Dexter Blackstock fired a 25 yard shot into the arms of Nash.
Play immediately swung to the other end and Preston had looked certain to equalise when David Nugent's header made its way towards goal, only to be tipped round the post by Paul Jones.
That man Nugent was again causing chaos at the back for Rangers when he ran on to a Matty Hill cross, and despite looking certain to score, he blazed his shot over the bar on the stroke of half time.
With the second half only a minute old, Whaley showed what Preston's intentions were when he sent a low drive straight at Jones.
But in keeping with the theme of this end to end game, it was then Rangers who were on the attack as Ward put his low effort wide of the post.
The second half certainly didn't have as much pace as the first, but considering the Preston pressure Rangers had recently been subjected to, the visitors looked glad of the respite.
Jones was again called into action when Danny Pugh shot from outside the box, but it was bread and butter for the Welsh international.
He was however tested further when Pugh again got his shot in after pushing his way through a crowded six yard box.
Luckily for Rangers, he was again without his shooting boots and the visitors were handed a let off.
The only Preston man who didn't seem to have any haste about him was Carlo Nash, who was only too happy to take his time over free kicks and goal kicks - much to the Rangers' delight.
Ainsworth then almost scored a copycat goal when once again he was on the end of a knock down from a Cook corner.
But a deflection saw his effort land on the roof of the net.
Jason Jarrett then stormed through the Rangers midfield, only to waste his possession by skying his effort into the stand.
With ten minutes left to go, Rangers upped the ante in a bid to secure the three points and exerted yet more pressure on the Preston goal.
And then the tide turned and it was Rangers who were under the kosh, fielding strike after strike from Preston before conceding a free kick which Pugh had deflected over the bar.
A knock to Ray Jones then saw Kevin Gallen replace the youngster as Rangers looked to fend off the late pressure from the home side.
Immediately he set to work on his task of making the ball stick at the 'correct' end of the field, firing a shot wide of the upright.
Patrick Agyemang then had Rangers fans catching their breath, only to slip in the box.
But there was no stopping Paul McKenna when he rose up in the box to head past Jones late, late on.
It was cruel for Rangers, but in truth, no more than Preston deserved.
Shabazz Baidoo then replaced the Rangers goalscorer, but even his super sub presence couldn't help find a way back for Rangers.
Preston: Nash, Pugh, Jarrett, Sedgwick (Agyemang 85), Nugent, St Ledger, Chilvers, Whaley, McKenna, Hill (Neal 78), Wilson (McCormack 40)
Subs: Lonergan, Stock
Scorers: McKenna 87
Bookings:
QPR: P Jones, Milanese, Stewart, Rehman, Rose, Ainsworth (Baidoo 90), Ward, Rowlands (Lomas 10), Cook, R Jones (Gallen 86), Blackstock
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Baidoo
Scorers: Ainsworth 4,
Bookings:
Att: 11,879
Ref: M Pike
QPR OFFICIAL
PRESTON OFFICIAL SITE
A Paul McKenna goal four minutes from time gave North End a well deserved point and they could so well have taken all three after having the better of the chances against Gary Waddock's QPR.
The goal cancelled out an early strike by former Preston man Gareth Ainsworth who opened the scoring after just five minutes but there was more injury drama as Kelvin Wilson was stretchered off in the first half
North End started brightly, with a new look pairing of Nugent and Whaley in attack, it wasn't new to the players though who started plenty of games together as they both came through the ranks at Bury.
With Danny Dichio ruled out through injury the goascoring mantle was on the shoulders of the two youngsters and Chris Sedgwick was handed his first start of the season on the right wing.
After the impressive 3-1 win at Wolves just over a week ago confidence was high in the squad but it was the visitors who were ahead after just five minutes, Gareth Ainsworth scoring against his former club.
The Rangers midfielder, who spent three separate spells at Deepdale was on the end of a flick on by Jones, from a left wing corner, to stab the ball past Nash. There was plenty of pushing and shoving in the area while everyone waited for the corner to come in and Ainsworth certainly looked to be holding off Hill as he netted the opener.
The visitors were forced into an early change when Martin Rowlands limped off after just 11 minutes, to be replaced by Steve Lomas.
It was the visitors who were asking all the questions early on and Nicky Ward went close with a shot that whistled just wide of the left hand post on 16 minutes.
Just seconds later North End won their first corner of the match, Nugent putting Rehman under pressure but they didn't make it count and the effort was cleared at the first attempt.
Jason Jarrett decided to take the game by the scruff of the neck on 27 minutes, after period of sustained possession by North End. The former Norwich man picked the ball up 30 yards from goals and went for it weaving his way into the area before his deflected cross was put behind for a corner.
North End were certainly beginning to dominate after settling down and playing the ball around on the floor but despite the possession Paul Jones, in the QPR goal, was a virtual spectator.
Paul McKenna was the first man in the book a minute later, booked for a late challenge on Blackstock, which left the former Southampton man in a heap on the floor.
Things went from bad to worse for Paul Simpson on 39 minutes when Kelvin Wilson was stretchered off, with his leg in a brace, and with no other defenders available Alan McCormack came on at right back.
Five minutes of injury time was played at the end of the first half and North End could have gone in at the break 2-1 up.
First of all McCormack, playing in an unfamiliar role at right back, linked up well with Sedgwick and whipped in an excellent ball for Nugent in the middle, he rose well to send a header towards the bottom eft hand corner but Jones made a superb save to tip the ball round the post.
With half time edging closer Nugent had another excellent chance, this time the ball coming in from the left, where Hill and Pugh were beginning to form a good partnership. It was Pugh who drilled the ball in and beat two men at the near post before Nugent blazed the ball over the bar.
A snap shot from Whaley, just 45 seconds after the restart, tested Paul Jones in the visitors net but the veteran keeper got down quickly to make the save.
A long range effort from Pugh on the hour mark, was the next action of any real note in a game where conditions of teaming rain did little to help the quality. The former Leeds winger hit a left footed shot from the edge of the area but Jones made the save with relative ease.
Pugh, almost got the home side back on level terms a minute later after some terriorlike play from Nugent, the North End front man was being marked by as many as five Rangers players at times but he did well to shake the majority of them off before laying the ball back for Pugh, he hit a first time effoty which finished just wide of the right hand post.
Lewis Neal replaced Matt Hill on 73 minutes and Agyemang replaced Sedgwick just minutes later as Preston tried in vain to get something out of this one.
North End were camped in the Rangers third as they desperately went in search of the equaliser, from a corner the left Sean St Ledger went close to netting his first for North End. The first ball in was half cleared but Paul McKenna played it back into the mix, it was missed by everyone in the area, including Paul Jones and St Ledger did well at the far post to keep the ball in but he couldn't make it count.
Paul McKenna got North End back on level terms in fine style on 86 minutes, with his first of the season.
Lewis Neal hit a superb first time cross with expert precision to pick out to inrushing Paul McKenna who powered a header beyond Jones into the bottom right hand corner.
In the end a hard fought point at Deepdale to keep the momentum going and now attentions turn to the League Cup and a trip to Port Vale on Wednesday.
PNE LINEUP: Nash, Wilson (McCormack 41), Hill (Neal 73) Chilvers, St Ledger, Sedgwick (Agyemang 80), Jarrett, McKenna, Pugh, Whaley, Nugent
Subs: Lonergan, Agyemang, Stock, McCormack, Neal
QPR LINEUP: Jones, Milanese, Rehman, Rose, Ward, Ainsworth (Shabazz Baidoo 89), Rowlands (Lomas 11), Cook, Stewart, Jones (Gallen 82), Blackstock
Subs: Cole, Gallen, Lomas, Baidoo, Kanyuka
Attendance:11,879
Preston
Friday, August 18, 2006
Preston Look at QPR....QPR Look at Preston
-
PRESTON Vs QPR
PRESTON OFFICIAL SITE - PNE v QPR
After securing their first win of the season last weekend Paul Simpson's side are looking to continue where they left off at Molineux when QPR arrive at Deepdale on Saturday.
After being held to a disappointing goalless draw by Sheffield Wednesday on the opening day at Deepdale, the players will go into this one more confident of securing that first home win of the season.
It took until the middle of November for the elusive home win to come last season and everyone is looking to better that record this time around.
QPR also secured their first win of the new campaign, when goals from Rowland and Ward earned them a 2-0 home win against Southend, only Gary Waddock's third win since first taking the reigns back in February.
The former Rangers favourite, who came through ranks at Loftus Road took charge on a temporary basis, when Ian Holloway was placed on gardening leave and was handed the reigns permanently in the summer, making it a dream come true for the 44-year-old.
Waddock has been active in the transfer market this summer, with the latest arrivals Zesh Rehman and Dexter Blackstock taking his number of new arrivals to six, while 12 players have left since the end of the season.
The biggest name to have left Loftus Road is Danny Shittu, who finally ended speculation on his future when he moved to Watford for a fee in excess of £1.5million.
The big defender was the subject of much speculation last season, with moves to Sheffield United and West Brom being touted, but instead Neil Warnock turned his attentions to Claude Davis and with Shittu looking to play in the Premier League there was only one option.
The last meeting between the two sides came back in November at Loftus Road when they met just four weeks after drawing 1-1 at Deepdale, Youl Mawene's last gasp equalise cancelling out Shittu's opener. Down in the capital David Nugent finally signalled his return after illness with his first goal since the 4-0 away win over Ipswich Town back in August, Callum Davidson was also on target to give North End a 2-0 win.
Team News
Preston North End
Paul Simpson is still hoping to add to his squad ahead of the weekend's visit of Rangers, after admitting he is still in the market for a number of additions.
It is well documented that a striker is currently top of that list but if he is unable to complete a transfer in time then the boss will have to pick from the same squad as last week.
Brian O'Neil, despite edging closer to a return, won't be available but he is in line to play for the reserves on Monday, while the players that featured for the second string on Wednesday did nothing to convince the boss that they deserve a starting place on Saturday.
Reserve Team boss Billy Barr 'called it how he saw it' after seeing his side, which included 8 professionals, go down 3-1 to Bury whose first team currently sit bottom of League Two.
Youl Mawene (knee), Callum Davidson (knee) Adam Nowland (broken leg), Brett Ormerod (broken leg) are all still long term absentees while Andy Smith has stepped up his training after tendonitis in his knees.
QPR
Team news to follow
Referee
Mike Pike - Cumbria
So far this season Pike has refereed two matches, one in League One and one in League Two, issuing just one yellow card in each match.
Ironically he took charge of the same fixture last season, when Gareth Ainsworth was the only player cautioned in the 1-1 draw. He was also in charge when North End won at Coventry in April when Simon Whaley scored the only goal of the game.
Betting
Preston North End 8/11, QPR 10/3, Draw 12/5
http://www.pnefc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/MatchPreview/0,,10362~883729,00.html
PRESTON OFFICIAL - Hill The Hoop?
Matt Hill could have been lining up for the opposition this Saturday as he was left with a straight choice between PNE and QPR - thankfully he chose the Lilywhites.
The North End left-back joined North End in January 2005 after seven years and more than 200 games for Bristol City, a career which had attracted plenty of interest from above and when Matt chose to make that step up he was left with a straight choice of Deepdale or Loftus Road.
Pne.com spoke to Hill about those decisive days in January.
Matt we play QPR this Saturday and if things had turned out differently you could have been playing for them.
It was a funny one, it seems a long time ago now. There's a different manager there now and a different team, it's a different club altogether really.
How close were you to joining QPR?
I was very close to joining them, I was speaking to Ian Holloway and I was going to go down the following day but Billy Davies phoned me up, he got there first and said that they had put in the money and that he wanted me up there the following day. I was very interested so I went up and as they say the rest is history.
QPR had quite a few links to Bristol at the time so it would have been easy to move to Loftus Road.
It would have been easy to join them, they were doing well at the time and knowing Ian Holloway and what he wants to achieve I could have quite easily got sucked into all that. But after meeting Billy Davies and seeing everything up here the decision was made easy for me and I don't regret it whatsoever.
Holloway's famous for his inspirational quotes, did he have any for you?
Not really, he was straight down, telling me why he wanted me there, giving me plenty of encouragement and telling me how he would improve my game and the signs were good. I knew that he was a character and that he was a funny bloke but you will see his serious side when the games are on, like any coach. It didn't work out though, he gave me his blessing and said carry on, he was quite understanding.
Is it correct that you chose North End because Billy Davies wanted to use you solely as a left-back?
There were many reasons and that was definitely one of them, Ian Holloway knew that I could play centre-half and left-back and that was what he wanted to use me for. But with me moving to the Championship I wanted to nail down one position and make myself better at that position, hopefully I can do that here.
In hindsight it looks like you made the correct decision.
It has been a fantastic run in my short time at Preston, QPR have had their ups and downs and Ian Holloway has gone after all that so I definitely made the right move.
I bet when you signed that you didn't think you'd be the senior defender of four, like you were at Wolves the other night?
No, not at all. It's unbelievable really but it's all credit to the lads at the back, they were fantastic. It's a difficult place to go and get a result but the lads stuck together and we managed to pull it off.
How's your partnership down the left with Danny Pugh going?
Danny's a good player; just like Callum he can defend and help you out. We are starting to form a good partnership, obviously we haven't done a lot down the left at the moment but hopefully in time we will do.
And what about the partnerships in the rest of the defence?
It is difficult in pre-season because there is a lot of chopping and changing and players are playing with different people and you don't get the chance to play together for consecutive games. We've started to do that now and I like to think that we are showing in games that we have formed a good partnership.
One noticable thing last week was the passion which was evident, particularly from the management staff on the bench.
The manager stated before the game that he wanted us to show a bit more passion; I don't think we showed it enough at Norwich and he did demand that we show a lot of fire and a lot of guts out there. I thought we did that and with the manager's reflection on the game beforehand the lads got that energy from him and we showed that on the pitch.
That 3-1 win at Wolves is a result that the lads can really kick-on from now isn't it?
It's important, it was pressure and no one can tell you otherwise. Not winning the first two games, I know it was only our third game in but there is always that pressure to win you first game and now we would like to consolidate with a home win. It's important now that we all stick together and that the fans are with us because obviously that helps.
Preston Preston Q&A with Matt Hill
QPR OFFICIAL
PRESTON
It's been all change at Deepdale this summer.
Off the pitch, former Carlisle United boss Paul Simpson replaced the out-going Billy Davies - while on it, it was a case of two in, two out.
Of those four deals, the most high-profile move saw Tyrone Mears join West Ham United in a £1 million transfer.
Whether Simpson gets to spend that cash though remains to be seen, but on the evidence so far, he might just have to wheel and deal his way around the market before the transfer window shuts at the end of the month.
The major talking point between now and August 31st is sure to revolve around the future of PNE hot-shot David Nugent.
Believed to be a target for an array of Premiership Clubs throughout the summer, Preston's entire season could ultimately depend on whether the 21 year-old striker commits his long term future to the Club.
Preston gaffer Paul Simpson
If he stays, Preston - who were many pundits' choice for a play-off place at the start of the campaign - could yet achieve that goal.
Unfortunately, four point from a possible nine is by no means 'play-off form.'
An opening day draw at home to Sheffield Wednesday wasn't exactly what the doctor ordered and a 2-0 defeat at Carrow Road - which also saw Graham Alexander see red - only served to compound their woes.
However, Simpson has been around the block too many times to be over-concerned and after a stunning 3-1 victory at Wolves last time out, he'll still be confident of guiding North End to the upper reaches of the Championship table come the business end of the campaign.....
Top scorer
David Nugent 2
Last league game
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Preston North End 3.
Football League Championship.
August 11th 2006.
PNE: Nash, Wilson, Hill, St. Ledger, Chilvers, Whaley, Jarrett, McKenna, Pugh, Nugent (Agyemang 88), Dichio (Sedgwick 73).
Subs Not Used: Lonergan, Stock, McCormack.
Simpson on Wolves: "It is a massive relief, we knew it would be a tough game and we had a patched-up side out, but we showed real character.
"We asked them to play with a bit of passion and to play with belief in themselves and each other.
"It has been a wonderful night for us and hopefully the first of many. We did not allow Wolves to settle and knocked the stuffing out of them."
Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds
Preston 8/11
QPR 10/3
draw 12/5
Cookie attempted his latest ball juggling act
at Deepdale last season
Key player: David NUGENT
David Nugent was born to score goals.
Arguably the best striker outside the top-flight, the 21 year-old is believed to be attracting the attentions of a host of Premiership clubs.
His performance for England Under-21s on Tuesday night probably added another pound note or two to his value, but Preston will be keen to ensure he's a North Ender this time next year.
Head to head
Preston wins: 8
Rangers wins: 5
Draws: 9
Last meeting
QPR 0, Preston North End 2 (Nugent, Davidson)
Football League Championship
November 22nd 2005.
Preston
Callum Davidson wheels away to celebrate Preston's
second goal at Loftus Road in November
Latest news on our opponents
Preston boss Paul Simpson is determined to keep hold of star striker David Nugent.
The 21-year-old has recently been linked with several Premiership clubs and scored two impressive goals in the 3-1 victory at Wolves.
Simpson said: "The chairman Derek Shaw definitely does not want to sell him.
"I think he realises that what we are trying to do here can be right for him. But there are other people trying to fill his head with other ideas."
(source: BBC Sport)
QPR
PRESTON Vs QPR
PRESTON OFFICIAL SITE - PNE v QPR
After securing their first win of the season last weekend Paul Simpson's side are looking to continue where they left off at Molineux when QPR arrive at Deepdale on Saturday.
After being held to a disappointing goalless draw by Sheffield Wednesday on the opening day at Deepdale, the players will go into this one more confident of securing that first home win of the season.
It took until the middle of November for the elusive home win to come last season and everyone is looking to better that record this time around.
QPR also secured their first win of the new campaign, when goals from Rowland and Ward earned them a 2-0 home win against Southend, only Gary Waddock's third win since first taking the reigns back in February.
The former Rangers favourite, who came through ranks at Loftus Road took charge on a temporary basis, when Ian Holloway was placed on gardening leave and was handed the reigns permanently in the summer, making it a dream come true for the 44-year-old.
Waddock has been active in the transfer market this summer, with the latest arrivals Zesh Rehman and Dexter Blackstock taking his number of new arrivals to six, while 12 players have left since the end of the season.
The biggest name to have left Loftus Road is Danny Shittu, who finally ended speculation on his future when he moved to Watford for a fee in excess of £1.5million.
The big defender was the subject of much speculation last season, with moves to Sheffield United and West Brom being touted, but instead Neil Warnock turned his attentions to Claude Davis and with Shittu looking to play in the Premier League there was only one option.
The last meeting between the two sides came back in November at Loftus Road when they met just four weeks after drawing 1-1 at Deepdale, Youl Mawene's last gasp equalise cancelling out Shittu's opener. Down in the capital David Nugent finally signalled his return after illness with his first goal since the 4-0 away win over Ipswich Town back in August, Callum Davidson was also on target to give North End a 2-0 win.
Team News
Preston North End
Paul Simpson is still hoping to add to his squad ahead of the weekend's visit of Rangers, after admitting he is still in the market for a number of additions.
It is well documented that a striker is currently top of that list but if he is unable to complete a transfer in time then the boss will have to pick from the same squad as last week.
Brian O'Neil, despite edging closer to a return, won't be available but he is in line to play for the reserves on Monday, while the players that featured for the second string on Wednesday did nothing to convince the boss that they deserve a starting place on Saturday.
Reserve Team boss Billy Barr 'called it how he saw it' after seeing his side, which included 8 professionals, go down 3-1 to Bury whose first team currently sit bottom of League Two.
Youl Mawene (knee), Callum Davidson (knee) Adam Nowland (broken leg), Brett Ormerod (broken leg) are all still long term absentees while Andy Smith has stepped up his training after tendonitis in his knees.
QPR
Team news to follow
Referee
Mike Pike - Cumbria
So far this season Pike has refereed two matches, one in League One and one in League Two, issuing just one yellow card in each match.
Ironically he took charge of the same fixture last season, when Gareth Ainsworth was the only player cautioned in the 1-1 draw. He was also in charge when North End won at Coventry in April when Simon Whaley scored the only goal of the game.
Betting
Preston North End 8/11, QPR 10/3, Draw 12/5
http://www.pnefc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/MatchPreview/0,,10362~883729,00.html
PRESTON OFFICIAL - Hill The Hoop?
Matt Hill could have been lining up for the opposition this Saturday as he was left with a straight choice between PNE and QPR - thankfully he chose the Lilywhites.
The North End left-back joined North End in January 2005 after seven years and more than 200 games for Bristol City, a career which had attracted plenty of interest from above and when Matt chose to make that step up he was left with a straight choice of Deepdale or Loftus Road.
Pne.com spoke to Hill about those decisive days in January.
Matt we play QPR this Saturday and if things had turned out differently you could have been playing for them.
It was a funny one, it seems a long time ago now. There's a different manager there now and a different team, it's a different club altogether really.
How close were you to joining QPR?
I was very close to joining them, I was speaking to Ian Holloway and I was going to go down the following day but Billy Davies phoned me up, he got there first and said that they had put in the money and that he wanted me up there the following day. I was very interested so I went up and as they say the rest is history.
QPR had quite a few links to Bristol at the time so it would have been easy to move to Loftus Road.
It would have been easy to join them, they were doing well at the time and knowing Ian Holloway and what he wants to achieve I could have quite easily got sucked into all that. But after meeting Billy Davies and seeing everything up here the decision was made easy for me and I don't regret it whatsoever.
Holloway's famous for his inspirational quotes, did he have any for you?
Not really, he was straight down, telling me why he wanted me there, giving me plenty of encouragement and telling me how he would improve my game and the signs were good. I knew that he was a character and that he was a funny bloke but you will see his serious side when the games are on, like any coach. It didn't work out though, he gave me his blessing and said carry on, he was quite understanding.
Is it correct that you chose North End because Billy Davies wanted to use you solely as a left-back?
There were many reasons and that was definitely one of them, Ian Holloway knew that I could play centre-half and left-back and that was what he wanted to use me for. But with me moving to the Championship I wanted to nail down one position and make myself better at that position, hopefully I can do that here.
In hindsight it looks like you made the correct decision.
It has been a fantastic run in my short time at Preston, QPR have had their ups and downs and Ian Holloway has gone after all that so I definitely made the right move.
I bet when you signed that you didn't think you'd be the senior defender of four, like you were at Wolves the other night?
No, not at all. It's unbelievable really but it's all credit to the lads at the back, they were fantastic. It's a difficult place to go and get a result but the lads stuck together and we managed to pull it off.
How's your partnership down the left with Danny Pugh going?
Danny's a good player; just like Callum he can defend and help you out. We are starting to form a good partnership, obviously we haven't done a lot down the left at the moment but hopefully in time we will do.
And what about the partnerships in the rest of the defence?
It is difficult in pre-season because there is a lot of chopping and changing and players are playing with different people and you don't get the chance to play together for consecutive games. We've started to do that now and I like to think that we are showing in games that we have formed a good partnership.
One noticable thing last week was the passion which was evident, particularly from the management staff on the bench.
The manager stated before the game that he wanted us to show a bit more passion; I don't think we showed it enough at Norwich and he did demand that we show a lot of fire and a lot of guts out there. I thought we did that and with the manager's reflection on the game beforehand the lads got that energy from him and we showed that on the pitch.
That 3-1 win at Wolves is a result that the lads can really kick-on from now isn't it?
It's important, it was pressure and no one can tell you otherwise. Not winning the first two games, I know it was only our third game in but there is always that pressure to win you first game and now we would like to consolidate with a home win. It's important now that we all stick together and that the fans are with us because obviously that helps.
Preston Preston Q&A with Matt Hill
QPR OFFICIAL
PRESTON
It's been all change at Deepdale this summer.
Off the pitch, former Carlisle United boss Paul Simpson replaced the out-going Billy Davies - while on it, it was a case of two in, two out.
Of those four deals, the most high-profile move saw Tyrone Mears join West Ham United in a £1 million transfer.
Whether Simpson gets to spend that cash though remains to be seen, but on the evidence so far, he might just have to wheel and deal his way around the market before the transfer window shuts at the end of the month.
The major talking point between now and August 31st is sure to revolve around the future of PNE hot-shot David Nugent.
Believed to be a target for an array of Premiership Clubs throughout the summer, Preston's entire season could ultimately depend on whether the 21 year-old striker commits his long term future to the Club.
Preston gaffer Paul Simpson
If he stays, Preston - who were many pundits' choice for a play-off place at the start of the campaign - could yet achieve that goal.
Unfortunately, four point from a possible nine is by no means 'play-off form.'
An opening day draw at home to Sheffield Wednesday wasn't exactly what the doctor ordered and a 2-0 defeat at Carrow Road - which also saw Graham Alexander see red - only served to compound their woes.
However, Simpson has been around the block too many times to be over-concerned and after a stunning 3-1 victory at Wolves last time out, he'll still be confident of guiding North End to the upper reaches of the Championship table come the business end of the campaign.....
Top scorer
David Nugent 2
Last league game
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Preston North End 3.
Football League Championship.
August 11th 2006.
PNE: Nash, Wilson, Hill, St. Ledger, Chilvers, Whaley, Jarrett, McKenna, Pugh, Nugent (Agyemang 88), Dichio (Sedgwick 73).
Subs Not Used: Lonergan, Stock, McCormack.
Simpson on Wolves: "It is a massive relief, we knew it would be a tough game and we had a patched-up side out, but we showed real character.
"We asked them to play with a bit of passion and to play with belief in themselves and each other.
"It has been a wonderful night for us and hopefully the first of many. We did not allow Wolves to settle and knocked the stuffing out of them."
Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds
Preston 8/11
QPR 10/3
draw 12/5
Cookie attempted his latest ball juggling act
at Deepdale last season
Key player: David NUGENT
David Nugent was born to score goals.
Arguably the best striker outside the top-flight, the 21 year-old is believed to be attracting the attentions of a host of Premiership clubs.
His performance for England Under-21s on Tuesday night probably added another pound note or two to his value, but Preston will be keen to ensure he's a North Ender this time next year.
Head to head
Preston wins: 8
Rangers wins: 5
Draws: 9
Last meeting
QPR 0, Preston North End 2 (Nugent, Davidson)
Football League Championship
November 22nd 2005.
Preston
Callum Davidson wheels away to celebrate Preston's
second goal at Loftus Road in November
Latest news on our opponents
Preston boss Paul Simpson is determined to keep hold of star striker David Nugent.
The 21-year-old has recently been linked with several Premiership clubs and scored two impressive goals in the 3-1 victory at Wolves.
Simpson said: "The chairman Derek Shaw definitely does not want to sell him.
"I think he realises that what we are trying to do here can be right for him. But there are other people trying to fill his head with other ideas."
(source: BBC Sport)
QPR
Ex-QPR Winger Michael Meaker Turns 35
-
Ex-QPR winger, Michael Meaker Turns 35 Today - Born August 18, 1971
Meaker, for the most part a reserve while at QPR, played for QPR from 1989-1994 before being sold to Reading (valued at 250,000 pounds) as part of the deal that brought Simon Osborne to QPR (for a few months!)
Meaker http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=11409
Ex-QPR winger, Michael Meaker Turns 35 Today - Born August 18, 1971
Meaker, for the most part a reserve while at QPR, played for QPR from 1989-1994 before being sold to Reading (valued at 250,000 pounds) as part of the deal that brought Simon Osborne to QPR (for a few months!)
Meaker http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=11409
Thursday, August 17, 2006
On This Date
-
FIFTEEN YEARS AGO, TODAY
Gerry Francis started his QPR managership with a 1-1 draw at Arsenal (Arsenal equalizing in the last minute.) Ian Holloway made his debut coming on for Ray Wilkins. Unfortunately after that great result, QPR went several games before their first victory at Luton, in September.
TEN YEARS AGO, TODAY....Newly-relegated QPR started their new season under the Chris Wright Chairmanship, with a 2-1 come-from behind victory at home to Oxford United...Gallen and Dichio (Substituting the booed Mark Hateley) scoring....Things looked pretty good for quick return to the Premiership!
Photo from that day
And one Year ago today: After "The Alleged Incident" the club was looking to its next match: The 'debut" game at Coventry's new Stadium. Meanwhile Holloway and a number of players had gone up to visit Paladini.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
TEAMTALK -Players concern for Paladini
Ian Holloway revealed his players were worried about QPR director Gianni Paladini after some of the playing squad visited the Italian at his home.Four men were charged with an alleged attack on Paladini shortly before Rangers' victory over Sheffield United on Saturday.Eight first-team players - along with boss Holloway and assistant manager Tim Breacker - travelled to see Paladini in the Midlands.Holloway said: "The lads were concerned about him, so I suggested going to see him. They play for him as well as me."We wanted to give the players a rest so we went up and had a meal. He was delighted to see us."My job is keep the players focused, and I felt that going to see Gianni would be the right thing to do." http://www.teamtalk.com/teamtalk/News/Story_Page/0,7760,1801_635359,00.html
Team News On this Day, A Year Ago
August 17, 2005
August 17, 2005 - QPR OFFICIAL SITE - DOHERTY, ROWLANDS OUT
Both Martin Rowlands and Tommy Doherty will definitely miss Rangers' trip to Coventry this weekend.
But the prognosis on both is not as bad as first feared and it is hoped that they will be fit in time for the visit of Sheffield Wednesday the following Friday.
A scan has revealed that Rowlands has a 'grade one' tear to his medial knee ligament - as good an outcome as could have been hoped for.
Meanwhile Doherty has bruising within the knee joint.
He has also got a cyst on his knee that has become inflamed and although they are very difficult to predict, the Loftus Road medical team hope to have him back for the Owls game.
But thoughts now turn to Saturday and the game against the Sky Blues.
Thankfully, in Stefan Moore, Ian Holloway has a ready made replacement following an excellent display against Sheffield United on Saturday.
Moore will either take up a position on the right wing or partner Paul Furlong in attack with Kevin Gallen dropping back to partner Marc Bircham.
The second player to come in could well be Aaron Brown who may fill Rowlands' place on the left flank.
But Marcus Bean could also provide an alternative, steely option if Gallen remains up front.
Whatever happens, Ian Holloway can at least take some solace from possessing a squad that now looks better equipped to deal with such losses even though he is facing up to the prospect of being without three of his four first choice midfielders in only the fourth game of the season.
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
On This Day,Four Years Ago
Football League Second Division
Saturday August 17, 2002 - Barnsley 1-0 QPR
Barnsley
Matthew Ghent, Andy Marriott, Chris Morgan, Dean Gorre, Dave Mulligan, Kevin Betsy, Mike Flynn, Paul Gibbs, Chris Lumsdon, Leo Bertos, Bruce Dyer, Isaiah Rankin, Mike Sheron
QPR
Terrell Forbes, Matthew Rose, Doudou Ebeu Mbombo, Richard Langley, Steve Palmer, Marc Bircham, Nicky Culkin, Fraser Digby, Paul Furlong, Kevin Gallen, Gino Padula, Daniel Shittu, Tom Williams, Karl Connolly
Guardian
FIFTEEN YEARS AGO, TODAY
Gerry Francis started his QPR managership with a 1-1 draw at Arsenal (Arsenal equalizing in the last minute.) Ian Holloway made his debut coming on for Ray Wilkins. Unfortunately after that great result, QPR went several games before their first victory at Luton, in September.
TEN YEARS AGO, TODAY....Newly-relegated QPR started their new season under the Chris Wright Chairmanship, with a 2-1 come-from behind victory at home to Oxford United...Gallen and Dichio (Substituting the booed Mark Hateley) scoring....Things looked pretty good for quick return to the Premiership!
Photo from that day
And one Year ago today: After "The Alleged Incident" the club was looking to its next match: The 'debut" game at Coventry's new Stadium. Meanwhile Holloway and a number of players had gone up to visit Paladini.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
TEAMTALK -Players concern for Paladini
Ian Holloway revealed his players were worried about QPR director Gianni Paladini after some of the playing squad visited the Italian at his home.Four men were charged with an alleged attack on Paladini shortly before Rangers' victory over Sheffield United on Saturday.Eight first-team players - along with boss Holloway and assistant manager Tim Breacker - travelled to see Paladini in the Midlands.Holloway said: "The lads were concerned about him, so I suggested going to see him. They play for him as well as me."We wanted to give the players a rest so we went up and had a meal. He was delighted to see us."My job is keep the players focused, and I felt that going to see Gianni would be the right thing to do." http://www.teamtalk.com/teamtalk/News/Story_Page/0,7760,1801_635359,00.html
Team News On this Day, A Year Ago
August 17, 2005
August 17, 2005 - QPR OFFICIAL SITE - DOHERTY, ROWLANDS OUT
Both Martin Rowlands and Tommy Doherty will definitely miss Rangers' trip to Coventry this weekend.
But the prognosis on both is not as bad as first feared and it is hoped that they will be fit in time for the visit of Sheffield Wednesday the following Friday.
A scan has revealed that Rowlands has a 'grade one' tear to his medial knee ligament - as good an outcome as could have been hoped for.
Meanwhile Doherty has bruising within the knee joint.
He has also got a cyst on his knee that has become inflamed and although they are very difficult to predict, the Loftus Road medical team hope to have him back for the Owls game.
But thoughts now turn to Saturday and the game against the Sky Blues.
Thankfully, in Stefan Moore, Ian Holloway has a ready made replacement following an excellent display against Sheffield United on Saturday.
Moore will either take up a position on the right wing or partner Paul Furlong in attack with Kevin Gallen dropping back to partner Marc Bircham.
The second player to come in could well be Aaron Brown who may fill Rowlands' place on the left flank.
But Marcus Bean could also provide an alternative, steely option if Gallen remains up front.
Whatever happens, Ian Holloway can at least take some solace from possessing a squad that now looks better equipped to deal with such losses even though he is facing up to the prospect of being without three of his four first choice midfielders in only the fourth game of the season.
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
On This Day,Four Years Ago
Football League Second Division
Saturday August 17, 2002 - Barnsley 1-0 QPR
Barnsley
Matthew Ghent, Andy Marriott, Chris Morgan, Dean Gorre, Dave Mulligan, Kevin Betsy, Mike Flynn, Paul Gibbs, Chris Lumsdon, Leo Bertos, Bruce Dyer, Isaiah Rankin, Mike Sheron
QPR
Terrell Forbes, Matthew Rose, Doudou Ebeu Mbombo, Richard Langley, Steve Palmer, Marc Bircham, Nicky Culkin, Fraser Digby, Paul Furlong, Kevin Gallen, Gino Padula, Daniel Shittu, Tom Williams, Karl Connolly
Guardian
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Mark Devlin's Recovery
-
This is Wiltshire "We're proud of our brave boy"
Recovering Swindon Town chief executive Mark Devlin is comforted by wife Jocie at hospital yesterday
SWINDON Town chief executive Mark Devlin and his wife could not be prouder of their son Stan, who is now playing a crucial role in the investigation into the plane crash, which almost claimed the lives of three club officials.
The 10-year-old is helping air accident investigators piece together the sequence of events that led to the smash.
He was sitting in the front of the plane with pilot Frank Kratky when the plane careered into woodland near a Buckinghamshire golf course on Saturday, August 5.
Mr Kratky is still unconscious so Stan is providing important information for the investigation.
continued...
Inspectors from the Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB) believe the primary school pupil can offer a vital insight into what was going on in the plane moments before the crash.
Stan's mum Jocie Devlin said the investigators were finding his help invaluable.
"He has been helping them with their investigation, and telling them what he saw," she said.
"He was a key witness to it all and with lots of these crashes they never get a chance to confirm what they think happened.
"He's played quite a vital role and, with Stan's help, they may be able to conclude their investigation."
Mrs Devlin also praised the accident investigators for the way they have handled Stan.
She said: "They have been very good with him. He doesn't even feel like he's answering questions."
Mrs Devlin added that she could not give any specific details of Stan's help because the investigation is still ongoing.
A spokesman for the AAIB emphasised the importance of Stan's evidence.
He said: "Investigators would talk to anybody who saw the incident, and that's very, very valuable.
"We speak to anybody who was an eyewitness."
Stan was a popular figure on the club's pre-season tour to Ibiza, and the players clubbed together to buy him a Playstation to help him on the road to recovery.
Mr Devlin is due to go under the knife today at the Wexham Park Hospital, Slough, in order to fix a back problem. The Town boss fractured the second vertebra of his spine, and will have to wear a body brace for six weeks to protect the wound.
Stan has been moved to a wheelchair and is expected to be discharged from hospital by the end of the week.
Mr Kratky had surgery on his jaw yesterday. Surgeons had to give him a tracheotomy in order to keep him breathing throughout the five-hour operation.
Swindon Town investor Bill Power, who was one of the six people in the plane when it came down, was released from hospital earlier this week.
This is Wiltshire
Swindon Advertiser - It’s just what the doctor ordered
By Jon Ritson
MAXIMUM points from a marvellous start has brought a smile to Mark Devlin's face and he is urging Town to keep administering the winning tonic as he eyes the visit of MK Dons for his return to action'.
Saturday's 1-0 triumph over Rochdale leaves Dennis Wise's men as joint leaders of League Two with Walsall.
Devlin, facing another back operation following last week's plane crash, was given a full account of the game by assistant boss Gus Poyet in hospital yesterday.
He has a simple message to the players keep it coming lads'.
continued...
As Devlin and his colleagues wait to hear whether Paul Ince will commit to Town, progress without the Guvnor is being made.
It leaves Devlin delighted, but frustrated that he can't be part of it.
Speaking from his hospital bed, he said: "The results have been a great tonic so keep them coming.
"The place is obviously buzzing and I can't wait to get back there.
"We'll see how the next operation goes but I'd love to be be back for the MK Dons game (on September 12).
"My appetite for the season was whetted before all this happened, now it's just doubly whetted.
"Gus (Poyet) came to see me yesterday and the players have been fantastic towards my son Stan.
"Many of them don't really know him but they've bought him a portable games console and some games to go with it.
"But then we've all been inundated with hundreds of cards and messages. It's very humbling."
While Devlin was happy to hear of Saturday's victory, manager Wise detected a lack of satisfaction in the dressing room.
He said: "What I was so pleased about when I went into the dressing room is they were so disappointed.
"They knew they should have won three or four nil and they were so annoyed, which is pleasing. It's good they feel like that.
"At the moment we're flying high. I think it'll be a matter of time before we get a few more goals, before we win a game three or four nil hopefully.
"We'll have a bad spell at some stage and when it comes we have to dig in even deeper.
"It's what you do over 46 games that counts. But we've shown everyone that we're not afraid."
Swindon Advertiser
This is Wiltshire "We're proud of our brave boy"
Recovering Swindon Town chief executive Mark Devlin is comforted by wife Jocie at hospital yesterday
SWINDON Town chief executive Mark Devlin and his wife could not be prouder of their son Stan, who is now playing a crucial role in the investigation into the plane crash, which almost claimed the lives of three club officials.
The 10-year-old is helping air accident investigators piece together the sequence of events that led to the smash.
He was sitting in the front of the plane with pilot Frank Kratky when the plane careered into woodland near a Buckinghamshire golf course on Saturday, August 5.
Mr Kratky is still unconscious so Stan is providing important information for the investigation.
continued...
Inspectors from the Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB) believe the primary school pupil can offer a vital insight into what was going on in the plane moments before the crash.
Stan's mum Jocie Devlin said the investigators were finding his help invaluable.
"He has been helping them with their investigation, and telling them what he saw," she said.
"He was a key witness to it all and with lots of these crashes they never get a chance to confirm what they think happened.
"He's played quite a vital role and, with Stan's help, they may be able to conclude their investigation."
Mrs Devlin also praised the accident investigators for the way they have handled Stan.
She said: "They have been very good with him. He doesn't even feel like he's answering questions."
Mrs Devlin added that she could not give any specific details of Stan's help because the investigation is still ongoing.
A spokesman for the AAIB emphasised the importance of Stan's evidence.
He said: "Investigators would talk to anybody who saw the incident, and that's very, very valuable.
"We speak to anybody who was an eyewitness."
Stan was a popular figure on the club's pre-season tour to Ibiza, and the players clubbed together to buy him a Playstation to help him on the road to recovery.
Mr Devlin is due to go under the knife today at the Wexham Park Hospital, Slough, in order to fix a back problem. The Town boss fractured the second vertebra of his spine, and will have to wear a body brace for six weeks to protect the wound.
Stan has been moved to a wheelchair and is expected to be discharged from hospital by the end of the week.
Mr Kratky had surgery on his jaw yesterday. Surgeons had to give him a tracheotomy in order to keep him breathing throughout the five-hour operation.
Swindon Town investor Bill Power, who was one of the six people in the plane when it came down, was released from hospital earlier this week.
This is Wiltshire
Swindon Advertiser - It’s just what the doctor ordered
By Jon Ritson
MAXIMUM points from a marvellous start has brought a smile to Mark Devlin's face and he is urging Town to keep administering the winning tonic as he eyes the visit of MK Dons for his return to action'.
Saturday's 1-0 triumph over Rochdale leaves Dennis Wise's men as joint leaders of League Two with Walsall.
Devlin, facing another back operation following last week's plane crash, was given a full account of the game by assistant boss Gus Poyet in hospital yesterday.
He has a simple message to the players keep it coming lads'.
continued...
As Devlin and his colleagues wait to hear whether Paul Ince will commit to Town, progress without the Guvnor is being made.
It leaves Devlin delighted, but frustrated that he can't be part of it.
Speaking from his hospital bed, he said: "The results have been a great tonic so keep them coming.
"The place is obviously buzzing and I can't wait to get back there.
"We'll see how the next operation goes but I'd love to be be back for the MK Dons game (on September 12).
"My appetite for the season was whetted before all this happened, now it's just doubly whetted.
"Gus (Poyet) came to see me yesterday and the players have been fantastic towards my son Stan.
"Many of them don't really know him but they've bought him a portable games console and some games to go with it.
"But then we've all been inundated with hundreds of cards and messages. It's very humbling."
While Devlin was happy to hear of Saturday's victory, manager Wise detected a lack of satisfaction in the dressing room.
He said: "What I was so pleased about when I went into the dressing room is they were so disappointed.
"They knew they should have won three or four nil and they were so annoyed, which is pleasing. It's good they feel like that.
"At the moment we're flying high. I think it'll be a matter of time before we get a few more goals, before we win a game three or four nil hopefully.
"We'll have a bad spell at some stage and when it comes we have to dig in even deeper.
"It's what you do over 46 games that counts. But we've shown everyone that we're not afraid."
Swindon Advertiser
QPR News Roundup
-
QPR goalie Jones played for Wales in their 0-0 draw against Bulgaria.
<strong>News rumours about Italian and Premiership team following QPR's Australian (future International!) midfielder,Nick Ward.
QPR's released Defender, Georges Santos, who celebrated his 36th birthday yesterday is on trial with Brighton.
QPR Reserves lost 1-2 to Brighton.
OFFICIAL SITE - Rangers reserves lost their 1-0 lead against Brighton after a wonder minute from Joe Gatting......
QPR: Thomas, Yelland, Hislop (Goode 86), Tchakounte, Howell (booked), Kanyuka, Bailey, Bircham (Maguire 72), Baidoo, Gallen, Donnelly
Subs: Smart, Coyne, Watanabe, Goode
Brighton: Kuipers, Breach, Rents, Lowe, Elphick, Chamberlain, Cox, Fraser, Gatting, Loft, Frutos
Subs: Hinshelwood, Skinner, Cobbs, Gargan
QPR Official
QPR goalie Jones played for Wales in their 0-0 draw against Bulgaria.
<strong>News rumours about Italian and Premiership team following QPR's Australian (future International!) midfielder,Nick Ward.
QPR's released Defender, Georges Santos, who celebrated his 36th birthday yesterday is on trial with Brighton.
QPR Reserves lost 1-2 to Brighton.
OFFICIAL SITE - Rangers reserves lost their 1-0 lead against Brighton after a wonder minute from Joe Gatting......
QPR: Thomas, Yelland, Hislop (Goode 86), Tchakounte, Howell (booked), Kanyuka, Bailey, Bircham (Maguire 72), Baidoo, Gallen, Donnelly
Subs: Smart, Coyne, Watanabe, Goode
Brighton: Kuipers, Breach, Rents, Lowe, Elphick, Chamberlain, Cox, Fraser, Gatting, Loft, Frutos
Subs: Hinshelwood, Skinner, Cobbs, Gargan
QPR Official
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
The Puzzling (and Disappearing) Trophy Photo From Italy!
-
Last Month, QPR played two games in Italy. At their second game, QPR were awarded a trophy. Trying to make sense of this photo (and explanation welcomed at Qprreport@hotmail.com
Photo of Trophy Award
UPDATE: Emailed suggested explanation - "...Looks like you can just about make out Paladini's left arm behind his right arm. He must be gripping the trophy with his left hand around ... base which is itself hidden for the most part."
Report on the Italy Game and Award [The original QPR Official Site link appears for now at least, to have changed since the report was posted on the official site. But this is where the link now goes when click on 29.07.2006 Latest OUT WITH A BANG - Rangers signed off their pre-season tour with a 4-0 win over San Antonio Abate."]
[UPDATE: A Couple of hours after initially posting this, the link is now operating corectly and goes to that Italy match report and photo. Still interested in that photo. Should be in an optical illusions prize competition!)
ORIGINAl REPORT (WITH PHOTO)
QPR Defeat San Antonio Abate 4-0-
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - MATCH REPORT - July 29, 2006
"Rangers signed off their pre-season tour with a 4-0 win over San Antonio Abate. A goal in the first half from Nick Ward was followed by second half strikes from Marc Nygaard, Shabazz Baidoo and Ray Jones to seal the win at the Angri FC stadium.....
San Antonio Abate: Spicuzza, Giorgio, Pisano, Rufini, Ruggiero, Del Sorbo, Bizzarri, Villa, Tortora, Capucceilli, Alfano
Rangers: Jones, Bignot, Milanese (Howell), Rose (Kanyuka), Fortune, Rowlands (Bailey), Ainsworth, Ward, Cook, Nygaard (R Jones), Czerkas (Baidoo)
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
Last Month, QPR played two games in Italy. At their second game, QPR were awarded a trophy. Trying to make sense of this photo (and explanation welcomed at Qprreport@hotmail.com
Photo of Trophy Award
UPDATE: Emailed suggested explanation - "...Looks like you can just about make out Paladini's left arm behind his right arm. He must be gripping the trophy with his left hand around ... base which is itself hidden for the most part."
Report on the Italy Game and Award [The original QPR Official Site link appears for now at least, to have changed since the report was posted on the official site. But this is where the link now goes when click on 29.07.2006 Latest OUT WITH A BANG - Rangers signed off their pre-season tour with a 4-0 win over San Antonio Abate."]
[UPDATE: A Couple of hours after initially posting this, the link is now operating corectly and goes to that Italy match report and photo. Still interested in that photo. Should be in an optical illusions prize competition!)
ORIGINAl REPORT (WITH PHOTO)
QPR Defeat San Antonio Abate 4-0-
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - MATCH REPORT - July 29, 2006
"Rangers signed off their pre-season tour with a 4-0 win over San Antonio Abate. A goal in the first half from Nick Ward was followed by second half strikes from Marc Nygaard, Shabazz Baidoo and Ray Jones to seal the win at the Angri FC stadium.....
San Antonio Abate: Spicuzza, Giorgio, Pisano, Rufini, Ruggiero, Del Sorbo, Bizzarri, Villa, Tortora, Capucceilli, Alfano
Rangers: Jones, Bignot, Milanese (Howell), Rose (Kanyuka), Fortune, Rowlands (Bailey), Ainsworth, Ward, Cook, Nygaard (R Jones), Czerkas (Baidoo)
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
Three Years Ago Today: Langley Sold...Knight Pursued...and QPR's Lineup
-
On this day three years Ago: QPR had just sold Richard Langley to Cardiff for 250,000 pounds and were trying to sign Leon Knight who was then on loan at Brighton. And QPR were set to play Brighton. (And this was the QPR lineup - Day, Forbes, Padula, Palmer, Carlisle, Shittu, Bircham, Sabin, Rowlands, Furlong, Williams. Subs: Culkin, Bean, Oli, Walshe, McLeod.]
BBC -Bluebirds sign Langley
Cardiff have completed the signing of midfielder Richard Langley from Queens Park Rangers.
The 23-year-old Jamaican international has moved to Ninian Park for an initial fee of £200,000 with significant further payments linked to appearances and Cardiff's survival in the First Division.
His departure will enable Rangers to sign at least two new players.
Langley's Loftus Road contract was due to expire at the end of the season and he has repeatedly refused to sign a new deal.
Langley has called time on his international career with Jamaica for the short term so that he can establish himself at Ninian Park.
His exit from QPR has been on the cards since the west London side were beaten in last season's Second Division play-off final, ironically, by Cardiff.
Rangers had hoped to quell disappointment among their fans at Langley's exit by announcing a double signing, but were unable to complete the deals in time.
Langley's sale will almost certainly mean that R's defender Clarke Carlisle, whose has also not signed a new deal, will not be sold despite interest from a number of clubs.
Cardiff manager Lennie Lawrence is keen to strengthen his side for the forthcoming Division One campaign. ...
BBC
BBC -Brighton 2-1 QPR
On-loan striker Leon Knight scored twice as Brighton come from behind to beat 10-man QPR at the Withdean Stadium.
The visitors took the lead on nine minutes when Gino Padula's free kick beat goalkeeper Ben Roberts at the far post.
But Brighton equalised just three minutes later when Knight headed home Gary Hart's cross at the near post.
QPR had defender Terrell Forbes sent off for head-butting Kerry Mayo on the hour mark - and Knight made them pay when he prodded home the winner eight minutes later.
The Chelsea youngster almost completed his hat-trick but was denied by a good block from Danny Shittu.
Brighton: Roberts, Mayo, Cullip, Hinshelwood, Jones, Rodger, Hart, Carpenter, Watson, Knight, Henderson. Subs: Kuipers, Pethick, Oatway, McPhee, Harding.
QPR: Day, Forbes, Padula, Palmer, Carlisle, Shittu, Bircham, Sabin, Rowlands, Furlong, Williams. Subs: Culkin, Bean, Oli, Walshe, McLeod.
Referee: M Warren (W Midlands).
BBC
BBC
Brigton Argus - August 16,2003 "Coppell: This is real test"
http://archive.theargus.co.uk/2003/8/16/128686.html
On this day three years Ago: QPR had just sold Richard Langley to Cardiff for 250,000 pounds and were trying to sign Leon Knight who was then on loan at Brighton. And QPR were set to play Brighton. (And this was the QPR lineup - Day, Forbes, Padula, Palmer, Carlisle, Shittu, Bircham, Sabin, Rowlands, Furlong, Williams. Subs: Culkin, Bean, Oli, Walshe, McLeod.]
BBC -Bluebirds sign Langley
Cardiff have completed the signing of midfielder Richard Langley from Queens Park Rangers.
The 23-year-old Jamaican international has moved to Ninian Park for an initial fee of £200,000 with significant further payments linked to appearances and Cardiff's survival in the First Division.
His departure will enable Rangers to sign at least two new players.
Langley's Loftus Road contract was due to expire at the end of the season and he has repeatedly refused to sign a new deal.
Langley has called time on his international career with Jamaica for the short term so that he can establish himself at Ninian Park.
His exit from QPR has been on the cards since the west London side were beaten in last season's Second Division play-off final, ironically, by Cardiff.
Rangers had hoped to quell disappointment among their fans at Langley's exit by announcing a double signing, but were unable to complete the deals in time.
Langley's sale will almost certainly mean that R's defender Clarke Carlisle, whose has also not signed a new deal, will not be sold despite interest from a number of clubs.
Cardiff manager Lennie Lawrence is keen to strengthen his side for the forthcoming Division One campaign. ...
BBC
BBC -Brighton 2-1 QPR
On-loan striker Leon Knight scored twice as Brighton come from behind to beat 10-man QPR at the Withdean Stadium.
The visitors took the lead on nine minutes when Gino Padula's free kick beat goalkeeper Ben Roberts at the far post.
But Brighton equalised just three minutes later when Knight headed home Gary Hart's cross at the near post.
QPR had defender Terrell Forbes sent off for head-butting Kerry Mayo on the hour mark - and Knight made them pay when he prodded home the winner eight minutes later.
The Chelsea youngster almost completed his hat-trick but was denied by a good block from Danny Shittu.
Brighton: Roberts, Mayo, Cullip, Hinshelwood, Jones, Rodger, Hart, Carpenter, Watson, Knight, Henderson. Subs: Kuipers, Pethick, Oatway, McPhee, Harding.
QPR: Day, Forbes, Padula, Palmer, Carlisle, Shittu, Bircham, Sabin, Rowlands, Furlong, Williams. Subs: Culkin, Bean, Oli, Walshe, McLeod.
Referee: M Warren (W Midlands).
BBC
BBC
Brigton Argus - August 16,2003 "Coppell: This is real test"
http://archive.theargus.co.uk/2003/8/16/128686.html
George Santos Turns 36
-
George Santos - Born August 15, 1970
With little money to spend to strengthen the team, Santos was signed by Holloway after our promotion "back" to the Championship. Playing in defense and midfield- even attack for two season before being released. Santos also played in England for Tranmere, WBA, Sheffield United, Grimsby and Ipswich. At the end of the 2005/06, Santos was released by QPR.
Santos Playing Career
George Santos - Born August 15, 1970
With little money to spend to strengthen the team, Santos was signed by Holloway after our promotion "back" to the Championship. Playing in defense and midfield- even attack for two season before being released. Santos also played in England for Tranmere, WBA, Sheffield United, Grimsby and Ipswich. At the end of the 2005/06, Santos was released by QPR.
Santos Playing Career
Monday, August 14, 2006
Ready Allen King - Ex-QPR Birthdays Today
-
Sharing an August 14th Birthday...
Martin Allen, turns 41...Andy King turns 50...and Karl Ready turns 34.
Karl Ready - QPR's Welsh International Center Half made 200+ appearance for QPR over a decade, making his debutin 1992 before being released after QPR's relegation to the 2nd (read Third) Division in 2001.
Martin Allen, now manager of MK Dons and cousin of Clive Allen and Bradley Allen, made his debut as midfielder in 1985. Famously fell out with then manager, Trevor Francis, when he chose to be with his wife for the birth of his child over playing for QPR. Was sold to West Ham....
Andy King - Goalscoring midfielder, signed by Tommy Docherty in September 1980, with some of the Clive Allen/Paul Goddard money of a then-record 450,000 pounds...The following season, scored in the first three games before QPR's manager, Terry Venables, sold him in September 1981 for about the same fee to West Bromwich Albion (who QPR beat that season in the FA Cup Semi Final semi final)
Sharing an August 14th Birthday...
Martin Allen, turns 41...Andy King turns 50...and Karl Ready turns 34.
Karl Ready - QPR's Welsh International Center Half made 200+ appearance for QPR over a decade, making his debutin 1992 before being released after QPR's relegation to the 2nd (read Third) Division in 2001.
Martin Allen, now manager of MK Dons and cousin of Clive Allen and Bradley Allen, made his debut as midfielder in 1985. Famously fell out with then manager, Trevor Francis, when he chose to be with his wife for the birth of his child over playing for QPR. Was sold to West Ham....
Andy King - Goalscoring midfielder, signed by Tommy Docherty in September 1980, with some of the Clive Allen/Paul Goddard money of a then-record 450,000 pounds...The following season, scored in the first three games before QPR's manager, Terry Venables, sold him in September 1981 for about the same fee to West Bromwich Albion (who QPR beat that season in the FA Cup Semi Final semi final)
QPR's Win Against Southend - Monday Reports
-
The Times
August 14, 2006
Blackstock emerges from shadow of Walcott
By Ron Lewis
Queens Park Rangers 2 Southend United 0
WHEN DEXTER BLACKSTOCK LAST played at Loftus Road, he was one talented teenager in a Southampton side that also featured Theo Walcott. That was Walcott’s last club match before he was signed by Arsenal and taken to the World Cup finals by England. The past seven months for Blackstock, however, have been somewhat less memorable. He found himself out of favour at Southampton and signed for Queens Park Rangers last week. At least he got to play when he moved to London.
Blackstock, 20, was a key member of a QPR side that produced a brilliant first-half display. He is part of an injection of youth that has been made by Gary Waddock, the manager, to a creaking QPR squad. Particularly impressive was Ray Jones, a 17-year-old beanpole of a striker who was brought to the club a year ago having slipped past the scouts for London’s more fashionable outfits. Jones and Blackstock looked a dangerous partnership.
“When you are that age there is no fear, you have nothing to lose, it’s like it was with Theo,” Blackstock said. “I think there has been way too much hype [around Walcott], a ridiculous amount of expectation for a 16, 17-year-old.”
QPR had carved Southend open several times by the time Martin Rowlands gave them the lead on 31 minutes with a thunderbolt of a free kick from 25 yards. Ten minutes later, after Blackstock’s cross from the right, Jones beat Darryl Flahavan, the Southend United goalkeeper, to the high ball and Nick Ward, a 21-year-old Australian, tapped in the loose ball.
This was QPR’s first win at Loftus Road since Waddock’s first match as caretaker manager against Millwall more than six months ago. “It’s a fantastic feeling,” Waddock said. “I want to achieve things here.”
Times
TELEGRAPH - Blackstock has winning start
By Matthew Leach -14/08/2006
Queens Park Rangers (2) 2 Southend United (0) 0
Queens Park Rangers claimed their first win of the season thanks in no small part to the performances of debutant Dexter Blackstock and his tall strike-partner Ray Jones, just 17.
Blackstock, 20, who signed from Southampton on Wed-nesday and trained with the squad for the first time on Friday, even had time to give support to another 17-year-old, Theo Walcott, of Arsenal, his former Saints team-mate.
"Theo's got a big year ahead of him, like myself. There was way too much pressure and hype around him [over his England selection]. Let him play in the Under 21s and I'm sure he'll be back in the senior squad. He's going to be a great star."
A thunderous 25-yard free kick from Martin Rowlands in the 31st minute, after Lee Cook's touch back, gave Southend's keeper Darryl Flahavan no chance and helped Rangers to relax. Ten minutes later Nick Ward had an easy tap-in after good work by Blackstock and Jones.
Gary Waddock, the QPR manager and former youth team coach, celebrated his first home win in six months by emphasising that his young players will get their chance. "They can see Ray Jones and Shabazz [Baidoo] pushing through. They know if they're good enough, I'll put them in." After a bright start to the season for Steve Tilson's promoted Southend, two successive losses have highlighted the harsh reality of Championship football.
Despite clever probings by Jamal Campbell-Ryce and the efforts of strikers Freddy Eastwood and Lee Bradbury, there was no way past goal-keeper Paul Jones.
However, Tilson remains upbeat. "The second half has shown we can compete in this league."
Telegraph
Compilation of Match Reports on the Official Site
Simon Skinner, QPR Net Match Report
QPR Rivals/Mark Jamieson Match Report "New Signings and Youngsters jump-start Rangers"
The Times
August 14, 2006
Blackstock emerges from shadow of Walcott
By Ron Lewis
Queens Park Rangers 2 Southend United 0
WHEN DEXTER BLACKSTOCK LAST played at Loftus Road, he was one talented teenager in a Southampton side that also featured Theo Walcott. That was Walcott’s last club match before he was signed by Arsenal and taken to the World Cup finals by England. The past seven months for Blackstock, however, have been somewhat less memorable. He found himself out of favour at Southampton and signed for Queens Park Rangers last week. At least he got to play when he moved to London.
Blackstock, 20, was a key member of a QPR side that produced a brilliant first-half display. He is part of an injection of youth that has been made by Gary Waddock, the manager, to a creaking QPR squad. Particularly impressive was Ray Jones, a 17-year-old beanpole of a striker who was brought to the club a year ago having slipped past the scouts for London’s more fashionable outfits. Jones and Blackstock looked a dangerous partnership.
“When you are that age there is no fear, you have nothing to lose, it’s like it was with Theo,” Blackstock said. “I think there has been way too much hype [around Walcott], a ridiculous amount of expectation for a 16, 17-year-old.”
QPR had carved Southend open several times by the time Martin Rowlands gave them the lead on 31 minutes with a thunderbolt of a free kick from 25 yards. Ten minutes later, after Blackstock’s cross from the right, Jones beat Darryl Flahavan, the Southend United goalkeeper, to the high ball and Nick Ward, a 21-year-old Australian, tapped in the loose ball.
This was QPR’s first win at Loftus Road since Waddock’s first match as caretaker manager against Millwall more than six months ago. “It’s a fantastic feeling,” Waddock said. “I want to achieve things here.”
Times
TELEGRAPH - Blackstock has winning start
By Matthew Leach -14/08/2006
Queens Park Rangers (2) 2 Southend United (0) 0
Queens Park Rangers claimed their first win of the season thanks in no small part to the performances of debutant Dexter Blackstock and his tall strike-partner Ray Jones, just 17.
Blackstock, 20, who signed from Southampton on Wed-nesday and trained with the squad for the first time on Friday, even had time to give support to another 17-year-old, Theo Walcott, of Arsenal, his former Saints team-mate.
"Theo's got a big year ahead of him, like myself. There was way too much pressure and hype around him [over his England selection]. Let him play in the Under 21s and I'm sure he'll be back in the senior squad. He's going to be a great star."
A thunderous 25-yard free kick from Martin Rowlands in the 31st minute, after Lee Cook's touch back, gave Southend's keeper Darryl Flahavan no chance and helped Rangers to relax. Ten minutes later Nick Ward had an easy tap-in after good work by Blackstock and Jones.
Gary Waddock, the QPR manager and former youth team coach, celebrated his first home win in six months by emphasising that his young players will get their chance. "They can see Ray Jones and Shabazz [Baidoo] pushing through. They know if they're good enough, I'll put them in." After a bright start to the season for Steve Tilson's promoted Southend, two successive losses have highlighted the harsh reality of Championship football.
Despite clever probings by Jamal Campbell-Ryce and the efforts of strikers Freddy Eastwood and Lee Bradbury, there was no way past goal-keeper Paul Jones.
However, Tilson remains upbeat. "The second half has shown we can compete in this league."
Telegraph
Compilation of Match Reports on the Official Site
Simon Skinner, QPR Net Match Report
QPR Rivals/Mark Jamieson Match Report "New Signings and Youngsters jump-start Rangers"
Sunday, August 13, 2006
How Ex-QPR's Did Yesterday
-
On the managerial front, obviously Ian Holloway's Plymouth victory at Sunderland (taking Plymouth to second in the table) was the preeminent story for ex-QPRs.
Ex-QPR Assistant Manager, Kenny Jackett's Swansea lost 1-0 at Oldham.
And ex-QPR player, Leroy Rosenoir's Brentford drew 2-2 at Brighton with a last minute equalizer.
Martin Allen's MK Don's Defeated Macclesfield 2-1
Bill Power's/Mark Devlin's Swindon defeated Rochdale 1-0
And in the non-League, John Hollin's Crawley defeated Rushden 1-0
On the Playing side:
Ian Evatt (technically not ex-QPR) came on as a 81st minute sub for Blackpool. Blackpool's other ex-QPR player, Marcus Bean was not playing.
Jamie Cureton's Colchester lost 1-2 at home to Barnsley. Cureton didn't score and was substituted after 69 minutes. (Cureton has yet to score)
Chris Day was on the bench and did not play as Millwall lost 5-1 at Chesterfield
And reportedly Nottingham Forest want to sign Bristol Rover's (an ex-QPR trialist) Junior Agogo
On the managerial front, obviously Ian Holloway's Plymouth victory at Sunderland (taking Plymouth to second in the table) was the preeminent story for ex-QPRs.
Ex-QPR Assistant Manager, Kenny Jackett's Swansea lost 1-0 at Oldham.
And ex-QPR player, Leroy Rosenoir's Brentford drew 2-2 at Brighton with a last minute equalizer.
Martin Allen's MK Don's Defeated Macclesfield 2-1
Bill Power's/Mark Devlin's Swindon defeated Rochdale 1-0
And in the non-League, John Hollin's Crawley defeated Rushden 1-0
On the Playing side:
Ian Evatt (technically not ex-QPR) came on as a 81st minute sub for Blackpool. Blackpool's other ex-QPR player, Marcus Bean was not playing.
Jamie Cureton's Colchester lost 1-2 at home to Barnsley. Cureton didn't score and was substituted after 69 minutes. (Cureton has yet to score)
Chris Day was on the bench and did not play as Millwall lost 5-1 at Chesterfield
And reportedly Nottingham Forest want to sign Bristol Rover's (an ex-QPR trialist) Junior Agogo
One Year Ago: QPR's Heroes were Santos & Moore; Bircham & Docherty...Off the Field: "the Alleged Incident"
-
A year ago...On the field, QPR's heroes in their 2-1 victory over Sheffield United, were Santos and Moore; Bircham and Docherty; Bignot and Shittu; Royce and Brown; Bean and Furlong and Royce. A year later, in the QPR team playing against Southend United, only 4 of the 14 stars of a year ago, were playing.
Also present at that game a year ago but not at the Southend: Bill Power and Kevin McGrath and Mark Devlin; Ian Holloway and Gary Penrice and Tim Breaker...
Off the Field that day: "The alleged events" at Loftus Road, that led to arrests, a trial and the acquittal of the seven accused. In the days following the Sheffied United game came the QPR Board meeting which saw then-QPR Director, Carlos Dunga, fly in and cast the deciding vote which led to the departure of Devlin and Power and McGrath. And how the media reported on that day.
[For the most complete compilation, thus far, of the trial proceedings
see Tracy Stent's QPR 1st series of court updates
QPR1st>]
How some of the papers reported on that day:
The Sunday Times August 14, 2005
QPR 2 Sheffield United 1: Bircham passion revives Rangers
Barry Flatman at Loftus Road
POLICE were called after armed men threatened the life of Queens Park Rangers’ club director Gianni Paladin yesterday, but after arrests were made, and with the crowd, players and officials unaware of what had just occurred, we were treated to a lively encounter with a committed fan at its core.
Marc Bircham is one of those fortunate individuals who plays for the club he has supported with a lifelong passion. He wasn’t born when the likes of Rodney Marsh won QPR the League Cup as Third Division giantkillers almost 40 years ago and while the 1967 vintage were taking a bow at half-time, Bircham was locked in the dressing room being berated by manager Ian Holloway for being too anxious throughout a forgettable first half.
However, Bircham is well versed with the exploits of his elders and was clearly aware of their presence. Within 11 minutes of the restart the midfielder, who has been known to parade his devotion by dying his hair blue and white, was celebrating a goal that any QPR veterans would have been proud to score.
Then, with the match eventually won, Bircham went on to show the confrontational side to his character by reacting so angrily to a verbal barb from Sheffield United’s Chris Morgan that the visitors’ captain, seeking further retribution, had to be manhandled off the pitch by his manager, Neil Warnock.
The fact that QPR had not only taken the points but leapfrogged Sheffield United in the Championship table after the Yorkshire team started the day in top position, clearly fuelled Morgan’s temper.
Warnock maintained the entire contest was a disappointment, but his bitterness is understandable because his team did not possess the guile to exploit the opposition’s errors. QPR in contrast possess that quality as scorers Bircham and substitute Stefan Moore displayed.
Moore, a summer free transfer from Aston Villa, was introduced as a 36th minute replacement for fellow new arrival Tom Doherty who limped off with an injured knee. Moore’s pace and attack was a constant threat to United and he was integral to the opening goal. Initially Martin Rowlands raided down the left, Moore tried his luck in a more central position and when Phil Jagielka could only half clear the ball, Bircham steadied himself to drive a shot past goalkeeper Paddy Kenny from 20 yards.
Michael Tonge was badly missed in the Sheffield midfield and Frenchman Lilian Nalis had the sort of afternoon he could have categorised as tres terrible, but it was another summer signing, Paul Ifill, who suffered the brunt of Warnock’s displeasure. The former Millwall man appeared to lose his footing as he shaped to shoot early in the second half and sliced a goalscoring opportunity wide. But when he slipped and allowed Moore a free run at goal, Warnock decided an investigation was necessary.
“I was convinced he was wearing rubber studs, which is ridiculous given pitches in this day and age, but I was right,” revealed Warnock. “He won’t be wearing them again.”
Moore’s footwear was suitably stable for him to cross to Matthew Rose, who returned the ball for Moore to shoot home his first goal for his new club. Substitute Steve Kabba got one goal back for United from close range late in added time.
STAR MAN: Georges Santos (QPR)
Player ratings. QPR: Royce 6, Bignot 6, Shittu 8, Santos 9, Rose 7, Ainsworth 6 (Brown 69min 6), Bircham 7, Doherty 5 (Moore 86min, 5, Rowlands 7 (Bean 86min, 5), Gallen 7, Furlong 6
Sheffield United: Kenny 6, Bromby 5, Morgan 6, Jagielka 6, Kozluk 5, Ifill 6, Montgomery 5, Nalis 4 (Short 73min, 5), Harley 5 (Gillespie 73min, 5), Webber 7, Shipperley 5 (Kabba 77min, 7)
Scorers: QPR: Bircham 56, Moore 90
Sheffield United: Kabba 90
Referee: S Tanner
Attendance: 13,497
Sunday Times
QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT
INCIDENT AT LOFTUS ROAD
Queens Park Rangers Football Club confirms that the Metropolitan Police are investigating an incident at Loftus Road.
A number of arrests were made on Saturday afternoon and the police are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the allegations.
QPR are co-operating fully with the police in the course of their enquiries but while the investigation is ongoing the Club is unable to comment further on the nature of the alleged incident.
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
Independent
Men held after QPR boss is threatened with gun at game during game
By Matthew Beard
Published: 15 August 2005
Police are questioning 11 men after a director of Queen's Park Rangers football club in west London was ambushed at gunpoint outside the boardroom.
Gianni Paladini, 58, an Italian recently installed on the club's board, was attacked minutes before kick-off by a gang of five men as he walked towards his office in the Loftus Road stadium with a fellow director.
His assailants burst through double security doors, kicking him, beating him and demanding he resign his position as they held a gun to his head.
Fearing for his life, Mr Paladini signed his own 'resignation letter' and broke free from the gang to the nearby boardroom from where he alerted police at about 3pm as his side's home game against Sheffield United was getting underway.
Armed police rushed to the ground where they made some arrests as well as in the nearby Uxbridge and South Africa roads. Mr Paladini was visibly distressed as he watched the second half of the club's 2- 1 win and wept as he was escorted into the players' tunnel by two police officers after the game.
As Mr Paladini was recovering from his ordeal, in which he suffered suspected broken ribs, Scotland Yard detectives began to investigate the club's turbulent off- the-field recent history " which has seen an unseemly struggle for control of the once- fashionable west London club " for a possible motive for the attack.
From the heights of the 1970s, when their outstanding side boasted such stars as Gerry Francis and Stan Bowles, QPR sunk three divisions. After financial collapse under former owner Chris Wright, the club staved off closure with a pounds 10m loan accruing pounds 1m in interest per year.
Yesterday supporters were struggling to explain the attack, although some thought it may have been in connection with Mr Paladini's criticism of the club's finances.
The Italian, a former players' agent, bought a reported 22.1 per cent share in QPR for pounds 600,000 in May last year. He openly questioned the pounds 10m loan taken out by the club when it was on the point of folding in 2002. He told a recent fans' forum it was 'absolutely imperative' to renegotiate the loan. The money was lent by ABC Corporation, registered in Panama, which has also lent pounds 15m to Derby County.
agent, Antonio Caliendo, organised a pounds 1.7m investment into the club from two Monaco-based consortiums. The main shareholding in the club, thought to be 46 per cent, is held by his wife Olga.
Mr Paladini described the 'petrifying' attack in an interview with the News of the World, saying he feared for the safety of his family. 'I was petrified. One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun. They shouted at me to sign a piece of paper resigning from the board. Of course I signed it " but I have no intention of leaving the club.
'They tried to push me out of the ground but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom, shouting for help. It was terrifying, I think they've broken one of my ribs. They were pushing me violently. I won't let them bully me out of the club. But they've taken my phone. I'm really, really frightened now for my family and friends but I won't let these cowards get away with this. This has brought shame to the club.'
The audacious attack has astonished many long-standing fans. 'I was at the game but I didn't realise what had happened until I got home,' said Paul Finney from the QPR Loyal Supporters Association. 'The fans are shocked because we really can't think that Gianni would have made enemies like that. It's also bizarre that a gang would want to do that sort of thing considering there must have been around 200 police at the ground.'
Police are questioning the 11 men on suspicion of conspiracy to commit blackmail. A Met spokeswoman said: 'Inquiries are continuing.'
Indepdendent
The Guardian
11 held after gun attack on QPR boss
Robert Booth
Monday August 15, 2005
The Guardian
Eleven men were being held in police custody last night as detectives investigated an armed attack on a football club director moments before kick-off on Saturday.
Queen's Park Rangers' majority shareholder, Gianni Paladini, 58, was walking towards his office in the club's west London ground with fellow director David Morris just before a Championship fixture with Sheffield United when he was allegedly ambushed by a gang of armed men who burst from behind double doors.
They are understood to have threatened to kill him and demanded he sign a paper agreeing to resign from the board. The former Italian football agent, who is considered by many supporters a stabilising force at the club after years of financial turmoil, says he was kicked and beaten.
"A bunch of big, heavy black men come out, rush towards me and start kicking and beating me up," he told the News of the World.
"I was petrified. One of them held my wrists and another pointed a gun. They tried to push me to the ground but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom, shouting for help."
Mr Paladini signed the paper, but later insisted he has no intention of resigning.
As the game kicked off on schedule at 3pm, police were called and armed officers were deployed inside the ground.
Arrests were made immediately outside the stadium and in nearby Uxbridge Road. After further arrests at 4.10pm, a total of 11 men were held on suspicion of conspiracy to commit blackmail.
QPR's players knew nothing of the drama as they continued their strong start to the Championship season with a 2-1 win.
The club's manager, Ian Holloway, said yesterday he was "shocked and horrified" by the alleged attack.
The club declined to comment on how armed men might have gained access to the ground.
The Guardian
Telegraph
Gun gang tell QPR director to resign
By Douglas Roberts
(Filed: 15/08/2005)
A gang put a gun to the head of a football club director and forced him to sign a note of resignation only minutes before a match on Saturday.
Gianni Paladini, 58, a director at Queen's Park Rangers, was allegedly kicked and beaten before being told to resign by a group of men who had burst into the hospitality area of the club's ground.
Eleven men were arrested in and around the ground by armed police soon after, on suspicion of committing blackmail and making threats to kill, according to a Metropolitan Police spokesman.
Mr Paladini was attacked just before the 3pm kick-off against Sheffield United.
After the incident he attempted to watch the second half before being escorted out of the directors' box looking distressed.
He told the News of the World that he had been kicked and beaten on a flight of stairs by five people.
"One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun," he told the newspaper. "They shouted at me to sign a piece of paper resigning from the board.
"Of course I signed it but I have no intention of leaving the club.
"They tried to push me out of the ground but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom, shouting for help."
Mr Paladini, a former football agent, has been a controversial figure at QPR since buying a 22 per cent share for £650,000 in April last year.
He had reportedly complained of being shunned by the board and had questioned a £10 million loan, which incurs annual interest payments of £1 million.
Telegraph
BBC
Four in court over QPR 'attack'
Gianni Paladini bought his stake in the club last year
Four men have appeared in court over an alleged attack on a football club director before a Championship match.
Armed police were called to Queens Park Rangers' Loftus Road ground on Saturday after Gianni Paladini said he was threatened at gunpoint.
Michael Reynolds, 44, David Morris, 49, David Davenport, 37, and Andrew Baker, 39, whose addresses cannot be revealed, faced blackmail and firearm charges.
They were remanded in custody by a judge at West London Magistrates Court.
Seven other men arrested on Saturday have been released on police bail.
High profile transfers
Mr Paladini was taken to Hammersmith police station after the incident, which he said happened as he made his way to a meeting before his team's 2-1 win over Sheffield United.
Mr Paladini, a former football agent who represented ex-Middlesbrough striker Fabrizio Ravanelli, bought his stake in the club last May.
He is the public face of a Monaco-based group of investors who own a significant proportion of the club.
The Italian handed in his football agent's licence last year to pursue his dream of buying into an English football club.
After becoming an agent in 1980 he was involved in dozens of high profile transfers over two decades. He lives in London with his English wife, Olga, and his business portfolio includes several nightclubs.
BBC
BBC
QPR director tells of gun ordeal
Gianni Paladini has said he has no intention of leaving QPR
A football club director has reportedly been forced at gunpoint to sign paperwork resigning from the board.
Armed police were called to Queens Park Rangers' Loftus Road after Gianni Paladini was attacked on Saturday.
Eleven men were arrested in or near the west London ground after the incident, which happened near the club's boardroom at about 1500 BST (1400 GMT).
Mr Paladini told the News of the World newspaper he had been "petrified" but would not quit.
One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun
Gianni Paladini
The gang had pounced as he had been going to his office with shareholder Dave Morris before the game started, he added.
Mr Paladini told the paper he had been kicked and beaten on a flight of stairs by five people.
"I was petrified. One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun.
"They shouted at me to sign a piece of paper resigning from the board.
"Of course I signed it - but I have no intention of leaving the club.
"They tried to push me out of the ground, but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom, shouting for help."
'Threats to kill'
A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said: "We can confirm that Hammersmith police have launched an investigation following an incident at QPR football ground.
"Police were called to reports that a number of men had threatened a man and a woman with threats to kill and then left the premises."
Mr Paladini, a former football agent who bought his stake in the club in May 2004, was later taken to Hammersmith Police Station.
He lives in London with his English wife Olga and his business portfolio includes several nightclubs.
QPR won their game against their Championship rivals Sheffield United, 2-1.
BBC
QPR director charged with blackmail plot against owner
Monday, 15th August 2005,--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A London football club director was remanded in custody today after being charged with conspiring to blackmail a fellow club executive.
David Morris, 49, a shareholder and co-director at QPR, is alleged to have been involved in a plot to blackmail the club's millionaire owner, Gianni Paladini.
Italian Paladini claimed a gang held a gun to his head and forced him to sign a resignation letter at QPR's Loftus Road ground shortly before the kick off of their game aginst Sheffield United on Saturday.
Tanned Morris, dressed in a grey polo shirt, appeared at West London magistrates court along with three other men all charged with conspiracy to comit blackmail and joint firearms possession with intent to commit grievous bodily harm.
The other men are Michael Reynolds, 44, of north London, Andrew Baker, 39, of Somerset, and David Davenport, 37, of Buckinghamshire, all security consultants.
The men appeared in the dock looking relaxed and joking with each other as the case... Read More
LSE
Scottsman
QPR director on blackmail and gun charges
RHIANNON EDWARD
A FOOTBALL club director has been charged with blackmail and firearms offences after a fellow executive was allegedly threatened at gunpoint before a match.
Armed police were called to the Queens Park Rangers' ground in Shepherd's Bush, London, shortly before kick-off on Saturday after Gianni Paladini said he had been threatened by men with a gun who made him sign a document saying he would resign from his post.
Co-director David Morris was arrested and appeared in court yesterday charged with blackmail and firearms possession with intent to commit grievous bodily harm.
He had been officially named as a QPR director and shareholder this month.
Three other men were also charged at West London Magistrates Court: Michael Reynolds, 44, of north London, Andrew Baker, 39, of Somerset, and David Davenport, 37, of Buckinghamshire.
A total of 11 people were arrested at the club's ground in Loftus Road, of whom seven were bailed.
Mr Paladini, 59, a former agent for Italian footballers, claimed the men attacked him in a club office at 2:30pm. His team were beating Sheffield United 2-1 in the Championship, with spectators unaware of the drama.
Mr Paladini said he was "terrified" into signing a letter addressed to the club chairman, saying he would be resigning and handing over his shares.
But he insisted: "This is not valid anyway. It is pathetic."
The father of three said he was "petrified". He added: "I thought I was going to die. I can't live with this kind of thing. I am afraid to go out.
"My daughter, son and grandson were all there on Saturday. They are all upset and I don't want to put them through this sort of thing.
"I have worked hard and done everything I can to make things happen at the club. I think most of the fans understand what I'm doing. I have had a fantastic response from them. "
This article: http://sport.scotsman.com/football_english.cfm?id=1788112005
SPORTING LIFE
QPR DIRECTOR 'THREATENED WITH GUN'
Armed police were called to a Championship match on Saturday after a club director apparently had a gun held to his head.
Eleven men were arrested near Queens Park Rangers' Loftus Road stadium in west London after Gianni Paladini and a woman were reportedly threatened with the weapon near the boardroom during their 2-1 win over Sheffield United.
A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said armed officers were deployed within the ground following the incident at 1500 BST and Paladini was taken to Hammersmith police station.
The spokeswoman said: "We can confirm that Hammersmith police have launched an investigation following an incident at QPR football ground today.
"At approximately 1500 police were called to reports that a number of men had threatened a man and a woman with threats to kill and then left the premises."
She said armed officers had been deployed and a total of 11 men had been arrested.
"Some were arrested inside the ground and some were arrested outside. Our inquiries continue.
"No-one was injured and no shots were fired."
Paladini, a former football agent who represented ex-Middlesbrough striker Fabrizio Ravanelli, bought his stake in the club in May of last year and has become an influential figure there.
A significant proportion of the club is owned by a Monaco-based group of investors for whom Paladini is the public face.
Little is known about the Italian, who handed in his football agent's licence last year to pursue his dream of buying into an English football club.
He became an agent in 1980 and over two decades was involved in dozens of high profile transfers.
He lives in London with his English wife, Olga, and has a business portfolio which includes several nightclubs.
SPORTING LIFE
A year ago...On the field, QPR's heroes in their 2-1 victory over Sheffield United, were Santos and Moore; Bircham and Docherty; Bignot and Shittu; Royce and Brown; Bean and Furlong and Royce. A year later, in the QPR team playing against Southend United, only 4 of the 14 stars of a year ago, were playing.
Also present at that game a year ago but not at the Southend: Bill Power and Kevin McGrath and Mark Devlin; Ian Holloway and Gary Penrice and Tim Breaker...
Off the Field that day: "The alleged events" at Loftus Road, that led to arrests, a trial and the acquittal of the seven accused. In the days following the Sheffied United game came the QPR Board meeting which saw then-QPR Director, Carlos Dunga, fly in and cast the deciding vote which led to the departure of Devlin and Power and McGrath. And how the media reported on that day.
[For the most complete compilation, thus far, of the trial proceedings
see Tracy Stent's QPR 1st series of court updates
QPR1st>]
How some of the papers reported on that day:
The Sunday Times August 14, 2005
QPR 2 Sheffield United 1: Bircham passion revives Rangers
Barry Flatman at Loftus Road
POLICE were called after armed men threatened the life of Queens Park Rangers’ club director Gianni Paladin yesterday, but after arrests were made, and with the crowd, players and officials unaware of what had just occurred, we were treated to a lively encounter with a committed fan at its core.
Marc Bircham is one of those fortunate individuals who plays for the club he has supported with a lifelong passion. He wasn’t born when the likes of Rodney Marsh won QPR the League Cup as Third Division giantkillers almost 40 years ago and while the 1967 vintage were taking a bow at half-time, Bircham was locked in the dressing room being berated by manager Ian Holloway for being too anxious throughout a forgettable first half.
However, Bircham is well versed with the exploits of his elders and was clearly aware of their presence. Within 11 minutes of the restart the midfielder, who has been known to parade his devotion by dying his hair blue and white, was celebrating a goal that any QPR veterans would have been proud to score.
Then, with the match eventually won, Bircham went on to show the confrontational side to his character by reacting so angrily to a verbal barb from Sheffield United’s Chris Morgan that the visitors’ captain, seeking further retribution, had to be manhandled off the pitch by his manager, Neil Warnock.
The fact that QPR had not only taken the points but leapfrogged Sheffield United in the Championship table after the Yorkshire team started the day in top position, clearly fuelled Morgan’s temper.
Warnock maintained the entire contest was a disappointment, but his bitterness is understandable because his team did not possess the guile to exploit the opposition’s errors. QPR in contrast possess that quality as scorers Bircham and substitute Stefan Moore displayed.
Moore, a summer free transfer from Aston Villa, was introduced as a 36th minute replacement for fellow new arrival Tom Doherty who limped off with an injured knee. Moore’s pace and attack was a constant threat to United and he was integral to the opening goal. Initially Martin Rowlands raided down the left, Moore tried his luck in a more central position and when Phil Jagielka could only half clear the ball, Bircham steadied himself to drive a shot past goalkeeper Paddy Kenny from 20 yards.
Michael Tonge was badly missed in the Sheffield midfield and Frenchman Lilian Nalis had the sort of afternoon he could have categorised as tres terrible, but it was another summer signing, Paul Ifill, who suffered the brunt of Warnock’s displeasure. The former Millwall man appeared to lose his footing as he shaped to shoot early in the second half and sliced a goalscoring opportunity wide. But when he slipped and allowed Moore a free run at goal, Warnock decided an investigation was necessary.
“I was convinced he was wearing rubber studs, which is ridiculous given pitches in this day and age, but I was right,” revealed Warnock. “He won’t be wearing them again.”
Moore’s footwear was suitably stable for him to cross to Matthew Rose, who returned the ball for Moore to shoot home his first goal for his new club. Substitute Steve Kabba got one goal back for United from close range late in added time.
STAR MAN: Georges Santos (QPR)
Player ratings. QPR: Royce 6, Bignot 6, Shittu 8, Santos 9, Rose 7, Ainsworth 6 (Brown 69min 6), Bircham 7, Doherty 5 (Moore 86min, 5, Rowlands 7 (Bean 86min, 5), Gallen 7, Furlong 6
Sheffield United: Kenny 6, Bromby 5, Morgan 6, Jagielka 6, Kozluk 5, Ifill 6, Montgomery 5, Nalis 4 (Short 73min, 5), Harley 5 (Gillespie 73min, 5), Webber 7, Shipperley 5 (Kabba 77min, 7)
Scorers: QPR: Bircham 56, Moore 90
Sheffield United: Kabba 90
Referee: S Tanner
Attendance: 13,497
Sunday Times
QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT
INCIDENT AT LOFTUS ROAD
Queens Park Rangers Football Club confirms that the Metropolitan Police are investigating an incident at Loftus Road.
A number of arrests were made on Saturday afternoon and the police are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the allegations.
QPR are co-operating fully with the police in the course of their enquiries but while the investigation is ongoing the Club is unable to comment further on the nature of the alleged incident.
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
Independent
Men held after QPR boss is threatened with gun at game during game
By Matthew Beard
Published: 15 August 2005
Police are questioning 11 men after a director of Queen's Park Rangers football club in west London was ambushed at gunpoint outside the boardroom.
Gianni Paladini, 58, an Italian recently installed on the club's board, was attacked minutes before kick-off by a gang of five men as he walked towards his office in the Loftus Road stadium with a fellow director.
His assailants burst through double security doors, kicking him, beating him and demanding he resign his position as they held a gun to his head.
Fearing for his life, Mr Paladini signed his own 'resignation letter' and broke free from the gang to the nearby boardroom from where he alerted police at about 3pm as his side's home game against Sheffield United was getting underway.
Armed police rushed to the ground where they made some arrests as well as in the nearby Uxbridge and South Africa roads. Mr Paladini was visibly distressed as he watched the second half of the club's 2- 1 win and wept as he was escorted into the players' tunnel by two police officers after the game.
As Mr Paladini was recovering from his ordeal, in which he suffered suspected broken ribs, Scotland Yard detectives began to investigate the club's turbulent off- the-field recent history " which has seen an unseemly struggle for control of the once- fashionable west London club " for a possible motive for the attack.
From the heights of the 1970s, when their outstanding side boasted such stars as Gerry Francis and Stan Bowles, QPR sunk three divisions. After financial collapse under former owner Chris Wright, the club staved off closure with a pounds 10m loan accruing pounds 1m in interest per year.
Yesterday supporters were struggling to explain the attack, although some thought it may have been in connection with Mr Paladini's criticism of the club's finances.
The Italian, a former players' agent, bought a reported 22.1 per cent share in QPR for pounds 600,000 in May last year. He openly questioned the pounds 10m loan taken out by the club when it was on the point of folding in 2002. He told a recent fans' forum it was 'absolutely imperative' to renegotiate the loan. The money was lent by ABC Corporation, registered in Panama, which has also lent pounds 15m to Derby County.
agent, Antonio Caliendo, organised a pounds 1.7m investment into the club from two Monaco-based consortiums. The main shareholding in the club, thought to be 46 per cent, is held by his wife Olga.
Mr Paladini described the 'petrifying' attack in an interview with the News of the World, saying he feared for the safety of his family. 'I was petrified. One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun. They shouted at me to sign a piece of paper resigning from the board. Of course I signed it " but I have no intention of leaving the club.
'They tried to push me out of the ground but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom, shouting for help. It was terrifying, I think they've broken one of my ribs. They were pushing me violently. I won't let them bully me out of the club. But they've taken my phone. I'm really, really frightened now for my family and friends but I won't let these cowards get away with this. This has brought shame to the club.'
The audacious attack has astonished many long-standing fans. 'I was at the game but I didn't realise what had happened until I got home,' said Paul Finney from the QPR Loyal Supporters Association. 'The fans are shocked because we really can't think that Gianni would have made enemies like that. It's also bizarre that a gang would want to do that sort of thing considering there must have been around 200 police at the ground.'
Police are questioning the 11 men on suspicion of conspiracy to commit blackmail. A Met spokeswoman said: 'Inquiries are continuing.'
Indepdendent
The Guardian
11 held after gun attack on QPR boss
Robert Booth
Monday August 15, 2005
The Guardian
Eleven men were being held in police custody last night as detectives investigated an armed attack on a football club director moments before kick-off on Saturday.
Queen's Park Rangers' majority shareholder, Gianni Paladini, 58, was walking towards his office in the club's west London ground with fellow director David Morris just before a Championship fixture with Sheffield United when he was allegedly ambushed by a gang of armed men who burst from behind double doors.
They are understood to have threatened to kill him and demanded he sign a paper agreeing to resign from the board. The former Italian football agent, who is considered by many supporters a stabilising force at the club after years of financial turmoil, says he was kicked and beaten.
"A bunch of big, heavy black men come out, rush towards me and start kicking and beating me up," he told the News of the World.
"I was petrified. One of them held my wrists and another pointed a gun. They tried to push me to the ground but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom, shouting for help."
Mr Paladini signed the paper, but later insisted he has no intention of resigning.
As the game kicked off on schedule at 3pm, police were called and armed officers were deployed inside the ground.
Arrests were made immediately outside the stadium and in nearby Uxbridge Road. After further arrests at 4.10pm, a total of 11 men were held on suspicion of conspiracy to commit blackmail.
QPR's players knew nothing of the drama as they continued their strong start to the Championship season with a 2-1 win.
The club's manager, Ian Holloway, said yesterday he was "shocked and horrified" by the alleged attack.
The club declined to comment on how armed men might have gained access to the ground.
The Guardian
Telegraph
Gun gang tell QPR director to resign
By Douglas Roberts
(Filed: 15/08/2005)
A gang put a gun to the head of a football club director and forced him to sign a note of resignation only minutes before a match on Saturday.
Gianni Paladini, 58, a director at Queen's Park Rangers, was allegedly kicked and beaten before being told to resign by a group of men who had burst into the hospitality area of the club's ground.
Eleven men were arrested in and around the ground by armed police soon after, on suspicion of committing blackmail and making threats to kill, according to a Metropolitan Police spokesman.
Mr Paladini was attacked just before the 3pm kick-off against Sheffield United.
After the incident he attempted to watch the second half before being escorted out of the directors' box looking distressed.
He told the News of the World that he had been kicked and beaten on a flight of stairs by five people.
"One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun," he told the newspaper. "They shouted at me to sign a piece of paper resigning from the board.
"Of course I signed it but I have no intention of leaving the club.
"They tried to push me out of the ground but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom, shouting for help."
Mr Paladini, a former football agent, has been a controversial figure at QPR since buying a 22 per cent share for £650,000 in April last year.
He had reportedly complained of being shunned by the board and had questioned a £10 million loan, which incurs annual interest payments of £1 million.
Telegraph
BBC
Four in court over QPR 'attack'
Gianni Paladini bought his stake in the club last year
Four men have appeared in court over an alleged attack on a football club director before a Championship match.
Armed police were called to Queens Park Rangers' Loftus Road ground on Saturday after Gianni Paladini said he was threatened at gunpoint.
Michael Reynolds, 44, David Morris, 49, David Davenport, 37, and Andrew Baker, 39, whose addresses cannot be revealed, faced blackmail and firearm charges.
They were remanded in custody by a judge at West London Magistrates Court.
Seven other men arrested on Saturday have been released on police bail.
High profile transfers
Mr Paladini was taken to Hammersmith police station after the incident, which he said happened as he made his way to a meeting before his team's 2-1 win over Sheffield United.
Mr Paladini, a former football agent who represented ex-Middlesbrough striker Fabrizio Ravanelli, bought his stake in the club last May.
He is the public face of a Monaco-based group of investors who own a significant proportion of the club.
The Italian handed in his football agent's licence last year to pursue his dream of buying into an English football club.
After becoming an agent in 1980 he was involved in dozens of high profile transfers over two decades. He lives in London with his English wife, Olga, and his business portfolio includes several nightclubs.
BBC
BBC
QPR director tells of gun ordeal
Gianni Paladini has said he has no intention of leaving QPR
A football club director has reportedly been forced at gunpoint to sign paperwork resigning from the board.
Armed police were called to Queens Park Rangers' Loftus Road after Gianni Paladini was attacked on Saturday.
Eleven men were arrested in or near the west London ground after the incident, which happened near the club's boardroom at about 1500 BST (1400 GMT).
Mr Paladini told the News of the World newspaper he had been "petrified" but would not quit.
One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun
Gianni Paladini
The gang had pounced as he had been going to his office with shareholder Dave Morris before the game started, he added.
Mr Paladini told the paper he had been kicked and beaten on a flight of stairs by five people.
"I was petrified. One of them was holding my wrists and another was pointing a gun.
"They shouted at me to sign a piece of paper resigning from the board.
"Of course I signed it - but I have no intention of leaving the club.
"They tried to push me out of the ground, but I managed to break clear and run into the boardroom, shouting for help."
'Threats to kill'
A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said: "We can confirm that Hammersmith police have launched an investigation following an incident at QPR football ground.
"Police were called to reports that a number of men had threatened a man and a woman with threats to kill and then left the premises."
Mr Paladini, a former football agent who bought his stake in the club in May 2004, was later taken to Hammersmith Police Station.
He lives in London with his English wife Olga and his business portfolio includes several nightclubs.
QPR won their game against their Championship rivals Sheffield United, 2-1.
BBC
QPR director charged with blackmail plot against owner
Monday, 15th August 2005,--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A London football club director was remanded in custody today after being charged with conspiring to blackmail a fellow club executive.
David Morris, 49, a shareholder and co-director at QPR, is alleged to have been involved in a plot to blackmail the club's millionaire owner, Gianni Paladini.
Italian Paladini claimed a gang held a gun to his head and forced him to sign a resignation letter at QPR's Loftus Road ground shortly before the kick off of their game aginst Sheffield United on Saturday.
Tanned Morris, dressed in a grey polo shirt, appeared at West London magistrates court along with three other men all charged with conspiracy to comit blackmail and joint firearms possession with intent to commit grievous bodily harm.
The other men are Michael Reynolds, 44, of north London, Andrew Baker, 39, of Somerset, and David Davenport, 37, of Buckinghamshire, all security consultants.
The men appeared in the dock looking relaxed and joking with each other as the case... Read More
LSE
Scottsman
QPR director on blackmail and gun charges
RHIANNON EDWARD
A FOOTBALL club director has been charged with blackmail and firearms offences after a fellow executive was allegedly threatened at gunpoint before a match.
Armed police were called to the Queens Park Rangers' ground in Shepherd's Bush, London, shortly before kick-off on Saturday after Gianni Paladini said he had been threatened by men with a gun who made him sign a document saying he would resign from his post.
Co-director David Morris was arrested and appeared in court yesterday charged with blackmail and firearms possession with intent to commit grievous bodily harm.
He had been officially named as a QPR director and shareholder this month.
Three other men were also charged at West London Magistrates Court: Michael Reynolds, 44, of north London, Andrew Baker, 39, of Somerset, and David Davenport, 37, of Buckinghamshire.
A total of 11 people were arrested at the club's ground in Loftus Road, of whom seven were bailed.
Mr Paladini, 59, a former agent for Italian footballers, claimed the men attacked him in a club office at 2:30pm. His team were beating Sheffield United 2-1 in the Championship, with spectators unaware of the drama.
Mr Paladini said he was "terrified" into signing a letter addressed to the club chairman, saying he would be resigning and handing over his shares.
But he insisted: "This is not valid anyway. It is pathetic."
The father of three said he was "petrified". He added: "I thought I was going to die. I can't live with this kind of thing. I am afraid to go out.
"My daughter, son and grandson were all there on Saturday. They are all upset and I don't want to put them through this sort of thing.
"I have worked hard and done everything I can to make things happen at the club. I think most of the fans understand what I'm doing. I have had a fantastic response from them. "
This article: http://sport.scotsman.com/football_english.cfm?id=1788112005
SPORTING LIFE
QPR DIRECTOR 'THREATENED WITH GUN'
Armed police were called to a Championship match on Saturday after a club director apparently had a gun held to his head.
Eleven men were arrested near Queens Park Rangers' Loftus Road stadium in west London after Gianni Paladini and a woman were reportedly threatened with the weapon near the boardroom during their 2-1 win over Sheffield United.
A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said armed officers were deployed within the ground following the incident at 1500 BST and Paladini was taken to Hammersmith police station.
The spokeswoman said: "We can confirm that Hammersmith police have launched an investigation following an incident at QPR football ground today.
"At approximately 1500 police were called to reports that a number of men had threatened a man and a woman with threats to kill and then left the premises."
She said armed officers had been deployed and a total of 11 men had been arrested.
"Some were arrested inside the ground and some were arrested outside. Our inquiries continue.
"No-one was injured and no shots were fired."
Paladini, a former football agent who represented ex-Middlesbrough striker Fabrizio Ravanelli, bought his stake in the club in May of last year and has become an influential figure there.
A significant proportion of the club is owned by a Monaco-based group of investors for whom Paladini is the public face.
Little is known about the Italian, who handed in his football agent's licence last year to pursue his dream of buying into an English football club.
He became an agent in 1980 and over two decades was involved in dozens of high profile transfers.
He lives in London with his English wife, Olga, and has a business portfolio which includes several nightclubs.
SPORTING LIFE
Ex-QPR's Micky Walsh Turns 52
-
Micky Walsh
Former QPR Forward (for one season), Micky Walsh Turns 52 - Born August 14, 1954
A prolific goalscorer for Blackpool who was bought by Everton. QPR Manager Steve Burtenshaw signed Walsh in the spring of 1979, near the end of our First Division relegation season, in a straight swop for QPR's ex-Swindon forward, Peter Eastoe. At the time it looked like a good deal for QPR.
New QPR manager, Tommy Docherty prefered Clive Allen and Paul Goddard and Walsh was sold to FC Porto for about 170,000 pounds the next season.
Micky Walsh
Former QPR Forward (for one season), Micky Walsh Turns 52 - Born August 14, 1954
A prolific goalscorer for Blackpool who was bought by Everton. QPR Manager Steve Burtenshaw signed Walsh in the spring of 1979, near the end of our First Division relegation season, in a straight swop for QPR's ex-Swindon forward, Peter Eastoe. At the time it looked like a good deal for QPR.
New QPR manager, Tommy Docherty prefered Clive Allen and Paul Goddard and Walsh was sold to FC Porto for about 170,000 pounds the next season.
Shittu Loving Watford Life
-
Watford Official Site
SHITTU LOVING WATFORD LIFE
DAN SHITTU, Watford's biggest money signing of the summer, can't speak highly enough of his early impressions of life at Vicarage Road and can't wait to start 'doing his job' in the Premier League.
The Nigeria-born defender chose to come to Watford because he had heard so many good things about the club over the last 12 months - and those thoughts have been confirmed by the welcome he's been given.
"I was already very impressed with Watford before I even arrived", he told watfordfc.com. "I had heard a lot of good things about the club from all sorts of people and now that I've been here training for a week, I'm even more impressed with what I've seen."
Dan felt that the move offered him an excellent opportunity to continue learning and improving as a player as he works with the Hornets' coaching staff.
"I'm looking forward to spending the next few years working hard at Watford because there are good people here, always pushing you to improve and I'm already loving every day or training. I've learnt so much already.
"I chose to come to Watford because I could see the ambition here. Not just the manager but also the players.
"Everyone at the club thinks we can really do something and I've seen that in the last few days. I've been really impressed with everything so far."
Danny Shittu
The big centre-back was part of a QPR side that was beaten home and away by Watford last season and those games made an impression on him.
"When we played against Watford last season were two of the toughest games of the year. The way that Watford played was very impressive both home and away so I'm glad to be a part of it now."
In line with most of the Watford squad, the new season will mean a new challenge in the Premier League for Dan but it's one he can't wait to get started.
"I'm really looking forward to the challenge of the Premier League. All of the lads will be looking to impress on this level and know they have to work hard to do so.
"I'm glad that I've been given the chance to come here and work with these guys and the coaches too. I can't say one bad thing about this place and I don't think I'm going to be able to either."
Having made his debut last Tuesday against Inter Milan, Dan is now looking to build on that solid 45 minutes.
"I knew I was only going to play 45 minutes against Inter Milan because I hadn't done much pre-season training. I was a bit disappointed to get cramp but now I feel good.
"The fans and the stadium were great so I really enjoyed the night. So far, so good. My first aim is to work hard and win a place in the first 11, then if I do that, I'll continue working hard and make sure I do my job.
"I don't do fancy tricks or anything like that, my job is to defend and I love it!"
Watford
Watford Official Site
SHITTU LOVING WATFORD LIFE
DAN SHITTU, Watford's biggest money signing of the summer, can't speak highly enough of his early impressions of life at Vicarage Road and can't wait to start 'doing his job' in the Premier League.
The Nigeria-born defender chose to come to Watford because he had heard so many good things about the club over the last 12 months - and those thoughts have been confirmed by the welcome he's been given.
"I was already very impressed with Watford before I even arrived", he told watfordfc.com. "I had heard a lot of good things about the club from all sorts of people and now that I've been here training for a week, I'm even more impressed with what I've seen."
Dan felt that the move offered him an excellent opportunity to continue learning and improving as a player as he works with the Hornets' coaching staff.
"I'm looking forward to spending the next few years working hard at Watford because there are good people here, always pushing you to improve and I'm already loving every day or training. I've learnt so much already.
"I chose to come to Watford because I could see the ambition here. Not just the manager but also the players.
"Everyone at the club thinks we can really do something and I've seen that in the last few days. I've been really impressed with everything so far."
Danny Shittu
The big centre-back was part of a QPR side that was beaten home and away by Watford last season and those games made an impression on him.
"When we played against Watford last season were two of the toughest games of the year. The way that Watford played was very impressive both home and away so I'm glad to be a part of it now."
In line with most of the Watford squad, the new season will mean a new challenge in the Premier League for Dan but it's one he can't wait to get started.
"I'm really looking forward to the challenge of the Premier League. All of the lads will be looking to impress on this level and know they have to work hard to do so.
"I'm glad that I've been given the chance to come here and work with these guys and the coaches too. I can't say one bad thing about this place and I don't think I'm going to be able to either."
Having made his debut last Tuesday against Inter Milan, Dan is now looking to build on that solid 45 minutes.
"I knew I was only going to play 45 minutes against Inter Milan because I hadn't done much pre-season training. I was a bit disappointed to get cramp but now I feel good.
"The fans and the stadium were great so I really enjoyed the night. So far, so good. My first aim is to work hard and win a place in the first 11, then if I do that, I'll continue working hard and make sure I do my job.
"I don't do fancy tricks or anything like that, my job is to defend and I love it!"
Watford
Additional Match Reports of QPR 2 Southend 0
-
The Sunday Times August 13, 2006
QPR 2 Southend 0: Shrimpers caught cold by classy Rangers
Brian Glanville at Loftus Road
WITH Ray Jones and Dexter Blackstock combining in attack for QPR as though they had been playing together for years, rather than for the first time, Rangers dominated and only a defiant exhibition by Darryl Flahavan prevented a rout.
It was expected that all eyes would be on 22-year-old Southend striker Freddy Eastwood, a comparatively late developer signed from non-league Grays Athletic. He has been impressive in his first couple of games this season for the promoted Shrimpers, enabling Southend to look as if they might well survive in this division provided they are able to keep him.
As it transpired, the first half was very much QPR’s and a period in which we saw little or nothing of the much-heralded Eastwood.
Jones and Blackstock combined swiftly and shrewdly, Gareth Ainsworth showed pace and power on the right flank, while Nick Ward was a force in central midfield. In the event, Southend would owe a lot to Flahavan.
In the 11th minute, a combination between Jones and Blackstock led to a strong drive turned over the top by Flahavan. There was something of a hiatus until, in the 23rd minute, QPR began to find the target again, and frequently. When Blackstock found Lee Cook on the left, the sequel was a left-footed shot which had Flahavan jumping high to take it. Just a minute later, a fierce, long-range effort from Ainsworth was turned behind by the busy Southend keeper.
A goal surely had to come and, in due course, it did in the 31st minute, shortly after Flahavan took a left-footed strike from Ward. But, when Cook touched a free kick to Rowlands just outside the box, even Flahavan could do nothing about his searing right-footed shot.
And still we were waiting in vain to see something of Eastwood, hardly perhaps a fair test for him, given the pressure put upon his team by the lively and coherent QPR attack.
Flahavan dived desperately but successfully at the feet of Jones. But on 41 minutes, there was a double disaster for himself and his team when Blackstock crossed from the right, Jones soared to beat Flahavan to the ball in the air and Ward on the far post had only to knock it over the line for QPR’s second. In the process, Flahavan took a knock on the side of his head and left the field clutching a towel to the wound.
STAR MAN: Dexter Blackstock (QPR)
Player ratings. QPR: P Jones 6, Rose 6, Rehman 6, Stewart 6, Milanese 6, Ainsworth 7, Rowlands 7 (Lomas 54min, 6), Ward 7, Cook 7, R Jones 8 (Gallen 74min, 6) Blackstock 8
Southend: Flahavan 8 (Collis 42min, 7), Francis 6, Prior 6, Barrett 6, Hammell 6, Campbell-Ryce 6, Maher 7, Guttridge 7, Gower 7, Eastwood 6, Bradbury 6 (Paynter 71min, 6)
Scorers: QPR: Rowlands 31, Ward 41
Referee: I Williamson
Attendance: 12,368
Sunday Times
Independent
QPR 2 Southend Utd 0: QPR take control as Eastwood fires blanks
By Norman Fox at Loftus Road
When the season is young there is always good reason to give an inferior side a thumping in order to send out messages of intent. Queen's Park Rangers had that opportunity at Loftus Road yesterday but let Southend escape with a mild smack.
Despite gaining promotion twice in as many seasons, Southend are well aware that the Championship is not likely to be a division through which they will comfortably pass en route to even higher things. Not that the quality of their football, as they swept into the game with a succession of bright, enterprising attacks, was anything less than ambitious.
QPR's new signing, 20-year-old Dexter Blackstock, from Southampton, may have got an early caution for diving, but he plunged quickly into the Southend penalty area with sharp-eyed menace. He might have done a little better in the 11th minute, forcing Darryl Flahavan to deflect his shot over the bar, but generally he linked well with Gareth Ainsworth and his strike partner Ray Jones.
The striker who had been anticipated to catch most of the attention was, of course, Southend's Freddy Eastwood. Yesterday, he found it difficult to get in his stride and Rangers dictated the pace so that they took a 30th-minute lead when Lee Cook tapped a free-kick to Martin Rowlands, who sent a shot into the top corner.
Southend's situation got worse when, after 43 minutes, Flahavan made a tentative attempt to clear a cross from Ainsworth but succeeded only in colliding with Jones, who headed towards an empty goal. Nick Ward chased the ball in. Flahavan's game was over with a cut head and a sore memory of his unhappy intervention.
Southend certainly felt sore enough all round to take a much more positive attitude into the second half, passing more accurately and tightening up in defence. Even so, they found it difficult to locate Eastwood and made little of their chances.
"We know it's going to be a tough year but the spirit we showed in the second half shows we can compete," said Southend manager Steve Tilson. "We are going to need an excellent team spirit and togetherness to get through this season."
Southend's progress is likely to be hesitant in this division. But, considering their recent rise, that should be sufficient.
[Independent]
Sunday People
13 August 2006
WADDA FIND IN KID RAY
Coca Cola CHAMPIONSHIP ALL THE TOP ACTION Jones fries Shrimpers
Tony Stevens
QPR 2 Southend 0
GARY WADDOCK'S first win as full-time manager was an encouraging sign that Rangers are finally over the troubles of last season.
And it appears he has a lot to look forward to as his side made a bright start with new-look strike partnership of 17-year-old Ray Jones and latest signing Dexter Blackstock.
Their link-up play nearly led to an opener on 11 minutes when Jones' through-ball played in Blackstock whose shot was well saved by Darryl Flahavan.
There was no let-up as Rangers continued to piled forward for the entire half as an opener seemed inevitable.
When it came it was a thunderbolt from midfielder Martin Rowlands, as he hammered in a 25-yard free-kick after half an hour.
The strike would have been even sweeter for the man himself, who missed nearly all the second half of last season through injury.
He seems to have settled back into his midfield holding role, already developing an understanding alongside summer signing Nick Ward.
Rowlands gave the Australian licence to get forward and his energetic running was rewarded with a goal five minutes from half-time. Jones battled bravely for a testing Gareth Ainsworth cross and beat Flahavan to the ball with his head, leaving Ward for a tap-in.
To make matters worse for the Shrimpers, their overworked keeper was injured in the challenge with Jones and replaced by Steve Collis.
Although they did have their first real chance when Mark Gower fired over just before the break, it was a half to forget for the promoted side.
And Collis was quickly called into action straight after the re-start, having to block a Jones shot after he was put through by Lee Cook.
QPR's other Jones, goalkeeper Paul, had to make his first save when Luke Guttridge linked with Lee Bradbury after 48 minutes and fired at goal.
The stop was good and the Welsh international was relieved that when hitman Freddy Eastwood was put through five minutes later he struck well over the bar.
Eastwood had the half's best chance as Southend started to recover, and should have done better with a back-post header in the 70th minute.
But Rangers were playing with confidence, and despite their second-half efforts, the visitors could not find a way through an impressive back-line.
HOW THEY RATED
QPR
P Jones 7, Rose 6, Stewart 8, Rehman 7, Milanese 8, Ainsworth 8, Rowlands 7 (Lomas, 54mins, 6), Ward 7, Cook 7, Blackstock 8, R Jones 9 (Gallen, 74mins).
SOUTHEND
Flahavan 7 (Collis, 43mins, 5), Francis 6, Prior 6, Barrett 5, Hammell 4, Campbell-Ryce 6, Guttridge 7, Maher 7, Gower 6, Bradbury 5 (Paynter, 71mins), Eastwood 7.
MAN OF THE MATCH
Ray Jones (QPR) 9
People
Sunday Mirror 13 August 2006
ROWLANDS FIRES A BEAUTY
Pete Simm At Loftus Road
MARTIN ROWLANDS fired home a spectacular freekick to set up QPR's first win of the season.
The midfielder thundered a 25-yard shot into the top lefthand corner on 31 minutes before Nick Ward wrapped up the points 10 minutes later.
And the winning margin would have been even greater but for the brilliant antics of Southend goalkeeper Darryl Flahavan in the first half.
Rangers boss Gary Waddock gave immediate debuts to Zesh Rehman and Dexter Blackstock following midweek moves and the latter proved a handful for Southend's defence.
Blackstock, signed from Southampton, was soon in the action as he forced a flying save from Flahavan after only 10 minutes.
Southend's keeper also had to show good reflexes to deny Lee Cook, Gareth Ainsworth and Ward as QPR laid siege to the visitors' goal. But not even Flahavan could stop QPR taking a firm grip on the game as the first half neared its conclusion.
First Rowlands gave Flahavan no chance with a fierce right-foot shot after Cook had been tripped by Luke Guttridge, then Ward finished from two yards out after striker Ray Jones had beaten the Southend goalkeeper to nod on Blackstock's cross from the right.
Flahavan was injured in the challenge and had to be replaced by Simon Collis but Southend's penalty area continued to be the busier.
HOW THEY RATED
QPR
Jones 6, Rose 7, Stewart 6, Rehman 7, Milanese 6, Ainsworth 7, Rowlands 6 (Lomas 5), WARD 8, Cook 7, Blackstock 7, Jones 7 (Gallen 5).
MANAGER Waddock 7
SOUTHEND
Flahavan 7 (Collis 6), Francis 6, Barrett 5, Prior 6, Hammell 5, Campbell-Ryce 7, Maher 6, Guttridge 6, Gower 6, Bradbury 5 (Paynter 6), Eastwood 6.
MANAGER Tilson 6
REFEREE I Williamson 6
MAN OF THE MATCH
NICK WARD
Took his goal well to cap a dynamic display.
Mirror
The Sunday Times August 13, 2006
QPR 2 Southend 0: Shrimpers caught cold by classy Rangers
Brian Glanville at Loftus Road
WITH Ray Jones and Dexter Blackstock combining in attack for QPR as though they had been playing together for years, rather than for the first time, Rangers dominated and only a defiant exhibition by Darryl Flahavan prevented a rout.
It was expected that all eyes would be on 22-year-old Southend striker Freddy Eastwood, a comparatively late developer signed from non-league Grays Athletic. He has been impressive in his first couple of games this season for the promoted Shrimpers, enabling Southend to look as if they might well survive in this division provided they are able to keep him.
As it transpired, the first half was very much QPR’s and a period in which we saw little or nothing of the much-heralded Eastwood.
Jones and Blackstock combined swiftly and shrewdly, Gareth Ainsworth showed pace and power on the right flank, while Nick Ward was a force in central midfield. In the event, Southend would owe a lot to Flahavan.
In the 11th minute, a combination between Jones and Blackstock led to a strong drive turned over the top by Flahavan. There was something of a hiatus until, in the 23rd minute, QPR began to find the target again, and frequently. When Blackstock found Lee Cook on the left, the sequel was a left-footed shot which had Flahavan jumping high to take it. Just a minute later, a fierce, long-range effort from Ainsworth was turned behind by the busy Southend keeper.
A goal surely had to come and, in due course, it did in the 31st minute, shortly after Flahavan took a left-footed strike from Ward. But, when Cook touched a free kick to Rowlands just outside the box, even Flahavan could do nothing about his searing right-footed shot.
And still we were waiting in vain to see something of Eastwood, hardly perhaps a fair test for him, given the pressure put upon his team by the lively and coherent QPR attack.
Flahavan dived desperately but successfully at the feet of Jones. But on 41 minutes, there was a double disaster for himself and his team when Blackstock crossed from the right, Jones soared to beat Flahavan to the ball in the air and Ward on the far post had only to knock it over the line for QPR’s second. In the process, Flahavan took a knock on the side of his head and left the field clutching a towel to the wound.
STAR MAN: Dexter Blackstock (QPR)
Player ratings. QPR: P Jones 6, Rose 6, Rehman 6, Stewart 6, Milanese 6, Ainsworth 7, Rowlands 7 (Lomas 54min, 6), Ward 7, Cook 7, R Jones 8 (Gallen 74min, 6) Blackstock 8
Southend: Flahavan 8 (Collis 42min, 7), Francis 6, Prior 6, Barrett 6, Hammell 6, Campbell-Ryce 6, Maher 7, Guttridge 7, Gower 7, Eastwood 6, Bradbury 6 (Paynter 71min, 6)
Scorers: QPR: Rowlands 31, Ward 41
Referee: I Williamson
Attendance: 12,368
Sunday Times
Independent
QPR 2 Southend Utd 0: QPR take control as Eastwood fires blanks
By Norman Fox at Loftus Road
When the season is young there is always good reason to give an inferior side a thumping in order to send out messages of intent. Queen's Park Rangers had that opportunity at Loftus Road yesterday but let Southend escape with a mild smack.
Despite gaining promotion twice in as many seasons, Southend are well aware that the Championship is not likely to be a division through which they will comfortably pass en route to even higher things. Not that the quality of their football, as they swept into the game with a succession of bright, enterprising attacks, was anything less than ambitious.
QPR's new signing, 20-year-old Dexter Blackstock, from Southampton, may have got an early caution for diving, but he plunged quickly into the Southend penalty area with sharp-eyed menace. He might have done a little better in the 11th minute, forcing Darryl Flahavan to deflect his shot over the bar, but generally he linked well with Gareth Ainsworth and his strike partner Ray Jones.
The striker who had been anticipated to catch most of the attention was, of course, Southend's Freddy Eastwood. Yesterday, he found it difficult to get in his stride and Rangers dictated the pace so that they took a 30th-minute lead when Lee Cook tapped a free-kick to Martin Rowlands, who sent a shot into the top corner.
Southend's situation got worse when, after 43 minutes, Flahavan made a tentative attempt to clear a cross from Ainsworth but succeeded only in colliding with Jones, who headed towards an empty goal. Nick Ward chased the ball in. Flahavan's game was over with a cut head and a sore memory of his unhappy intervention.
Southend certainly felt sore enough all round to take a much more positive attitude into the second half, passing more accurately and tightening up in defence. Even so, they found it difficult to locate Eastwood and made little of their chances.
"We know it's going to be a tough year but the spirit we showed in the second half shows we can compete," said Southend manager Steve Tilson. "We are going to need an excellent team spirit and togetherness to get through this season."
Southend's progress is likely to be hesitant in this division. But, considering their recent rise, that should be sufficient.
[Independent]
Sunday People
13 August 2006
WADDA FIND IN KID RAY
Coca Cola CHAMPIONSHIP ALL THE TOP ACTION Jones fries Shrimpers
Tony Stevens
QPR 2 Southend 0
GARY WADDOCK'S first win as full-time manager was an encouraging sign that Rangers are finally over the troubles of last season.
And it appears he has a lot to look forward to as his side made a bright start with new-look strike partnership of 17-year-old Ray Jones and latest signing Dexter Blackstock.
Their link-up play nearly led to an opener on 11 minutes when Jones' through-ball played in Blackstock whose shot was well saved by Darryl Flahavan.
There was no let-up as Rangers continued to piled forward for the entire half as an opener seemed inevitable.
When it came it was a thunderbolt from midfielder Martin Rowlands, as he hammered in a 25-yard free-kick after half an hour.
The strike would have been even sweeter for the man himself, who missed nearly all the second half of last season through injury.
He seems to have settled back into his midfield holding role, already developing an understanding alongside summer signing Nick Ward.
Rowlands gave the Australian licence to get forward and his energetic running was rewarded with a goal five minutes from half-time. Jones battled bravely for a testing Gareth Ainsworth cross and beat Flahavan to the ball with his head, leaving Ward for a tap-in.
To make matters worse for the Shrimpers, their overworked keeper was injured in the challenge with Jones and replaced by Steve Collis.
Although they did have their first real chance when Mark Gower fired over just before the break, it was a half to forget for the promoted side.
And Collis was quickly called into action straight after the re-start, having to block a Jones shot after he was put through by Lee Cook.
QPR's other Jones, goalkeeper Paul, had to make his first save when Luke Guttridge linked with Lee Bradbury after 48 minutes and fired at goal.
The stop was good and the Welsh international was relieved that when hitman Freddy Eastwood was put through five minutes later he struck well over the bar.
Eastwood had the half's best chance as Southend started to recover, and should have done better with a back-post header in the 70th minute.
But Rangers were playing with confidence, and despite their second-half efforts, the visitors could not find a way through an impressive back-line.
HOW THEY RATED
QPR
P Jones 7, Rose 6, Stewart 8, Rehman 7, Milanese 8, Ainsworth 8, Rowlands 7 (Lomas, 54mins, 6), Ward 7, Cook 7, Blackstock 8, R Jones 9 (Gallen, 74mins).
SOUTHEND
Flahavan 7 (Collis, 43mins, 5), Francis 6, Prior 6, Barrett 5, Hammell 4, Campbell-Ryce 6, Guttridge 7, Maher 7, Gower 6, Bradbury 5 (Paynter, 71mins), Eastwood 7.
MAN OF THE MATCH
Ray Jones (QPR) 9
People
Sunday Mirror 13 August 2006
ROWLANDS FIRES A BEAUTY
Pete Simm At Loftus Road
MARTIN ROWLANDS fired home a spectacular freekick to set up QPR's first win of the season.
The midfielder thundered a 25-yard shot into the top lefthand corner on 31 minutes before Nick Ward wrapped up the points 10 minutes later.
And the winning margin would have been even greater but for the brilliant antics of Southend goalkeeper Darryl Flahavan in the first half.
Rangers boss Gary Waddock gave immediate debuts to Zesh Rehman and Dexter Blackstock following midweek moves and the latter proved a handful for Southend's defence.
Blackstock, signed from Southampton, was soon in the action as he forced a flying save from Flahavan after only 10 minutes.
Southend's keeper also had to show good reflexes to deny Lee Cook, Gareth Ainsworth and Ward as QPR laid siege to the visitors' goal. But not even Flahavan could stop QPR taking a firm grip on the game as the first half neared its conclusion.
First Rowlands gave Flahavan no chance with a fierce right-foot shot after Cook had been tripped by Luke Guttridge, then Ward finished from two yards out after striker Ray Jones had beaten the Southend goalkeeper to nod on Blackstock's cross from the right.
Flahavan was injured in the challenge and had to be replaced by Simon Collis but Southend's penalty area continued to be the busier.
HOW THEY RATED
QPR
Jones 6, Rose 7, Stewart 6, Rehman 7, Milanese 6, Ainsworth 7, Rowlands 6 (Lomas 5), WARD 8, Cook 7, Blackstock 7, Jones 7 (Gallen 5).
MANAGER Waddock 7
SOUTHEND
Flahavan 7 (Collis 6), Francis 6, Barrett 5, Prior 6, Hammell 5, Campbell-Ryce 7, Maher 6, Guttridge 6, Gower 6, Bradbury 5 (Paynter 6), Eastwood 6.
MANAGER Tilson 6
REFEREE I Williamson 6
MAN OF THE MATCH
NICK WARD
Took his goal well to cap a dynamic display.
Mirror
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Kiyan Prince - "Soccer fans remember stabbed boy"
-
BBC - Soccer fans remember stabbed boy
A minute's silence has been held at a soccer ground in memory of a young footballer who was stabbed to death.
Kiyan Prince, 15, was killed outside the London Academy in Edgware in May. He was a promising member of Queen's Park Rangers' youth team.
A 16-year-old youth has been remanded accused of murdering Kiyan, who died from a single stab wound to the chest.
Players and supporters observed the silence before QPR's game against Southend at Loftus Road on Saturday.
BBC
BBC - Soccer fans remember stabbed boy
A minute's silence has been held at a soccer ground in memory of a young footballer who was stabbed to death.
Kiyan Prince, 15, was killed outside the London Academy in Edgware in May. He was a promising member of Queen's Park Rangers' youth team.
A 16-year-old youth has been remanded accused of murdering Kiyan, who died from a single stab wound to the chest.
Players and supporters observed the silence before QPR's game against Southend at Loftus Road on Saturday.
BBC
After Six Months, QPR Finally Win! - Reports & Comments
-
[Being updated!]
QPR 2 Southend 0.
After six long months or approximately 262,974 minutes, Garry Waddock's QPR get a win!
Not having won since late February - and not having won at Loftus Road, since his initial game in charge, Gary Waddock's team should be savouring beating Southend today.
Hopefully in true football-fashion, QPR will now go on a run...
Current League Table
WADDOCK'S POST-MATCH COMMENTS
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
BELIEF IS BACK
Gary Waddock believes the 'belief is back' amongst the squad after the 2-0 victory against Southend United.
"Two goals; a clean sheet; and three points - it's a fantastic feeling tonight.
"It's been a long time in coming, but the players deserved everything they got today.
"The belief is back amongst the squad and it's just fantastic.''
Waddock was delighted with the application of his side in the first half, commenting: "At this level we can't expect to dominate for the 90 minutes, but we won the game in the first half.
"Southend are a good side - make no mistake about that - but for 45 minutes we totally outplayed them in every department.
"The three points is just reward for a fantastic first half display from the lads.''
The gaffer also paid tribute to the new-look front two of debutant Dexter Blackstock and Ray Jones.
"The way Dexter and Ray gelled was unbelievable when you consider they've only had one training session together.
"There's still a lot more to come from them both, but it was so encouraging. Dexter had a super debut and is a handful to deal with for defenders. Ray has bags of potential and is certainly one to watch in the future.
A wonder-goal from Martin Rowlands and a first goal in English football from Nicky Ward helped seal the 2-0 victory - to the delight of Waddock.
"Rowly's goal was an absolute gem and it was great for Nicky to open his account.''
Official Site
SOUTHEND MANAGER, TILSON POST MATCH COMMENTS
Southend Official Site - TILSON LEARNS HIS LESSON
Steve Tilson considers where things went wrong
Steve Tilson was pleased with Southend's second half fightback at QPR, but admitted you can't afford to give team's two goal leads at this level.
The Blues controlled the majority of the second half and had several great chances to pull themselves back into the match, only to be constantly thwarted in front of goal.
"We didn't pass the ball well enough in the first half," Steve told World TV.
"It's a great strike for their first goal and then just before half time we concede a second from a deep cross.
"I'm not sure if it's a foul on Flavs, but he has five stitches above his eye.
"Freddy went up with their goalkeeper in the second half and the referee blows for a foul, so it is difficult to call.
"He's okay though and should be ready for next Saturday against Sunderland."
Tilson took many positives from the team's response though, as the team still adjust to life in the Championship.
"I was really pleased with our response in the second half and me and Brushy counted seven decent chances," he said.
"Their goalkeeper has made two fantastic saves from Luke and Jamal, and Freddy should have scored as well.
"If Luke's chance had gone in five minutes into the second half then we are right back in the match.
"We knew it would be tough this year and I think we have played well, but you can't afford to give teams 2-0 leads at this level."
Southend Official Site
PRE-GAME SOUTHEND STEVE TILSON: COMMENTS:
"QPR will be under a little bit of pressure, as they have only got one point out the first two games, so we have to go there and be positive. "If we come away with one point that will be a good result, but we'll go there looking for all three. "We go into every game looking for three points, but it's going to be a tough test."
Southend Official Site
BBC - QPR 2-0 Southend
Ward scored for the first time since his summer move from Perth Glory
Martin Rowlands and Nick Ward scored as QPR resisted a second-half resurgence from Championship new-boys Southend to register their first win of the season.
The hosts were rampant in the first 45, with Lee Cook, Gareth Ainsworth and new signing Dexter Blackstock going close.
And they got their reward when Rowlands lashed into the roof of the net from 25 yards, before Ward tapped in a second.
However, Southend came out fighting and but for wasteful finishing from Freddy Eastwood, might have got something.
The in-form striker's best chance of many came when he latched onto Lee Bradbury's pass to run in on goal, but Paul Jones blocked his goal-bound effort late in the second half.
But the hosts deserved their victory, if only for their first-half performance when Blackstock twice forced keeper Darryl Flahavan into action and Ainsworth saw a 25-yarder tipped wide.
Rangers finally went in front in the 31st minute when Rowlands latched onto Cook's short free-kick to lash home, before Ward met Ray Jones' knock-back to tap in for his first QPR goal 10 minutes later.
And despite continuing to create chances in a pulsating second half, the hosts were grateful for that two-goal lead as Eastwood got behind their defence on several occasions, though the 22-year-old's usual coolness abandoned him at Loftus Road.
BBC
Sporting Life/PA Sports
QPR 2 Southend 0
By Tom Collomosse, PA Sport
Click here for full match stats
QPR tasted victory for the first time since February 25 after comfortably disposing of Southend.
First-half goals from Martin Rowlands and Australian Nick Ward - his first for the club - enabled Rangers to register their first win of the season and only their third since Gary Waddock took charge seven months ago.
Youngster Ray Jones - making his first start - new signing Dexter Blackstock and Gareth Ainsworth all missed chances for the home side, while Southend's star forward Freddy Eastwood wasted two good second-half opportunities.
QPR gave debuts to defender Zesh Rehman and forward Blackstock, who were signed in midweek from Fulham and Southampton respectively, while Southend were unchanged for the third straight game.
A minute's silence was held before kick-off in memory of Kiyan Prince, the 15-year-old Rangers youth-team player who was killed after a fight outside his school earlier this year.
With less than 60 seconds on the clock, Blackstock was booked by referee Iain Williamson, who ruled he had dived on the edge of the penalty area under pressure from Adam Barrett.
But in the 12th minute, Blackstock almost opened his Rangers account when he collected a return pass from Jones and hit a rising shot from eight yards that Darryl Flahavan did well to push over.
Rangers went in front in the 31st minute when Lee Cook took a short free-kick to Rowlands, who struck a ferocious shot into the roof of the net from 25 yards.
Life got even better for Rangers when Jones beat Flahavan in the air to Gareth Ainsworth's right-wing cross, and Ward was there to touch the ball over the line from a yard.
To make matters worse for Southend, Flahavan was injured in the clash and had to be replaced by reserve goalkeeper Steve Collis.
Southend pushed forward at the start of the second half and forced Paul Jones to make his first save, a sharp parry to keep out Luke Guttridge's close-range effort.
But QPR's pace enabled them to threaten on the break. Ray Jones' shot was pushed around the near post after neat work from Cook and Blackstock, the same player then hit the bar with a wayward cross, and Ainsworth mis-kicked eight yards out following some excellent interplay between Ward and Jones.
Southend should have pulled a goal back in the 72nd minute but Eastwood headed Mark Gower's cross wide from close range under pressure from Paul Jones.
Nine minutes from full-time, Eastwood looked odds-on to score after evading Jones, but his hooked effort was deflected behind by Damion Stewart.
Sporting Life
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
A goal apiece from Martin Rowlands and Nicky Ward helped the R's clinch their first win in 14 attempts.
Rangers sealed their first three point haul since February 25th with a superb first half display against the Shrimpers.
An unstoppable free-kick from Rowlands and a first goal in English football from Ward gave the R's a deserved 2-0 lead at the break.
Rowlands made it two goals in as many games at Loftus Road with a stunning 31st minute strike.
Arriving on to Lee Cook's lay off, the centre midfielder gave the otherwise exemplary Darryl Flahavan absolutely no chance.
Ward made it two just before the break, firing home from inside the six-yard box after Ray Jones' initial knock-down.
In truth the two goal margin flattered Steve Tilson's men, who played second fiddle to the R's for the entire half.
Southend offered a greater threat in the second half, but it was Rangers who deservedly clinched maximum points, to the delight of another partisan home crowd.
Gary Waddock handed debuts to new signings Dexter Blackstock and Zesh Rehman, with Marcus Bignot and Steve Lomas making way.
Ray Jones started in place of Adam Czerkas up-front, in an orthodox 4-4-2 formation.
Blackstock's debut got off to the worst possible start though, when he picked up a yellow card inside the opening 10 seconds.
After linking up superbly with strike partner Jones, Blackstock jinked past two Shrimpers defenders before being bundled to ground on the edge of the box.
All and sundry thought that the referee had awarded a QPR free-kick, but Mr Williamson thought otherwise, awarding Southend the decision, and booking Blackstock for diving.
Undeterred, it was Rangers who created the first opening of the match on seven minutes.
After Ward's solo run was ended by a rash Kevin Maher challenge, Lee Cook's resultant 25 yard free-kick finished inches wide of Flahavan's left hand post.
Blackstock was clearly relishing his Loftus Road debut and after linking up magnificently with Ward, and then Jones, the former Southampton striker saw his stinging 12-yard strike tipped over the bar by Flahavan.
The understanding between the two front-men was a real joy to watch, as Rangers picked up from where they left off against Leeds United on Tuesday night.
It was that man Blackstock who created the next R's chance on 13 minutes, out-pacing Simon Francis down the left flank, only to see his pull back come to nothing thanks to an excellent piece of defending from Shrimpers centre half Adam Barrett.
Goalkeepers are often referred to as clowns and Flahavan had a moment of madness on 17 minutes, racing off his line to clear, only to totally miss-kick. Jones pounced on the loose ball, but his weak effort flew wide of the far post.
Cook was getting the better of his battle with Shrimpers right back Francis and when Blackstock laid the ball out wide, the winger lashed a ferocious shot which Flahavan did well to hold on to at his near post.
With Southend struggling to find any fluency in their play, the one-way traffic continued, with Gareth Ainsworth forcing Flahavan into yet another stunning save, diving full stretch to his left to keep out the R's skipper's fearsome 30-yard drive.
But for Flahavan, Southend would've been staring down the barrel of an embarrassing first half scoreline. The Shrimpers keeper was again on hand to spare the visitors' blushes in the 29th minute, this time holding onto Nicky Ward's curling 18-yard effort.
But Flahavan could do nothing when Rowlands stepped up to blast home an unstoppable free-kick in the 31st minute.
After Cook had tried and failed from 25-yards, Rowlands took centre stage, smashing home an early contender for goal of the season with a blistering strike that arrowed into the top left hand corner.
Blackstock almost got the goal his first half performance deserved when he arrived bang on cue to Cook's left wing cross, but Flahavan did magnificently well to gather at the strikers' feet, albeit at the second attempt.
Southend were made to wait until the 39th minute for their first chance of the match, with Francis curling a 25 yard shot well wide of Jones' right hand post.
Rangers got the second goal their performance warranted on 40 minutes and it was Ward who opened his account.
After Jones out-jumped Flahavan to Blackstock's right sided cross, the ball fell perfectly into the path of the Aussie midfielder, who tapped home from little more than a yard.
The Kangaroo celebration that followed was sheer class, just like the R's first half display.
Flahavan was forced from the fray as a result of Jones' challenge, rubbing further salt in the wound for the already depleted Shrimpers.
Some of the football was sensational and Jones almost made it three on the stroke of half-time, firing into the arms of Steve Collis.
Mark Gower and Cook went close for their respective sides in first half stoppage time, but it was the hosts who were the happier of the two teams as Mr Williamson brought the half to an end after four added minutes.
There was simply no let-up in the R's positive display and when Blackstock and Cook exchanged passes in the 47th minute, Jones stung the palms of Collis with a piercing 18 yard strike.
With Mauro Milanese receiving treatment for a head injury, Southend almost made their brief numerical advantage tell on 48 minutes.
Thankfully for the R's, Paul Jones came to the rescue, diving full stretch to divert Luke Guttridge's shot to safety.
Donning a Terry Butcher style head bandage, Milanese returned to the fray on 50 minutes, before Rowlands was forced from the fray, replaced by Steve Lomas.
Seconds after the change, Ray Jones' cross-cum-shot cannoned off the angle of the bar, as the R's continued to attack, despite an improved second half display from the visitors.
Ainsworth squandered a glorious chance to all but wrap the game up on 58 minutes, completing fluffing his lines from 12-yards after a sublime counter-attack involving Ward and Jones.
Jones joined his strike partner Blackstock in the referee's note-book on the hour for a rash challenge on Steven Hammell, before Ward - who improved as the match wore on - curled a sublime effort just wide of Collis' left hand upright.
Hot-shot Eastwood wasted a golden chance to bring the Shrimpers back into the game on 70 minutes - heading wide from little more than a yard when it seemed easier to score.
And the same player squandered another decent opportunity three minutes later, dragging his 15 yard shot wide from an acute angle.
Cook almost put the icing on the cake five minutes from time, but the ball whistled inches wide, with Collis seemingly beaten all ends up.
Guttridge - via the aid of a Damion Stewart deflection - had Paul Jones scrambling across his goal in the final minute, but it was not to be for the Shrimpers, whose search for win number two of the campaign continues.
QPR: P Jones, Rose, Stewart, Rehman, Milanese, Ainsworth, Rowlands (Lomas 55), Ward, Cook, Blackstock, R Jones (Gallen 75).
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Baidoo.
Scorers: Rowlands 31, Ward 40
Bookings: Blackstock 1, Rose 45, R Jones 61
Southend United: Flahavan (Collis 42), Francis, Prior, Barrett, Gower, Maher, Eastwood, Bradbury (Paynter 71), Guttridge, Campbell-Ryce, Hammell.
Subs: Hunt, Clarke, Lawson.
Bookings: Guttridge 29
Attendance: 12, 368
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
SOUTHEND OFFICIAL SITE MATCH REPORT
Southend came unstuck on their travels again, as they endured a frustrating afternoon in a 2-0 defeat at QPR.
After both teams took the opening 20 minutes to find their feet, it was QPR who managed to gain a firm grip on the match, which paved the way for them to collect the three points.
Interchange passing on the edge of the penalty box from the hosts released Dexter Blackstock on goal, but Darryl Flahavan was equal to his shot in making an excellent save to push the ball over.
Lee Cook arrowed a strike on target that Flahavan showed safe hands to hold before he was tested further to make another fine save to parry Gareth Ainsworth's shot around the post.
Ainsworth went close again, as he got the better of Steven Hammell down the left wing, raced into the area and planted a shot straight at Flahavan.
Southend were constantly found on the backfoot and struggled to make inroads into the QPR defence, as the hosts took a firm grip and forced the issue when they opened the scoring after 31 minutes.
Martin Rowlands blasted home a 20 yard free kick into the left-hand side of the goal, past the despairing dive of Flahavan.
Lee Bradbury
Lee Bradbury
Striker holds the ball up for Southend
And four minutes before the break QPR doubled their lead. Ainsworth's right wing cross saw Jones challenge Flahavan for the ball at the far post and he managed to head it across goal, where Nick Ward was on hand to tap home into an empty net.
Flahavan was injured when he came for the ball though and left the field clutching the right side of his face to be replaced by Steve Collis between the sticks.
A disappointing first half then ended with Mark Gower going close in rifling a half volley over the goal.
Collis made a smart block to deny Jones after the interval before Luke Guttridge looked set to reduce the arrears when Jamal Campbell-Ryce's darting run released the midfielder, but Paul Jones made a fine stop in the QPR goal.
Cook's left wing cross deceived Collis and hit the crossbar while Freddy Eastwood seemed set to score only to glance a header wide from just three yards out at the far post.
Eastwood was played on goal and managed to get around Jones, but the attentions of the backtracking Damion Stewart blocked his chances of an easy shot at an open goal and he proceeded to fire over.
Jamal Campbell-Ryce came close to a last minute consolation, but Jones made a terrific one handed stop ahead of the final whistle.
Southend were a much better outfit in the second half, but for all their endeavour they failed to find the cutting edge they needed up front with QPR securing a 2-0 victory.
Southend
[Being updated!]
QPR 2 Southend 0.
After six long months or approximately 262,974 minutes, Garry Waddock's QPR get a win!
Not having won since late February - and not having won at Loftus Road, since his initial game in charge, Gary Waddock's team should be savouring beating Southend today.
Hopefully in true football-fashion, QPR will now go on a run...
Current League Table
WADDOCK'S POST-MATCH COMMENTS
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
BELIEF IS BACK
Gary Waddock believes the 'belief is back' amongst the squad after the 2-0 victory against Southend United.
"Two goals; a clean sheet; and three points - it's a fantastic feeling tonight.
"It's been a long time in coming, but the players deserved everything they got today.
"The belief is back amongst the squad and it's just fantastic.''
Waddock was delighted with the application of his side in the first half, commenting: "At this level we can't expect to dominate for the 90 minutes, but we won the game in the first half.
"Southend are a good side - make no mistake about that - but for 45 minutes we totally outplayed them in every department.
"The three points is just reward for a fantastic first half display from the lads.''
The gaffer also paid tribute to the new-look front two of debutant Dexter Blackstock and Ray Jones.
"The way Dexter and Ray gelled was unbelievable when you consider they've only had one training session together.
"There's still a lot more to come from them both, but it was so encouraging. Dexter had a super debut and is a handful to deal with for defenders. Ray has bags of potential and is certainly one to watch in the future.
A wonder-goal from Martin Rowlands and a first goal in English football from Nicky Ward helped seal the 2-0 victory - to the delight of Waddock.
"Rowly's goal was an absolute gem and it was great for Nicky to open his account.''
Official Site
SOUTHEND MANAGER, TILSON POST MATCH COMMENTS
Southend Official Site - TILSON LEARNS HIS LESSON
Steve Tilson considers where things went wrong
Steve Tilson was pleased with Southend's second half fightback at QPR, but admitted you can't afford to give team's two goal leads at this level.
The Blues controlled the majority of the second half and had several great chances to pull themselves back into the match, only to be constantly thwarted in front of goal.
"We didn't pass the ball well enough in the first half," Steve told World TV.
"It's a great strike for their first goal and then just before half time we concede a second from a deep cross.
"I'm not sure if it's a foul on Flavs, but he has five stitches above his eye.
"Freddy went up with their goalkeeper in the second half and the referee blows for a foul, so it is difficult to call.
"He's okay though and should be ready for next Saturday against Sunderland."
Tilson took many positives from the team's response though, as the team still adjust to life in the Championship.
"I was really pleased with our response in the second half and me and Brushy counted seven decent chances," he said.
"Their goalkeeper has made two fantastic saves from Luke and Jamal, and Freddy should have scored as well.
"If Luke's chance had gone in five minutes into the second half then we are right back in the match.
"We knew it would be tough this year and I think we have played well, but you can't afford to give teams 2-0 leads at this level."
Southend Official Site
PRE-GAME SOUTHEND STEVE TILSON: COMMENTS:
"QPR will be under a little bit of pressure, as they have only got one point out the first two games, so we have to go there and be positive. "If we come away with one point that will be a good result, but we'll go there looking for all three. "We go into every game looking for three points, but it's going to be a tough test."
Southend Official Site
BBC - QPR 2-0 Southend
Ward scored for the first time since his summer move from Perth Glory
Martin Rowlands and Nick Ward scored as QPR resisted a second-half resurgence from Championship new-boys Southend to register their first win of the season.
The hosts were rampant in the first 45, with Lee Cook, Gareth Ainsworth and new signing Dexter Blackstock going close.
And they got their reward when Rowlands lashed into the roof of the net from 25 yards, before Ward tapped in a second.
However, Southend came out fighting and but for wasteful finishing from Freddy Eastwood, might have got something.
The in-form striker's best chance of many came when he latched onto Lee Bradbury's pass to run in on goal, but Paul Jones blocked his goal-bound effort late in the second half.
But the hosts deserved their victory, if only for their first-half performance when Blackstock twice forced keeper Darryl Flahavan into action and Ainsworth saw a 25-yarder tipped wide.
Rangers finally went in front in the 31st minute when Rowlands latched onto Cook's short free-kick to lash home, before Ward met Ray Jones' knock-back to tap in for his first QPR goal 10 minutes later.
And despite continuing to create chances in a pulsating second half, the hosts were grateful for that two-goal lead as Eastwood got behind their defence on several occasions, though the 22-year-old's usual coolness abandoned him at Loftus Road.
BBC
Sporting Life/PA Sports
QPR 2 Southend 0
By Tom Collomosse, PA Sport
Click here for full match stats
QPR tasted victory for the first time since February 25 after comfortably disposing of Southend.
First-half goals from Martin Rowlands and Australian Nick Ward - his first for the club - enabled Rangers to register their first win of the season and only their third since Gary Waddock took charge seven months ago.
Youngster Ray Jones - making his first start - new signing Dexter Blackstock and Gareth Ainsworth all missed chances for the home side, while Southend's star forward Freddy Eastwood wasted two good second-half opportunities.
QPR gave debuts to defender Zesh Rehman and forward Blackstock, who were signed in midweek from Fulham and Southampton respectively, while Southend were unchanged for the third straight game.
A minute's silence was held before kick-off in memory of Kiyan Prince, the 15-year-old Rangers youth-team player who was killed after a fight outside his school earlier this year.
With less than 60 seconds on the clock, Blackstock was booked by referee Iain Williamson, who ruled he had dived on the edge of the penalty area under pressure from Adam Barrett.
But in the 12th minute, Blackstock almost opened his Rangers account when he collected a return pass from Jones and hit a rising shot from eight yards that Darryl Flahavan did well to push over.
Rangers went in front in the 31st minute when Lee Cook took a short free-kick to Rowlands, who struck a ferocious shot into the roof of the net from 25 yards.
Life got even better for Rangers when Jones beat Flahavan in the air to Gareth Ainsworth's right-wing cross, and Ward was there to touch the ball over the line from a yard.
To make matters worse for Southend, Flahavan was injured in the clash and had to be replaced by reserve goalkeeper Steve Collis.
Southend pushed forward at the start of the second half and forced Paul Jones to make his first save, a sharp parry to keep out Luke Guttridge's close-range effort.
But QPR's pace enabled them to threaten on the break. Ray Jones' shot was pushed around the near post after neat work from Cook and Blackstock, the same player then hit the bar with a wayward cross, and Ainsworth mis-kicked eight yards out following some excellent interplay between Ward and Jones.
Southend should have pulled a goal back in the 72nd minute but Eastwood headed Mark Gower's cross wide from close range under pressure from Paul Jones.
Nine minutes from full-time, Eastwood looked odds-on to score after evading Jones, but his hooked effort was deflected behind by Damion Stewart.
Sporting Life
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
A goal apiece from Martin Rowlands and Nicky Ward helped the R's clinch their first win in 14 attempts.
Rangers sealed their first three point haul since February 25th with a superb first half display against the Shrimpers.
An unstoppable free-kick from Rowlands and a first goal in English football from Ward gave the R's a deserved 2-0 lead at the break.
Rowlands made it two goals in as many games at Loftus Road with a stunning 31st minute strike.
Arriving on to Lee Cook's lay off, the centre midfielder gave the otherwise exemplary Darryl Flahavan absolutely no chance.
Ward made it two just before the break, firing home from inside the six-yard box after Ray Jones' initial knock-down.
In truth the two goal margin flattered Steve Tilson's men, who played second fiddle to the R's for the entire half.
Southend offered a greater threat in the second half, but it was Rangers who deservedly clinched maximum points, to the delight of another partisan home crowd.
Gary Waddock handed debuts to new signings Dexter Blackstock and Zesh Rehman, with Marcus Bignot and Steve Lomas making way.
Ray Jones started in place of Adam Czerkas up-front, in an orthodox 4-4-2 formation.
Blackstock's debut got off to the worst possible start though, when he picked up a yellow card inside the opening 10 seconds.
After linking up superbly with strike partner Jones, Blackstock jinked past two Shrimpers defenders before being bundled to ground on the edge of the box.
All and sundry thought that the referee had awarded a QPR free-kick, but Mr Williamson thought otherwise, awarding Southend the decision, and booking Blackstock for diving.
Undeterred, it was Rangers who created the first opening of the match on seven minutes.
After Ward's solo run was ended by a rash Kevin Maher challenge, Lee Cook's resultant 25 yard free-kick finished inches wide of Flahavan's left hand post.
Blackstock was clearly relishing his Loftus Road debut and after linking up magnificently with Ward, and then Jones, the former Southampton striker saw his stinging 12-yard strike tipped over the bar by Flahavan.
The understanding between the two front-men was a real joy to watch, as Rangers picked up from where they left off against Leeds United on Tuesday night.
It was that man Blackstock who created the next R's chance on 13 minutes, out-pacing Simon Francis down the left flank, only to see his pull back come to nothing thanks to an excellent piece of defending from Shrimpers centre half Adam Barrett.
Goalkeepers are often referred to as clowns and Flahavan had a moment of madness on 17 minutes, racing off his line to clear, only to totally miss-kick. Jones pounced on the loose ball, but his weak effort flew wide of the far post.
Cook was getting the better of his battle with Shrimpers right back Francis and when Blackstock laid the ball out wide, the winger lashed a ferocious shot which Flahavan did well to hold on to at his near post.
With Southend struggling to find any fluency in their play, the one-way traffic continued, with Gareth Ainsworth forcing Flahavan into yet another stunning save, diving full stretch to his left to keep out the R's skipper's fearsome 30-yard drive.
But for Flahavan, Southend would've been staring down the barrel of an embarrassing first half scoreline. The Shrimpers keeper was again on hand to spare the visitors' blushes in the 29th minute, this time holding onto Nicky Ward's curling 18-yard effort.
But Flahavan could do nothing when Rowlands stepped up to blast home an unstoppable free-kick in the 31st minute.
After Cook had tried and failed from 25-yards, Rowlands took centre stage, smashing home an early contender for goal of the season with a blistering strike that arrowed into the top left hand corner.
Blackstock almost got the goal his first half performance deserved when he arrived bang on cue to Cook's left wing cross, but Flahavan did magnificently well to gather at the strikers' feet, albeit at the second attempt.
Southend were made to wait until the 39th minute for their first chance of the match, with Francis curling a 25 yard shot well wide of Jones' right hand post.
Rangers got the second goal their performance warranted on 40 minutes and it was Ward who opened his account.
After Jones out-jumped Flahavan to Blackstock's right sided cross, the ball fell perfectly into the path of the Aussie midfielder, who tapped home from little more than a yard.
The Kangaroo celebration that followed was sheer class, just like the R's first half display.
Flahavan was forced from the fray as a result of Jones' challenge, rubbing further salt in the wound for the already depleted Shrimpers.
Some of the football was sensational and Jones almost made it three on the stroke of half-time, firing into the arms of Steve Collis.
Mark Gower and Cook went close for their respective sides in first half stoppage time, but it was the hosts who were the happier of the two teams as Mr Williamson brought the half to an end after four added minutes.
There was simply no let-up in the R's positive display and when Blackstock and Cook exchanged passes in the 47th minute, Jones stung the palms of Collis with a piercing 18 yard strike.
With Mauro Milanese receiving treatment for a head injury, Southend almost made their brief numerical advantage tell on 48 minutes.
Thankfully for the R's, Paul Jones came to the rescue, diving full stretch to divert Luke Guttridge's shot to safety.
Donning a Terry Butcher style head bandage, Milanese returned to the fray on 50 minutes, before Rowlands was forced from the fray, replaced by Steve Lomas.
Seconds after the change, Ray Jones' cross-cum-shot cannoned off the angle of the bar, as the R's continued to attack, despite an improved second half display from the visitors.
Ainsworth squandered a glorious chance to all but wrap the game up on 58 minutes, completing fluffing his lines from 12-yards after a sublime counter-attack involving Ward and Jones.
Jones joined his strike partner Blackstock in the referee's note-book on the hour for a rash challenge on Steven Hammell, before Ward - who improved as the match wore on - curled a sublime effort just wide of Collis' left hand upright.
Hot-shot Eastwood wasted a golden chance to bring the Shrimpers back into the game on 70 minutes - heading wide from little more than a yard when it seemed easier to score.
And the same player squandered another decent opportunity three minutes later, dragging his 15 yard shot wide from an acute angle.
Cook almost put the icing on the cake five minutes from time, but the ball whistled inches wide, with Collis seemingly beaten all ends up.
Guttridge - via the aid of a Damion Stewart deflection - had Paul Jones scrambling across his goal in the final minute, but it was not to be for the Shrimpers, whose search for win number two of the campaign continues.
QPR: P Jones, Rose, Stewart, Rehman, Milanese, Ainsworth, Rowlands (Lomas 55), Ward, Cook, Blackstock, R Jones (Gallen 75).
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Baidoo.
Scorers: Rowlands 31, Ward 40
Bookings: Blackstock 1, Rose 45, R Jones 61
Southend United: Flahavan (Collis 42), Francis, Prior, Barrett, Gower, Maher, Eastwood, Bradbury (Paynter 71), Guttridge, Campbell-Ryce, Hammell.
Subs: Hunt, Clarke, Lawson.
Bookings: Guttridge 29
Attendance: 12, 368
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
SOUTHEND OFFICIAL SITE MATCH REPORT
Southend came unstuck on their travels again, as they endured a frustrating afternoon in a 2-0 defeat at QPR.
After both teams took the opening 20 minutes to find their feet, it was QPR who managed to gain a firm grip on the match, which paved the way for them to collect the three points.
Interchange passing on the edge of the penalty box from the hosts released Dexter Blackstock on goal, but Darryl Flahavan was equal to his shot in making an excellent save to push the ball over.
Lee Cook arrowed a strike on target that Flahavan showed safe hands to hold before he was tested further to make another fine save to parry Gareth Ainsworth's shot around the post.
Ainsworth went close again, as he got the better of Steven Hammell down the left wing, raced into the area and planted a shot straight at Flahavan.
Southend were constantly found on the backfoot and struggled to make inroads into the QPR defence, as the hosts took a firm grip and forced the issue when they opened the scoring after 31 minutes.
Martin Rowlands blasted home a 20 yard free kick into the left-hand side of the goal, past the despairing dive of Flahavan.
Lee Bradbury
Lee Bradbury
Striker holds the ball up for Southend
And four minutes before the break QPR doubled their lead. Ainsworth's right wing cross saw Jones challenge Flahavan for the ball at the far post and he managed to head it across goal, where Nick Ward was on hand to tap home into an empty net.
Flahavan was injured when he came for the ball though and left the field clutching the right side of his face to be replaced by Steve Collis between the sticks.
A disappointing first half then ended with Mark Gower going close in rifling a half volley over the goal.
Collis made a smart block to deny Jones after the interval before Luke Guttridge looked set to reduce the arrears when Jamal Campbell-Ryce's darting run released the midfielder, but Paul Jones made a fine stop in the QPR goal.
Cook's left wing cross deceived Collis and hit the crossbar while Freddy Eastwood seemed set to score only to glance a header wide from just three yards out at the far post.
Eastwood was played on goal and managed to get around Jones, but the attentions of the backtracking Damion Stewart blocked his chances of an easy shot at an open goal and he proceeded to fire over.
Jamal Campbell-Ryce came close to a last minute consolation, but Jones made a terrific one handed stop ahead of the final whistle.
Southend were a much better outfit in the second half, but for all their endeavour they failed to find the cutting edge they needed up front with QPR securing a 2-0 victory.
Southend
QPR vs Southend - The Lineups
-
QPR vs Southend
QPR: P Jones, Rose, Stewart, Rehman, Milanese, Ainsworth, Rowlands, Ward, Cook, R Jones, Blackstock.
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Lomas, Gallen, Baidoo.
Southend United: Flahavan, Francis, Prior, Barrett, Gower, Maher, Eastwood, Bradbury, Guttridge, Campbell-Ryce, Hammell.
Subs: Collis, Hunt, Clarke, Paynter, Lawson.
QPR Official Site -The Changes
Compare to the QPR lineup from exactly a year ago, vs Sheff United:
QPR Royce, Bignot, Shittu, Santos, Rose, Ainsworth (Brown 69), Bircham, Doherty (Moore 39), Rowlands (Bean 87), Gallen, Furlong. Subs Not Used: Cole, Shimmin. Goals: Bircham 56, Moore 90.
YEar Ago - Match Report from a Year Ago
QPR vs Southend
QPR: P Jones, Rose, Stewart, Rehman, Milanese, Ainsworth, Rowlands, Ward, Cook, R Jones, Blackstock.
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Lomas, Gallen, Baidoo.
Southend United: Flahavan, Francis, Prior, Barrett, Gower, Maher, Eastwood, Bradbury, Guttridge, Campbell-Ryce, Hammell.
Subs: Collis, Hunt, Clarke, Paynter, Lawson.
QPR Official Site -The Changes
Compare to the QPR lineup from exactly a year ago, vs Sheff United:
QPR Royce, Bignot, Shittu, Santos, Rose, Ainsworth (Brown 69), Bircham, Doherty (Moore 39), Rowlands (Bean 87), Gallen, Furlong. Subs Not Used: Cole, Shimmin. Goals: Bircham 56, Moore 90.
YEar Ago - Match Report from a Year Ago
Darren Blackstock
-
QPR's Darren Blackstock
Started at Oxford...Sold to Southampton as a 17 year old...Had loans at Plymouth and Derby County...Still only 20
Player Profile & Archives
- Played for Football League England U-21 vs Italy Serie B U-21 in February, Scoring the only goal in England's 1-0 win.
SkySports Match Report
Four Four Two Profile/Q&A
QPR's Darren Blackstock
Started at Oxford...Sold to Southampton as a 17 year old...Had loans at Plymouth and Derby County...Still only 20
Player Profile & Archives
- Played for Football League England U-21 vs Italy Serie B U-21 in February, Scoring the only goal in England's 1-0 win.
SkySports Match Report
Four Four Two Profile/Q&A
Time for a Win! QPR Looking for their First Victory Since February!
-
It's QPR vs Southend...
QPR, without a win in 14 games are definitely due for a win! With their two new signings, Fulham defender, Zesh Rehman and Southampton forward, Dexter Blackstock, hopefully today will be the day for QPR!
QPR's last victory was February 25, away to Sheffield United (QPR thus completed "the double" against promoted Sheffield United. There can be no forgetting the home game agains Sheffield United, played exactly a year ago tomorrow, in our third game of the season. Much has been written about - and much ensued as a result - of all that transpired, or more accurately, was alleged to have transpired, off-the-field at that game.)
[QPR's Team from a year ago: A crowd of 13,497 saw QPR win 2-1 with Steffan Moore getting QPR's second) QPR Royce, Bignot, Shittu, Santos, Rose, Ainsworth (Brown 69), Bircham, Doherty (Moore 39), Rowlands (Bean 87), Gallen, Furlong. Subs Not Used: Cole, Shimmin. Goals: Bircham 56, Moore 90.
Match Report from a Year Ago
QPR's last home victory was Waddock's debut as Acting Manager, Feb 11 at home to Millwall (1-0). In the seven home games since Millwall, QPR have drawn 4 and lost 3.
The last time QPR played Southend was in the Football League Trophy, January 20th 2004. QPR lost 4-0.
The last time QPR played Southend in the league, was in 1996-97 in the old "Nationwide Division One", when Simon Royce was playing for Southend. QPR won both of those games: 15 March 1997 Southend 0 QPR 1
14 December 1996 QPR 4 Southend 0
Team News from Sporting Life
Southend Fan Preview of the Game
SOUTHEND's SQUAD
Southend Squad
1 Darryl Flahavan Goalkeeper
2 Simon Francis Defender
3 Che Wilson Defender
4 Lewis Hunt Defender
5 Spencer Prior Defender
6 Adam Barrett Defender
7 Mark Gower Midfielder
8 Kevin Maher Midfielder
9 Michael Ricketts
10 Freddy Eastwood Striker
11 Mitchell Cole Midfielder
12 Lee Bradbury Striker
13 Steven Collis Goalkeeper
14 Luke Guttridge Midfielder
15 Peter Clarke Defender
16 Efetobore Sodje Defender
17 Jamal Campbell-Ryce Midfielder
18 Steven Hammell Defender
19 Billy Paynter Striker
20 James Lawson Striker
22 Jay Smith Midfielder
Gary Hooper Midfielder
http://www.southendunited.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Squad/Profiles/0,,10444,00.html?ptvParm=
It's QPR vs Southend...
QPR, without a win in 14 games are definitely due for a win! With their two new signings, Fulham defender, Zesh Rehman and Southampton forward, Dexter Blackstock, hopefully today will be the day for QPR!
QPR's last victory was February 25, away to Sheffield United (QPR thus completed "the double" against promoted Sheffield United. There can be no forgetting the home game agains Sheffield United, played exactly a year ago tomorrow, in our third game of the season. Much has been written about - and much ensued as a result - of all that transpired, or more accurately, was alleged to have transpired, off-the-field at that game.)
[QPR's Team from a year ago: A crowd of 13,497 saw QPR win 2-1 with Steffan Moore getting QPR's second) QPR Royce, Bignot, Shittu, Santos, Rose, Ainsworth (Brown 69), Bircham, Doherty (Moore 39), Rowlands (Bean 87), Gallen, Furlong. Subs Not Used: Cole, Shimmin. Goals: Bircham 56, Moore 90.
Match Report from a Year Ago
QPR's last home victory was Waddock's debut as Acting Manager, Feb 11 at home to Millwall (1-0). In the seven home games since Millwall, QPR have drawn 4 and lost 3.
The last time QPR played Southend was in the Football League Trophy, January 20th 2004. QPR lost 4-0.
The last time QPR played Southend in the league, was in 1996-97 in the old "Nationwide Division One", when Simon Royce was playing for Southend. QPR won both of those games: 15 March 1997 Southend 0 QPR 1
14 December 1996 QPR 4 Southend 0
Team News from Sporting Life
Southend Fan Preview of the Game
SOUTHEND's SQUAD
Southend Squad
1 Darryl Flahavan Goalkeeper
2 Simon Francis Defender
3 Che Wilson Defender
4 Lewis Hunt Defender
5 Spencer Prior Defender
6 Adam Barrett Defender
7 Mark Gower Midfielder
8 Kevin Maher Midfielder
9 Michael Ricketts
10 Freddy Eastwood Striker
11 Mitchell Cole Midfielder
12 Lee Bradbury Striker
13 Steven Collis Goalkeeper
14 Luke Guttridge Midfielder
15 Peter Clarke Defender
16 Efetobore Sodje Defender
17 Jamal Campbell-Ryce Midfielder
18 Steven Hammell Defender
19 Billy Paynter Striker
20 James Lawson Striker
22 Jay Smith Midfielder
Gary Hooper Midfielder
http://www.southendunited.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Squad/Profiles/0,,10444,00.html?ptvParm=
Friday, August 11, 2006
QPR's "Annus Horribilis" - Marking a Year Since the Alleged "Incident" at Loftus Road
-
This week, QPR's much-loved,former Chairman Bill Power and former QPR CEO, Mark Devlin along with Mark's son, the pilot and two others from Swindon were involved in a horrible plane crash. It was a week which saw QPR fight back to draw 2-2 at home to Leeds; sell Danny Shittu to Watford from between 1.6 million and 3 million pounds. And saw QPR sign two hopefully classy players: Zesh Rehman from Fulham and Darren Blackstock fom Southampton
As Bill Power remains in hospital, should just note that this weekend marks the one year mark since "The Alleged Incident" at Loftus Road preceding the Sheffield United Game which led to the following headlines (and then after a trial, the acuittal, of all seven of the accused]
QPR Director Quit at Gunpoint
QPR chairman has gun held to head in attack at ground
11 held after gun attack on QPR boss
Men cleared in QPR threats case
Trial shone light on QPR 'soap opera'
After this incident, came the Board Room Meeting in which Dunga flew in and Bill Power was voted out as Chairman with Gianni Paladini taking the helm as QPR Chairman and defacto CEO (with Antonio Caliendo later coming in as Chairman of QPR Holdings); and CEO, Mark Devlin's position being made redundant.
And headlines such as
QPR POWER STRUGGLE GOES ON
Various other news reports. There have been statements; assertions; counter-assertions. And much more. And of course, this May and June saw "The Trial" (and the verdicts of 'Not Guilty." Meanwhile, Manager Ian Holloway has also since departed after having been put on "Gardening leave" (along with coaches, Gary Penrice and Tim Breaker). And Gary Waddock became first Acting Manager and then this summer, Manager.
A fuller overview of all the on and off-the-field peaks and troughs of the past year will be for later!
This week, QPR's much-loved,former Chairman Bill Power and former QPR CEO, Mark Devlin along with Mark's son, the pilot and two others from Swindon were involved in a horrible plane crash. It was a week which saw QPR fight back to draw 2-2 at home to Leeds; sell Danny Shittu to Watford from between 1.6 million and 3 million pounds. And saw QPR sign two hopefully classy players: Zesh Rehman from Fulham and Darren Blackstock fom Southampton
As Bill Power remains in hospital, should just note that this weekend marks the one year mark since "The Alleged Incident" at Loftus Road preceding the Sheffield United Game which led to the following headlines (and then after a trial, the acuittal, of all seven of the accused]
QPR Director Quit at Gunpoint
QPR chairman has gun held to head in attack at ground
11 held after gun attack on QPR boss
Men cleared in QPR threats case
Trial shone light on QPR 'soap opera'
After this incident, came the Board Room Meeting in which Dunga flew in and Bill Power was voted out as Chairman with Gianni Paladini taking the helm as QPR Chairman and defacto CEO (with Antonio Caliendo later coming in as Chairman of QPR Holdings); and CEO, Mark Devlin's position being made redundant.
And headlines such as
QPR POWER STRUGGLE GOES ON
Various other news reports. There have been statements; assertions; counter-assertions. And much more. And of course, this May and June saw "The Trial" (and the verdicts of 'Not Guilty." Meanwhile, Manager Ian Holloway has also since departed after having been put on "Gardening leave" (along with coaches, Gary Penrice and Tim Breaker). And Gary Waddock became first Acting Manager and then this summer, Manager.
A fuller overview of all the on and off-the-field peaks and troughs of the past year will be for later!
Swindon's Plane Crash
-
This is Wiltshire
It was a terrible moment. I really did think he was dead’
THE wife of one of the Swindon Town executives who survived a light aircraft crash has spoken of the moment her heart stood still.
Anita Sullivan, whose husband Mike is the club's marketing manager, was at a charity event when she received a call telling her to ring a hospital accident and emergency department.
"A nurse asked if my husband was likely to be a passenger in a light aircraft.
continued...
"I think I nearly fainted and a friend took the phone off me. I was thinking the worst until I was told that Mike was conscious and was going to be okay.
"It was a terrible moment. I really did think he was dead."
Josie Devlin, the wife of club chief executive Mark, was at the theatre in High Wycombe watching her daughter Hayley in a play and so had her mobile phone switched off.
Thames Valley police sent officers to the theatre to tell Mrs Devlin that both her husband and ten-year-old son were in the plane, which crashed as the group travelled back from Swindon's first game of the season at Hartlepool on Saturday.
Ironically the plane came down at Denham Golf Course in Buckinghamshire just yards from the home of Swindon Town boss Dennis Wise.
Both women rushed to Wexham Park Hospital in Slough to see the injured.
Mrs Sullivan said: "When I got there Mike was conscious and knew who I was but he was obviously in a lot of pain.
"I could hardly recognise Stan Devlin as he had such a huge bruise to his head, it had swollen to almost double its normal size."
Also on board the Cessna 310 aircraft was Swindon director Bill Power, his friend Alan and pilot Frank Kratky.
The Sullivans' younger son Jamie, 18, was told of the accident immediately but because of the time difference Mrs Sullivan delayed telling their elder boy Lee, 21, who is working at the Disney resort in Florida.
She said: "I didn't realise but the first he knew of it was when he read about it on a website.
"He rang his brother's mobile and was very cross with me for not telling him."
The couple, who have been married for more than 26 years, live in Langley near Slough.
Mrs Sullivan is a regular at the Swindon home games but does not usually travel away. She said it was the first time the club bosses had used a light aircraft.
"It was chartered by Bill Power and Mike was given the chance to go on it.
"He has said he will never go on another light aircraft ever again. Ever since the accident people have been telling us how dangerous they are but I didn't even think about it before.
"We are due to fly to America to see our son in January so I am hoping he will be okay to go an ordinary plane."
Mr Sullivan, 53, returned home on Tuesday evening after an operation on his broken left arm.
They were very lucky to come out alive EXPERIENCED flyer Sir Seton Wills was stunned after a light aircraft carrying Swindon Town's top boardroom officials crashed on Saturday night.
Three executives and the son of one of them escaped with broken bones from the wreckage of a Cessna 303 after it plunged into woodland on a golf course on its way back from Hartlepool to Denham Aerodrome in Buckinghamshire.
The club's majority shareholder, who did not travel to Saturday's opening League Two fixture, was relieved that chief executive Mark Devlin and his son Stanley, ten, sales and marketing manager Mike Sullivan and director Bill Power survived the terrifying ordeal.
After hearing the news on Sunday Sir Seton said : "I was shocked, it was a terrible thing to happen. They were very, very lucky to come out alive.
"I have not flown to matches but I have done a lot of flying in light aircraft in Africa, in Zimbabwe, South Africa and so on, and I do get very scared during the flights.
"I have had no bad experiences though, touch wood, but I guess you can just get unlucky."
Wiltshire
"The first thing I heard was Stan telling his dad he loved him"
By Marcus Leroux
Town executives were rescued from the wreckage of this light aircraft
# Town executives were rescued from the wreckage of this light aircraft
WHEN Mike Sullivan heard the propellers stop he knew they were in trouble.
The Swindon Town marketing manager was discharged from hospital yesterday after surviving one of the most terrifying moments of his life.
He and five others, including Town chief executive Mark Devlin, his 10-year-old son Stan and director Bill Power, crashed to the ground in a light aircraft carrying them home from Town's first game of the season against Hartlepool on Saturday.
As Mr Sullivan regained consciousness in the twisted wreckage of the small six-seater aeroplane, he remembers hearing Stan say: "I love you dad".
continued...
Stan was sitting in the cockpit next to the pilot as a treat and endured the frightening ordeal separated from his father.
The passengers had been in high spirits as they returned from Swindon Town's victory and were arranging a night out to celebrate. Then the engine cut out and the plane hurtled towards the ground.
Mr Sullivan said: "I remember Mark sitting facing me and I looked out the window to the left hand side and saw the runway. I said that we were nearly home and at that point there was a bang.
"Alarm bells rang and all of a sudden the propeller, which had been going, came to a stop."
The aircraft lurched from side to side and the pilot, Frank Kratky, shouted that the plane had lost power as he struggled with the controls.
The plane then nosedived and Mr Sullivan recalls Bill Power shouting that they were going down.
For father-of-two Mr Sullivan, 53, the saving grace is that it all happened so quickly he didn't have time to think that he could be about to die.
"We don't know how high we were when we lost the engine, but you could tell it was really very serious straight away from the way the pilot was reacting. But I remember very little. I'm grateful we didn't really have time to think God, I'm going to die'," he said.
Mr Sullivan came round to the sound of groaning, Stan telling his father that he loved him and the smell of trees.
The plane had crashed near a golf course in Buckinghamshire near its destination at Denham aerodrome.
"All I remember then is a bald headed boy looking at me," said Mr Sullivan. "He must have been a paramedic.
"I remember nothing after that until I was being carried through the 13th hole of Denham golf course.
"Even now, I cannot really believe it's happened."
Yesterday, Mr Sullivan revisited the scene of the horrifying crash.
He said he was shocked by the size of the clearing made by the plane and the recovery team who removed it.
He said: "When you look back on it we're so lucky to be here, we really are. The plane could have burst into flames - if that had happened none of us could have got out.
"We played well on the day and we carried on a bit of that luck on our flight home."
He added: "I wouldn't want anyone to go through it. Not many people survive an air crash.
"We were told we may have flashbacks. We will just have to take it each day as it happens."
On Monday Mr Sullivan had his broken left arm operated on. He said at the time that he was aching all over and was having difficulty sitting up in bed in Wexham Park Hospital, Slough.
While the road to recovery may be a long one, Mr Sullivan says the goodwill shown to him, Mr Power and Mr Devlin by the fans has helped them through.
He said: "We're all really chuffed at the messages of support that have come in from the fans - and not just Swindon fans, but even Oxford and Wycombe fans."
The other passengers and the pilot remain in hospital. Mr Kratky is still in intensive care and Stan has had several operations on a broken ankle. Mr Devlin suffered a broken shoulder blade while Mr Power and an acquaintance of his suffered punctured lungs.
# A pilot who witnessed the crash has told the Adver it was likely to be a freak accident.
The pilot, who did not wish to be named, said: "I heard a bang followed by a thump. A passer-by saw it fall into the trees, wing first.
"When it hit the trees it was put level again. I think the trees saved those guys' lives."
He said that the plane could normally be glided home if one engine failed, but if it was travelling below a certain speed it becomes impossible for the pilot to control it using only the remaining engine.
Wiltshire
Overwhelmed by kindness of fans
By Marcus Leroux
THIS scene of domestic bliss is just what the doctor ordered for plane crash survivor Mike Sullivan.
The Swindon Town marketing manager is the first passenger to be released from hospital following Saturday's dramatic crash.
He was pulled out of the mangled wreckage with a badly broken arm.
The father-of-two says he has been overwhelmed with the kindness shown to him by Swindon Town fans and the well-wishers who have visited him at his home in Langley in Buckinghamshire.
continued...
Mr Sullivan's wife Anita says he was cheered by Town's last gasp victory against Barnet on Tuesday night.
"He's in good spirits. He was really pleased and surprised at the amount of people there,' she said.
"The club said there were lots of people saying get well soon and singing songs about them," she said.
"There have been so many people popping in that I've hardly seen him. But it's great to have him back. We're just amazed that he's still here."
Two youths who were coached by Mr Sullivan when they were under-nines - some 12 years ago - even dropped by to check on him.
"I don't think he can believe the amount of people that have come to see him - they just keep filing in," said Mrs Sullivan.
"I think talking it through with all of those people is helping him as well. He's got a story to tell and he doesn't mind telling it."
It has emerged that Mr Sullivan was warning of the dangers of light aircraft before taking the flight.
He said: "A friend told me light aircraft were dangerous but I made a joke of it saying well if it's going to crash let it be on the way back then at least we will have seen the match.'"
As reported in the Advertiser, when Mrs Sullivan first heard the news she assumed the worst.
But once she had heard her husband was alive she was unable to get in touch with their son Lee, 21, who is working for Disney in Florida.
She said: "He found out on the internet and was really cross with me."
Josie Devlin, the wife of club chief executive Mark, was at the theatre in High Wycombe watching her daughter Hayley in a play and so had her phone switched off.
Thames Valley Police sent officers to the theatre to tell Mrs Devlin her husband and son were in the plane.
When Mrs Sullivan arrived at hospital she didn't recognise young Stan Devlin.
"He had such a huge bruise to his head, it had swollen to almost double its normal size," she said.
Mr Devlin, his son, director Bill Power and two other passengers remain in hospital along with the pilot.
The plane crashed into woods in Buckinghamshire between the 13th hole of Denham Golf Club and a railway track on Saturday.
Astonishingly, it was a matter of yards from the home of Swindon Town manager Dennis Wise.
Pilot is fighting for his life in hospital
PILOT Frank Kratky was last night fighting for his life after a chest infection complicated his existing injuries.
Mr Kratky, 59, suffered severe spinal and facial injuries in Saturday's crash.
He is currently under sedation in Slough's Wexham Park Hospital's intensive care unit and his wife Jarka says it his condition is touch and go.
She said: "He is still very, very poorly. He's in intensive care and is sedated and being kept ventilated.
"They want to transfer him when he has stabilised, but they cannot do it until his condition improves.
"He's got a chest infection and they're trying to stabilise it, but it's touch and go. We're all very concerned and upset, but the main thing is the other passengers are okay.
"It would have been a tragedy if he woke up to be told that somebody didn't make it."
Father-of-four Mr Kratky has more than 40 years of flying experience.
Mrs Kratky said: "The children have been fantastic and have really helped me. Frank hasn't been conscious at all, they sedated him straight away because they didn't want him to move."
Mr Kratky was 16 when he first flew a plane in his native Czechoslovakia.
Mrs Kratky said: "I'm so glad all the other people are doing well and they're all alive.
"We don't know what happened, but we will find out. But what I know is that my husband had 40 years' experience and was a very, very good pilot.
"When I heard I was quite sure something had gone seriously wrong. We have flown lots with Frank - to France, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic.
"He was serious about his flying and he wouldn't do anything silly.
"He was extremely conscientious."
Mr Kratky's 60th birthday is next week.
"I hope he will make it," Mrs Kratky said.
A Wexham Park Hospital spokeswoman said Mr Kratky's condition was serious but stable.
Wiltshire
This is Wiltshire
It was a terrible moment. I really did think he was dead’
THE wife of one of the Swindon Town executives who survived a light aircraft crash has spoken of the moment her heart stood still.
Anita Sullivan, whose husband Mike is the club's marketing manager, was at a charity event when she received a call telling her to ring a hospital accident and emergency department.
"A nurse asked if my husband was likely to be a passenger in a light aircraft.
continued...
"I think I nearly fainted and a friend took the phone off me. I was thinking the worst until I was told that Mike was conscious and was going to be okay.
"It was a terrible moment. I really did think he was dead."
Josie Devlin, the wife of club chief executive Mark, was at the theatre in High Wycombe watching her daughter Hayley in a play and so had her mobile phone switched off.
Thames Valley police sent officers to the theatre to tell Mrs Devlin that both her husband and ten-year-old son were in the plane, which crashed as the group travelled back from Swindon's first game of the season at Hartlepool on Saturday.
Ironically the plane came down at Denham Golf Course in Buckinghamshire just yards from the home of Swindon Town boss Dennis Wise.
Both women rushed to Wexham Park Hospital in Slough to see the injured.
Mrs Sullivan said: "When I got there Mike was conscious and knew who I was but he was obviously in a lot of pain.
"I could hardly recognise Stan Devlin as he had such a huge bruise to his head, it had swollen to almost double its normal size."
Also on board the Cessna 310 aircraft was Swindon director Bill Power, his friend Alan and pilot Frank Kratky.
The Sullivans' younger son Jamie, 18, was told of the accident immediately but because of the time difference Mrs Sullivan delayed telling their elder boy Lee, 21, who is working at the Disney resort in Florida.
She said: "I didn't realise but the first he knew of it was when he read about it on a website.
"He rang his brother's mobile and was very cross with me for not telling him."
The couple, who have been married for more than 26 years, live in Langley near Slough.
Mrs Sullivan is a regular at the Swindon home games but does not usually travel away. She said it was the first time the club bosses had used a light aircraft.
"It was chartered by Bill Power and Mike was given the chance to go on it.
"He has said he will never go on another light aircraft ever again. Ever since the accident people have been telling us how dangerous they are but I didn't even think about it before.
"We are due to fly to America to see our son in January so I am hoping he will be okay to go an ordinary plane."
Mr Sullivan, 53, returned home on Tuesday evening after an operation on his broken left arm.
They were very lucky to come out alive EXPERIENCED flyer Sir Seton Wills was stunned after a light aircraft carrying Swindon Town's top boardroom officials crashed on Saturday night.
Three executives and the son of one of them escaped with broken bones from the wreckage of a Cessna 303 after it plunged into woodland on a golf course on its way back from Hartlepool to Denham Aerodrome in Buckinghamshire.
The club's majority shareholder, who did not travel to Saturday's opening League Two fixture, was relieved that chief executive Mark Devlin and his son Stanley, ten, sales and marketing manager Mike Sullivan and director Bill Power survived the terrifying ordeal.
After hearing the news on Sunday Sir Seton said : "I was shocked, it was a terrible thing to happen. They were very, very lucky to come out alive.
"I have not flown to matches but I have done a lot of flying in light aircraft in Africa, in Zimbabwe, South Africa and so on, and I do get very scared during the flights.
"I have had no bad experiences though, touch wood, but I guess you can just get unlucky."
Wiltshire
"The first thing I heard was Stan telling his dad he loved him"
By Marcus Leroux
Town executives were rescued from the wreckage of this light aircraft
# Town executives were rescued from the wreckage of this light aircraft
WHEN Mike Sullivan heard the propellers stop he knew they were in trouble.
The Swindon Town marketing manager was discharged from hospital yesterday after surviving one of the most terrifying moments of his life.
He and five others, including Town chief executive Mark Devlin, his 10-year-old son Stan and director Bill Power, crashed to the ground in a light aircraft carrying them home from Town's first game of the season against Hartlepool on Saturday.
As Mr Sullivan regained consciousness in the twisted wreckage of the small six-seater aeroplane, he remembers hearing Stan say: "I love you dad".
continued...
Stan was sitting in the cockpit next to the pilot as a treat and endured the frightening ordeal separated from his father.
The passengers had been in high spirits as they returned from Swindon Town's victory and were arranging a night out to celebrate. Then the engine cut out and the plane hurtled towards the ground.
Mr Sullivan said: "I remember Mark sitting facing me and I looked out the window to the left hand side and saw the runway. I said that we were nearly home and at that point there was a bang.
"Alarm bells rang and all of a sudden the propeller, which had been going, came to a stop."
The aircraft lurched from side to side and the pilot, Frank Kratky, shouted that the plane had lost power as he struggled with the controls.
The plane then nosedived and Mr Sullivan recalls Bill Power shouting that they were going down.
For father-of-two Mr Sullivan, 53, the saving grace is that it all happened so quickly he didn't have time to think that he could be about to die.
"We don't know how high we were when we lost the engine, but you could tell it was really very serious straight away from the way the pilot was reacting. But I remember very little. I'm grateful we didn't really have time to think God, I'm going to die'," he said.
Mr Sullivan came round to the sound of groaning, Stan telling his father that he loved him and the smell of trees.
The plane had crashed near a golf course in Buckinghamshire near its destination at Denham aerodrome.
"All I remember then is a bald headed boy looking at me," said Mr Sullivan. "He must have been a paramedic.
"I remember nothing after that until I was being carried through the 13th hole of Denham golf course.
"Even now, I cannot really believe it's happened."
Yesterday, Mr Sullivan revisited the scene of the horrifying crash.
He said he was shocked by the size of the clearing made by the plane and the recovery team who removed it.
He said: "When you look back on it we're so lucky to be here, we really are. The plane could have burst into flames - if that had happened none of us could have got out.
"We played well on the day and we carried on a bit of that luck on our flight home."
He added: "I wouldn't want anyone to go through it. Not many people survive an air crash.
"We were told we may have flashbacks. We will just have to take it each day as it happens."
On Monday Mr Sullivan had his broken left arm operated on. He said at the time that he was aching all over and was having difficulty sitting up in bed in Wexham Park Hospital, Slough.
While the road to recovery may be a long one, Mr Sullivan says the goodwill shown to him, Mr Power and Mr Devlin by the fans has helped them through.
He said: "We're all really chuffed at the messages of support that have come in from the fans - and not just Swindon fans, but even Oxford and Wycombe fans."
The other passengers and the pilot remain in hospital. Mr Kratky is still in intensive care and Stan has had several operations on a broken ankle. Mr Devlin suffered a broken shoulder blade while Mr Power and an acquaintance of his suffered punctured lungs.
# A pilot who witnessed the crash has told the Adver it was likely to be a freak accident.
The pilot, who did not wish to be named, said: "I heard a bang followed by a thump. A passer-by saw it fall into the trees, wing first.
"When it hit the trees it was put level again. I think the trees saved those guys' lives."
He said that the plane could normally be glided home if one engine failed, but if it was travelling below a certain speed it becomes impossible for the pilot to control it using only the remaining engine.
Wiltshire
Overwhelmed by kindness of fans
By Marcus Leroux
THIS scene of domestic bliss is just what the doctor ordered for plane crash survivor Mike Sullivan.
The Swindon Town marketing manager is the first passenger to be released from hospital following Saturday's dramatic crash.
He was pulled out of the mangled wreckage with a badly broken arm.
The father-of-two says he has been overwhelmed with the kindness shown to him by Swindon Town fans and the well-wishers who have visited him at his home in Langley in Buckinghamshire.
continued...
Mr Sullivan's wife Anita says he was cheered by Town's last gasp victory against Barnet on Tuesday night.
"He's in good spirits. He was really pleased and surprised at the amount of people there,' she said.
"The club said there were lots of people saying get well soon and singing songs about them," she said.
"There have been so many people popping in that I've hardly seen him. But it's great to have him back. We're just amazed that he's still here."
Two youths who were coached by Mr Sullivan when they were under-nines - some 12 years ago - even dropped by to check on him.
"I don't think he can believe the amount of people that have come to see him - they just keep filing in," said Mrs Sullivan.
"I think talking it through with all of those people is helping him as well. He's got a story to tell and he doesn't mind telling it."
It has emerged that Mr Sullivan was warning of the dangers of light aircraft before taking the flight.
He said: "A friend told me light aircraft were dangerous but I made a joke of it saying well if it's going to crash let it be on the way back then at least we will have seen the match.'"
As reported in the Advertiser, when Mrs Sullivan first heard the news she assumed the worst.
But once she had heard her husband was alive she was unable to get in touch with their son Lee, 21, who is working for Disney in Florida.
She said: "He found out on the internet and was really cross with me."
Josie Devlin, the wife of club chief executive Mark, was at the theatre in High Wycombe watching her daughter Hayley in a play and so had her phone switched off.
Thames Valley Police sent officers to the theatre to tell Mrs Devlin her husband and son were in the plane.
When Mrs Sullivan arrived at hospital she didn't recognise young Stan Devlin.
"He had such a huge bruise to his head, it had swollen to almost double its normal size," she said.
Mr Devlin, his son, director Bill Power and two other passengers remain in hospital along with the pilot.
The plane crashed into woods in Buckinghamshire between the 13th hole of Denham Golf Club and a railway track on Saturday.
Astonishingly, it was a matter of yards from the home of Swindon Town manager Dennis Wise.
Pilot is fighting for his life in hospital
PILOT Frank Kratky was last night fighting for his life after a chest infection complicated his existing injuries.
Mr Kratky, 59, suffered severe spinal and facial injuries in Saturday's crash.
He is currently under sedation in Slough's Wexham Park Hospital's intensive care unit and his wife Jarka says it his condition is touch and go.
She said: "He is still very, very poorly. He's in intensive care and is sedated and being kept ventilated.
"They want to transfer him when he has stabilised, but they cannot do it until his condition improves.
"He's got a chest infection and they're trying to stabilise it, but it's touch and go. We're all very concerned and upset, but the main thing is the other passengers are okay.
"It would have been a tragedy if he woke up to be told that somebody didn't make it."
Father-of-four Mr Kratky has more than 40 years of flying experience.
Mrs Kratky said: "The children have been fantastic and have really helped me. Frank hasn't been conscious at all, they sedated him straight away because they didn't want him to move."
Mr Kratky was 16 when he first flew a plane in his native Czechoslovakia.
Mrs Kratky said: "I'm so glad all the other people are doing well and they're all alive.
"We don't know what happened, but we will find out. But what I know is that my husband had 40 years' experience and was a very, very good pilot.
"When I heard I was quite sure something had gone seriously wrong. We have flown lots with Frank - to France, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic.
"He was serious about his flying and he wouldn't do anything silly.
"He was extremely conscientious."
Mr Kratky's 60th birthday is next week.
"I hope he will make it," Mrs Kratky said.
A Wexham Park Hospital spokeswoman said Mr Kratky's condition was serious but stable.
Wiltshire
Southend Look at QPR...QPR Look at Southend
-
Southend's Playing Squad
Southend Official Site
TILSON TARGETS THREE POINTS
Tilson will be setting his team to go for the win at QPR on Saturday
Steve Tilson admitted Southend will be ready with the same outlook to try and get all three points at QPR tomorrow.
The Blues will travel to London again for their third fixture of the Championship season, on the back of impressing against Crystal Palace in midweek.
The result may not have gone their way, but Tilson feels more performances of that standard will see the Club hold their own at this level.
On the agenda now is going out with the intent to get all three points from Lotus Road.
"I think we have competed really well in the two games we have played so far," Steve told Blues World.
"I felt we played better Tuesday night at Crystal Palace than we did against Stoke and we've ended up losing 3-1.
"We have to defend better from set plays and if we had done that we would have won the game, but that's part and parcel of football.
If we come away with one point at QPR that will be a good result, but we'll go there looking for all three.
"We have to make sure we pick up better at set plays; whether it is a corner, free kick or throw-in.
"That's disappointing, but it was a good performance and hopefully if we have performances like that week-in, week-out then we can certainly compete in this league.
"Like I said from the start though, it's going to be a tough league for us and we need to take each game as it comes."
Tilson insists there are no easy games at this level, but it's a challenge his team are ready for.
With no fresh injury doubts, the Blues Chief is happy with the way everyone has competed in the Championship so far, but is under no illusions that QPR are still seeking their first win of the campaign.
"In the two games we have played everyone has made the step up," he said.
"Everyone is fine after Tuesday night and up until now we have picked up no new injuries.
"QPR will be under a little bit of pressure, as they have only got one point out the first two games, so we have to go there and be positive.
"If we come away with one point that will be a good result, but we'll go there looking for all three.
"We go into every game looking for three points, but it's going to be a tough test."
Southend Official Site
SOUTHEND OFFICIAL
BLUES RETURN TO LONDON
Eastwood has already found the net twice this season
Southend make their second trip to London in the space of five days when they face Queens Park Rangers on Saturday.
This follows Tuesday nights 3-1 defeat at Crystal Palace, where having taken a first half lead through Freddy Eastwood, Palace managed three goals in the space of 10 second half minutes to turn the game on its head.
Despite the result the Blues performance will give them plenty of encouragement and Eastwood will be looking to add to his two-goal tally already this season.
Still on the injured list for Southend are Efe Sodje and Michael Ricketts, but there is good news from both parties.
Sodje is expected to play in next Wednesdays reserve team fixtures at Colchester United while Ricketts should return to first team training after sustaining an Achilles injury in pre-season.
QPR will be looking for their first win of the new season after losing their opening day match 2-0 at Burnley, although a last minute goal saw them earn a point in a 2-2 draw with Leeds midweek.
But they have been busy in the transfer market recently by signing defender Zesh Rehmann from Fulham to replace Danny Shittu, who moved to the Premiership with Watford in a £3 million deal.
Dexter Blackstock has also signed a three-year contract from Southampton for an undisclosed fee.
Supporters are reminded that the match is a 3pm kick-off, and full match commentary can be found on Blues World.
Tickets for the game can be bought on the day from Lotus Road.
Official
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
SOUTHEND
The Shrimpers have exceeded all expectations over the last two seasons, but even the most partisan Southend supporter would be crazy to anticipate anything above a top half finish come the end of the current campaign.
In gaffer Steve Tilson, the Roots Hall-based Club have a manager who genuinely believes in his own ability to get the very best out of any situation.
Arguably one of the most ambitious manager's in the second tier of English football, Tilson has the unique ability to raise his players regardless of the opposition.
The proof is in the pudding. After sealing their place in League One via the play-offs in 2004/05, the Shrimpers clinched the title in their maiden season in the third tier of English Football.
Survival would surely be the ultimate goal for Southend this season, but that forecast might just change, especially if hot-shot Freddy Eastwood has his say.
League table
Pld
Pts
14
Coventry 2
3
15
Southend
2
3
16 Sheff Weds 2
1
Southend celebrate winning the League One title last season
Top scorer
Freddy Eastwood 2
Last league game
Crystal Palace 3, Southend United 1.
Football League Championship.
August 8th 2006.
Southend United: Flahavan, Francis, Prior, Barrett, Hammell, Gower (Paynter 75), Maher, Guttridge, Campbell-Ryce, Eastwood, Bradbury.
Subs Not Used: Hunt, Collis, Clarke, Lawson.
Gaffer Steve Tilson and right hand man Paul Brush
Tilson on Eagles: "There are lessons to be learned. We conceded from two set plays so we need to be stronger in the box. And, for the second goal, we were trying to play offside.
"Overall we played some good stuff and I'm pleased with the performance. I've told the lads if we play like that week in, week out, then we'll be fine."
Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds
Rangers 11/10
Southend 23/10
draw 21/10
Key player: Freddy Eastwood
Southend have a genuine goal-getter in their ranks in the shape of Freddy Eastwood.
The former West Ham United trainee considered retiring from football after he was released in 2002, but a spell at Grays reignited his desire and since signing for the Blues in October 2004, he has never looked back.
Eastwood ended the 2005/06 season as the joint leading goalscorer in League One with 25 goals and was named Fans' Player of the Year.
Shrimpers hot-shot Freddy Eastwood
Head to head
Rangers wins: 36
Southend wins: 24
Draws: 12
Last meeting
Southend United 4 (Constantine, Broughton (2), Clark), QPR 0.
Football League Trophy, Southern Section, semi-final)
January 20th 2004.
Did you know?
Southend have signed trialist forward Gary Hooper on a one-year deal.
The former Grays striker had been on trial with the Club for the past four weeks and featured during the Blues' successful pre-season fixtures.
The 18-year-old scored twice against Leyton Orient and Dagenham & Redbridge and Tilson has been impressed enough to reward him with a contract at Southend.
QPR OFFICIAL
Southend's Playing Squad
Southend Official Site
TILSON TARGETS THREE POINTS
Tilson will be setting his team to go for the win at QPR on Saturday
Steve Tilson admitted Southend will be ready with the same outlook to try and get all three points at QPR tomorrow.
The Blues will travel to London again for their third fixture of the Championship season, on the back of impressing against Crystal Palace in midweek.
The result may not have gone their way, but Tilson feels more performances of that standard will see the Club hold their own at this level.
On the agenda now is going out with the intent to get all three points from Lotus Road.
"I think we have competed really well in the two games we have played so far," Steve told Blues World.
"I felt we played better Tuesday night at Crystal Palace than we did against Stoke and we've ended up losing 3-1.
"We have to defend better from set plays and if we had done that we would have won the game, but that's part and parcel of football.
If we come away with one point at QPR that will be a good result, but we'll go there looking for all three.
"We have to make sure we pick up better at set plays; whether it is a corner, free kick or throw-in.
"That's disappointing, but it was a good performance and hopefully if we have performances like that week-in, week-out then we can certainly compete in this league.
"Like I said from the start though, it's going to be a tough league for us and we need to take each game as it comes."
Tilson insists there are no easy games at this level, but it's a challenge his team are ready for.
With no fresh injury doubts, the Blues Chief is happy with the way everyone has competed in the Championship so far, but is under no illusions that QPR are still seeking their first win of the campaign.
"In the two games we have played everyone has made the step up," he said.
"Everyone is fine after Tuesday night and up until now we have picked up no new injuries.
"QPR will be under a little bit of pressure, as they have only got one point out the first two games, so we have to go there and be positive.
"If we come away with one point that will be a good result, but we'll go there looking for all three.
"We go into every game looking for three points, but it's going to be a tough test."
Southend Official Site
SOUTHEND OFFICIAL
BLUES RETURN TO LONDON
Eastwood has already found the net twice this season
Southend make their second trip to London in the space of five days when they face Queens Park Rangers on Saturday.
This follows Tuesday nights 3-1 defeat at Crystal Palace, where having taken a first half lead through Freddy Eastwood, Palace managed three goals in the space of 10 second half minutes to turn the game on its head.
Despite the result the Blues performance will give them plenty of encouragement and Eastwood will be looking to add to his two-goal tally already this season.
Still on the injured list for Southend are Efe Sodje and Michael Ricketts, but there is good news from both parties.
Sodje is expected to play in next Wednesdays reserve team fixtures at Colchester United while Ricketts should return to first team training after sustaining an Achilles injury in pre-season.
QPR will be looking for their first win of the new season after losing their opening day match 2-0 at Burnley, although a last minute goal saw them earn a point in a 2-2 draw with Leeds midweek.
But they have been busy in the transfer market recently by signing defender Zesh Rehmann from Fulham to replace Danny Shittu, who moved to the Premiership with Watford in a £3 million deal.
Dexter Blackstock has also signed a three-year contract from Southampton for an undisclosed fee.
Supporters are reminded that the match is a 3pm kick-off, and full match commentary can be found on Blues World.
Tickets for the game can be bought on the day from Lotus Road.
Official
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
SOUTHEND
The Shrimpers have exceeded all expectations over the last two seasons, but even the most partisan Southend supporter would be crazy to anticipate anything above a top half finish come the end of the current campaign.
In gaffer Steve Tilson, the Roots Hall-based Club have a manager who genuinely believes in his own ability to get the very best out of any situation.
Arguably one of the most ambitious manager's in the second tier of English football, Tilson has the unique ability to raise his players regardless of the opposition.
The proof is in the pudding. After sealing their place in League One via the play-offs in 2004/05, the Shrimpers clinched the title in their maiden season in the third tier of English Football.
Survival would surely be the ultimate goal for Southend this season, but that forecast might just change, especially if hot-shot Freddy Eastwood has his say.
League table
Pld
Pts
14
Coventry 2
3
15
Southend
2
3
16 Sheff Weds 2
1
Southend celebrate winning the League One title last season
Top scorer
Freddy Eastwood 2
Last league game
Crystal Palace 3, Southend United 1.
Football League Championship.
August 8th 2006.
Southend United: Flahavan, Francis, Prior, Barrett, Hammell, Gower (Paynter 75), Maher, Guttridge, Campbell-Ryce, Eastwood, Bradbury.
Subs Not Used: Hunt, Collis, Clarke, Lawson.
Gaffer Steve Tilson and right hand man Paul Brush
Tilson on Eagles: "There are lessons to be learned. We conceded from two set plays so we need to be stronger in the box. And, for the second goal, we were trying to play offside.
"Overall we played some good stuff and I'm pleased with the performance. I've told the lads if we play like that week in, week out, then we'll be fine."
Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds
Rangers 11/10
Southend 23/10
draw 21/10
Key player: Freddy Eastwood
Southend have a genuine goal-getter in their ranks in the shape of Freddy Eastwood.
The former West Ham United trainee considered retiring from football after he was released in 2002, but a spell at Grays reignited his desire and since signing for the Blues in October 2004, he has never looked back.
Eastwood ended the 2005/06 season as the joint leading goalscorer in League One with 25 goals and was named Fans' Player of the Year.
Shrimpers hot-shot Freddy Eastwood
Head to head
Rangers wins: 36
Southend wins: 24
Draws: 12
Last meeting
Southend United 4 (Constantine, Broughton (2), Clark), QPR 0.
Football League Trophy, Southern Section, semi-final)
January 20th 2004.
Did you know?
Southend have signed trialist forward Gary Hooper on a one-year deal.
The former Grays striker had been on trial with the Club for the past four weeks and featured during the Blues' successful pre-season fixtures.
The 18-year-old scored twice against Leyton Orient and Dagenham & Redbridge and Tilson has been impressed enough to reward him with a contract at Southend.
QPR OFFICIAL
Ex-QPR Boss, Ian Holloway Speaking about Plymouth
-
[Have to admire the order in which Plymouth rank their officials!
Plymouth Staff 'Who's Who'
BBC - Holloway has top-flight dream
By Chris Bevan
This club can make it to the Premiership and I want to be the man who takes them there
Ian Holloway
New Plymouth boss Ian Holloway is laying down big plans at Home Park.
The Premiership is his ultimate aim - but first he wants to stop people looking down their noses at his side.
He told BBC Sport: "Everyone is talking about the obstacles I am facing down here and the problems I am going to have.
"I don't see it that way. I moved down here, I am from round here and I believe in the area, the whole lot.
"I am not thinking about targets for this season. I am thinking long term.
"This club can make it to the Premiership and I want to be the man who takes them there."
The former Bristol Rovers and QPR boss took charge of the Pilgrims at the end of June, five months after he was suspended by the R's because of speculation linking him with the then-vacant Leicester City job.
Holloway revealed he considered leaving football for good - but realised he could not turn his back on the game.
He explained: "When I was out of football I sat down for the first time and thought about whether I wanted to be a football manager - up until then it had always fallen into my lap.
"I didn't go out and watch football; I should have been looking at players but I didn't. Instead I spent five months with my family and I am glad I did. I feel rejuvenated.
"I was ready to come back and when I got this job Plymouth didn't interview me, I interviewed them.
"I liked the way they spoke and I liked what they told me about their plans for the future.
"It is definitely good to be back and I am glad to be here. Now all I want is for this club to be talked about in the proper way - I am sick of people being negative."
Holloway feels the Pilgrims are on the brink of something big - and he is keen to convince everyone else too.
"There is so much untapped potential in this area and I want to utilise it," he said.
"I have signed a three-year contract and that is what I have got to work with to begin with.
"My first aim is to get the gates up. At the moment we get 16,000 which is enough to compete in this division - but I think we can get more, and if we are going to develop the ground and the team then we have to.
"I believe in what I am doing totally and once people speak to me they do too - I could sell snow to the Eskimos.
"I persuaded Barry Hayles to come here, and Sylvain Ebanks-Blake. People did not think he would leave Manchester United to come here and I will tell you why he did - because of me."
Many people have predicted a season of struggle for Argyle but their solid start suggests otherwise - and Holloway is not interested anyhow.
"I haven't read what people have predicted and I don't care what they say. I've been a football pundit and half the time they don't even watch games, they just sit there chatting," Holloway said.
"I don't care what other people say. Look at Watford last year - everyone was saying they were going to get relegated but look what happened to them when they backed Aidy Boothroyd.
"Until you walk around this club and see how welcome they have made me feel you won't understand how I am feeling at the moment. I am going to do a job for them and I will work until I die if I have to.
"I don't know what the feeling is like in the town - you will have to come down and see for yourself.
"But all I can say is that I am buzzing and I can't wait for the next game - win, lose or draw."
BBC
[Have to admire the order in which Plymouth rank their officials!
Plymouth Staff 'Who's Who'
BBC - Holloway has top-flight dream
By Chris Bevan
This club can make it to the Premiership and I want to be the man who takes them there
Ian Holloway
New Plymouth boss Ian Holloway is laying down big plans at Home Park.
The Premiership is his ultimate aim - but first he wants to stop people looking down their noses at his side.
He told BBC Sport: "Everyone is talking about the obstacles I am facing down here and the problems I am going to have.
"I don't see it that way. I moved down here, I am from round here and I believe in the area, the whole lot.
"I am not thinking about targets for this season. I am thinking long term.
"This club can make it to the Premiership and I want to be the man who takes them there."
The former Bristol Rovers and QPR boss took charge of the Pilgrims at the end of June, five months after he was suspended by the R's because of speculation linking him with the then-vacant Leicester City job.
Holloway revealed he considered leaving football for good - but realised he could not turn his back on the game.
He explained: "When I was out of football I sat down for the first time and thought about whether I wanted to be a football manager - up until then it had always fallen into my lap.
"I didn't go out and watch football; I should have been looking at players but I didn't. Instead I spent five months with my family and I am glad I did. I feel rejuvenated.
"I was ready to come back and when I got this job Plymouth didn't interview me, I interviewed them.
"I liked the way they spoke and I liked what they told me about their plans for the future.
"It is definitely good to be back and I am glad to be here. Now all I want is for this club to be talked about in the proper way - I am sick of people being negative."
Holloway feels the Pilgrims are on the brink of something big - and he is keen to convince everyone else too.
"There is so much untapped potential in this area and I want to utilise it," he said.
"I have signed a three-year contract and that is what I have got to work with to begin with.
"My first aim is to get the gates up. At the moment we get 16,000 which is enough to compete in this division - but I think we can get more, and if we are going to develop the ground and the team then we have to.
"I believe in what I am doing totally and once people speak to me they do too - I could sell snow to the Eskimos.
"I persuaded Barry Hayles to come here, and Sylvain Ebanks-Blake. People did not think he would leave Manchester United to come here and I will tell you why he did - because of me."
Many people have predicted a season of struggle for Argyle but their solid start suggests otherwise - and Holloway is not interested anyhow.
"I haven't read what people have predicted and I don't care what they say. I've been a football pundit and half the time they don't even watch games, they just sit there chatting," Holloway said.
"I don't care what other people say. Look at Watford last year - everyone was saying they were going to get relegated but look what happened to them when they backed Aidy Boothroyd.
"Until you walk around this club and see how welcome they have made me feel you won't understand how I am feeling at the moment. I am going to do a job for them and I will work until I die if I have to.
"I don't know what the feeling is like in the town - you will have to come down and see for yourself.
"But all I can say is that I am buzzing and I can't wait for the next game - win, lose or draw."
BBC
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Nostalgia: August 10, 1968: Our First Division 'Debut' - QPR 1 Leicester 1
-
Thirty-Eight Years ago...August 10, 1968, QPR 1 Leicester 1
21,000+ saw QPR play their first-ever game in the First Division. QPR drew 1-1 at Loftus Road, with the new stand not yet complete! Substitute Les Allen , soon to be our manager, scored our first goal while Leicester had English record transfer signing (Allan Clarke, 150,000 pounds from Fulham) making his debut.
QPRs team
Springett -Finch Hazell Watson Harris
Sibley Keen - Morgan Wilks Clarke Morgan
Sub: Allen
Meanwhile, a year ago, August 10, 2005 were reporting on QPR's 2-1 win over Ipswich - (QPR then under the guidance of Bill Power, Mark Devlin and Ian Holloway!)
QPR -
Simon Royce, Marcus Bignot, Matthew Rose, Georges Santos, Danny Shittu, Gareth Ainsworth (Stefan Moore), Marc Bircham, Tommy Doherty, Martin Rowlands, Paul Furlong (Marc Nygaard), Kevin Gallen
Ipswich
Lewis Price, Mark Fish (Matthew Richards), Richard Naylor, Luis Castro Rodríguez Sito, Fabian Wilnis, Darren Currie, Owen Garvan (Kevin Horlock), Jim Magilton, Ian Westlake (Jaime Peters), Nicky Forster, Sam Parkin
Floundering Fish leaves Ipswich gutted
Rob Smyth at Loftus Road
Wednesday August 10, 2005
The Guardian
Last season Ipswich were arguably the finest side in the Championship, a loose-limbed attacking force blessed with charm and style. But now they're down to the bare bones and the strain is already starting to show
Having lost Kelvin Davis, Tommy Miller, Shefki Kuqi and Darren Bent in the summer, and with their defensive linchpin Jason De Vos out injured, they were well beaten by a ravenous Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road last night. We're a bit lightweight," admitted their manager Joe Royle. "We've only got four recognised defenders. I had to play Mark Fish [on loan from Charlton] and I knew he wasn't fit. He volunteered to play and I can't thank him enough for that but he's obviously nowhere near at the moment."
Kevin Gallen got the first eight minutes before the break, rolling the lumbering Fish superbly before placing his shot in the corner. Then, on the stroke of half-time, with Fish on the floor after taking a whack in the face, Gareth Ainsworth's deep cross was slammed home gleefully on the volley by Martin Rowlands.
"I said at half-time, 'I'm not happy with that, you should be in front by more'," said the QPR manager Ian Holloway. "Two-nil is the worst score in the world, because it can quickly change the momentum."
So it proved. Eight minutes into the second half, Sam Parkin picked the dallying Georges Santos's pocket and curved his first goal for the club classily into the far top corner.
Ipswich, like recovering amnesiacs, suddenly began to pass and move with familiar, elastic elan but apart from Marcus Bignot clearing Parkin's shot off the line, there were few alarms for the home side.
"That's one of the best performances any team of mine has ever given," said Holloway, happily hyperbolic as ever. "But there's still 44 games to go. It doesn't mean anything."
http://football.guardian.co.uk/Match_Report/0,,-55445,00.html
And FOUR YEARS AGO TODAY....strong>
Saturday August 10, 2002 QPR 3 Chesterfield 1
- Furlong, Langley & Gallen
QPR
Terrell Forbes, Matthew Rose, Doudou Ebeu Mbombo, Richard Langley, Steve Palmer, Marc Bircham, Nicky Culkin, Kevin Gallen, Daniel Shittu, Karl Connolly, Andy Thomson
http://football.guardian.co.uk/Match_Report/0,,-39216,00.html
Thirty-Eight Years ago...August 10, 1968, QPR 1 Leicester 1
21,000+ saw QPR play their first-ever game in the First Division. QPR drew 1-1 at Loftus Road, with the new stand not yet complete! Substitute Les Allen , soon to be our manager, scored our first goal while Leicester had English record transfer signing (Allan Clarke, 150,000 pounds from Fulham) making his debut.
QPRs team
Springett -Finch Hazell Watson Harris
Sibley Keen - Morgan Wilks Clarke Morgan
Sub: Allen
Meanwhile, a year ago, August 10, 2005 were reporting on QPR's 2-1 win over Ipswich - (QPR then under the guidance of Bill Power, Mark Devlin and Ian Holloway!)
QPR -
Simon Royce, Marcus Bignot, Matthew Rose, Georges Santos, Danny Shittu, Gareth Ainsworth (Stefan Moore), Marc Bircham, Tommy Doherty, Martin Rowlands, Paul Furlong (Marc Nygaard), Kevin Gallen
Ipswich
Lewis Price, Mark Fish (Matthew Richards), Richard Naylor, Luis Castro Rodríguez Sito, Fabian Wilnis, Darren Currie, Owen Garvan (Kevin Horlock), Jim Magilton, Ian Westlake (Jaime Peters), Nicky Forster, Sam Parkin
Floundering Fish leaves Ipswich gutted
Rob Smyth at Loftus Road
Wednesday August 10, 2005
The Guardian
Last season Ipswich were arguably the finest side in the Championship, a loose-limbed attacking force blessed with charm and style. But now they're down to the bare bones and the strain is already starting to show
Having lost Kelvin Davis, Tommy Miller, Shefki Kuqi and Darren Bent in the summer, and with their defensive linchpin Jason De Vos out injured, they were well beaten by a ravenous Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road last night. We're a bit lightweight," admitted their manager Joe Royle. "We've only got four recognised defenders. I had to play Mark Fish [on loan from Charlton] and I knew he wasn't fit. He volunteered to play and I can't thank him enough for that but he's obviously nowhere near at the moment."
Kevin Gallen got the first eight minutes before the break, rolling the lumbering Fish superbly before placing his shot in the corner. Then, on the stroke of half-time, with Fish on the floor after taking a whack in the face, Gareth Ainsworth's deep cross was slammed home gleefully on the volley by Martin Rowlands.
"I said at half-time, 'I'm not happy with that, you should be in front by more'," said the QPR manager Ian Holloway. "Two-nil is the worst score in the world, because it can quickly change the momentum."
So it proved. Eight minutes into the second half, Sam Parkin picked the dallying Georges Santos's pocket and curved his first goal for the club classily into the far top corner.
Ipswich, like recovering amnesiacs, suddenly began to pass and move with familiar, elastic elan but apart from Marcus Bignot clearing Parkin's shot off the line, there were few alarms for the home side.
"That's one of the best performances any team of mine has ever given," said Holloway, happily hyperbolic as ever. "But there's still 44 games to go. It doesn't mean anything."
http://football.guardian.co.uk/Match_Report/0,,-55445,00.html
And FOUR YEARS AGO TODAY....strong>
Saturday August 10, 2002 QPR 3 Chesterfield 1
- Furlong, Langley & Gallen
QPR
Terrell Forbes, Matthew Rose, Doudou Ebeu Mbombo, Richard Langley, Steve Palmer, Marc Bircham, Nicky Culkin, Kevin Gallen, Daniel Shittu, Karl Connolly, Andy Thomson
http://football.guardian.co.uk/Match_Report/0,,-39216,00.html
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Nick Ward Profiled/Interviewed - BBC
-
BBC - Ward vows to make his mark
By Chris Bevan
I wanted to play in Europe - whether it was in England or on the continent - so this was always going to be the next step
QPR midfielder Nick Ward
QPR's capture of Australian midfielder Nick Ward may not have been the highest-profile signing of the summer but his arrival caused quite a stir around Loftus Road.
The 21-year-old arrives in Shepherds Bush with an impressive pedigree.
In 2005 he starred in the World Youth Cup and along with Wayne Rooney was named as one of Fifa's young stars of the year.
Playing for Perth Glory last season, Ward was voted the new Australian A-League's inaugural 'Rising Star' - their young player of the year award.
He was on the fringes of the Socceroos squad for this summer's World Cup - and the Australian Football Federation were desperate for him to continue playing in his homeland.
Ward tells BBC Sport why he decided to join the R's and how he hopes to make his mark on the Championship.
AUSSIE RULES?
The heart had gone out of the old national league in Australia but the A-League has been a big success. They restructured it so there was only really one team per major city and it has worked.
With the Socceroos at the World Cup too the game really took off - it had never done that in Australia before.
In terms of numbers of youngsters involved in a sport, football is the second-biggest over there behind swimming - all the kids are playing it and it is thriving.
WHY MOVE ON?
If you look at the Australian squad who were at the World Cup, everyone is playing in Europe.
I was part of the training squad for that this summer but just missed out and that was one of the reasons for moving over here - I don't want to miss out again.
I was told it was down to match fitness - the A-League in Australia is only 21 games and I wasn't playing games when the selection was made.
LEAVING HOME
The Australian Football Federation did not want me to leave because they were trying to protect their League.
They don't want to see their best young players go - but I thought it was the right time to leave.
I always wanted to play in Europe, whether it was in England or on the continent, so this was always going to be the next step.
I knew QPR had a great history and that they were a big club who had been in the Premier League.
I looked into it and weighed up my options - I just thought it was a great opportunity and I know Australia is always going to be there for me to go back to if things don't work out.
SETTLING IN
This is a challenge and I am relishing it.
I have settled in quite well. I have been here four weeks and am in my new flat now and have got a car so everything is going well.
My parents are both from England and emigrated to Australia so we were the only ones there and the rest of the family is here. I am not here on my own so things are not too bad.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
I think I have made the right decision and the two games I have played in already have been a good experience and enlightened me to a different style of play.
It is a different style of play over here to what I am used to. In Australia, teams are more patient and there are not as many long balls.
That is something that will take a few games to get used to because I am a player who likes it a little more on the ground.
It is a bit more physical too and I have noticed you can get away with a bit more over here - but they are all little things and I don't see them as a problem.
AIMING HIGH
I enjoyed my home debut against Leeds - there was a great crowd and atmosphere and Loftus Road is a really good ground too.
It was a tough match and I don't think I played one of my better games but there is better stuff to come.
As an attacking midfielder I want to score goals.
With the amount of games in the season if I stay injury free and can play regularly then I will be looking to score about 10 goals a season.
Those are my personal goals and as for the team, well we have to aim for the play-offs.
BBC
BBC - Ward vows to make his mark
By Chris Bevan
I wanted to play in Europe - whether it was in England or on the continent - so this was always going to be the next step
QPR midfielder Nick Ward
QPR's capture of Australian midfielder Nick Ward may not have been the highest-profile signing of the summer but his arrival caused quite a stir around Loftus Road.
The 21-year-old arrives in Shepherds Bush with an impressive pedigree.
In 2005 he starred in the World Youth Cup and along with Wayne Rooney was named as one of Fifa's young stars of the year.
Playing for Perth Glory last season, Ward was voted the new Australian A-League's inaugural 'Rising Star' - their young player of the year award.
He was on the fringes of the Socceroos squad for this summer's World Cup - and the Australian Football Federation were desperate for him to continue playing in his homeland.
Ward tells BBC Sport why he decided to join the R's and how he hopes to make his mark on the Championship.
AUSSIE RULES?
The heart had gone out of the old national league in Australia but the A-League has been a big success. They restructured it so there was only really one team per major city and it has worked.
With the Socceroos at the World Cup too the game really took off - it had never done that in Australia before.
In terms of numbers of youngsters involved in a sport, football is the second-biggest over there behind swimming - all the kids are playing it and it is thriving.
WHY MOVE ON?
If you look at the Australian squad who were at the World Cup, everyone is playing in Europe.
I was part of the training squad for that this summer but just missed out and that was one of the reasons for moving over here - I don't want to miss out again.
I was told it was down to match fitness - the A-League in Australia is only 21 games and I wasn't playing games when the selection was made.
LEAVING HOME
The Australian Football Federation did not want me to leave because they were trying to protect their League.
They don't want to see their best young players go - but I thought it was the right time to leave.
I always wanted to play in Europe, whether it was in England or on the continent, so this was always going to be the next step.
I knew QPR had a great history and that they were a big club who had been in the Premier League.
I looked into it and weighed up my options - I just thought it was a great opportunity and I know Australia is always going to be there for me to go back to if things don't work out.
SETTLING IN
This is a challenge and I am relishing it.
I have settled in quite well. I have been here four weeks and am in my new flat now and have got a car so everything is going well.
My parents are both from England and emigrated to Australia so we were the only ones there and the rest of the family is here. I am not here on my own so things are not too bad.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
I think I have made the right decision and the two games I have played in already have been a good experience and enlightened me to a different style of play.
It is a different style of play over here to what I am used to. In Australia, teams are more patient and there are not as many long balls.
That is something that will take a few games to get used to because I am a player who likes it a little more on the ground.
It is a bit more physical too and I have noticed you can get away with a bit more over here - but they are all little things and I don't see them as a problem.
AIMING HIGH
I enjoyed my home debut against Leeds - there was a great crowd and atmosphere and Loftus Road is a really good ground too.
It was a tough match and I don't think I played one of my better games but there is better stuff to come.
As an attacking midfielder I want to score goals.
With the amount of games in the season if I stay injury free and can play regularly then I will be looking to score about 10 goals a season.
Those are my personal goals and as for the team, well we have to aim for the play-offs.
BBC
Blackstock Signs for QPR
-
Dextor Blackstock Joins QPR from Southampton for an Undisclosed FeeQPR Official Site
QPR Official Site - STRIKING A BALANCE
QPR have added to their attacking options by completing the signing of Southampton striker Dextor Blackstock, for an undisclosed fee.
The 20 year-old front-man today penned a three year contract at Loftus Road, and in doing so becomes Gary Waddock's seventh signing of the summer.
A scorer of three goals in just seven first team starts last season, Blackstock - who is a quick, athletic and powerful predator - is in line to make his debut against Southend United this weekend.
"It's great to be here,'' Blackstock told qpr.co.uk moments after putting pen to paper.
"It had all gone a bit stale for me at Southampton and the chance to move to London was just too good to turn down. It's a fresh challenge for me and I couldn't be any happier.
"I had a nice chat with Gary Waddock, who told me about the hunger and desire of the Rangers squad, so there was never any doubt I'd sign.
"I've always enjoyed playing at Loftus Road in the past, so I'm really excited about making my debut here.''
Waddock believes Blackstock will perfectly complement the group of strikers he currently has at his disposal, commenting: "He was at the top of my list when I first took over as Caretaker Manager, so I'm ecstatic.
"I've been monitoring his progress since he was a kid, so it's magnificent that we've finally got him on board.
"He's quick, intelligent and is a natural goalscorer.''
Chairman Gianni Paladini is delighted that the R's prolonged search for a striker is finally over, saying: "It's a huge signing for us - we've been after him for the last four months or so.
"He's the type of player Gary has been looking for and I'm delighted we've beat a number of top Club's to his signature.
"He's a young player, with superb potential and I'm confident he can achieve big things here.
"It's a sign of our intent that we've signed a player of his calibre and I'm sure the fans will join me in wishing him a successful stay at Loftus Road.''
QPR Official Site
Southampton Official Site
Dexter Blackstock has joined QPR for an undisclosed fee.
The 20-year-old striker has moved on to the Londoners after three years on the south coast.
He joined Saints as a scholar from Oxford United but quickly became popular amongst fans after bagging a hat-trick against Colchester and scoring against local rivals Portsmouth in the 2004/5 season.
The arrivals of Grzegorz Rasiak and Bradley Wright Philips this season however have pushed Blackstock down the pecking order prompting his switch to the capital.
Blackstock has today put pen to paper on a three year deal at Loftus Road.
Southampton
Dexter Blackstock's Stats: Clubs/Games/Goals
Dextor Blackstock Joins QPR from Southampton for an Undisclosed FeeQPR Official Site
QPR Official Site - STRIKING A BALANCE
QPR have added to their attacking options by completing the signing of Southampton striker Dextor Blackstock, for an undisclosed fee.
The 20 year-old front-man today penned a three year contract at Loftus Road, and in doing so becomes Gary Waddock's seventh signing of the summer.
A scorer of three goals in just seven first team starts last season, Blackstock - who is a quick, athletic and powerful predator - is in line to make his debut against Southend United this weekend.
"It's great to be here,'' Blackstock told qpr.co.uk moments after putting pen to paper.
"It had all gone a bit stale for me at Southampton and the chance to move to London was just too good to turn down. It's a fresh challenge for me and I couldn't be any happier.
"I had a nice chat with Gary Waddock, who told me about the hunger and desire of the Rangers squad, so there was never any doubt I'd sign.
"I've always enjoyed playing at Loftus Road in the past, so I'm really excited about making my debut here.''
Waddock believes Blackstock will perfectly complement the group of strikers he currently has at his disposal, commenting: "He was at the top of my list when I first took over as Caretaker Manager, so I'm ecstatic.
"I've been monitoring his progress since he was a kid, so it's magnificent that we've finally got him on board.
"He's quick, intelligent and is a natural goalscorer.''
Chairman Gianni Paladini is delighted that the R's prolonged search for a striker is finally over, saying: "It's a huge signing for us - we've been after him for the last four months or so.
"He's the type of player Gary has been looking for and I'm delighted we've beat a number of top Club's to his signature.
"He's a young player, with superb potential and I'm confident he can achieve big things here.
"It's a sign of our intent that we've signed a player of his calibre and I'm sure the fans will join me in wishing him a successful stay at Loftus Road.''
QPR Official Site
Southampton Official Site
Dexter Blackstock has joined QPR for an undisclosed fee.
The 20-year-old striker has moved on to the Londoners after three years on the south coast.
He joined Saints as a scholar from Oxford United but quickly became popular amongst fans after bagging a hat-trick against Colchester and scoring against local rivals Portsmouth in the 2004/5 season.
The arrivals of Grzegorz Rasiak and Bradley Wright Philips this season however have pushed Blackstock down the pecking order prompting his switch to the capital.
Blackstock has today put pen to paper on a three year deal at Loftus Road.
Southampton
Dexter Blackstock's Stats: Clubs/Games/Goals
"Snippet" re QPR's Official Website: Material Removed
-
Just a "snippet" for QPR's Official Website: REMOVED MATERIAL
For whatever reason, there's been a change on the Official Site in recent days (which just noticed today)....
If one goes to the QPR Official Site
and look for "Past stories" - which includes news accounts/Match Reports/Transfer announcements and Official Statements: These past stories (as recently as last week) can no longer be found on the Official Site's "News Archives." Dating back to stories since late June, they are no longer included in the "Display Stories from Week" (although the articles CAN still be found if you know the exact url) The only things currently listed for this period are "QPR (video) World Interviews."
Whether this is temporary or permanent; whether it's going to be extended further back in removing material; and whether it is the case at other Championship websites, have to see.
(feel free to email at QPRreport@hotmail.com )
Just a "snippet" for QPR's Official Website: REMOVED MATERIAL
For whatever reason, there's been a change on the Official Site in recent days (which just noticed today)....
If one goes to the QPR Official Site
and look for "Past stories" - which includes news accounts/Match Reports/Transfer announcements and Official Statements: These past stories (as recently as last week) can no longer be found on the Official Site's "News Archives." Dating back to stories since late June, they are no longer included in the "Display Stories from Week" (although the articles CAN still be found if you know the exact url) The only things currently listed for this period are "QPR (video) World Interviews."
Whether this is temporary or permanent; whether it's going to be extended further back in removing material; and whether it is the case at other Championship websites, have to see.
(feel free to email at QPRreport@hotmail.com )
Ex-QPR's Steve Palmer on Shittu, Waddock & QPR (Ben Kosky/Wembley & Kingsbury Times)
-
Ben Kosky/Wembley & Kingsbury Times
Palmer backs Dan to be a hit
09 August 2006
FORMER QPR captain Steve Palmer is convinced Danny Shittu has the ability to make it in the Premiership following his move to Watford.
Palmer played alongside Shittu several times in the centre of defence during his three years at Loftus Road as Rangers battled to climb out of Division Two.
And it was newly-promoted Watford, another of Palmer's former teams, who finally won the race to sign the big centre-back last weekend after having two earlier bids flatly rejected.
Palmer, a member of the last Hornets side to reach the top flight, insisted: "Danny's got all the attributes to be a top-class footballer.
"When he first came to QPR it was really his start in league football, but he worked very hard, continued to develop and I'm sure he will do well at the highest level.
"I feel Watford are going to approach the Premiership differently from when I was there - they'll spend a bit of money and I hope they do well this season."
Palmer, who started his career at Ipswich, carved out a successful career at Vicarage Road, helping the Hornets to two successive promotions in 1998 and 1999.
He became a key figure as Ian Holloway rebuilt a Rangers side ravaged by relegation and administration in 2001 and clocked up 143 appearances in blue and white hoops.
Released by the Rs after promotion in 2004, Palmer joined Milton Keynes Dons as player-coach, but left the club at the end of last year and announced his retirement from the game.
Now working as performance manager with nine to 16-year-old players at Tottenham's Academy, Palmer still keeps an eye on events at QPR and believes the club are moving in the right direction under Gary Waddock.
He said: "Gary's got them playing the way he wants them to - he's an experienced man and a good QPR man.
"I know there have been a lot of changes going on at the club, but I'm sure he'll do well with the team that he's building and get them pushing towards the top of the league.
"The standard at the top level is definitely continuing to rise and I'm sure that will filter down.
"To get there I think you need a bit of luck, some stability and good leadership and to play the right way.
"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club. I made a great deal of friends there and I look forward to going back there to watch the team play.
Article
Ben Kosky/Wembley & Kingsbury Times
Palmer backs Dan to be a hit
09 August 2006
FORMER QPR captain Steve Palmer is convinced Danny Shittu has the ability to make it in the Premiership following his move to Watford.
Palmer played alongside Shittu several times in the centre of defence during his three years at Loftus Road as Rangers battled to climb out of Division Two.
And it was newly-promoted Watford, another of Palmer's former teams, who finally won the race to sign the big centre-back last weekend after having two earlier bids flatly rejected.
Palmer, a member of the last Hornets side to reach the top flight, insisted: "Danny's got all the attributes to be a top-class footballer.
"When he first came to QPR it was really his start in league football, but he worked very hard, continued to develop and I'm sure he will do well at the highest level.
"I feel Watford are going to approach the Premiership differently from when I was there - they'll spend a bit of money and I hope they do well this season."
Palmer, who started his career at Ipswich, carved out a successful career at Vicarage Road, helping the Hornets to two successive promotions in 1998 and 1999.
He became a key figure as Ian Holloway rebuilt a Rangers side ravaged by relegation and administration in 2001 and clocked up 143 appearances in blue and white hoops.
Released by the Rs after promotion in 2004, Palmer joined Milton Keynes Dons as player-coach, but left the club at the end of last year and announced his retirement from the game.
Now working as performance manager with nine to 16-year-old players at Tottenham's Academy, Palmer still keeps an eye on events at QPR and believes the club are moving in the right direction under Gary Waddock.
He said: "Gary's got them playing the way he wants them to - he's an experienced man and a good QPR man.
"I know there have been a lot of changes going on at the club, but I'm sure he'll do well with the team that he's building and get them pushing towards the top of the league.
"The standard at the top level is definitely continuing to rise and I'm sure that will filter down.
"To get there I think you need a bit of luck, some stability and good leadership and to play the right way.
"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club. I made a great deal of friends there and I look forward to going back there to watch the team play.
Article
Further Reports & Comments
-
The Sun
QPR 2 Leeds 2
AIDAN MAGEE
RANGERS snatched an injury-time equaliser through sub Shabazz Baidoo and manager Gary Waddock insisted: You can’t write us off.
Baidoo, 18, turned the ball in at the near post after Gareth Ainsworth pulled back a Lee Cook cross.
Waddock said: “Many people have been saying we’re going to struggle but I don’t think that and neither do the players here.
“People can write us off — I don’t mind that. Our fitness levels are good and I felt we could have got even more out of the game.
“I thought the game changed when Ray Jones came on in the second half. He and Shabazz are only 18 but they were a handful.”
Leeds were ahead in the 65th minute when Steve Stone’s cross was headed against the bar by David Healy. Geoff Horsfield got the ball back from the by-line and Eddie Lewis volleyed in.
Rangers were level after 81 minutes when Stephen Crainey fouled Ainsworth in the box and Martin Rowlands blasted the spot-kick past Tony Warner.
The home side looked to have been sunk a minute later when Steve Stone’s pass found Horsfield, and the former Fulham man volleyed past Paul Jones.
Then in injury time sub Baidoo gave the home fans plenty to cheer.
Leeds manager Kevin Blackwell was seething though. He said: “We will have to go up the motorway now knowing we have shot ourselves in the foot.
“I didn’t think their first equaliser was a penalty, but then you only have to fart in the box to concede a penalty these days.
“I’ve given the players a tongue-lashing afterwards. A few of them had better buck their ideas up or they won’t be here long enough to find out what will happen to them.”
- The Sun
Blackwell angry - QPR 2 - 2 Leeds United
By Rich Baggott - August 8 2006Sportsnetwork
Leeds manager, Kevin Blackwell was fuming with his players following the 2 - 2 draw with QPR, despite and impressive performance from Leeds
Leeds took the their travels for the first time this season with an away trip to QPR, a team favored by many to be fighting relegation towards the end of the season and an unchanged line up from the team that beat Norwich last Saturday took to the field.
Within the opening minutes it became clear that QPR were packing out the midfield and finding the space on the ball needed. Blackwell changed it round, dropping Healy deeper but playing him in a creative role in front of the midfield. The move worked and Leeds quickly began to dominate for long periods of the first half.
Leeds evened out the goal efforts tally from the few that QPR had created in the opening exchanges. Horsfield nearly latched on to a poor back pass and butler had a good chance with a header - next Healy had a chance and midfielder, Steve Stone, fully recovered from the injury nightmare of the past two season had two great chances that were well saved by Paul Jones in the QPR net.
The Leeds side continued to push with the midfield passing well and push for an opening. Lewis linking up well to fire in the crosses and even Kelly had an excellent chance just after the half hour mark. A goal was looking inevitable.
Bakke, who appeared to be carrying a knock was substituted just after half time, making way for new signing, Westlake and the change did nothing to dampen the Leeds charge. Lewis, Healy, Horsfield and Stone were all pushing and looking dangerous and the goal finally came on 64 minutes. Healy fired a shot onto the bar and Lewis latched on to the rebound and struck a clean shot that left Jones with no chance.
Still Leeds pushed and could have added to the telly straight way with another Horsfield effort and it looked in danger of becoming a whitewash for the QPR fans.
Against the run of play though, a QPR attack ended up with a clumsy challenge from Stephen Crainey - who again had an impressive night prior to the foul. Penalty awarded and Martin Rowlands pulled the scores level.
Refusing to accept a draw as an acceptable end to the game, Leeds responded immediately and restored their one goal advantage. An excellent ball by Stone set up Horsfield superbly and the loan signing opened his account for Leeds with a smart finish.
In the final ten minutes though, Leeds let down their guard and QPR began to come back into the game - A side that looked well organsied and determined for so long suddenly rolled over and invited QPR in to equalise. Two minutes into injury time, the inevitable happened and substitute Shabazz Baidoo poked home from close range to bring the scores level.
In his post match interview, Leeds manager could not hide his anger and frustration with the players for throwing the game in the way they did - whilst acknowledging the stylish and impressive performance, he made it clear that it was not acceptable to perform like that and then lose 2 points. To quote a number of players had received some "Harsh Words" in the dressing room, with Blackwell even stating that players who didn't perform to the required level would be OUT of the club!
It's 4 points from two games from Leeds and Blackwell reaction, coupled with the impressive performance this evening, demonstrates clearly the high standards the club has set itself this year!
http://www.sportnetwork.net/main/s277/st101961.htm
BLACKWELL ANGRY AFTER DRAW
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/NewsroomDetail/0,,10273~879446,00.html
Kevin Blackwell was an angry manager today after watching his Leeds United side dominate the Championship game against Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road last night before suffering a late sucker punch.
Eddie Lewis gave United the lead after 65 minutes but Martin Rowlands equalised from the penalty spot nine minutes from the end. United deservedly went back into the lead a minute later when Geoff Horsfield netted his first goal for the club only for substitute Shabazz Baidoo to grab a last gasp equaliser for Rangers.
The ending left Blackwell fuming. "I told my players if they don't buck their ideas up they will not be around here long enough to make me unhappy again. They have felt the sharp edge of my tongue," he said.
"The players were feeling very down in the dressing room because they knew they had shot themselves in the foot. We were our own worst enemy. I am angry for the players because they were brilliant for most of the game but you have to hope that people learn from their mistakes.
"If people make mistakes and they are genuine ones then fair enough but if it is something I think they can control then they are in danger of losing their place and if they lose their place it is going to be difficult to get it back," he added.
After watching his side play some excellent football and create numerous chances, the gaffer was understandably left feeling frustrated to have seen two points snatched from his team right at the end.
"We have competition for places because we are a club in demand and I am demanding of the players. Make no bones about it if they don't do it then they will suffer for it," he said.
"I think the lads let themselves down after what had been a first class performance. People saw a very good Leeds United side and if we play like that and create ten or eleven chances and dominate the game as much as that you have got to win more games than you lose," he added
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/NewsroomDetail/0,,10273~879446,00.html
Leeds Today
The one that got away
In the shadow of Loftus Road lies Batman Close, a curiously-named street which makes the home of Queens Park Rangers a suitable location for make-believe. . .
Superheroes are in short supply at the London club but, on the evidence of Leeds United's evening in the capital, their appetite for tall stories is vigorous. The records will list last night's result as a 2-2 draw, but a simplistic result cannot come close to depicting the fortuitous nature of QPR's point.
In the space of only four days, Kevin Blackwell has experienced a contrast of emotion rarely associated with first week of a new season. After parrying suggestions that his players were ill-deserving of their 1-0 win over Norwich City on Saturday, United's irate manager stepped on to the other side of the fence yesterday evening to explain exactly how their dominant performance had yielded a deflating draw. But as angry as he felt last night, perspective will be Blackwell's most reliable friend between now and his return to London on Sunday.
By the time Leeds kick off against Crystal Palace this weekend, the benefit of time will allow him to see last night's game for what it was – a mis-match between two clubs whose seasons should bear no comparison by the turn of the year. United's issue was simply one of ruthlessness. Gary Waddock, the QPR manager, would not be expected to entertain notions that his side escaped lightly, but privately he will wonder why Rangers were given the chance to slip the noose.
Between the start of the second half and Rangers' first goal, which came from the penalty spot in the 80th minute, the hosts were barely given a sniff of Tony Warner in United's goal. While Blackwell's defence often lacked conviction, Rangers' threat had diminished to the point of non-existent by the time Stephen Crainey felled Gareth Ainsworth inside the box and breathed life into a match which seemed ready to reward Leeds with a second straight victory.
Had the win been forthcoming, United would have joined the three-way tie which exists at the top of the Championship. But, after two games of the season, the division is already revealing the importance of staying in touch, rather than leading the way. Escaping by Christmas, as Reading and Sheffield United did last season, may prove impossible, but prominence by March is nothing short of vital for those clubs who covet Premiership status.
Last night's performance contained enough quality to mark out Leeds as a team capable of maintaining pace with the pack, although Blackwell's squad is still in need of a sustained period of polishing. United's manager was again forced to reshape his line-up at an early stage last night - as he had on Saturday – by dropping an increasingly ill-fated 4-4-2 system and employing a five-man midfield.
For all his creditable attacking attentions, the first week of the season may have convinced Blackwell beyond doubt that his players are best suited to a solitary striker. There is no question that their games against Norwich and QPR have both turned on tactical alterations, and last night's switch was an important answer to the early threat posed by Rangers.
For a team tipped to be derailed by the Championship this season, QPR started like a train. Blackwell had predicted as much, but even he will have been surprised by the attacking verve shown by Waddock's players.
Pushed forward by Nick Ward, the creative link between QPR's midfield and lone striker Adam Czerkas, the hosts found themselves eye-to-eye with Warner twice inside the first four minutes.
Czerkas wasted the first chance – created by poor communication between Warner and Matthew Kilgallon - by scuffing his shot, and Ward drove a low strike in the hands of United's keeper after running into a huge gap between Kilgallon and Paul Butler.
But the onslaught was predictably brief, and the change of shape implemented by Blackwell allowed the chances to flow for Leeds before half-time.
Eddie Lewis' 19th-minute corner created the clearest opportunity which David Healy stabbed against the legs of Paul Jones, and the Northern Ireland international brought another good reaction from the QPR keeper eight minutes later.
Healy's second opportunity was the direct result of the creativity of Steve Stone, a player whose performance above all others will have given Blackwell reason for optimism last night.
Stone's appearances have totalled six since his move to Elland Road last summer, and it is barely contentious to say that yesterday evening's performance was his best in a United shirt to date.
But the 34-year-old is beginning to offer another option to Blackwell and, though brought on board to run the right wing, Stone played with the aura of midfield playmaker during his 90-minute appearance.
His tireless running was complemented by slick passing and decisive vision, and Stone had a hand in both of the visitors' goals in the second half.
Sustained pressure from Blackwell's side eventually burst the dam in front of them when Healy connected with Stone's 64th-minute cross, lifting his header over Jones and against the underside of the crossbar. The ball bounced kindly to Lewis, who drove a controlled volley into the corner of the net with Rangers' keeper badly out of position.
The goal should have been sufficient to settle the match, but the game – and the revival of Rangers' flagging optimism – hinged on a contentious penalty decision 10 minutes before full time.
Referee Kevin Friend, whose fussy officiating punctured the game's flow, penalised Stephen Crainey after the Scottish defender clattered into the back of Gareth Ainsworth, and Martin Rowlands beat Warner with a well-struck penalty.
United's response was brutal, however, as Stone's lob 60 seconds later dropped over Rangers' defence and into the path of Geoff Horsfield, who took a touch before volleyed his first goal for United past Jones.
Blackwell was ready to travel home happy, but his defence had one more gift to offer Rangers as the match edged into injury time. Lee Cook sent a cross arcing over the head of Crainey, and when Ainsworth cut the ball back from Warner's byline, Shabazz Baidoo reacted first to turn his shot into the net.
QPR might – and should – have stolen the points during a finish which resembled a cup-tie and presented two inviting chances for Ray Jones, but Blackwell's sense of an opportunity missed could not have been deepened by a third QPR goal.
His anger will persist today, although is should not last for long. In the grand scheme of the Championship, two points dropped in August are unlikely to bite United in May. And if last night's result is to be of long-term value, it will be in teaching Blackwell's players to control their own destiny, and not to trust to luck.
http://www.leedstoday.net/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=46&ArticleID=1682340
LEAGUE TABLE
P GD PTS
1 Crystal Palace 2 3 6
2 Burnley 2 3 6
3 Luton 2 3 6
4 West Brom 2 2 4
5 Leeds 2 1 4
6 Cardiff 2 1 4
7 Wolverhampton 2 1 4
8 Plymouth 2 1 4
9 Birmingham 1 1 3
10 Coventry 1 1 3
11 Norwich 2 1 3
12 Stoke 2 1 3
13 Barnsley 2 0 3
14 Southend 2 -1 3
15 Southampton 1 0 1
16 Sheff Wed 2 -1 1
17 Derby 2 -2 1
18 QPR 2 -2 1
19 Preston 2 -2 1
20 Sunderland 1 -1 0
21 Colchester 2 -2 0
22 Ipswich 2 -2 0
23 Hull 2 -3 0
24 Leicester 2 -3 0
Table
The Sun
QPR 2 Leeds 2
AIDAN MAGEE
RANGERS snatched an injury-time equaliser through sub Shabazz Baidoo and manager Gary Waddock insisted: You can’t write us off.
Baidoo, 18, turned the ball in at the near post after Gareth Ainsworth pulled back a Lee Cook cross.
Waddock said: “Many people have been saying we’re going to struggle but I don’t think that and neither do the players here.
“People can write us off — I don’t mind that. Our fitness levels are good and I felt we could have got even more out of the game.
“I thought the game changed when Ray Jones came on in the second half. He and Shabazz are only 18 but they were a handful.”
Leeds were ahead in the 65th minute when Steve Stone’s cross was headed against the bar by David Healy. Geoff Horsfield got the ball back from the by-line and Eddie Lewis volleyed in.
Rangers were level after 81 minutes when Stephen Crainey fouled Ainsworth in the box and Martin Rowlands blasted the spot-kick past Tony Warner.
The home side looked to have been sunk a minute later when Steve Stone’s pass found Horsfield, and the former Fulham man volleyed past Paul Jones.
Then in injury time sub Baidoo gave the home fans plenty to cheer.
Leeds manager Kevin Blackwell was seething though. He said: “We will have to go up the motorway now knowing we have shot ourselves in the foot.
“I didn’t think their first equaliser was a penalty, but then you only have to fart in the box to concede a penalty these days.
“I’ve given the players a tongue-lashing afterwards. A few of them had better buck their ideas up or they won’t be here long enough to find out what will happen to them.”
- The Sun
Blackwell angry - QPR 2 - 2 Leeds United
By Rich Baggott - August 8 2006Sportsnetwork
Leeds manager, Kevin Blackwell was fuming with his players following the 2 - 2 draw with QPR, despite and impressive performance from Leeds
Leeds took the their travels for the first time this season with an away trip to QPR, a team favored by many to be fighting relegation towards the end of the season and an unchanged line up from the team that beat Norwich last Saturday took to the field.
Within the opening minutes it became clear that QPR were packing out the midfield and finding the space on the ball needed. Blackwell changed it round, dropping Healy deeper but playing him in a creative role in front of the midfield. The move worked and Leeds quickly began to dominate for long periods of the first half.
Leeds evened out the goal efforts tally from the few that QPR had created in the opening exchanges. Horsfield nearly latched on to a poor back pass and butler had a good chance with a header - next Healy had a chance and midfielder, Steve Stone, fully recovered from the injury nightmare of the past two season had two great chances that were well saved by Paul Jones in the QPR net.
The Leeds side continued to push with the midfield passing well and push for an opening. Lewis linking up well to fire in the crosses and even Kelly had an excellent chance just after the half hour mark. A goal was looking inevitable.
Bakke, who appeared to be carrying a knock was substituted just after half time, making way for new signing, Westlake and the change did nothing to dampen the Leeds charge. Lewis, Healy, Horsfield and Stone were all pushing and looking dangerous and the goal finally came on 64 minutes. Healy fired a shot onto the bar and Lewis latched on to the rebound and struck a clean shot that left Jones with no chance.
Still Leeds pushed and could have added to the telly straight way with another Horsfield effort and it looked in danger of becoming a whitewash for the QPR fans.
Against the run of play though, a QPR attack ended up with a clumsy challenge from Stephen Crainey - who again had an impressive night prior to the foul. Penalty awarded and Martin Rowlands pulled the scores level.
Refusing to accept a draw as an acceptable end to the game, Leeds responded immediately and restored their one goal advantage. An excellent ball by Stone set up Horsfield superbly and the loan signing opened his account for Leeds with a smart finish.
In the final ten minutes though, Leeds let down their guard and QPR began to come back into the game - A side that looked well organsied and determined for so long suddenly rolled over and invited QPR in to equalise. Two minutes into injury time, the inevitable happened and substitute Shabazz Baidoo poked home from close range to bring the scores level.
In his post match interview, Leeds manager could not hide his anger and frustration with the players for throwing the game in the way they did - whilst acknowledging the stylish and impressive performance, he made it clear that it was not acceptable to perform like that and then lose 2 points. To quote a number of players had received some "Harsh Words" in the dressing room, with Blackwell even stating that players who didn't perform to the required level would be OUT of the club!
It's 4 points from two games from Leeds and Blackwell reaction, coupled with the impressive performance this evening, demonstrates clearly the high standards the club has set itself this year!
http://www.sportnetwork.net/main/s277/st101961.htm
BLACKWELL ANGRY AFTER DRAW
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/NewsroomDetail/0,,10273~879446,00.html
Kevin Blackwell was an angry manager today after watching his Leeds United side dominate the Championship game against Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road last night before suffering a late sucker punch.
Eddie Lewis gave United the lead after 65 minutes but Martin Rowlands equalised from the penalty spot nine minutes from the end. United deservedly went back into the lead a minute later when Geoff Horsfield netted his first goal for the club only for substitute Shabazz Baidoo to grab a last gasp equaliser for Rangers.
The ending left Blackwell fuming. "I told my players if they don't buck their ideas up they will not be around here long enough to make me unhappy again. They have felt the sharp edge of my tongue," he said.
"The players were feeling very down in the dressing room because they knew they had shot themselves in the foot. We were our own worst enemy. I am angry for the players because they were brilliant for most of the game but you have to hope that people learn from their mistakes.
"If people make mistakes and they are genuine ones then fair enough but if it is something I think they can control then they are in danger of losing their place and if they lose their place it is going to be difficult to get it back," he added.
After watching his side play some excellent football and create numerous chances, the gaffer was understandably left feeling frustrated to have seen two points snatched from his team right at the end.
"We have competition for places because we are a club in demand and I am demanding of the players. Make no bones about it if they don't do it then they will suffer for it," he said.
"I think the lads let themselves down after what had been a first class performance. People saw a very good Leeds United side and if we play like that and create ten or eleven chances and dominate the game as much as that you have got to win more games than you lose," he added
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/NewsroomDetail/0,,10273~879446,00.html
Leeds Today
The one that got away
In the shadow of Loftus Road lies Batman Close, a curiously-named street which makes the home of Queens Park Rangers a suitable location for make-believe. . .
Superheroes are in short supply at the London club but, on the evidence of Leeds United's evening in the capital, their appetite for tall stories is vigorous. The records will list last night's result as a 2-2 draw, but a simplistic result cannot come close to depicting the fortuitous nature of QPR's point.
In the space of only four days, Kevin Blackwell has experienced a contrast of emotion rarely associated with first week of a new season. After parrying suggestions that his players were ill-deserving of their 1-0 win over Norwich City on Saturday, United's irate manager stepped on to the other side of the fence yesterday evening to explain exactly how their dominant performance had yielded a deflating draw. But as angry as he felt last night, perspective will be Blackwell's most reliable friend between now and his return to London on Sunday.
By the time Leeds kick off against Crystal Palace this weekend, the benefit of time will allow him to see last night's game for what it was – a mis-match between two clubs whose seasons should bear no comparison by the turn of the year. United's issue was simply one of ruthlessness. Gary Waddock, the QPR manager, would not be expected to entertain notions that his side escaped lightly, but privately he will wonder why Rangers were given the chance to slip the noose.
Between the start of the second half and Rangers' first goal, which came from the penalty spot in the 80th minute, the hosts were barely given a sniff of Tony Warner in United's goal. While Blackwell's defence often lacked conviction, Rangers' threat had diminished to the point of non-existent by the time Stephen Crainey felled Gareth Ainsworth inside the box and breathed life into a match which seemed ready to reward Leeds with a second straight victory.
Had the win been forthcoming, United would have joined the three-way tie which exists at the top of the Championship. But, after two games of the season, the division is already revealing the importance of staying in touch, rather than leading the way. Escaping by Christmas, as Reading and Sheffield United did last season, may prove impossible, but prominence by March is nothing short of vital for those clubs who covet Premiership status.
Last night's performance contained enough quality to mark out Leeds as a team capable of maintaining pace with the pack, although Blackwell's squad is still in need of a sustained period of polishing. United's manager was again forced to reshape his line-up at an early stage last night - as he had on Saturday – by dropping an increasingly ill-fated 4-4-2 system and employing a five-man midfield.
For all his creditable attacking attentions, the first week of the season may have convinced Blackwell beyond doubt that his players are best suited to a solitary striker. There is no question that their games against Norwich and QPR have both turned on tactical alterations, and last night's switch was an important answer to the early threat posed by Rangers.
For a team tipped to be derailed by the Championship this season, QPR started like a train. Blackwell had predicted as much, but even he will have been surprised by the attacking verve shown by Waddock's players.
Pushed forward by Nick Ward, the creative link between QPR's midfield and lone striker Adam Czerkas, the hosts found themselves eye-to-eye with Warner twice inside the first four minutes.
Czerkas wasted the first chance – created by poor communication between Warner and Matthew Kilgallon - by scuffing his shot, and Ward drove a low strike in the hands of United's keeper after running into a huge gap between Kilgallon and Paul Butler.
But the onslaught was predictably brief, and the change of shape implemented by Blackwell allowed the chances to flow for Leeds before half-time.
Eddie Lewis' 19th-minute corner created the clearest opportunity which David Healy stabbed against the legs of Paul Jones, and the Northern Ireland international brought another good reaction from the QPR keeper eight minutes later.
Healy's second opportunity was the direct result of the creativity of Steve Stone, a player whose performance above all others will have given Blackwell reason for optimism last night.
Stone's appearances have totalled six since his move to Elland Road last summer, and it is barely contentious to say that yesterday evening's performance was his best in a United shirt to date.
But the 34-year-old is beginning to offer another option to Blackwell and, though brought on board to run the right wing, Stone played with the aura of midfield playmaker during his 90-minute appearance.
His tireless running was complemented by slick passing and decisive vision, and Stone had a hand in both of the visitors' goals in the second half.
Sustained pressure from Blackwell's side eventually burst the dam in front of them when Healy connected with Stone's 64th-minute cross, lifting his header over Jones and against the underside of the crossbar. The ball bounced kindly to Lewis, who drove a controlled volley into the corner of the net with Rangers' keeper badly out of position.
The goal should have been sufficient to settle the match, but the game – and the revival of Rangers' flagging optimism – hinged on a contentious penalty decision 10 minutes before full time.
Referee Kevin Friend, whose fussy officiating punctured the game's flow, penalised Stephen Crainey after the Scottish defender clattered into the back of Gareth Ainsworth, and Martin Rowlands beat Warner with a well-struck penalty.
United's response was brutal, however, as Stone's lob 60 seconds later dropped over Rangers' defence and into the path of Geoff Horsfield, who took a touch before volleyed his first goal for United past Jones.
Blackwell was ready to travel home happy, but his defence had one more gift to offer Rangers as the match edged into injury time. Lee Cook sent a cross arcing over the head of Crainey, and when Ainsworth cut the ball back from Warner's byline, Shabazz Baidoo reacted first to turn his shot into the net.
QPR might – and should – have stolen the points during a finish which resembled a cup-tie and presented two inviting chances for Ray Jones, but Blackwell's sense of an opportunity missed could not have been deepened by a third QPR goal.
His anger will persist today, although is should not last for long. In the grand scheme of the Championship, two points dropped in August are unlikely to bite United in May. And if last night's result is to be of long-term value, it will be in teaching Blackwell's players to control their own destiny, and not to trust to luck.
http://www.leedstoday.net/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=46&ArticleID=1682340
LEAGUE TABLE
P GD PTS
1 Crystal Palace 2 3 6
2 Burnley 2 3 6
3 Luton 2 3 6
4 West Brom 2 2 4
5 Leeds 2 1 4
6 Cardiff 2 1 4
7 Wolverhampton 2 1 4
8 Plymouth 2 1 4
9 Birmingham 1 1 3
10 Coventry 1 1 3
11 Norwich 2 1 3
12 Stoke 2 1 3
13 Barnsley 2 0 3
14 Southend 2 -1 3
15 Southampton 1 0 1
16 Sheff Wed 2 -1 1
17 Derby 2 -2 1
18 QPR 2 -2 1
19 Preston 2 -2 1
20 Sunderland 1 -1 0
21 Colchester 2 -2 0
22 Ipswich 2 -2 0
23 Hull 2 -3 0
24 Leicester 2 -3 0
Table
Ex-QPR's Don Givens Turns 57
-
Former QPR STAR, DON Givens
Don Givens - Born August 9th 1949.
Signed from Luton for 35,000 pounds in the summer of 1972 as a partial replacement for Rodney Marsh. The ex-Man United forward formed a forward line that was signed betwee July and October 1972: Givens, Bowles and Thomas, that took QPR out of the Second Division and was part of QPR's Championshp team in 1975/1976. Givens scored 23 goals in 41 appearances in that first season.
Eventually was sold to Jim Smith's Birmingham in 1978 for about 150,000 pounds...Ended up playing in Switzerland. And is currently the Republic of Ireland's U-21 Coach.
Also scored prolifically for the Republic of Ireland
QPR & Birmingham Record
Republic of Ireland Record
Former QPR STAR, DON Givens
Don Givens - Born August 9th 1949.
Signed from Luton for 35,000 pounds in the summer of 1972 as a partial replacement for Rodney Marsh. The ex-Man United forward formed a forward line that was signed betwee July and October 1972: Givens, Bowles and Thomas, that took QPR out of the Second Division and was part of QPR's Championshp team in 1975/1976. Givens scored 23 goals in 41 appearances in that first season.
Eventually was sold to Jim Smith's Birmingham in 1978 for about 150,000 pounds...Ended up playing in Switzerland. And is currently the Republic of Ireland's U-21 Coach.
Also scored prolifically for the Republic of Ireland
QPR & Birmingham Record
Republic of Ireland Record
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
QPR 2 Leeds 2 - Reports & Comments
-
Telegraph
Queens Park Rangers (0) 2 Leeds United (0) 2
Leeds United manager Kevin Blackwell was livid after Shabazz Baidoo struck an injury-time equaliser for Queens Park Rangers last night. He even threatened some of his players with a swift exit unless there is marked improvement in their performances.
"We know we have to win at places like this," said Blackwell. ''We've played well tonight and nobody could say that we haven't deserved to win.
''But I've given the players a tongue-lashing after the game because the performance in the last few minutes was just unacceptable.
''A few of them had better buck their ideas up because a few of them might not be around long enough to find out what I will do to them.
"We committed hara-kiri and I'm not putting up with it. When you get in a winning position, you do not throw it away.
"If I've upset a few people, I'm sorry - but that's life."
Blackwell refused to confirm that Leeds are poised to sign defender Mo Camara from Celtic on a season-long loan deal.
Blackwell could spare Eddie Lewis from criticism, a player who looked sharp on the night, volleying home with some abandon after 64 minutes as QPR's resistance wilted.
Steve Stone's cross had been headed on to the crossbar by David Healy, before Geoff Horsfield dragged the ball back from the deadball line for Lewis to finish the job.
Rangers hit back through Martin Rowlands' 80th-minute penalty after the dangerous Gareth Ainsworth had been taken out by Stephen Crainey.
A minute later, however, Horsfield beat the offside trap after Stone had again acted as provider, lobbing the ball over the top to set up a cool finish.
However, Baidoo was not to be thwarted in the final seconds, managing to nip in front of Tony Warner for the second equaliser, following an excellent surging run by Lee Cook.
Leeds looked menacing early on when Healy and Lewis pressed forward. Healy, in particular, was all set to fire Leeds into the lead when he seized on Stone's pass in the 26th minute, but his disappointingly tame shot was smothered by goalkeeper Paul Jones.
What is it with Healy? His Premiership potential is often trumpeted, never more so than after his winner for Northern Ireland over England last year, and this was the type of opportunity he should have buried.
It was a less than glorious half all round for Leeds' thin supply of internationals, with Republic of Ireland defender Gary Kelly firing well over from Lewis' deft set-up.
The encouraging sign for their fans, though, was that, while lethargy laced their opening performance against Norwich City, purpose appeared to be prevailing here.
QPR still seem to be the stuff of mid-table - sturdy and positive, but with a defensive susceptibility that Leeds should have more easily exploited.
Stone was at the heart of many of move, being denied twice inside a minute by the athleticism of Jones. Then came one of the game's clearest chances, after 38 minutes, when Jones pushed Eirik Bakke's powerful free-kick past his right-hand post, having seen the ball late.
At least they continued to threaten up front, Adam Czerkas showing a neat turn of pace and Ainsworth turning Crainey inside out in the second half. Damion Stewart posed a danger, too, but was too often tentative with the final ball.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?view=DETAILS&grid=&xml=/sport/2006/08/09/sfgqpr09.xml
Guardian - Baidoo's late strike thwarts Leeds
Rob Smyth at Loftus Road
Wednesday August 9, 2006
The Guardian
Shabazz Baidoo scored an injury-time equaliser for QPR to deny Leeds a deserved victory after they had dominated for almost the entire match. He turned in Gareth Ainsworth's near-post cross from two yards, and Rangers could even have stolen a winner.
It was a largely unsophisticated contest in which brawn had the better of brain, but Leeds were superior and deserved to be in front long before Eddie Lewis, the outstanding player, struck an excellent goal. QPR equalised through a Martin Rowlands' penalty with nine minutes remaining but within a minute Geoff Horsfield volleyed another for Leeds
Beforehand QPR introduced a new signing, the former England Under-17 centre-half Zesh Rahmam from Fulham, but it could not lift a pre-match mood of weary resignation which was in total contrast to the optimism usually associated with first home game of a new season.
Once the whistle blew, however, the mood was transformed. Rangers started with fury and hunger, and for a while their intensity was too much even for a team as battle-hardened as Leeds.
In the second minute Matthew Kilgallon inexplicably left a blind punt only for the on-loan Adam Czerkas to poke wide when one on one with Leeds's on-loan goalkeeper Tony Warner. A minute later Ainsworth surged infield to make Warner work from the edge of the area.
Leeds took 15 minutes to get a foothold in the game but when they did their superior know-how and self belief began to tell. Their first real chance came when Paul Butler headed down the lively Lewis's corner and David Healy's close-range prod was smothered by Paul Jones.
Slowly Leeds turned the screw. Healy side-footed at Jones from the edge of the area after Damien Stewart had missed Steve Stone's cross, and soon after the former England winger was denied by two desperate point-blank saves from Jones.
It was not especially pretty - both teams seemed determined to give a thorough work-out to the old Brian Clough adage about God putting grass in the sky - but it worked for Leeds and at times QPR were struggling to get out of their own box, never mind their half.
Gary Kelly thrashed high and wide from 10 yards after 34 minutes, and Lewis's free kick was palmed away by the besieged Jones. It was a minor miracle that the home side got to half-time on level terms.
Only one side wanted the interval to come and it showed afterwards. Leeds struggled to pick up where they left off and QPR, glad to have any pieces to pick up at all, emerged with renewed vigour.
As in the first half, however, Leeds reversed the momentum and when another Lewis free-kick caused mayhem in the penalty area, Healy's left-foot shot was blocked by a posse of defenders.
A goal was not so much in the post as on its way by recorded delivery, and it finally arrived with 25 minutes remaining. Stone's clipped cross was headed against the underside of the bar by Healy and as the ball broke loose, Lewis fired a left-foot volley into the top corner.
Leeds were as comfortable as any side leading could be and they will find it hard to fathom how they did not make it six points out of six.
http://football.guardian.co.uk/Match_Report/0,,1840237,00.html
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
QPR 2 Leeds 2
Date : Tue 08 Aug 2006 Kick Off : 20:00
Venue : Loftus Road Attendance : 13996
Comp : Coca-Cola Football League Championship Referee : K Friend
Goals : Rowlands 81 (pen) Baidoo 90 + 1
Lewis 65 Horsfield 82
Match Report
Super-sub Shabazz Baidoo bagged a last gasp leveller as Rangers clinched their first point of the new campaign against Leeds United.
The R's second half substitute scored his first goal at Loftus Road in stoppage time, to the delight of a bumper home crowd.
Martin Rowlands had earlier drawn the R's level from the spot, after Eddie Lewis' opener.
United loanne Geoff Horsfield looked to have won it for Leeds on 83 minutes, but Baidoo came to the rescue, as the R's got their season up and running.
Earlier, Gareth Ainsworth and David Healy both went close for their respective sides in the first half.
It was the latter who perhaps squandered the best opportunity of the half, shooting straight at Paul Jones on 26 minutes, while Ainsworth should maybe have done better when faced one-on-one with Tony Warner on the edge of the penalty box early on.
Gary Waddock named an unchanged side, with Nicky Ward, Damion Stewart and Adam Czerkas all making their home debuts.
Ward played the withdrawn striker role behind Czerkas, with Martin Rowlands offering support in his first appearance at Loftus Road since January 2nd.
Rangers were on the front foot from the first whistle, with comeback kid Rowlands delivering a teasing free-kick into the box which the Whites rearguard cleared with ease.
Czerkas picked up from where he left off in the first half against Burnley, getting goal-side of his man, only to scuff his second minute shot wide of the near post.
The Rangers Alamo continued 60 seconds later, with skipper for the night Ainsworth shooting straight at Warner from 15 yards.
Matthew Kilgallon was extremely fortunate to not pick up a fifth minute booking, when his ridiculously late lunge on Ainsworth saw the R's skipper bundled to ground.
Lee Cook's resultant free-kick was tipped round by Warner, as the R's continued to take the game to their visitors.
After Kilgallon's lucky escape, Leeds left-back Stephen Crainey eventually became the first player in referee Mr Friend's notebook on six minutes, for a blatant handball on the right wing.
It was the lively Cook who went closest to breaking the deadlock on 10 minutes, thrashing a speculative drive two yards wide of the left upright from fully 30 yards.
The one-way traffic continued and after fine build-up play involving Ward and Cook, Crainey had to be at his agile best to steer the ball to safety at the far post.
Leeds' first foray into Rangers territory was as a result of an indifferent piece of defending at the heart of the R's back four on 16 minutes.
After twice failing to clear their lines, Paul Jones' attempted clearance was blocked by Geoff Horsfield, only for the ricochet to come to nothing.
Welsh international Jones came to Rangers' rescue on 18 minutes, diving at the feet of Healy, after Kilgallon's initial header was diverted on target by the conqueror of England in Belfast last year.
All of Rangers' early hard work almost went to waste on 26 minutes, but after Healy got goal-side of Matthew Rose, the Northern Ireland international could only shoot straight at Jones.
Jones' heroics continued on 31 minutes, as the veteran keeper produced an outstanding double save to thwart Steve Stone from close range.
It was another veteran - Leeds right back Gary Kelly - who squandered the best chance of the half on 34 minutes.
Arriving bang on cue to Eddie Lewis' inch-perfect pull back, the Eire man smashed his 12 yard effort high and wide.
Damion Stewart picked up his first yellow card for his new Club on 39 minutes, but quite what referee Mr Friend saw in his perfectly-timed challenge on Eirik Bakke will remain a mystery for a long time to come.
Jones was on hand to save Healy's resultant 20-yard free-kick, as the end-to-end entertainment continued as the half drew to a conclusion.
Neither side made any changes at the break, but it was the hosts who created the first chance of the half, with Ward cutting in from the right flank before curling a stinging effort into the grasp of Warner.
Ward was clearly growing in stature as the game wore on and after he found Cook with a delightful reverse through ball, the wingers' inviting pass was hacked to safety by Kelly, with Mauro Milanese waiting to pounce.
After Bakke - clearly still shaken after Stewarts' first half tackle - made way for Ian Westlake, Rangers were forced into their first change, with the flu-stricken Czerkas replaced by Ray Jones.
It was end-to-end stuff and after Horsfield saw his shot blocked by a mass of bodies in the 59th minute, the R's broke at pace, with Cook and Ward combining to set up Ainsworth, who saw his header deflected over for a corner.
It was a truly scintillating counter attack - the best of the match by far - and probably deserved more than the corner which followed.
But the old adage that suggests you need to take your chances when you're on top came back to haunt the R's a minute or so later.
Stone's back post cross was headed on to the bar by Healy, and Lewis pounced on the loose ball to send the travelling Leeds fans into raptures.
Staring down the barrel of back-to-back defeats, Waddock threw caution to the wind, switching to an attacking 4-4-2 formation, with Ainsworth joining Jones in the final third.
A rare Rangers foray into Leeds territory saw Warner re-gather at the second attempt from Cook's left sided cross, but in truth that was as good as it got for the R's.
It was soon 4-3-3 for the R's, as Shabazz Baidoo entered the fray in place of Marcus Bignot and immediately joined Jones and Ainsworth in attack
The move paid dividends two minutes later, with Ainsworth receiving the ball with his back to goal, only to be pushed to ground in the box by Crainey.
Rowlands stepped up from the spot and sent the ball firing into the bottom left hand corner for the R's first goal of the new campaign.
But that wasn't the end of the scoring and just 60 seconds later, Horsfield bagged his first goal in a Leeds shirt, when he capitalised on Stone's deft header before burying a ten yard volley past the exposed Jones.
The Leeds loanee had a chance to bag goal number three on 83 minutes, but this time saw his six yard header nestle wide of the far post.
Ray Jones could've made a huge name for himself a minute from time, but shot high, wide and handsome with the goal gaping.
The teenage striker almost produced a wonder goal on 90 minutes, but Warner was down well to save the strikers volley at his feet.
But Rangers are a resilient bunch under Waddock and when Ainsworth rescued a seemingly wasteful cross from the by-line, Baidoo pounced from little more than two yards to clinch a draw.
Remarkably, Jones still had two chances to win it in time added on. His first effort was saved at the second attempt by Warner, before a amazing thunderous volley finished inches wide in the fourth and final minute of stoppage time.
QPR: P Jones, Bignot (Baidoo 76), Rose, Stewart, Milanese, Ainsworth, Lomas, Rowlands (Bircham 89), Cook, Ward, Czerkas (Jones 54).
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka.
Goals: Rowlands 80 (pen), Baidoo 90
Bookings: Stewart 39
Red Cards:
Leeds United: Warner, Kelly, Crainey, Butler, Healy (Carole 76), Horsfield (Moore 84), Lewis, Stone, Bakke (Westlake 50), Derry, Kilgallon.
Subs: Gregan, Blake.
Goals: Lewis 65, Horsfield 82
Bookings: Killgallon 6, Derry 45, Warner 79
Red Cards:
Referee: Mr K A Friend
Attendance: 13,966
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/MatchReport/0,,10373~32559,00.html
WADDOCK'S COMMENTS - OFFICIAL SITE
Waddo's Words FAITH IN KIDS
Gary Waddock praised the impact of Shabazz Baidoo and Ray Jones after the R's clinched a deserved point against Leeds.
"It's vital we keep producing young players at this Club and Ray and Shabazz have shown what can happen when you give youth a chance.
"I've always said that if they're good enough I'll play them and the pair of them turned the game on its head.''
Teenager Baidoo ensured a share of the spoils in stoppage time, after Martin Rowlands had earlier cancelled out Eddie Lewis' opener.
Geoff Horsfield looked to have won it for the Whites, only for Baidoo to strike late on.
"The crowd will go home delighted and after the way they supported us tonight, that's the least they deserve.
"I was delighted with the level of performance. The lads were exceptional against a Leeds side who will be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.
"A point is the least we deserved on the night and the players have got to believe they are capable of beating big sides like Leeds after that display.
"It's a huge confidence boost and the lads deserve all the praise that comes their way.''
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/ManagersComments/0,,10373~879261,00.html
Blackwell & Waddock Comments
BLACKWELL SLAMS SUICIDAL LEEDS
By Tom Collomosse, PA Sport
Furious Kevin Blackwell tore into his Leeds players after watching them throw away two points at QPR.
Leeds - who had been in charge for all but the opening 20 minutes - led 2-1 in stoppage time, but some slack defending allowed substitute Shabazz Baidoo to make it 2-2 and rescue a point for Rangers.
Leeds twice led through goals from Eddie Lewis and on-loan forward Geoff Horsfield, strikes that sandwiched Martin Rowlands' 81st-minute penalty for the home side.
But it was Baidoo's intervention late on that left Blackwell practically shaking with anger - and threatening to kick some of his players out of Elland Road.
"I've let a few players know I'm not happy," Blackwell said.
"If they do not buck their ideas up, they will not be around here long enough to make me unhappy again.
"We shot ourselves in the foot, and, as a professional footballer, you have to learn not to shoot yourself in the foot.
"The players have felt the sharp edge of my tongue, and they had better learn from it. The finishing is not good enough for where we want to be.
"We committed hara-kiri and I'm not putting up with it. When you get in a winning position, you do not throw it away.
"If I've upset a few people, I'm sorry - but that's life."
Blackwell refused to confirm that Leeds are poised to sign defender Mo Camara from Celtic on a season-long loan deal.
The result means Leeds have collected four points from their opening two Coca-Cola Championship fixtures, following the 1-0 win over Norwich on Saturday.
Rangers - one of the pre-season relegation favourites - are off the mark for the season after being beaten 2-0 at Burnley on the opening day.
Their manager Gary Waddock said: "We played a team who will be there or thereabouts at the end of the season, and we have picked up a point.
"Other people might tip us for relegation, but we know what we want to achieve within this club.
"On the evidence of tonight's performance, we will be OK, but we need to make tonight the benchmark and repeat it against Southend on Saturday."
The tide turned late in the game when Waddock threw on young strikers Baidoo and Ray Jones, who caused the Leeds defence far more problems than the ineffective Adam Czerkas.
Waddock added: "They played together in the youth team and the reserves, but the standard of the Championship is much higher.
"They need to develop and work hard, although I'm sure we will hear a lot more from them.
"We need to turn Loftus Road into a fortress - and tonight was a good start."
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/nationwide1/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/06/08/08/SOCCER_QPR_2nd_Nightlead.html
LEEDS OFFICIAL SITE
HONOURS EVEN
QPR 2 (Rowlands 80 pen, Baidoo 90), LEEDS UNITED 2 (Lewis 64, Horsfield 81)
QPR: P Jones, Bignot (Baidoo 77), Milanese, Rose, Ward, Ainsworth, Rowlands (Bircham 88), Lomas, Cook, Stewart, Czerkas (R Jones 55). Subs: Cole, Kanyuka.
UNITED: Warner, Kelly, Butler, Kilgallon, Crainey, Stone, Bakke (Westlake 49), Derry, Lewis, Healy (Carole 76), Horsfield (Moore 84). Subs: Gregan, Blake.
Ref: K Friend
Att: 13,966
United manager Kevin Blackwell stuck with the same side that accounted for Norwich at Elland Road on Saturday. Eirik Bakke and Paul Butler recovered from minor knocks to take their place in the starting line-up along with on-loan goalkeeper Tony Warner, who continues to deputise for Neil Sullivan.
Warner was called into action twice inside the opening 15 minutes as QPR made a brisk opening - the imposing keeper stood his ground well against Adam Czerkas and saved from Gareth Ainsworth. It was a lively start by the home side as they attempted to give Leeds no time to settle.
However, United boss Blackwell again tinkered with his system during the early exchanges and after stemming the QPR flurry, Leeds slowly took control and carved out a number of good opportunities.
Geoff Horsfield was first to capitalise when he almost cashed in on a poor back-pass while Paul Butler threatened with a close range header. Home goalkeeper Paul Jones reacted well to deny David Healy after good work by Steve Stone, and Stone himself had two attempts blocked.
United's best chance of the first half came on 35 minutes when Gary Kelly smashed an Eddie Lewis cross over the top while, moments before the interval, QPR goalkeeper Jones saved well from a curling Lewis free-kick.
United lost Bakke through injury shortly after the break, but they remainded in the ascendancy and continued to dominate the clash. Steve Stone and Eddie Lewis were constant threats and the American was also a danger at set-plays as Leeds looked to force the advantage.
It took some quick defending to deny Healy on the hour-mark, who capitalised on a Butler knock-down from one Lewis free-kick, while Horsfield came within a whisker of turning another Lewis delivery towards goal.
But the goal that Leeds so richly deserved finally came on 64 minutes. Horsfield and Stone were both involved as Healy saw a header rattle the bar, but the ball was only cleared as far as Lewis and the Californian made no mistake with a rasping finish.
Yet, with Leeds cruising, the home side were handed a shock lifeline when Stephen Crainey was adjudged to have committed a foul during a rare QPR sortie and the referee had no doubt about awarding a penalty. United protested - Warner was booked - but Martin Rowlands made no mistake from the spot.
It took less than a minute for United to restore their lead though. Stone played in Horsfield with a delightful ball and the loan striker took his chance with aplomb to open his goalscoring account for his new club. It was no more than Leeds or Horsfield deserved, but there was still more drama to come.
Rangers came pouring forward in search of an equaliser and substitute Shabazz Baidoo came up with the goods in the final minute when he poked home from close range after a good break down the right by the Londoners.
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/NewsroomDetail/0,,10273~879206,00.html
BBC QPR 2-2 Leeds
Sub Shabazz Baidoo struck in stoppage time to rescue a point for QPR.
The visitors looked to have sealed victory when Geoff Horsfield scored on 82 minutes, but Baidoo's near-post finish earned the Londoners a point.
A minute before Horsfield's goal, Martin Rowlands had slotted in a penalty to level for QPR after Stephen Crainey had fouled Gareth Ainsworth.
Eddie Lewis put Leeds ahead in the 65th minute when he volleyed in the loose ball after Rangers had failed to clear.
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/5248140.stm
SPORTING LIFE
QPR 2 Leeds 2
By Tom Collomosse, PA Sport
Click here for full match stats
Substitute Shabazz Baidoo struck in stoppage time to rescue a point for QPR against Leeds.
The visitors looked to have the points sewn up when Geoff Horsfield scored with eight minutes remaining, but Baidoo's near-post finish earned a much-needed point for the Londoners.
His goal capped a frenetic final 10 minutes. A minute before Horsfield's goal, Martin Rowlands had scored a penalty for QPR to cancel out Eddie Lewis' opener.
But Baidoo's effort ensured Rangers are off the mark in the Coca-Cola Championship, while Leeds have four points from two matches.
QPR began their season with a defeat at Burnley, but they started this match with purpose and conviction, and created a number of early chances, but Adam Czerkas - making his home debut - Gareth Ainsworth and Lee Cook failed to take them.
After a ponderous opening 20 minutes, Leeds began to find their rhythm, and David Healy should have given them the lead in the 19th minute when Horsfield nodded Lewis' left-wing corner into his path, but he shot weakly at Paul Jones from only six yards.
Jones again kept his team level in the 32nd minute with an excellent point-blank save from Steve Stone, who had latched on to another Horsfield knock-down following Stephen Crainey's long throw.
Rangers were looking shaky in defence, and 10 minutes before the break, Lewis beat Marcus Bignot and cut the ball across the face of the goal from the left - only for the unmarked Gary Kelly to hammer the ball into the home fans from just eight yards.
Jones continued to thwart Leeds. After home debutant Damion Stewart had been booked for a foul on Eirik Bakke 22 yards out, the Welshman made another fine stop from Lewis' curling free-kick.
Leeds looked the likelier scorers early in the second half, and Healy saw another shot blocked on the hour mark after Paul Butler had headed Lewis' free-kick across goal.
But seconds later, Leeds had Crainey to thank for a superb defensive header that prevented Ainsworth reaching Cook's cross.
The visitors finally went ahead when Healy headed Stone's right-wing cross against the bar and, after Rangers had failed to clear, Lewis volleyed in the loose ball from six yards.
Nine minutes from time, Rangers thought they had earned a draw when Rowlands beat Tony Warner from the penalty spot after Crainey had fouled Ainsworth - but Leeds immediately pushed forward, on-loan striker Horsfield collecting Stone's pass before steering a shot into the bottom-right corner for his first Leeds goal.
With the 90 minutes up, Ainsworth hooked Cook's left-wing cross back into the danger zone, and Baidoo was there to score from a yard.
Teams:
QPR Paul Jones, Bignot (Baidoo 77), Rose, Stewart, Milanese,Ainsworth, Rowlands (Bircham 87), Lomas, Ward, Cook,Czerkas (Ray Jones 55).
Subs Not Used: Cole, Kanyuka.
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/reports/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/06/08/08/SOCCER_QPR.html
Also See:
Simon Skinner/QPR Net Match Report
Telegraph
Queens Park Rangers (0) 2 Leeds United (0) 2
Leeds United manager Kevin Blackwell was livid after Shabazz Baidoo struck an injury-time equaliser for Queens Park Rangers last night. He even threatened some of his players with a swift exit unless there is marked improvement in their performances.
"We know we have to win at places like this," said Blackwell. ''We've played well tonight and nobody could say that we haven't deserved to win.
''But I've given the players a tongue-lashing after the game because the performance in the last few minutes was just unacceptable.
''A few of them had better buck their ideas up because a few of them might not be around long enough to find out what I will do to them.
"We committed hara-kiri and I'm not putting up with it. When you get in a winning position, you do not throw it away.
"If I've upset a few people, I'm sorry - but that's life."
Blackwell refused to confirm that Leeds are poised to sign defender Mo Camara from Celtic on a season-long loan deal.
Blackwell could spare Eddie Lewis from criticism, a player who looked sharp on the night, volleying home with some abandon after 64 minutes as QPR's resistance wilted.
Steve Stone's cross had been headed on to the crossbar by David Healy, before Geoff Horsfield dragged the ball back from the deadball line for Lewis to finish the job.
Rangers hit back through Martin Rowlands' 80th-minute penalty after the dangerous Gareth Ainsworth had been taken out by Stephen Crainey.
A minute later, however, Horsfield beat the offside trap after Stone had again acted as provider, lobbing the ball over the top to set up a cool finish.
However, Baidoo was not to be thwarted in the final seconds, managing to nip in front of Tony Warner for the second equaliser, following an excellent surging run by Lee Cook.
Leeds looked menacing early on when Healy and Lewis pressed forward. Healy, in particular, was all set to fire Leeds into the lead when he seized on Stone's pass in the 26th minute, but his disappointingly tame shot was smothered by goalkeeper Paul Jones.
What is it with Healy? His Premiership potential is often trumpeted, never more so than after his winner for Northern Ireland over England last year, and this was the type of opportunity he should have buried.
It was a less than glorious half all round for Leeds' thin supply of internationals, with Republic of Ireland defender Gary Kelly firing well over from Lewis' deft set-up.
The encouraging sign for their fans, though, was that, while lethargy laced their opening performance against Norwich City, purpose appeared to be prevailing here.
QPR still seem to be the stuff of mid-table - sturdy and positive, but with a defensive susceptibility that Leeds should have more easily exploited.
Stone was at the heart of many of move, being denied twice inside a minute by the athleticism of Jones. Then came one of the game's clearest chances, after 38 minutes, when Jones pushed Eirik Bakke's powerful free-kick past his right-hand post, having seen the ball late.
At least they continued to threaten up front, Adam Czerkas showing a neat turn of pace and Ainsworth turning Crainey inside out in the second half. Damion Stewart posed a danger, too, but was too often tentative with the final ball.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?view=DETAILS&grid=&xml=/sport/2006/08/09/sfgqpr09.xml
Guardian - Baidoo's late strike thwarts Leeds
Rob Smyth at Loftus Road
Wednesday August 9, 2006
The Guardian
Shabazz Baidoo scored an injury-time equaliser for QPR to deny Leeds a deserved victory after they had dominated for almost the entire match. He turned in Gareth Ainsworth's near-post cross from two yards, and Rangers could even have stolen a winner.
It was a largely unsophisticated contest in which brawn had the better of brain, but Leeds were superior and deserved to be in front long before Eddie Lewis, the outstanding player, struck an excellent goal. QPR equalised through a Martin Rowlands' penalty with nine minutes remaining but within a minute Geoff Horsfield volleyed another for Leeds
Beforehand QPR introduced a new signing, the former England Under-17 centre-half Zesh Rahmam from Fulham, but it could not lift a pre-match mood of weary resignation which was in total contrast to the optimism usually associated with first home game of a new season.
Once the whistle blew, however, the mood was transformed. Rangers started with fury and hunger, and for a while their intensity was too much even for a team as battle-hardened as Leeds.
In the second minute Matthew Kilgallon inexplicably left a blind punt only for the on-loan Adam Czerkas to poke wide when one on one with Leeds's on-loan goalkeeper Tony Warner. A minute later Ainsworth surged infield to make Warner work from the edge of the area.
Leeds took 15 minutes to get a foothold in the game but when they did their superior know-how and self belief began to tell. Their first real chance came when Paul Butler headed down the lively Lewis's corner and David Healy's close-range prod was smothered by Paul Jones.
Slowly Leeds turned the screw. Healy side-footed at Jones from the edge of the area after Damien Stewart had missed Steve Stone's cross, and soon after the former England winger was denied by two desperate point-blank saves from Jones.
It was not especially pretty - both teams seemed determined to give a thorough work-out to the old Brian Clough adage about God putting grass in the sky - but it worked for Leeds and at times QPR were struggling to get out of their own box, never mind their half.
Gary Kelly thrashed high and wide from 10 yards after 34 minutes, and Lewis's free kick was palmed away by the besieged Jones. It was a minor miracle that the home side got to half-time on level terms.
Only one side wanted the interval to come and it showed afterwards. Leeds struggled to pick up where they left off and QPR, glad to have any pieces to pick up at all, emerged with renewed vigour.
As in the first half, however, Leeds reversed the momentum and when another Lewis free-kick caused mayhem in the penalty area, Healy's left-foot shot was blocked by a posse of defenders.
A goal was not so much in the post as on its way by recorded delivery, and it finally arrived with 25 minutes remaining. Stone's clipped cross was headed against the underside of the bar by Healy and as the ball broke loose, Lewis fired a left-foot volley into the top corner.
Leeds were as comfortable as any side leading could be and they will find it hard to fathom how they did not make it six points out of six.
http://football.guardian.co.uk/Match_Report/0,,1840237,00.html
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
QPR 2 Leeds 2
Date : Tue 08 Aug 2006 Kick Off : 20:00
Venue : Loftus Road Attendance : 13996
Comp : Coca-Cola Football League Championship Referee : K Friend
Goals : Rowlands 81 (pen) Baidoo 90 + 1
Lewis 65 Horsfield 82
Match Report
Super-sub Shabazz Baidoo bagged a last gasp leveller as Rangers clinched their first point of the new campaign against Leeds United.
The R's second half substitute scored his first goal at Loftus Road in stoppage time, to the delight of a bumper home crowd.
Martin Rowlands had earlier drawn the R's level from the spot, after Eddie Lewis' opener.
United loanne Geoff Horsfield looked to have won it for Leeds on 83 minutes, but Baidoo came to the rescue, as the R's got their season up and running.
Earlier, Gareth Ainsworth and David Healy both went close for their respective sides in the first half.
It was the latter who perhaps squandered the best opportunity of the half, shooting straight at Paul Jones on 26 minutes, while Ainsworth should maybe have done better when faced one-on-one with Tony Warner on the edge of the penalty box early on.
Gary Waddock named an unchanged side, with Nicky Ward, Damion Stewart and Adam Czerkas all making their home debuts.
Ward played the withdrawn striker role behind Czerkas, with Martin Rowlands offering support in his first appearance at Loftus Road since January 2nd.
Rangers were on the front foot from the first whistle, with comeback kid Rowlands delivering a teasing free-kick into the box which the Whites rearguard cleared with ease.
Czerkas picked up from where he left off in the first half against Burnley, getting goal-side of his man, only to scuff his second minute shot wide of the near post.
The Rangers Alamo continued 60 seconds later, with skipper for the night Ainsworth shooting straight at Warner from 15 yards.
Matthew Kilgallon was extremely fortunate to not pick up a fifth minute booking, when his ridiculously late lunge on Ainsworth saw the R's skipper bundled to ground.
Lee Cook's resultant free-kick was tipped round by Warner, as the R's continued to take the game to their visitors.
After Kilgallon's lucky escape, Leeds left-back Stephen Crainey eventually became the first player in referee Mr Friend's notebook on six minutes, for a blatant handball on the right wing.
It was the lively Cook who went closest to breaking the deadlock on 10 minutes, thrashing a speculative drive two yards wide of the left upright from fully 30 yards.
The one-way traffic continued and after fine build-up play involving Ward and Cook, Crainey had to be at his agile best to steer the ball to safety at the far post.
Leeds' first foray into Rangers territory was as a result of an indifferent piece of defending at the heart of the R's back four on 16 minutes.
After twice failing to clear their lines, Paul Jones' attempted clearance was blocked by Geoff Horsfield, only for the ricochet to come to nothing.
Welsh international Jones came to Rangers' rescue on 18 minutes, diving at the feet of Healy, after Kilgallon's initial header was diverted on target by the conqueror of England in Belfast last year.
All of Rangers' early hard work almost went to waste on 26 minutes, but after Healy got goal-side of Matthew Rose, the Northern Ireland international could only shoot straight at Jones.
Jones' heroics continued on 31 minutes, as the veteran keeper produced an outstanding double save to thwart Steve Stone from close range.
It was another veteran - Leeds right back Gary Kelly - who squandered the best chance of the half on 34 minutes.
Arriving bang on cue to Eddie Lewis' inch-perfect pull back, the Eire man smashed his 12 yard effort high and wide.
Damion Stewart picked up his first yellow card for his new Club on 39 minutes, but quite what referee Mr Friend saw in his perfectly-timed challenge on Eirik Bakke will remain a mystery for a long time to come.
Jones was on hand to save Healy's resultant 20-yard free-kick, as the end-to-end entertainment continued as the half drew to a conclusion.
Neither side made any changes at the break, but it was the hosts who created the first chance of the half, with Ward cutting in from the right flank before curling a stinging effort into the grasp of Warner.
Ward was clearly growing in stature as the game wore on and after he found Cook with a delightful reverse through ball, the wingers' inviting pass was hacked to safety by Kelly, with Mauro Milanese waiting to pounce.
After Bakke - clearly still shaken after Stewarts' first half tackle - made way for Ian Westlake, Rangers were forced into their first change, with the flu-stricken Czerkas replaced by Ray Jones.
It was end-to-end stuff and after Horsfield saw his shot blocked by a mass of bodies in the 59th minute, the R's broke at pace, with Cook and Ward combining to set up Ainsworth, who saw his header deflected over for a corner.
It was a truly scintillating counter attack - the best of the match by far - and probably deserved more than the corner which followed.
But the old adage that suggests you need to take your chances when you're on top came back to haunt the R's a minute or so later.
Stone's back post cross was headed on to the bar by Healy, and Lewis pounced on the loose ball to send the travelling Leeds fans into raptures.
Staring down the barrel of back-to-back defeats, Waddock threw caution to the wind, switching to an attacking 4-4-2 formation, with Ainsworth joining Jones in the final third.
A rare Rangers foray into Leeds territory saw Warner re-gather at the second attempt from Cook's left sided cross, but in truth that was as good as it got for the R's.
It was soon 4-3-3 for the R's, as Shabazz Baidoo entered the fray in place of Marcus Bignot and immediately joined Jones and Ainsworth in attack
The move paid dividends two minutes later, with Ainsworth receiving the ball with his back to goal, only to be pushed to ground in the box by Crainey.
Rowlands stepped up from the spot and sent the ball firing into the bottom left hand corner for the R's first goal of the new campaign.
But that wasn't the end of the scoring and just 60 seconds later, Horsfield bagged his first goal in a Leeds shirt, when he capitalised on Stone's deft header before burying a ten yard volley past the exposed Jones.
The Leeds loanee had a chance to bag goal number three on 83 minutes, but this time saw his six yard header nestle wide of the far post.
Ray Jones could've made a huge name for himself a minute from time, but shot high, wide and handsome with the goal gaping.
The teenage striker almost produced a wonder goal on 90 minutes, but Warner was down well to save the strikers volley at his feet.
But Rangers are a resilient bunch under Waddock and when Ainsworth rescued a seemingly wasteful cross from the by-line, Baidoo pounced from little more than two yards to clinch a draw.
Remarkably, Jones still had two chances to win it in time added on. His first effort was saved at the second attempt by Warner, before a amazing thunderous volley finished inches wide in the fourth and final minute of stoppage time.
QPR: P Jones, Bignot (Baidoo 76), Rose, Stewart, Milanese, Ainsworth, Lomas, Rowlands (Bircham 89), Cook, Ward, Czerkas (Jones 54).
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka.
Goals: Rowlands 80 (pen), Baidoo 90
Bookings: Stewart 39
Red Cards:
Leeds United: Warner, Kelly, Crainey, Butler, Healy (Carole 76), Horsfield (Moore 84), Lewis, Stone, Bakke (Westlake 50), Derry, Kilgallon.
Subs: Gregan, Blake.
Goals: Lewis 65, Horsfield 82
Bookings: Killgallon 6, Derry 45, Warner 79
Red Cards:
Referee: Mr K A Friend
Attendance: 13,966
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/MatchReport/0,,10373~32559,00.html
WADDOCK'S COMMENTS - OFFICIAL SITE
Waddo's Words FAITH IN KIDS
Gary Waddock praised the impact of Shabazz Baidoo and Ray Jones after the R's clinched a deserved point against Leeds.
"It's vital we keep producing young players at this Club and Ray and Shabazz have shown what can happen when you give youth a chance.
"I've always said that if they're good enough I'll play them and the pair of them turned the game on its head.''
Teenager Baidoo ensured a share of the spoils in stoppage time, after Martin Rowlands had earlier cancelled out Eddie Lewis' opener.
Geoff Horsfield looked to have won it for the Whites, only for Baidoo to strike late on.
"The crowd will go home delighted and after the way they supported us tonight, that's the least they deserve.
"I was delighted with the level of performance. The lads were exceptional against a Leeds side who will be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.
"A point is the least we deserved on the night and the players have got to believe they are capable of beating big sides like Leeds after that display.
"It's a huge confidence boost and the lads deserve all the praise that comes their way.''
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Match/ManagersComments/0,,10373~879261,00.html
Blackwell & Waddock Comments
BLACKWELL SLAMS SUICIDAL LEEDS
By Tom Collomosse, PA Sport
Furious Kevin Blackwell tore into his Leeds players after watching them throw away two points at QPR.
Leeds - who had been in charge for all but the opening 20 minutes - led 2-1 in stoppage time, but some slack defending allowed substitute Shabazz Baidoo to make it 2-2 and rescue a point for Rangers.
Leeds twice led through goals from Eddie Lewis and on-loan forward Geoff Horsfield, strikes that sandwiched Martin Rowlands' 81st-minute penalty for the home side.
But it was Baidoo's intervention late on that left Blackwell practically shaking with anger - and threatening to kick some of his players out of Elland Road.
"I've let a few players know I'm not happy," Blackwell said.
"If they do not buck their ideas up, they will not be around here long enough to make me unhappy again.
"We shot ourselves in the foot, and, as a professional footballer, you have to learn not to shoot yourself in the foot.
"The players have felt the sharp edge of my tongue, and they had better learn from it. The finishing is not good enough for where we want to be.
"We committed hara-kiri and I'm not putting up with it. When you get in a winning position, you do not throw it away.
"If I've upset a few people, I'm sorry - but that's life."
Blackwell refused to confirm that Leeds are poised to sign defender Mo Camara from Celtic on a season-long loan deal.
The result means Leeds have collected four points from their opening two Coca-Cola Championship fixtures, following the 1-0 win over Norwich on Saturday.
Rangers - one of the pre-season relegation favourites - are off the mark for the season after being beaten 2-0 at Burnley on the opening day.
Their manager Gary Waddock said: "We played a team who will be there or thereabouts at the end of the season, and we have picked up a point.
"Other people might tip us for relegation, but we know what we want to achieve within this club.
"On the evidence of tonight's performance, we will be OK, but we need to make tonight the benchmark and repeat it against Southend on Saturday."
The tide turned late in the game when Waddock threw on young strikers Baidoo and Ray Jones, who caused the Leeds defence far more problems than the ineffective Adam Czerkas.
Waddock added: "They played together in the youth team and the reserves, but the standard of the Championship is much higher.
"They need to develop and work hard, although I'm sure we will hear a lot more from them.
"We need to turn Loftus Road into a fortress - and tonight was a good start."
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/nationwide1/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/06/08/08/SOCCER_QPR_2nd_Nightlead.html
LEEDS OFFICIAL SITE
HONOURS EVEN
QPR 2 (Rowlands 80 pen, Baidoo 90), LEEDS UNITED 2 (Lewis 64, Horsfield 81)
QPR: P Jones, Bignot (Baidoo 77), Milanese, Rose, Ward, Ainsworth, Rowlands (Bircham 88), Lomas, Cook, Stewart, Czerkas (R Jones 55). Subs: Cole, Kanyuka.
UNITED: Warner, Kelly, Butler, Kilgallon, Crainey, Stone, Bakke (Westlake 49), Derry, Lewis, Healy (Carole 76), Horsfield (Moore 84). Subs: Gregan, Blake.
Ref: K Friend
Att: 13,966
United manager Kevin Blackwell stuck with the same side that accounted for Norwich at Elland Road on Saturday. Eirik Bakke and Paul Butler recovered from minor knocks to take their place in the starting line-up along with on-loan goalkeeper Tony Warner, who continues to deputise for Neil Sullivan.
Warner was called into action twice inside the opening 15 minutes as QPR made a brisk opening - the imposing keeper stood his ground well against Adam Czerkas and saved from Gareth Ainsworth. It was a lively start by the home side as they attempted to give Leeds no time to settle.
However, United boss Blackwell again tinkered with his system during the early exchanges and after stemming the QPR flurry, Leeds slowly took control and carved out a number of good opportunities.
Geoff Horsfield was first to capitalise when he almost cashed in on a poor back-pass while Paul Butler threatened with a close range header. Home goalkeeper Paul Jones reacted well to deny David Healy after good work by Steve Stone, and Stone himself had two attempts blocked.
United's best chance of the first half came on 35 minutes when Gary Kelly smashed an Eddie Lewis cross over the top while, moments before the interval, QPR goalkeeper Jones saved well from a curling Lewis free-kick.
United lost Bakke through injury shortly after the break, but they remainded in the ascendancy and continued to dominate the clash. Steve Stone and Eddie Lewis were constant threats and the American was also a danger at set-plays as Leeds looked to force the advantage.
It took some quick defending to deny Healy on the hour-mark, who capitalised on a Butler knock-down from one Lewis free-kick, while Horsfield came within a whisker of turning another Lewis delivery towards goal.
But the goal that Leeds so richly deserved finally came on 64 minutes. Horsfield and Stone were both involved as Healy saw a header rattle the bar, but the ball was only cleared as far as Lewis and the Californian made no mistake with a rasping finish.
Yet, with Leeds cruising, the home side were handed a shock lifeline when Stephen Crainey was adjudged to have committed a foul during a rare QPR sortie and the referee had no doubt about awarding a penalty. United protested - Warner was booked - but Martin Rowlands made no mistake from the spot.
It took less than a minute for United to restore their lead though. Stone played in Horsfield with a delightful ball and the loan striker took his chance with aplomb to open his goalscoring account for his new club. It was no more than Leeds or Horsfield deserved, but there was still more drama to come.
Rangers came pouring forward in search of an equaliser and substitute Shabazz Baidoo came up with the goods in the final minute when he poked home from close range after a good break down the right by the Londoners.
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/NewsroomDetail/0,,10273~879206,00.html
BBC QPR 2-2 Leeds
Sub Shabazz Baidoo struck in stoppage time to rescue a point for QPR.
The visitors looked to have sealed victory when Geoff Horsfield scored on 82 minutes, but Baidoo's near-post finish earned the Londoners a point.
A minute before Horsfield's goal, Martin Rowlands had slotted in a penalty to level for QPR after Stephen Crainey had fouled Gareth Ainsworth.
Eddie Lewis put Leeds ahead in the 65th minute when he volleyed in the loose ball after Rangers had failed to clear.
http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/5248140.stm
SPORTING LIFE
QPR 2 Leeds 2
By Tom Collomosse, PA Sport
Click here for full match stats
Substitute Shabazz Baidoo struck in stoppage time to rescue a point for QPR against Leeds.
The visitors looked to have the points sewn up when Geoff Horsfield scored with eight minutes remaining, but Baidoo's near-post finish earned a much-needed point for the Londoners.
His goal capped a frenetic final 10 minutes. A minute before Horsfield's goal, Martin Rowlands had scored a penalty for QPR to cancel out Eddie Lewis' opener.
But Baidoo's effort ensured Rangers are off the mark in the Coca-Cola Championship, while Leeds have four points from two matches.
QPR began their season with a defeat at Burnley, but they started this match with purpose and conviction, and created a number of early chances, but Adam Czerkas - making his home debut - Gareth Ainsworth and Lee Cook failed to take them.
After a ponderous opening 20 minutes, Leeds began to find their rhythm, and David Healy should have given them the lead in the 19th minute when Horsfield nodded Lewis' left-wing corner into his path, but he shot weakly at Paul Jones from only six yards.
Jones again kept his team level in the 32nd minute with an excellent point-blank save from Steve Stone, who had latched on to another Horsfield knock-down following Stephen Crainey's long throw.
Rangers were looking shaky in defence, and 10 minutes before the break, Lewis beat Marcus Bignot and cut the ball across the face of the goal from the left - only for the unmarked Gary Kelly to hammer the ball into the home fans from just eight yards.
Jones continued to thwart Leeds. After home debutant Damion Stewart had been booked for a foul on Eirik Bakke 22 yards out, the Welshman made another fine stop from Lewis' curling free-kick.
Leeds looked the likelier scorers early in the second half, and Healy saw another shot blocked on the hour mark after Paul Butler had headed Lewis' free-kick across goal.
But seconds later, Leeds had Crainey to thank for a superb defensive header that prevented Ainsworth reaching Cook's cross.
The visitors finally went ahead when Healy headed Stone's right-wing cross against the bar and, after Rangers had failed to clear, Lewis volleyed in the loose ball from six yards.
Nine minutes from time, Rangers thought they had earned a draw when Rowlands beat Tony Warner from the penalty spot after Crainey had fouled Ainsworth - but Leeds immediately pushed forward, on-loan striker Horsfield collecting Stone's pass before steering a shot into the bottom-right corner for his first Leeds goal.
With the 90 minutes up, Ainsworth hooked Cook's left-wing cross back into the danger zone, and Baidoo was there to score from a yard.
Teams:
QPR Paul Jones, Bignot (Baidoo 77), Rose, Stewart, Milanese,Ainsworth, Rowlands (Bircham 87), Lomas, Ward, Cook,Czerkas (Ray Jones 55).
Subs Not Used: Cole, Kanyuka.
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/reports/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/06/08/08/SOCCER_QPR.html
Also See:
Simon Skinner/QPR Net Match Report
QPR Playing Leeds at Loftus Road - Teams
-
QPR vs Leeds at Loftus Road Tonight
Team News
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Stewart, Rose, Milanese, Ainsworth, Lomas, Rowlands, Cook, Ward, Czerkas.
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Bircham, R Jones, Baidoo.
Leeds United: Warner, Kelly, Crainey, Butler, Healy, Horsfield, Lewis, Stone, Bakke, Derry, Kilgallon.
Subs: Westlake, Gregan, Carole, Moore, Blake.
QPR--
--
Leeds Official Site - UNITED IN POSITIVE MODE
United will adopt a positive attitude in tonight's tough-looking Championship clash against Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road.
"I want us to be a threat so we are going down there to be as positive as we can be," manager Kevin Blackwell said. "A team that lost their first game of the season, as QPR did, are always likely to be dangerous in their second match because everyone knows that to get your first three points is a tremendous psychological thing.
"The quicker you get your first three points the better. It's of paramount importance. We got ours on Saturday and I'm delighted about that. But I am only really concerned with how we perform. I think the players we have deserve an immense amount of credit. They won't always get things right but they will try," he added.
The Gaffer agreed that this season the Championship is likely to be tougher than it was last time out. "We have got to try to handle it and we will do that to the best of our ability.
"We will aim to be a little more positive at home and away, although our away record last season was as good as any. We will make sure tonight that we have a good attitude. It is our attitude that matters," he said.
But at this very early stage of the season, you won't find the Gaffer talking publicly about setting any targets. "If you do that and don't achieve them then it puts you on a downer straight away. What we do look at, though, is being in or around the top ten by the end of September. If you're there, you have a solid start to the season and a platform on which to build," he added.
Leeds
Team Odds
http://www.bet24.com/leeds
QPR vs Leeds at Loftus Road Tonight
Team News
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Stewart, Rose, Milanese, Ainsworth, Lomas, Rowlands, Cook, Ward, Czerkas.
Subs: Cole, Kanyuka, Bircham, R Jones, Baidoo.
Leeds United: Warner, Kelly, Crainey, Butler, Healy, Horsfield, Lewis, Stone, Bakke, Derry, Kilgallon.
Subs: Westlake, Gregan, Carole, Moore, Blake.
QPR--
--
Leeds Official Site - UNITED IN POSITIVE MODE
United will adopt a positive attitude in tonight's tough-looking Championship clash against Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road.
"I want us to be a threat so we are going down there to be as positive as we can be," manager Kevin Blackwell said. "A team that lost their first game of the season, as QPR did, are always likely to be dangerous in their second match because everyone knows that to get your first three points is a tremendous psychological thing.
"The quicker you get your first three points the better. It's of paramount importance. We got ours on Saturday and I'm delighted about that. But I am only really concerned with how we perform. I think the players we have deserve an immense amount of credit. They won't always get things right but they will try," he added.
The Gaffer agreed that this season the Championship is likely to be tougher than it was last time out. "We have got to try to handle it and we will do that to the best of our ability.
"We will aim to be a little more positive at home and away, although our away record last season was as good as any. We will make sure tonight that we have a good attitude. It is our attitude that matters," he said.
But at this very early stage of the season, you won't find the Gaffer talking publicly about setting any targets. "If you do that and don't achieve them then it puts you on a downer straight away. What we do look at, though, is being in or around the top ten by the end of September. If you're there, you have a solid start to the season and a platform on which to build," he added.
Leeds
Team Odds
http://www.bet24.com/leeds
Skysports Claims QPR Agree Fee for Southampton's Blackstock (Blackstock has NOT yet agreed)
-
Skysport
Rangers agree fee for Blackstock
By Peter ORourke - Created on 8 Aug 2006
Skysports.com understand Queens Park Rangers have agreed a fee with Southampton for striker Dexter Blackstock.
Rangers opened negotiations with The Saints over a possible transfer and, after the Loftus Road outfit were initially thwarted, the club have now agreed a price in the region of £500,000.
Blackstock was also the subject of a failed bid from Championship rivals Wolves, while Crystal Palace and Sheffield Wednesday have registered an interest as well.
Rangers boss Gary Waddock is a keen admirer of the front man and made his interest known after Bradley Wright-Phillips's arrival at St Mary's restricted the former Oxford man's first team opportunities.
Rangers now appear to have jumped to the head of a queue of clubs for Blackstock, and are expected to open contract talks with the 20-year-old shortly.
Blackstock joined Saints from Oxford in May 2003 for a fee of £275,000 and, after a loan spell at Plymouth in the previous season, spent two months of the last campaign at Derby
http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?HLID=408542&CPID=10&title=Rangers+agree+fee+for+Blackstock&lid=&channel=Football_Home&f=rss&clid=5
Blackstock's Clubs/Games/Goals Statistics
Skysport
Rangers agree fee for Blackstock
By Peter ORourke - Created on 8 Aug 2006
Skysports.com understand Queens Park Rangers have agreed a fee with Southampton for striker Dexter Blackstock.
Rangers opened negotiations with The Saints over a possible transfer and, after the Loftus Road outfit were initially thwarted, the club have now agreed a price in the region of £500,000.
Blackstock was also the subject of a failed bid from Championship rivals Wolves, while Crystal Palace and Sheffield Wednesday have registered an interest as well.
Rangers boss Gary Waddock is a keen admirer of the front man and made his interest known after Bradley Wright-Phillips's arrival at St Mary's restricted the former Oxford man's first team opportunities.
Rangers now appear to have jumped to the head of a queue of clubs for Blackstock, and are expected to open contract talks with the 20-year-old shortly.
Blackstock joined Saints from Oxford in May 2003 for a fee of £275,000 and, after a loan spell at Plymouth in the previous season, spent two months of the last campaign at Derby
http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?HLID=408542&CPID=10&title=Rangers+agree+fee+for+Blackstock&lid=&channel=Football_Home&f=rss&clid=5
Blackstock's Clubs/Games/Goals Statistics
Fulham's Rehman Signs for QPR on a Permanent Deal
-
QPR Official Site REH OF LIGHT
QPR have completed the signing of Fulham defender Zesh Rehman for an undisclosed fee.
The 22 year-old centre-half has today (Tuesday) put pen to paper on a three year deal at Loftus Road.
Rehman - who could be in line to make his R's debut against Southend United on Saturday - caught up with qpr.co.uk moments after signing on the dotted line.
"I went down to Harlington yesterday and spoke with Gary Waddock and I was really impressed with what I heard.
"He told me that he wants to help me improve as a player and that's what I want.
"All I want to do is play football; the money doesn't interest me any more. I could have sat at Fulham and just been happy to pick up my wages, but that's not what I'm all about.
[Photo - Gianni Paladini and Antonio Caliendo welcome Zesh Rehman to Loftus Road]
"This is like home from home for me having been at Loftus Road with Fulham. Now I'm looking forward to making my debut on Saturday, where we'll hopefully pick up a win.
"I'll be at Loftus Road tonight for the Leeds game and I'm looking forward to seeing my new team-mates in action."
A gifted central defender with bags of potential, Zesh played five times for Fulham in the 2005/06 campaign, before being farmed out on loan to Norwich City.
Quiet, but self-assured, Zesh made his Fulham debut as a substitute in the 1-0 League Cup defeat to Wigan in September 2003.
A product of the Fulham academy system, Rehman made 26 appearances for the Cottagers, scoring once, against Lincoln City in a nine goal thriller in October.
R's boss Gary Waddock is delighted with the capture of the former Fulham defender, commenting: "It's a superb signing for the Club.
"We've got a player with Premiership experience and who is undoubtedly Prermiership class.
"He's an out-and-out defender but also has the unique ability of being able to bring the ball out of defence. There aren't many central defenders who can do that in the present day, so I'm delighted he's signed for us.
"He's very ambitious - like we all are at this Club - and hopefully he can achieve great things with us.''
Rehman will wear the number five shirt vacated by Danny Shittu.
QPR Official Site
FULHAM OFFICIAL SITE
Zesh Moves On
Tue 8th Aug 2006
Central defender Zesh Rehman makes the move to QPR
Fulham Football Club can confirm that Zesh Rehman has joined Queens Park Rangers on a permanent basis. The defender signed a three-year deal with Rangers on Tuesday morning.
Rehman, a Fulham Academy graduate, played five times for the Whites in the 05/06 season and scored his first senior goal against Lincoln City in the League Cup before spending four months on loan at Norwich City.
All at Fulham Football Club would like to thank him for his services to the Club and wish him and his family the very best for the future
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/football_news_latest_7528.html
QPR Official Site REH OF LIGHT
QPR have completed the signing of Fulham defender Zesh Rehman for an undisclosed fee.
The 22 year-old centre-half has today (Tuesday) put pen to paper on a three year deal at Loftus Road.
Rehman - who could be in line to make his R's debut against Southend United on Saturday - caught up with qpr.co.uk moments after signing on the dotted line.
"I went down to Harlington yesterday and spoke with Gary Waddock and I was really impressed with what I heard.
"He told me that he wants to help me improve as a player and that's what I want.
"All I want to do is play football; the money doesn't interest me any more. I could have sat at Fulham and just been happy to pick up my wages, but that's not what I'm all about.
[Photo - Gianni Paladini and Antonio Caliendo welcome Zesh Rehman to Loftus Road]
"This is like home from home for me having been at Loftus Road with Fulham. Now I'm looking forward to making my debut on Saturday, where we'll hopefully pick up a win.
"I'll be at Loftus Road tonight for the Leeds game and I'm looking forward to seeing my new team-mates in action."
A gifted central defender with bags of potential, Zesh played five times for Fulham in the 2005/06 campaign, before being farmed out on loan to Norwich City.
Quiet, but self-assured, Zesh made his Fulham debut as a substitute in the 1-0 League Cup defeat to Wigan in September 2003.
A product of the Fulham academy system, Rehman made 26 appearances for the Cottagers, scoring once, against Lincoln City in a nine goal thriller in October.
R's boss Gary Waddock is delighted with the capture of the former Fulham defender, commenting: "It's a superb signing for the Club.
"We've got a player with Premiership experience and who is undoubtedly Prermiership class.
"He's an out-and-out defender but also has the unique ability of being able to bring the ball out of defence. There aren't many central defenders who can do that in the present day, so I'm delighted he's signed for us.
"He's very ambitious - like we all are at this Club - and hopefully he can achieve great things with us.''
Rehman will wear the number five shirt vacated by Danny Shittu.
QPR Official Site
FULHAM OFFICIAL SITE
Zesh Moves On
Tue 8th Aug 2006
Central defender Zesh Rehman makes the move to QPR
Fulham Football Club can confirm that Zesh Rehman has joined Queens Park Rangers on a permanent basis. The defender signed a three-year deal with Rangers on Tuesday morning.
Rehman, a Fulham Academy graduate, played five times for the Whites in the 05/06 season and scored his first senior goal against Lincoln City in the League Cup before spending four months on loan at Norwich City.
All at Fulham Football Club would like to thank him for his services to the Club and wish him and his family the very best for the future
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/football_news_latest_7528.html
Mirror: QPR Set to Sign Fulham Defender, Zesh Rehman on Loan
-
[If the messageboards are right, QPR are also actually SIGNING - presumably a second player...Anyway, all will be revealed soon.}
According to the Daily Mirror...
8 August 2006 QPR CUE UP REH OF LIGHT
QPR are set to snap up j Fulham defender Zesh r Rehman to replace departed Danny Shittu.
Rehman (above) does not feature in Chris Coleman's plans for the new season and Rangers boss Gary Waddock hopes to sign him on a loan deal.
Shittu has joined Watford, but QPR cannot afford to take Rehman, 22, permanently.
Fulham are happy for the centre-back to move across London to guarantee him first-team football. The defender has made 21 Premiership appearances for the Cottagers.
Mirror
Profile of Rehman
FA Feature Profile of Rehman
[If the messageboards are right, QPR are also actually SIGNING - presumably a second player...Anyway, all will be revealed soon.}
According to the Daily Mirror...
8 August 2006 QPR CUE UP REH OF LIGHT
QPR are set to snap up j Fulham defender Zesh r Rehman to replace departed Danny Shittu.
Rehman (above) does not feature in Chris Coleman's plans for the new season and Rangers boss Gary Waddock hopes to sign him on a loan deal.
Shittu has joined Watford, but QPR cannot afford to take Rehman, 22, permanently.
Fulham are happy for the centre-back to move across London to guarantee him first-team football. The defender has made 21 Premiership appearances for the Cottagers.
Mirror
Profile of Rehman
FA Feature Profile of Rehman
Birthday: Ex-QPR (and West Ham) Goalkeeper, Phil Parkes Turns 56
-
Former QPR goalkeeper, Phil Parkes Turns 56
Born August 8, 1950.
Then QPR-Manager, Les Allen signed Parkes from Walsall in the summer of 1970 for 15,000 pounds (and recouped the money by sellig then QPR-goalie, Mike Kelly to Birmingham for slightly more.) One paper at the time of his transfer characterized Parkes as "strongly tipped for England U-23 honours.)
Parkes made his debut at home to Leicester, in August 1970. QPR lost, but Parkes was brilliant from the first game on.
Parkes crazily played only ONE game for England - kept out by first Gordon Banks; then Peter Shilton and Ray Clemence.
Parkes played an integral part in getting QPR out of the second Division; and almost winning the First Division Championship...
Parkes was sold to then Division-Two West Ham in February 1979,for a world record goalie fee of 550,000 pounds. (But it still wasn't enough!). Played 344 games for QPR and the 344 for West Ham! (+ 52 games for Walsall)
Whether Parkes was QPR's Greatest-ever goalie can always be argued. (Also Reg Allen, Peter Springett, David Seaman, etc.) But he was brilliant, consistent, and almost an ever-present for QPR.
http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=9549
Former QPR goalkeeper, Phil Parkes Turns 56
Born August 8, 1950.
Then QPR-Manager, Les Allen signed Parkes from Walsall in the summer of 1970 for 15,000 pounds (and recouped the money by sellig then QPR-goalie, Mike Kelly to Birmingham for slightly more.) One paper at the time of his transfer characterized Parkes as "strongly tipped for England U-23 honours.)
Parkes made his debut at home to Leicester, in August 1970. QPR lost, but Parkes was brilliant from the first game on.
Parkes crazily played only ONE game for England - kept out by first Gordon Banks; then Peter Shilton and Ray Clemence.
Parkes played an integral part in getting QPR out of the second Division; and almost winning the First Division Championship...
Parkes was sold to then Division-Two West Ham in February 1979,for a world record goalie fee of 550,000 pounds. (But it still wasn't enough!). Played 344 games for QPR and the 344 for West Ham! (+ 52 games for Walsall)
Whether Parkes was QPR's Greatest-ever goalie can always be argued. (Also Reg Allen, Peter Springett, David Seaman, etc.) But he was brilliant, consistent, and almost an ever-present for QPR.
http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football-heroes/displayhero_club.asp?HeroID=9549
Monday, August 07, 2006
QPR Chairman Paladini Interviewed on BBC London
-
Gianni Paladini was interviewed (via car phone) on BBC London 94.9 FM 'Monday Sport with Danny Kelly, August 9.
- QPR set to sign an unamed player tomorrow for 300,000 pounds.
- Was asked about his recent comments and offered his responses.
Monday Sport on BBC LONDON 94.9FM
http://www.bbc.co.uk/london/content/articles/2004/08/17/monday_sportshow_feature.shtml
Gianni Paladini was interviewed (via car phone) on BBC London 94.9 FM 'Monday Sport with Danny Kelly, August 9.
- QPR set to sign an unamed player tomorrow for 300,000 pounds.
- Was asked about his recent comments and offered his responses.
Monday Sport on BBC LONDON 94.9FM
http://www.bbc.co.uk/london/content/articles/2004/08/17/monday_sportshow_feature.shtml
BBC Conference Preview: Kidderminster "Key Man:Dean Sturridge...has the pedigree to take the conference by storm"
-
BBC Conference Form Guide
Club-by-club analysis for the new Conference season
At Kidderminster...:
"BBC Sport verdict: Kidderminster struggled in their first season back in the Conference but should do better with manager Mark Yates now firmly established....
Yates landed two of the highest-profile summer signings in Dean Sturridge and Jeff Kenna but also has a smattering of lower league experience to complete the mix.
Key man: Dean Sturridge. The former Derby, Wolves and Leicester striker has the pedigree to take the Conference by storm.
The Football Conference site
Where Many ex-QPR (and possibly future QPR players)are Currently Playing
Link to the Conference Clubs
BBC Conference Form Guide
Club-by-club analysis for the new Conference season
At Kidderminster...:
"BBC Sport verdict: Kidderminster struggled in their first season back in the Conference but should do better with manager Mark Yates now firmly established....
Yates landed two of the highest-profile summer signings in Dean Sturridge and Jeff Kenna but also has a smattering of lower league experience to complete the mix.
Key man: Dean Sturridge. The former Derby, Wolves and Leicester striker has the pedigree to take the Conference by storm.
The Football Conference site
Where Many ex-QPR (and possibly future QPR players)are Currently Playing
Link to the Conference Clubs
QPR Play Leeds Tomorrow
-
News Updates re Tomorrow's QPR vs Leeds Game
Sporting Life - STRIKER PROBLEMS MOUNTING FOR RANGERS
QPR have problems in attack as they prepare for their first home game of the season against Leeds on Tuesday night.
Boss Gary Waddock is without striker Paul Furlong (thigh) for the match, while Kevin Gallen and Marc Nygaard are still struggling with injuries picked up during pre-season.
Their absence means Rangers are likely to stick with the 4-5-1 formation they used in the 2-0 defeat at Burnley, with summer signing Adam Czerkas operating as a lone striker.
Midfielder Egutu Oliseh is set to miss out with a thigh injury, and defender Dominic Shimmin serves the second game of a three-match ban.
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/cc_championship/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=nonwire_soccer/06/08/07/manual_161836.html
The Times Preview
Blackwell's boys off to flyer
Championship by Mike Brewer
LEEDS UNITED rate banker material at general odds of 5-4 to claim their second win in four days of the new Coca-Cola Championship season by winning away to Queens Park Rangers on Tuesday evening, one of a full programme of midweek matches in football’s second tier.
*
Leeds fell at the final hurdle last season when losing to Watford in the play-off final but should prove too strong for a QPR side that was in freefall at the end of last term and which sold their prize asset, defender Danny Shittu, at the weekend.
Having lost six of their final seven league games last season, QPR went down 2-0 away to Burnley on Saturday. Leeds beat Norwich City 1-0.
.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,17249-2302586,00.html
QPR Official Site Previews the Leeds Opposition before tomorrow's game
FYI: This was the Leeds Team that beat Norwich 1-0 on Saturday (Healy scoring)
Leeds - Warner, Kelly, Butler, Kilgallon, Crainey (Moore 85), Stone, Bakke (Westlake 77), Derry, Lewis, Healy (Carole 69), Horsfield. Subs: Gregan, Blake.
And this is Leeds Current Squad (even as they search for additional players)
Stats & Appearances
1 Neil Sullivan Goalkeeper
2 Gary Kelly Defender
3 Stephen Crainey Defender
3 Ben Parker
(on loan to Bradfrd ) Midfielder
6 Paul Butler Defender
7 Ian Westlake Midfielder
8 Sean Gregan Midfielder
9 David Healy Striker
10 Geoff Horsfield
(on loan from Sheff U ) Striker
11 Eddie Lewis Midfielder
14 Danny Rose
14 Steve Stone Midfielder
15 Frazer Richardson Midfielder
16 Roberto Bailey
16 Gylfi Einarsson Midfielder
17 Sebastien Carole Midfielder
17 Sam Hird
18 Kevin Nicholls Midfielder
19 Eirik Bakke Midfielder
19 Jonathan Howson
21 Shaun Derry Midfielder
22 Ian Moore Striker
24 Manuel Rui Marques Defender
25 Richard Cresswell Striker
26 Matthew Kilgallon Defender
27 Joel Griffiths Midfielder
28 Robert Blake Striker
29 Ian Morris
31 Steven McKeown Defender
31 Tony Warner
(on loan from Fulham ) Goalkeeper
32 Jermaine Beckford Striker
35 Kevin Smith Midfielder
36 Mark Wilberforce Goalkeeper
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/PlayerProfiles/0,,10273,00.html
QPR Tomorrow Programme
News Updates re Tomorrow's QPR vs Leeds Game
Sporting Life - STRIKER PROBLEMS MOUNTING FOR RANGERS
QPR have problems in attack as they prepare for their first home game of the season against Leeds on Tuesday night.
Boss Gary Waddock is without striker Paul Furlong (thigh) for the match, while Kevin Gallen and Marc Nygaard are still struggling with injuries picked up during pre-season.
Their absence means Rangers are likely to stick with the 4-5-1 formation they used in the 2-0 defeat at Burnley, with summer signing Adam Czerkas operating as a lone striker.
Midfielder Egutu Oliseh is set to miss out with a thigh injury, and defender Dominic Shimmin serves the second game of a three-match ban.
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/cc_championship/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=nonwire_soccer/06/08/07/manual_161836.html
The Times Preview
Blackwell's boys off to flyer
Championship by Mike Brewer
LEEDS UNITED rate banker material at general odds of 5-4 to claim their second win in four days of the new Coca-Cola Championship season by winning away to Queens Park Rangers on Tuesday evening, one of a full programme of midweek matches in football’s second tier.
*
Leeds fell at the final hurdle last season when losing to Watford in the play-off final but should prove too strong for a QPR side that was in freefall at the end of last term and which sold their prize asset, defender Danny Shittu, at the weekend.
Having lost six of their final seven league games last season, QPR went down 2-0 away to Burnley on Saturday. Leeds beat Norwich City 1-0.
.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,17249-2302586,00.html
QPR Official Site Previews the Leeds Opposition before tomorrow's game
FYI: This was the Leeds Team that beat Norwich 1-0 on Saturday (Healy scoring)
Leeds - Warner, Kelly, Butler, Kilgallon, Crainey (Moore 85), Stone, Bakke (Westlake 77), Derry, Lewis, Healy (Carole 69), Horsfield. Subs: Gregan, Blake.
And this is Leeds Current Squad (even as they search for additional players)
Stats & Appearances
1 Neil Sullivan Goalkeeper
2 Gary Kelly Defender
3 Stephen Crainey Defender
3 Ben Parker
(on loan to Bradfrd ) Midfielder
6 Paul Butler Defender
7 Ian Westlake Midfielder
8 Sean Gregan Midfielder
9 David Healy Striker
10 Geoff Horsfield
(on loan from Sheff U ) Striker
11 Eddie Lewis Midfielder
14 Danny Rose
14 Steve Stone Midfielder
15 Frazer Richardson Midfielder
16 Roberto Bailey
16 Gylfi Einarsson Midfielder
17 Sebastien Carole Midfielder
17 Sam Hird
18 Kevin Nicholls Midfielder
19 Eirik Bakke Midfielder
19 Jonathan Howson
21 Shaun Derry Midfielder
22 Ian Moore Striker
24 Manuel Rui Marques Defender
25 Richard Cresswell Striker
26 Matthew Kilgallon Defender
27 Joel Griffiths Midfielder
28 Robert Blake Striker
29 Ian Morris
31 Steven McKeown Defender
31 Tony Warner
(on loan from Fulham ) Goalkeeper
32 Jermaine Beckford Striker
35 Kevin Smith Midfielder
36 Mark Wilberforce Goalkeeper
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/PlayerProfiles/0,,10273,00.html
QPR Tomorrow Programme
Shittu's QPR Farewell
-
Danny Shittu's Farewell
- Spoke on the QPR's Official Site
Can Watch/Listen to Shittu Comments (if subscriber)
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/sub/TVNewsDetail/0,,10373~878274,00.html
Skysport - Shittu reveals Prem motivation
By Tom Adams - Created on 7 Aug 2006
Watford new-boy Danny Shittu says he had to leave QPR in order to pursue a career in The Premiership.
The stopper snubbed strong interest from West Brom to join The Hornets in a £3 million deal on Sunday, leaving a gaping hole in the Rangers backline in the process.
After almost five years at Loftus Road, Shittu was sad to leave the London outfit, but the short trip to Watford offered him an irresistible chance to test himself at a higher level during the coming season.
"To test myself in The Premiership is something I have wanted to do for a long time," said Shittu.
"I am sorry that I have to leave QPR - but it's something that had to happen.
"It's hard leaving a club that has been like a family to me for the last four years.
"I feel I'm ready for The Premiership. I will work hard.
"I believe I can deal with whatever is thrown at me, and I hope I can make a bigger name for myself than I did at QPR."
http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=408396&CPID=8&clid=57&lid=2&title=Shittu+reveals+Prem+motivation#
Plus great Farewell Piece by Clive Whittingham on QPR Rivals "Shittu sale must become the norm for Rs to survive"
Ron Norris on QPR Net "Picture Specials - Danny Shittu
Thursday 3rd August 2006
"...take a look back through his Rangers career in his very own picture special..".
http://qprnet.com/media/pictures/shittu.shtml
Danny Shittu's Farewell
- Spoke on the QPR's Official Site
Can Watch/Listen to Shittu Comments (if subscriber)
http://www.qpr.premiumtv.co.uk/page/sub/TVNewsDetail/0,,10373~878274,00.html
Skysport - Shittu reveals Prem motivation
By Tom Adams - Created on 7 Aug 2006
Watford new-boy Danny Shittu says he had to leave QPR in order to pursue a career in The Premiership.
The stopper snubbed strong interest from West Brom to join The Hornets in a £3 million deal on Sunday, leaving a gaping hole in the Rangers backline in the process.
After almost five years at Loftus Road, Shittu was sad to leave the London outfit, but the short trip to Watford offered him an irresistible chance to test himself at a higher level during the coming season.
"To test myself in The Premiership is something I have wanted to do for a long time," said Shittu.
"I am sorry that I have to leave QPR - but it's something that had to happen.
"It's hard leaving a club that has been like a family to me for the last four years.
"I feel I'm ready for The Premiership. I will work hard.
"I believe I can deal with whatever is thrown at me, and I hope I can make a bigger name for myself than I did at QPR."
http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=408396&CPID=8&clid=57&lid=2&title=Shittu+reveals+Prem+motivation#
Plus great Farewell Piece by Clive Whittingham on QPR Rivals "Shittu sale must become the norm for Rs to survive"
Ron Norris on QPR Net "Picture Specials - Danny Shittu
Thursday 3rd August 2006
"...take a look back through his Rangers career in his very own picture special..".
http://qprnet.com/media/pictures/shittu.shtml