Tuesday, October 31, 2006
QPR Come from Behind to Draw 3-3 at WBA - Reports & Comments
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>[Table: Bottom Eight]
Stoke 15 18
Crystal Palace 15 18
Sheff Wed 15 17
QPR 15 15
Leeds 15 13
Hull 15 12
Barnsley 14 12
Southend 15 10
BBC
John Gregory's Comments - Official Site - BETTER THAN THAT
John Gregory was full of praise for Rangers, but believed his side didn't show their full potential.
The gaffer believed Derby were the best side he had seen all season and due to that fact, was even more pleased with how Rangers faired against them.
However, JG felt that Rangers could have easily won the game had they performed to their full potential.
He said: "They are the best side that I've seen so far this season, even the games that I've watched on TV.
"You're almost looking at a Premiership side and they should get automatic promotion.
"I thought they were tremendous, we just couldn't get close to them in the first 25 minutes.
"Just in the way that they moved the ball around in the first half, which thankfully we stopped in the second half.
"The first goal was crucial and at 1-0 it was a killer. We managed to nick the goal just before half time and we needed it.
"We are better than we played tonight. We gave the ball away too easily when under pressure and conceded poor goals.
"We gifted goals to the opposition tonight, I wouldn't have minded if they had created them.
"If we can go about our jobs in the right manner we'll be ok. It's easy to fall back into old habits and I don't want them to do that.
"There is still a lot of work to do and that's my job, that's my bread and butter.
"Kev and Gareth went in with a chance to impress tonight and I think they did that - when you get the chances in life you have to take them and I've got a nice choice to make on Saturday
Comments
Mowbray & Gregory Comments - PA Sports/Sporting Life
MOWBRAY UNHAPPY WITH DEFENDING
By Brendan McLoughlin, PA Sport
West Brom manager Tony Mowbray was left wondering how his side failed to claim three points after their 3-3 draw with QPR.
The Baggies held onto their unbeaten league record at The Hawthorns but Marc Nygaard's 83rd-minute strike denied them victory after two goals from Diomansy Kamara and a Nathan Ellington effort had looked to be enough.
Mowbray said: "It's disappointing for us all. We dominated from start to finish and threw away two points. It was poor defending - you can't get away from it. If you score three at home you expect to win the game.
"We created plenty of chances which was pleasing but it's probably the first time I can say since I've come that we weren't solid at the back. I have felt very safe at the back over the last three or four weeks but I couldn't say that on this occasion."
Goals either side of half-time from Damion Stewart and Kevin Gallen pulled Rangers back into it and Mowbray admitted defensive lapses cost them dearly.
"We conceded the goals at very poor times - we conceded one on 47 minutes in the first half and then after the restart," he said.
"Whether we didn't work hard enough to stop them putting balls in or didn't defend the ball better in the box I don't know. That's football. I like to look at the positives, I am very aware of the negatives and I will be looking to address that.
"This game is about scoring goals at one end and keeping them out at the other and we have achieved half of that. We're obviously disappointed - it will be interesting to see what John (Gregory) makes of it. I think they'll be pretty happy to get a point."
JOHN GREGORY
Rangers manager John Gregory was the first to admit his side had been fortunate to escape with a point.
"The spirit has been first class really - it has kept us going. I think we have scored 13 goals in seven games and conceded 12. They did not lack fight.
"They (West Brom) are the best side by a long, long way that I have seen in this division. I think that's my seventh game in charge but I've seen lots of games on the TV.
"You are almost looking at a Premiership side and quite frankly they should get automatic promotion with the team they have got. If they don't then they are selling everyone short. They were tremendous for the first 20-25 minutes.
"I feared the worst. To be perfectly honest I thought they should have killed us off but they didn't and to be fair that's a testament to the group of lads I've got. We are better than we played tonight, we gave away silly possession and gave away poor goals."
Sporting Life
QPR OFFICIAL SITE REPORT
It was a Halloween thriller at the Hawthorns as Rangers stole a share of the points from a dominant and attacking Albion
West Brom had strolled to a 2-0 lead through Ellington and Kamara, but Damion Stewart's injury time strike just before half time gave Rangers hope.
Gallen's second half strike gave Rangers yet more reason to believe there was something to be gained from this tie, but Kamara's second strike restore the Albion's lead.
But it was Marc Nygaard's 77th minute strike which gave Rangers a share of the spoils.
John Gregory was able to return Gareth Ainsworth to the starting line up and also opted to start with Michael Mancienne and Kevin Gallen.
From the off the game had a relaxed tempo about it. Neither side hurried their game as Rangers were slowed to West Brom's former Premiership pace.
Simon Royce was called into action first however when Zoltan Gera's crossed was skewed wide by Steve Watson.
Rangers fought back though as Gareth Ainsworth hooked the ball into the box for Dexter Blackstock and Jimmy Smith to charge at, only for West Brom to clear.
Not exactly fazed, the Albion proceeded to cut through the Rangers defence like a hot knife through butter to go a goal up when Diomansy Kamara fed Jason Koumas.
The Albion front man saw his effort saved by Royce, but with Nathan Ellington following in on the rebound, the Rangers stopper was unable to prevent the ball from crossing the line despite his best efforts.
Once again Rangers fell victim to the early goal and found themselves with an uphill struggle.
Not resting on their laurels, West Brom surged forward again, this time resulting in Royce fumbling Koumas' shot before recovering.
Rangers were unable to penetrate into West Brom's box, but Lomas fancied his chances from outside of the area, forcing Pascal Zuberbuhler to parry away his fizzing shot.
Royce had to be on his toes again on the half hour when Watson's effort dipped towards goal after originally looking to not cause any problems.
But as it neared its target, Royce sprung up to tip the ball over the bar for a corner.
Despite the game being fairly end to end, the Albion seemed to have the breed of dangerous attack which led you to believe that every occasion would result in a goal.
Yet another of those events then followed when Kamara crossed for Gera and his first time effort, which had looked every inch a goal, had to be saved by a diving Royce.
With five minutes to go before half time, West Brom doubled their lead when Koumas' cross was chested down by Kamara and in one fell swoop, he looped it over Stewart's head and hit it first time past Royce.
Rangers fought their way back into contention in injury time however when Cook delivered into the box for Damion Stewart to smash the ball home from close range at the far post.
Suddenly, Rangers were back in the game with a life line.
With the second half just two minutes old, it was officially 'game on' as Gallen enjoyed his first goal since August.
Steaming into the box, Gallen diverted Blackstock's cross into the back of the net and reeled away to celebrate in front of the jubilant travelling fans.
Five minutes later however and West Brom were back on top in this end to end thriller.
Ellington slid the ball through for Kamara and the front man had time for a quick look at the linesman before steaming clear with just Royce to beat for the last 30 yards of his journey.
Picking his spot was just too easy and the danger man sent the ball crashing into the back of the net.
The Albion could have been out of sight twice within the sake of a few minutes as the chances rained in. Kamara having the best opportunity when the ball fell to him at the far post, but pressure from the Rangers defence saw him unable to divert the ball goalwards.
Stewart had previously lunged in and just steered the ball wide of the post, narrowly escaping the embarrassment of an own goal.
Lee Cook then went ever closer with one of his specialist free kicks.
This time his effort narrowly missed the upright and sank into the side netting.
The game ceased to stop providing goals and Rangers were now well and truly back in the game thanks to Marc Nygaard's close range strike.
The Rangers faithful were on their feet when the Dane converted Cook's cross to once again throw the game completely open.
Positioned in the centre of goal, Nygaard was never going to waste this opportunity and his strike completely befuddled the West Brom team who had been comfortable throughout.
When the whistle finally blew there can't have been a fan of the beautiful game who begrudged parting with their ticket money.
Especially if they were travelling back home down the M40.
WBA: Zuberbuhler, Watson, Perry, Davies, Greening, Ellington (Phillips 72), Gera, Albrechtsen, Kamara, Koumas, Wallwork (Hartson 85)
Subs: Chaplow, McShane, Hoult
Bookings:
Scorers: Ellington 8, Kamara 40, 54
Rangers: Royce, Bignot, Rehman, Gallen, Ainsworth, Lomas, Cook, Stewart, Blackstock (Nygaard 62), Smith, Mancienne
Subs: Milanese, Ward, Rowlands, Jones
Bookings: Smith
Scorers: Stewart 45, Gallen 47, Nygaard 77
Ref: L Mason
Att: 17,417
QPR Official Site
WBA OFFICIAL SITE
ALBION threw away two leads - and two vital points - on a frustrating night at The Hawthorns.
Everything looked rosy for the hosts when goals from Nathan Ellington and Diomansy Kamara gave them a deserved 2-0 lead inside 40 minutes.
But QPR stunned the Baggies by clawing themselves level with strikes either side of the break from Damion Stewart and Kevin Gallen.
Kamara put Tony Mowbray's side back in front by grabbing his eighth goal in just five-and-a-half games in the 54th minute.
But there was to be another, final twist when Rangers sub Marc Nygaard earned John Gregory's never-say-die side a point with an 82nd-minute header.
Albion were left scratching their heads at the final whistle as to how they had failed to win a game they dominated from start to finish.
As well as scoring three times, they created countless other chances but were ultimately undone by a rare display of slack defending.
Mowbray made two enforced changes from Saturday's first league defeat in seven games at Blues.
With Paul Robinson starting a three-game ban, Steve Watson was recalled at right-back, with Martin Albrechtsen switching to left-back.
Central midfielder Ronnie Wallwork also earned his first start for seven matches in place of ankle-injury victim Nigel Quashie, while Kevin Phillips made a welcome return to the bench following a calf injury.
Albion started brightly and almost snatched a fifth-minute lead.
Watson exchanged a clever one-two with the twinkle-toed Zoltan Gera before firing a first-time effort just wide from 15 yards.
QPR soon hit back and only Wallwork's vital interception inside the Albion box denied Dexter Blackstock the simplest of chances from Gareth Ainsworth's low cross.
However, the home hordes were soon 'boing boinging' when Ellington fired the hosts into an eighth-minute lead.
Diomansy Kamara slipped Jason Koumas through in the box, only for Rangers keeper Simon Royce to parry the Welsh wizard's first-time effort wide.
But the alert 'Duke' was the first to the rebound and drilled the ball in off Royce from an acute angle.
Koumas was proving a real handful for the West Londoners' defence and ended a surging 14th-minute run by firing straight at Royce from 20 yards, with the Rangers keeper gathering at the second attempt.
The early goal had failed to dampen QPR's spirits and, moments later, Pascal Zuberbuhler did well to keep out Steve Lomas' stinging 20-yard drive from Gallen's pull back.
Back came Albion and, after a lengthy spell of keep ball, Royce did brilliantly to tip over Watson's header from fully 18 yards after the ex-Everton man had been picked out by Albrechtsen's diagonal centre.
From Koumas' ensuing corner, Curtis Davies will feel he should have done much better after directing a free header over from ten yards.
Albion looked dangerous every time they attacked and Royce again kept the deficit down to one goal when he denied the unmarked Gera with a stunning reaction save from Kamara's pinpoint pass.
But it was to be a momentary reprieve as the buoyant Baggies secured a deserved 2-0 lead in the 40th minute.
Kamara superbly controlled Koumas' diagonal ball with his chest before shrugging off the attentions of Rangers centre-half Stewart and drilling past Royce from eight yards.
But Albion's joy was somewhat tempered two minutes into stoppage time when the visitors pulled a goal back.
After a short corner, Cook swung in a sublime centre and Stewart ghosted in to stab the ball home from six yards.
Incredibly, Rangers clawed themselves level three minutes after the re-start.
Blackstock burst into the Baggies box before squaring for Gallen who stabbed home from close range.
Albion regrouped and only Ainsworth's stunning last-ditch tackle denied Ellington what looked a certain goal following Kamara's neat run and pass.
Stewart then had to make a vital clearance inside his own six-yard box after Greening had jinked his way into the box and cut the ball past Royce.
But the pressure finally paid off as Albion edged back in front in the 54th minute.
Ellington did well to win a loose ball and thread Kamara through and the Senegal pace ace clinically fired into the bottom right-hand corner of Royce's net.
Albion created another gilt-edged chance in the 58th minute when Gera raced on to Koumas' sublime through-pass and pulled the ball back.
Stewart's slip gave Ellington a clear sight of goal but the former Wigan striker fired straight at Royce.
Albion continued to press for a fourth and Ellington's dink header from Watson's pinpoint crossfield pass put Koumas in the clear.
However, Royce was alert to Koumas' intentions and stood tall to catch the ex-Tranmere ace's attempted lob at point-blank range.
Albion continued to pile on the pressure and Kamara was only a whisker away from converting Davies' head back across the face of goal from Greening's centre.
Koumas then saw a 20-yard curler deflect off Michael Mancienne and fly inches wide.
With Albion still only leading by the odd goal, the points were by no means safe.
Zuberbuhler first showed a safe pair of hands to hold onto Cook's close-range effort before the same player curled the ball just wide from a 20-yard free-kick.
But Rangers silenced the home hordes by equalising eight minutes from time when sub Nygaard headed home Cook's left-wing cross.
Albion laid siege to the Rangers goal in the dying minutes in a desperate search for a winner.
But they ultimately ran out of time as the Hoops became only the second team this season to leave The Hawthorns undefeated.
WBA
Stoke 15 18
Crystal Palace 15 18
Sheff Wed 15 17
QPR 15 15
Leeds 15 13
Hull 15 12
Barnsley 14 12
Southend 15 10
BBC
John Gregory's Comments - Official Site - BETTER THAN THAT
John Gregory was full of praise for Rangers, but believed his side didn't show their full potential.
The gaffer believed Derby were the best side he had seen all season and due to that fact, was even more pleased with how Rangers faired against them.
However, JG felt that Rangers could have easily won the game had they performed to their full potential.
He said: "They are the best side that I've seen so far this season, even the games that I've watched on TV.
"You're almost looking at a Premiership side and they should get automatic promotion.
"I thought they were tremendous, we just couldn't get close to them in the first 25 minutes.
"Just in the way that they moved the ball around in the first half, which thankfully we stopped in the second half.
"The first goal was crucial and at 1-0 it was a killer. We managed to nick the goal just before half time and we needed it.
"We are better than we played tonight. We gave the ball away too easily when under pressure and conceded poor goals.
"We gifted goals to the opposition tonight, I wouldn't have minded if they had created them.
"If we can go about our jobs in the right manner we'll be ok. It's easy to fall back into old habits and I don't want them to do that.
"There is still a lot of work to do and that's my job, that's my bread and butter.
"Kev and Gareth went in with a chance to impress tonight and I think they did that - when you get the chances in life you have to take them and I've got a nice choice to make on Saturday
Comments
Mowbray & Gregory Comments - PA Sports/Sporting Life
MOWBRAY UNHAPPY WITH DEFENDING
By Brendan McLoughlin, PA Sport
West Brom manager Tony Mowbray was left wondering how his side failed to claim three points after their 3-3 draw with QPR.
The Baggies held onto their unbeaten league record at The Hawthorns but Marc Nygaard's 83rd-minute strike denied them victory after two goals from Diomansy Kamara and a Nathan Ellington effort had looked to be enough.
Mowbray said: "It's disappointing for us all. We dominated from start to finish and threw away two points. It was poor defending - you can't get away from it. If you score three at home you expect to win the game.
"We created plenty of chances which was pleasing but it's probably the first time I can say since I've come that we weren't solid at the back. I have felt very safe at the back over the last three or four weeks but I couldn't say that on this occasion."
Goals either side of half-time from Damion Stewart and Kevin Gallen pulled Rangers back into it and Mowbray admitted defensive lapses cost them dearly.
"We conceded the goals at very poor times - we conceded one on 47 minutes in the first half and then after the restart," he said.
"Whether we didn't work hard enough to stop them putting balls in or didn't defend the ball better in the box I don't know. That's football. I like to look at the positives, I am very aware of the negatives and I will be looking to address that.
"This game is about scoring goals at one end and keeping them out at the other and we have achieved half of that. We're obviously disappointed - it will be interesting to see what John (Gregory) makes of it. I think they'll be pretty happy to get a point."
JOHN GREGORY
Rangers manager John Gregory was the first to admit his side had been fortunate to escape with a point.
"The spirit has been first class really - it has kept us going. I think we have scored 13 goals in seven games and conceded 12. They did not lack fight.
"They (West Brom) are the best side by a long, long way that I have seen in this division. I think that's my seventh game in charge but I've seen lots of games on the TV.
"You are almost looking at a Premiership side and quite frankly they should get automatic promotion with the team they have got. If they don't then they are selling everyone short. They were tremendous for the first 20-25 minutes.
"I feared the worst. To be perfectly honest I thought they should have killed us off but they didn't and to be fair that's a testament to the group of lads I've got. We are better than we played tonight, we gave away silly possession and gave away poor goals."
Sporting Life
QPR OFFICIAL SITE REPORT
It was a Halloween thriller at the Hawthorns as Rangers stole a share of the points from a dominant and attacking Albion
West Brom had strolled to a 2-0 lead through Ellington and Kamara, but Damion Stewart's injury time strike just before half time gave Rangers hope.
Gallen's second half strike gave Rangers yet more reason to believe there was something to be gained from this tie, but Kamara's second strike restore the Albion's lead.
But it was Marc Nygaard's 77th minute strike which gave Rangers a share of the spoils.
John Gregory was able to return Gareth Ainsworth to the starting line up and also opted to start with Michael Mancienne and Kevin Gallen.
From the off the game had a relaxed tempo about it. Neither side hurried their game as Rangers were slowed to West Brom's former Premiership pace.
Simon Royce was called into action first however when Zoltan Gera's crossed was skewed wide by Steve Watson.
Rangers fought back though as Gareth Ainsworth hooked the ball into the box for Dexter Blackstock and Jimmy Smith to charge at, only for West Brom to clear.
Not exactly fazed, the Albion proceeded to cut through the Rangers defence like a hot knife through butter to go a goal up when Diomansy Kamara fed Jason Koumas.
The Albion front man saw his effort saved by Royce, but with Nathan Ellington following in on the rebound, the Rangers stopper was unable to prevent the ball from crossing the line despite his best efforts.
Once again Rangers fell victim to the early goal and found themselves with an uphill struggle.
Not resting on their laurels, West Brom surged forward again, this time resulting in Royce fumbling Koumas' shot before recovering.
Rangers were unable to penetrate into West Brom's box, but Lomas fancied his chances from outside of the area, forcing Pascal Zuberbuhler to parry away his fizzing shot.
Royce had to be on his toes again on the half hour when Watson's effort dipped towards goal after originally looking to not cause any problems.
But as it neared its target, Royce sprung up to tip the ball over the bar for a corner.
Despite the game being fairly end to end, the Albion seemed to have the breed of dangerous attack which led you to believe that every occasion would result in a goal.
Yet another of those events then followed when Kamara crossed for Gera and his first time effort, which had looked every inch a goal, had to be saved by a diving Royce.
With five minutes to go before half time, West Brom doubled their lead when Koumas' cross was chested down by Kamara and in one fell swoop, he looped it over Stewart's head and hit it first time past Royce.
Rangers fought their way back into contention in injury time however when Cook delivered into the box for Damion Stewart to smash the ball home from close range at the far post.
Suddenly, Rangers were back in the game with a life line.
With the second half just two minutes old, it was officially 'game on' as Gallen enjoyed his first goal since August.
Steaming into the box, Gallen diverted Blackstock's cross into the back of the net and reeled away to celebrate in front of the jubilant travelling fans.
Five minutes later however and West Brom were back on top in this end to end thriller.
Ellington slid the ball through for Kamara and the front man had time for a quick look at the linesman before steaming clear with just Royce to beat for the last 30 yards of his journey.
Picking his spot was just too easy and the danger man sent the ball crashing into the back of the net.
The Albion could have been out of sight twice within the sake of a few minutes as the chances rained in. Kamara having the best opportunity when the ball fell to him at the far post, but pressure from the Rangers defence saw him unable to divert the ball goalwards.
Stewart had previously lunged in and just steered the ball wide of the post, narrowly escaping the embarrassment of an own goal.
Lee Cook then went ever closer with one of his specialist free kicks.
This time his effort narrowly missed the upright and sank into the side netting.
The game ceased to stop providing goals and Rangers were now well and truly back in the game thanks to Marc Nygaard's close range strike.
The Rangers faithful were on their feet when the Dane converted Cook's cross to once again throw the game completely open.
Positioned in the centre of goal, Nygaard was never going to waste this opportunity and his strike completely befuddled the West Brom team who had been comfortable throughout.
When the whistle finally blew there can't have been a fan of the beautiful game who begrudged parting with their ticket money.
Especially if they were travelling back home down the M40.
WBA: Zuberbuhler, Watson, Perry, Davies, Greening, Ellington (Phillips 72), Gera, Albrechtsen, Kamara, Koumas, Wallwork (Hartson 85)
Subs: Chaplow, McShane, Hoult
Bookings:
Scorers: Ellington 8, Kamara 40, 54
Rangers: Royce, Bignot, Rehman, Gallen, Ainsworth, Lomas, Cook, Stewart, Blackstock (Nygaard 62), Smith, Mancienne
Subs: Milanese, Ward, Rowlands, Jones
Bookings: Smith
Scorers: Stewart 45, Gallen 47, Nygaard 77
Ref: L Mason
Att: 17,417
QPR Official Site
WBA OFFICIAL SITE
ALBION threw away two leads - and two vital points - on a frustrating night at The Hawthorns.
Everything looked rosy for the hosts when goals from Nathan Ellington and Diomansy Kamara gave them a deserved 2-0 lead inside 40 minutes.
But QPR stunned the Baggies by clawing themselves level with strikes either side of the break from Damion Stewart and Kevin Gallen.
Kamara put Tony Mowbray's side back in front by grabbing his eighth goal in just five-and-a-half games in the 54th minute.
But there was to be another, final twist when Rangers sub Marc Nygaard earned John Gregory's never-say-die side a point with an 82nd-minute header.
Albion were left scratching their heads at the final whistle as to how they had failed to win a game they dominated from start to finish.
As well as scoring three times, they created countless other chances but were ultimately undone by a rare display of slack defending.
Mowbray made two enforced changes from Saturday's first league defeat in seven games at Blues.
With Paul Robinson starting a three-game ban, Steve Watson was recalled at right-back, with Martin Albrechtsen switching to left-back.
Central midfielder Ronnie Wallwork also earned his first start for seven matches in place of ankle-injury victim Nigel Quashie, while Kevin Phillips made a welcome return to the bench following a calf injury.
Albion started brightly and almost snatched a fifth-minute lead.
Watson exchanged a clever one-two with the twinkle-toed Zoltan Gera before firing a first-time effort just wide from 15 yards.
QPR soon hit back and only Wallwork's vital interception inside the Albion box denied Dexter Blackstock the simplest of chances from Gareth Ainsworth's low cross.
However, the home hordes were soon 'boing boinging' when Ellington fired the hosts into an eighth-minute lead.
Diomansy Kamara slipped Jason Koumas through in the box, only for Rangers keeper Simon Royce to parry the Welsh wizard's first-time effort wide.
But the alert 'Duke' was the first to the rebound and drilled the ball in off Royce from an acute angle.
Koumas was proving a real handful for the West Londoners' defence and ended a surging 14th-minute run by firing straight at Royce from 20 yards, with the Rangers keeper gathering at the second attempt.
The early goal had failed to dampen QPR's spirits and, moments later, Pascal Zuberbuhler did well to keep out Steve Lomas' stinging 20-yard drive from Gallen's pull back.
Back came Albion and, after a lengthy spell of keep ball, Royce did brilliantly to tip over Watson's header from fully 18 yards after the ex-Everton man had been picked out by Albrechtsen's diagonal centre.
From Koumas' ensuing corner, Curtis Davies will feel he should have done much better after directing a free header over from ten yards.
Albion looked dangerous every time they attacked and Royce again kept the deficit down to one goal when he denied the unmarked Gera with a stunning reaction save from Kamara's pinpoint pass.
But it was to be a momentary reprieve as the buoyant Baggies secured a deserved 2-0 lead in the 40th minute.
Kamara superbly controlled Koumas' diagonal ball with his chest before shrugging off the attentions of Rangers centre-half Stewart and drilling past Royce from eight yards.
But Albion's joy was somewhat tempered two minutes into stoppage time when the visitors pulled a goal back.
After a short corner, Cook swung in a sublime centre and Stewart ghosted in to stab the ball home from six yards.
Incredibly, Rangers clawed themselves level three minutes after the re-start.
Blackstock burst into the Baggies box before squaring for Gallen who stabbed home from close range.
Albion regrouped and only Ainsworth's stunning last-ditch tackle denied Ellington what looked a certain goal following Kamara's neat run and pass.
Stewart then had to make a vital clearance inside his own six-yard box after Greening had jinked his way into the box and cut the ball past Royce.
But the pressure finally paid off as Albion edged back in front in the 54th minute.
Ellington did well to win a loose ball and thread Kamara through and the Senegal pace ace clinically fired into the bottom right-hand corner of Royce's net.
Albion created another gilt-edged chance in the 58th minute when Gera raced on to Koumas' sublime through-pass and pulled the ball back.
Stewart's slip gave Ellington a clear sight of goal but the former Wigan striker fired straight at Royce.
Albion continued to press for a fourth and Ellington's dink header from Watson's pinpoint crossfield pass put Koumas in the clear.
However, Royce was alert to Koumas' intentions and stood tall to catch the ex-Tranmere ace's attempted lob at point-blank range.
Albion continued to pile on the pressure and Kamara was only a whisker away from converting Davies' head back across the face of goal from Greening's centre.
Koumas then saw a 20-yard curler deflect off Michael Mancienne and fly inches wide.
With Albion still only leading by the odd goal, the points were by no means safe.
Zuberbuhler first showed a safe pair of hands to hold onto Cook's close-range effort before the same player curled the ball just wide from a 20-yard free-kick.
But Rangers silenced the home hordes by equalising eight minutes from time when sub Nygaard headed home Cook's left-wing cross.
Albion laid siege to the Rangers goal in the dying minutes in a desperate search for a winner.
But they ultimately ran out of time as the Hoops became only the second team this season to leave The Hawthorns undefeated.
WBA
Birthday: Tommy Docherty's First & Shortest-Term QPR Signing, Peter Davidson, Turns 50
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Peter Davidson Turns 50: Born October 31, 1956.
Winger, Davidson, was signed by new manager Tommy Docherty, from Berwick in July 1979 for 40,000 pounds: The first of a considerable number of players signed by Docherty. Davidson made one appearance for QPR as substitute and rejoined Berwick in December 1979.
Peter Davidson Turns 50: Born October 31, 1956.
Winger, Davidson, was signed by new manager Tommy Docherty, from Berwick in July 1979 for 40,000 pounds: The first of a considerable number of players signed by Docherty. Davidson made one appearance for QPR as substitute and rejoined Berwick in December 1979.
WBA vs QPR - Previews
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Phillips and Hartson and Ellington and Quashie and Koumas and...: Could be a tough night!
West Bromwich Albion - Official Site
TV NEWS Mowbray calls for fear factor
Baggies boss wants Albion to enhance their reputation as a goalscoring outfit when QPR visit Hawthorns....
WBA Official Site - Phillips boost for Baggies
Mowbray: "Kevin's trained today and if there is no reaction he should be involved in some capacity."
TONY Mowbray has been given a timely fitness boost with the news Kevin Phillips could play a part in tomorrow's (Tuesday) clash with QPR (ko 7.45pm).
The Baggies striker has not figured in the last four games after sustaining a calf injury in training in the wake of his stunning Portman Road hat-trick more than a fortnight ago.
But he returned to full training today (Monday) and the Albion chief is keeping his fingers crossed Phillips suffers no adverse reaction.
"We hope Kevin is very, very close," said Mowbray.
"He's trained today and if there is no reaction he should be involved in some capacity."
The Hawthorns boss also expects John Hartson to be available for selection despite suffering a wrist injury.
Although Darren Carter (hamstring) is out of the running to face John Gregory's men, he is edging closer to fitness.
"Darren isn't too far away," Mowbray added.
"John has trained today and is fine.
"The protection on his wrist is precautionary after he felt some soreness and stiffness.
"We're hopeful John will be involved again tomorrow night."
With Neil Clement (knee) still on the long-term injury list, Mowbray does have a quandary over who to play at left-back in the absence of the suspended Paul Robinson.
"We don't have a natural left-back as a replacement," he admitted.
"But I'll discuss it with the staff, chat it through with the players and we'll hopefully pick a team that can win tomorrow night."
WBA
Matchday betting guide,,,Nigel Quashie
MEMORY LANE...Quashie 10/1 with Baggiesbet to score first or last against former club QPR
NIGEL Quashie made his professional debut as a 17-year-old at QPR.
And he is set to face his former club in tomorrow's (Tuesday) Hawthorns clash (ko 7.45pm).
The Albion midfielder is priced at 50/1 with Baggiesbet to score first in a 2-1 win for Tony Mowbray's men.
Quashie is also 10/1 to notch first or last and 11/4 to bag at anytime.!...
WBA
WBA's Squad
QPR Official Site -BAGGIES
The R's face arguably their toughest away test of the season to date, when they travel to The Hawthorns on Tuesday evening.
Three different manager's before the end of October is hardly the recipe for a successful season, yet few would bet against the Baggies being there or thereabouts come the business end of the Championship campaign.
Bryan Robson and Nigel Pearson have already departed The Hawthorns this term - the latter albeit only in a caretaker capacity - which leaves new gaffer Tony Mowbray with the seemingly thankless task of impressing the Baggies board.
Surely only promotion will suffice for the former Hibernian boss, who made a stunning start to life at The Hawthorns.
Goals from Jonathan Greening, in-form front-man Diomansy Kamara and John Hartson helped clinch a 3-0 victory against West Country rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers - a win which, thanks in part to Pearson, extended their unbeaten run to seven matches in all competitions.
Indeed Pearson - who has now joined Newcastle United as their assistant manager- could count himself extremely unfotunate not keep the job on a full-time basis, after guiding the Baggies to three victories and one draw in his four-match stint in charge, including a stunning 5-1 win at Ipswich and a 4-2 triumph against Leeds.
Baggies boss Tony Mowbray
But the past is the past and with Mowbray at the helm, Baggies Chairman Jeremy Peace is confident his new man can guide the Club back to the top-flight.
Peace is anxious to get back to the top tier of English Football before West Brom's Premiership parachute money runs out.
"It is very important we try and take the opportunity, hopefully this season, to get out of this division," he said.
"We believe with Tony, we will optimise the opportunity."
Saturday provided a brief setback to Peace and his fellow board members, however, when local rivals Birmingham City inflicted a 2-0 defeat on the Baggies at St Andrews....
Top scorer: Diomansy Kamara 6 (pictured, below)
Last league game:
Birmingham City, 2, West Bromwich Albion 0.
Coca Cola Championship.
October 28th 2006.
WBA: Zuberbuhler, Albrechtsen, Davies, Perry, Robinson, Gera, Greening, Quashie (Hartson 67), Koumas, Kamara, Ellington.
Subs Not Used: Hoult, Watson, Chaplow, McShane.
Mowbray on Blues: "I was tempted to say we could have scored 14 goals today and we had plenty of opportunities. That's football.
"But I was generally happy with the performance of the team.
"You can't win every game but I've said to the players if they perform like that for the remaining games they will win a lot more than they lose."
Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds:
WBA 2/5
QPR 7/1
draw 11/4
Zoltan Gera (left) celebrates after scoring
against Crystal Palace
Key player: Zoltan GERA
THE 'Magic Magyar' joined Albion from Ferencvaros in a £1.5million deal in July 2004, fresh from winning the domestic league and cup double with his former club.
The Baggies beat off competition from several top European clubs to land the attacking midfielder, who penned a three-year Hawthorns contract, with a further year's option in the club's favour.
Gera was a revelation in his first season in English football during 2004/05. His all-action displays on the right wing caught the eye and his six Premiership goals helped the Baggies pull off the Great Escape.
Gera also skippered his country under former Hungary coach and Germany legend Lothar Matthaus.
Head to head:
WBA wins: 10
QPR wins: 10
Draws: 6
Last meeting:
QPR 2 (Plummer, Koejoe), West Bromwich Albion 0.
Football League Championship.
January 13th 2001.
Latest News:
Birmingham skipper Damien Johnson has learned that he suffered a fractured jaw after a challenge by West Brom defender Paul Robinson on Saturday.
Robinson was shown a straight red card for elbowing in the dying minutes of Birmingham's 2-0 win at St Andrews - although he protests his innocence.
Johnson will now see a specialist to determine whether he needs surgery.
But Robinson insisted: "It was a 50-50 ball and I actually pulled out of the tackle because I saw Damien coming in with his foot up. I jumped out of the way to protect myself. That's the only reason my feet left the ground.
"The linesman, who was close to the incident, did not even flag for a foul and I was astonished when the ref showed me a red card.
"I hear that Damien has come off worse but there is absolutely no way I would deliberately hurt or 'do' a fellow professional."
(Source: BBC News)
QPR
Also:
QPRnet/Ron Norris & Simon Skinner - Preview WBA vs QPR
QPR RIVALS/Clive Whittingham: Previews WBA vs QPR
Phillips and Hartson and Ellington and Quashie and Koumas and...: Could be a tough night!
West Bromwich Albion - Official Site
TV NEWS Mowbray calls for fear factor
Baggies boss wants Albion to enhance their reputation as a goalscoring outfit when QPR visit Hawthorns....
WBA Official Site - Phillips boost for Baggies
Mowbray: "Kevin's trained today and if there is no reaction he should be involved in some capacity."
TONY Mowbray has been given a timely fitness boost with the news Kevin Phillips could play a part in tomorrow's (Tuesday) clash with QPR (ko 7.45pm).
The Baggies striker has not figured in the last four games after sustaining a calf injury in training in the wake of his stunning Portman Road hat-trick more than a fortnight ago.
But he returned to full training today (Monday) and the Albion chief is keeping his fingers crossed Phillips suffers no adverse reaction.
"We hope Kevin is very, very close," said Mowbray.
"He's trained today and if there is no reaction he should be involved in some capacity."
The Hawthorns boss also expects John Hartson to be available for selection despite suffering a wrist injury.
Although Darren Carter (hamstring) is out of the running to face John Gregory's men, he is edging closer to fitness.
"Darren isn't too far away," Mowbray added.
"John has trained today and is fine.
"The protection on his wrist is precautionary after he felt some soreness and stiffness.
"We're hopeful John will be involved again tomorrow night."
With Neil Clement (knee) still on the long-term injury list, Mowbray does have a quandary over who to play at left-back in the absence of the suspended Paul Robinson.
"We don't have a natural left-back as a replacement," he admitted.
"But I'll discuss it with the staff, chat it through with the players and we'll hopefully pick a team that can win tomorrow night."
WBA
Matchday betting guide,,,Nigel Quashie
MEMORY LANE...Quashie 10/1 with Baggiesbet to score first or last against former club QPR
NIGEL Quashie made his professional debut as a 17-year-old at QPR.
And he is set to face his former club in tomorrow's (Tuesday) Hawthorns clash (ko 7.45pm).
The Albion midfielder is priced at 50/1 with Baggiesbet to score first in a 2-1 win for Tony Mowbray's men.
Quashie is also 10/1 to notch first or last and 11/4 to bag at anytime.!...
WBA
WBA's Squad
QPR Official Site -BAGGIES
The R's face arguably their toughest away test of the season to date, when they travel to The Hawthorns on Tuesday evening.
Three different manager's before the end of October is hardly the recipe for a successful season, yet few would bet against the Baggies being there or thereabouts come the business end of the Championship campaign.
Bryan Robson and Nigel Pearson have already departed The Hawthorns this term - the latter albeit only in a caretaker capacity - which leaves new gaffer Tony Mowbray with the seemingly thankless task of impressing the Baggies board.
Surely only promotion will suffice for the former Hibernian boss, who made a stunning start to life at The Hawthorns.
Goals from Jonathan Greening, in-form front-man Diomansy Kamara and John Hartson helped clinch a 3-0 victory against West Country rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers - a win which, thanks in part to Pearson, extended their unbeaten run to seven matches in all competitions.
Indeed Pearson - who has now joined Newcastle United as their assistant manager- could count himself extremely unfotunate not keep the job on a full-time basis, after guiding the Baggies to three victories and one draw in his four-match stint in charge, including a stunning 5-1 win at Ipswich and a 4-2 triumph against Leeds.
Baggies boss Tony Mowbray
But the past is the past and with Mowbray at the helm, Baggies Chairman Jeremy Peace is confident his new man can guide the Club back to the top-flight.
Peace is anxious to get back to the top tier of English Football before West Brom's Premiership parachute money runs out.
"It is very important we try and take the opportunity, hopefully this season, to get out of this division," he said.
"We believe with Tony, we will optimise the opportunity."
Saturday provided a brief setback to Peace and his fellow board members, however, when local rivals Birmingham City inflicted a 2-0 defeat on the Baggies at St Andrews....
Top scorer: Diomansy Kamara 6 (pictured, below)
Last league game:
Birmingham City, 2, West Bromwich Albion 0.
Coca Cola Championship.
October 28th 2006.
WBA: Zuberbuhler, Albrechtsen, Davies, Perry, Robinson, Gera, Greening, Quashie (Hartson 67), Koumas, Kamara, Ellington.
Subs Not Used: Hoult, Watson, Chaplow, McShane.
Mowbray on Blues: "I was tempted to say we could have scored 14 goals today and we had plenty of opportunities. That's football.
"But I was generally happy with the performance of the team.
"You can't win every game but I've said to the players if they perform like that for the remaining games they will win a lot more than they lose."
Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds:
WBA 2/5
QPR 7/1
draw 11/4
Zoltan Gera (left) celebrates after scoring
against Crystal Palace
Key player: Zoltan GERA
THE 'Magic Magyar' joined Albion from Ferencvaros in a £1.5million deal in July 2004, fresh from winning the domestic league and cup double with his former club.
The Baggies beat off competition from several top European clubs to land the attacking midfielder, who penned a three-year Hawthorns contract, with a further year's option in the club's favour.
Gera was a revelation in his first season in English football during 2004/05. His all-action displays on the right wing caught the eye and his six Premiership goals helped the Baggies pull off the Great Escape.
Gera also skippered his country under former Hungary coach and Germany legend Lothar Matthaus.
Head to head:
WBA wins: 10
QPR wins: 10
Draws: 6
Last meeting:
QPR 2 (Plummer, Koejoe), West Bromwich Albion 0.
Football League Championship.
January 13th 2001.
Latest News:
Birmingham skipper Damien Johnson has learned that he suffered a fractured jaw after a challenge by West Brom defender Paul Robinson on Saturday.
Robinson was shown a straight red card for elbowing in the dying minutes of Birmingham's 2-0 win at St Andrews - although he protests his innocence.
Johnson will now see a specialist to determine whether he needs surgery.
But Robinson insisted: "It was a 50-50 ball and I actually pulled out of the tackle because I saw Damien coming in with his foot up. I jumped out of the way to protect myself. That's the only reason my feet left the ground.
"The linesman, who was close to the incident, did not even flag for a foul and I was astonished when the ref showed me a red card.
"I hear that Damien has come off worse but there is absolutely no way I would deliberately hurt or 'do' a fellow professional."
(Source: BBC News)
QPR
Also:
QPRnet/Ron Norris & Simon Skinner - Preview WBA vs QPR
QPR RIVALS/Clive Whittingham: Previews WBA vs QPR
Monday, October 30, 2006
Clarke Carlisle on his Former Addiction Problems
-
Updated: Hear the BBC Broadcast
Premier League Addicts - A Five Live Sport special
The programme hears from Peter Kay, who runs Sporting Chance, the clinic which treats sportsmen and -women with addiction problems. He says 70 per cent of footballers who contact him now do so because of gambling problems, which are costing them tens of thousands of pounds.
Mr. Kay also reveals a worrying new link between gambling and pornographic websites. Players are going to their hotel rooms with their laptops and logging on to gambling websites. After losing a fortune, they then go on to porn websites to make themselves feel better. This might take them through to 5 or 6am and has obvious consequences for their performance on the pitch. Violence and aggression on the pitch can often be traced back to addiction problems.
Clip from our interview with Peter Kay (1 min)
Full interview with Peter Kay (14 min)
Sporting Chance offer to give talks to the apprentices and young players at every Premiership club, some of whom are supportive. But others deny they have a problem and refuse to co-operate. One club told Peter not to bother coming, even though two of their players were undergoing treatment for addictions without their manager's knowledge.
Kay says that despite the fat paypackets, fast cars, adulation etc, most young footballers lead a very solitary life. They're often away from their home town, very few close friends, a lot of time spent alone in hotel rooms.
The programme also hears from the Watford defender Clarke Carlisle, who admits that he had severe alcohol and gambling problems, which he has now managed to overcome. He speaks frankly about his slide into alcoholism, which culminated in him turning up drunk at the team bus on the day of a match. His manager at the time refused to let him on the bus and ordered him to train with the reserves - he went back to the pub.
Carlisle's gambling losses were close to six figures and he admits that his whole life was hanging by a thread. He says he wishes he'd had more education from someone like Peter Kay when he was younger.
Clip from our interview with Clarke Carlisle (1 min 30s)
Full interview with Clarke Carlisle (30 min)
We'll also hear from Paul McGrath, the former Man United, Aston Villa and Republic of Ireland defender, whose alcoholism drove him to attempt suicide four times.
Clip from our interview with Paul McGrath (2 min 15s)
BBC Broadcast
Listen
The Times - October 30, 2006
Secret vices of laptop stars By Brian Alexander
"...SOME PREMIERSHIP PLAYERS ARE being treated for a double addiction to gambling and pornography. There is growing evidence that the lifestyle of the modern-day wealthy footballer is unhealthy, unmanageable and out of control. Too much money and insufficient “life skills” to use their free time constructively are being blamed by experts and players.
This latest trend is revealed by Peter Kay, the chief executive of the Sporting Chance Clinic, established in Hampshire by Tony Adams, the former Arsenal defender and a reformed alcoholic, five years ago, in a special programme for BBC Radio 5 Live this evening. Kay has overseen the treatment of dozens of high-profile players with alcohol and gambling problems, but the addition of porn will cause huge concern to the FA and the Professional Footballers’ Association, which fund and support Sporting Chance...
Kay, known as “Chef” by his clients after spending years working in top London hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants, works from two properties tucked away in a wooded hideaway at Forest Mere Country Club near Liphook. Four players at a time can use the main cottage, which is functional rather than luxurious. And one reformed alcoholic, Clarke Carlisle, who plays for Watford, said that Kay and his team saved his life.
“Two or three years ago I had gambling debts approaching six figures, I had almost lost my job at Queens Park Rangers and had a daughter I didn’t see much of,” Carlisle said. “I was on the sauce 24/7. My whole life was hanging by a thread.”
He was given the Sporting Chance phone number by his manager at the time, Ian Holloway, and has been one of the clinic’s many successes.
An addiction to alcohol usually means that there is a secondary problem. In Carlisle’s case it was not porn, it was internet gambling. “I was losing thousands,” he said. “It’s not reality. You click a button and your money’s gone. These lads are locked in their hotel rooms before a match for hours on end with nothing to do. It’s a terrible cycle. If you lose money then you have to make yourself feel better. I needed to train in the morning, so I could go out and drink again.”
Kay believes that education is the key, giving young players as much information as possible about using their time properly and organising their lives. The player with the porn addiction said: “It must be drilled into players by their clubs that off the pitch they need to use their spare time well. It all stems from how much they get paid. If you lose a grand gambling or on porn sites what does it matter? If they don’t listen to advice then that’s their prerogative.”
Carlisle added: “Clubs need to groom their players and make sure they use all that free time constructively. They get taken from their home environment at a very young age and suddenly become a role model for the nation’s youngsters. How do they play that role when they’re youngsters themselves?” ...
The Times
Updated: Hear the BBC Broadcast
Premier League Addicts - A Five Live Sport special
The programme hears from Peter Kay, who runs Sporting Chance, the clinic which treats sportsmen and -women with addiction problems. He says 70 per cent of footballers who contact him now do so because of gambling problems, which are costing them tens of thousands of pounds.
Mr. Kay also reveals a worrying new link between gambling and pornographic websites. Players are going to their hotel rooms with their laptops and logging on to gambling websites. After losing a fortune, they then go on to porn websites to make themselves feel better. This might take them through to 5 or 6am and has obvious consequences for their performance on the pitch. Violence and aggression on the pitch can often be traced back to addiction problems.
Clip from our interview with Peter Kay (1 min)
Full interview with Peter Kay (14 min)
Sporting Chance offer to give talks to the apprentices and young players at every Premiership club, some of whom are supportive. But others deny they have a problem and refuse to co-operate. One club told Peter not to bother coming, even though two of their players were undergoing treatment for addictions without their manager's knowledge.
Kay says that despite the fat paypackets, fast cars, adulation etc, most young footballers lead a very solitary life. They're often away from their home town, very few close friends, a lot of time spent alone in hotel rooms.
The programme also hears from the Watford defender Clarke Carlisle, who admits that he had severe alcohol and gambling problems, which he has now managed to overcome. He speaks frankly about his slide into alcoholism, which culminated in him turning up drunk at the team bus on the day of a match. His manager at the time refused to let him on the bus and ordered him to train with the reserves - he went back to the pub.
Carlisle's gambling losses were close to six figures and he admits that his whole life was hanging by a thread. He says he wishes he'd had more education from someone like Peter Kay when he was younger.
Clip from our interview with Clarke Carlisle (1 min 30s)
Full interview with Clarke Carlisle (30 min)
We'll also hear from Paul McGrath, the former Man United, Aston Villa and Republic of Ireland defender, whose alcoholism drove him to attempt suicide four times.
Clip from our interview with Paul McGrath (2 min 15s)
BBC Broadcast
Listen
The Times - October 30, 2006
Secret vices of laptop stars By Brian Alexander
"...SOME PREMIERSHIP PLAYERS ARE being treated for a double addiction to gambling and pornography. There is growing evidence that the lifestyle of the modern-day wealthy footballer is unhealthy, unmanageable and out of control. Too much money and insufficient “life skills” to use their free time constructively are being blamed by experts and players.
This latest trend is revealed by Peter Kay, the chief executive of the Sporting Chance Clinic, established in Hampshire by Tony Adams, the former Arsenal defender and a reformed alcoholic, five years ago, in a special programme for BBC Radio 5 Live this evening. Kay has overseen the treatment of dozens of high-profile players with alcohol and gambling problems, but the addition of porn will cause huge concern to the FA and the Professional Footballers’ Association, which fund and support Sporting Chance...
Kay, known as “Chef” by his clients after spending years working in top London hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants, works from two properties tucked away in a wooded hideaway at Forest Mere Country Club near Liphook. Four players at a time can use the main cottage, which is functional rather than luxurious. And one reformed alcoholic, Clarke Carlisle, who plays for Watford, said that Kay and his team saved his life.
“Two or three years ago I had gambling debts approaching six figures, I had almost lost my job at Queens Park Rangers and had a daughter I didn’t see much of,” Carlisle said. “I was on the sauce 24/7. My whole life was hanging by a thread.”
He was given the Sporting Chance phone number by his manager at the time, Ian Holloway, and has been one of the clinic’s many successes.
An addiction to alcohol usually means that there is a secondary problem. In Carlisle’s case it was not porn, it was internet gambling. “I was losing thousands,” he said. “It’s not reality. You click a button and your money’s gone. These lads are locked in their hotel rooms before a match for hours on end with nothing to do. It’s a terrible cycle. If you lose money then you have to make yourself feel better. I needed to train in the morning, so I could go out and drink again.”
Kay believes that education is the key, giving young players as much information as possible about using their time properly and organising their lives. The player with the porn addiction said: “It must be drilled into players by their clubs that off the pitch they need to use their spare time well. It all stems from how much they get paid. If you lose a grand gambling or on porn sites what does it matter? If they don’t listen to advice then that’s their prerogative.”
Carlisle added: “Clubs need to groom their players and make sure they use all that free time constructively. They get taken from their home environment at a very young age and suddenly become a role model for the nation’s youngsters. How do they play that role when they’re youngsters themselves?” ...
The Times
Ex-QPR's John Hollins Leaves Crawley
-
UPDATED: October 30: Crawley Town Official Statement
John Hollins & Alan Lewer depart Club
The Directors of Crawley Town Football Club have announced that Manager John Hollins and Assistant Manager Alan Lewer have parted company with the club.
Crawley Town FC has had a difficult year both financially and on the pitch and the decision to find a new management team has not been taken lightly.
The Club is pleased to announce that Captain Ben Judge and player David Woozley will take the reigns of Crawley Town FC for the foreseeable future. Former Millwall and Fulham Coach, John Yems has been appointed Coach of the team.
Crawley Town Football Club would like to thank both John Hollins and Alan Lewer for all their hard work with the club and wish them the very best for the future.
It has been a tough year for the club and its directors are determined to strive forward after some disappointing results on the pitch and having the constant pressure of administration.
The Directors would like to thank the Reds Fans for their support through these tough times and would like to assure them everything is being done to push the club to new heights.
Crawley Town
BBC -Manager Hollins departs Crawley
Crawley Town have parted company with manager John Hollins and his assistant Alan Lewer, reports BBC Southern Counties Radio.
Hollins had been in charge for just under a year, since November 2005.
His last game in charge was Saturday's 3-2 defeat by Lewes in the FA Cup fourth qualifying round.
The Red Devils began the season on minus 10 points after entering administration, but are now second from bottom with 12 points from 17 games.
Hollins had previously managed Chelsea, Swansea and Rochdale.
BBC
CRAWLEY Town Football Club
UPDATED: October 30: Crawley Town Official Statement
John Hollins & Alan Lewer depart Club
The Directors of Crawley Town Football Club have announced that Manager John Hollins and Assistant Manager Alan Lewer have parted company with the club.
Crawley Town FC has had a difficult year both financially and on the pitch and the decision to find a new management team has not been taken lightly.
The Club is pleased to announce that Captain Ben Judge and player David Woozley will take the reigns of Crawley Town FC for the foreseeable future. Former Millwall and Fulham Coach, John Yems has been appointed Coach of the team.
Crawley Town Football Club would like to thank both John Hollins and Alan Lewer for all their hard work with the club and wish them the very best for the future.
It has been a tough year for the club and its directors are determined to strive forward after some disappointing results on the pitch and having the constant pressure of administration.
The Directors would like to thank the Reds Fans for their support through these tough times and would like to assure them everything is being done to push the club to new heights.
Crawley Town
BBC -Manager Hollins departs Crawley
Crawley Town have parted company with manager John Hollins and his assistant Alan Lewer, reports BBC Southern Counties Radio.
Hollins had been in charge for just under a year, since November 2005.
His last game in charge was Saturday's 3-2 defeat by Lewes in the FA Cup fourth qualifying round.
The Red Devils began the season on minus 10 points after entering administration, but are now second from bottom with 12 points from 17 games.
Hollins had previously managed Chelsea, Swansea and Rochdale.
BBC
CRAWLEY Town Football Club
Mancienne on Gaining Experience at QPR to help him at Chelsea
-
Mirror - Chelsea's Michael mancienne
MICHAEL MANCIENNE hopes to be as good as Chelsea team-mate John Terry, with the help of Championship experience at QPR.
The 18-year-old defender is on a one-month loan at Loftus Road from Stamford Bridge and made his home debut for Rangers as a first-half substitute against Leicester.
Mancienne admits his next step is to emulate his idol Terry in QPR's centre-back role after replacing injured Patrick Kanyuka at right-back in the game.
The England Under-19 international is yet to make a first-team appearance for Chelsea, but hopes that regular games with Rangers will catch boss Jose Mourinho's eye.
..Mancienne said: "Hopefully I can be compared to John Terry because he's an idol of mine and a quality defender.
"I've learned the most from John and all the English lads like Frank Lampard. They're good role models to have around and watch every day.
"But Chelsea encouraged this loan move because QPR is a good club and plays good football.
"I was excited when I got the call because I've been waiting for something to happen so I can push myself to the next level."
Mancienne is confident there is a future for him at Stamford Bridge if he can prove himself during his Championship spell.
He added: "It is difficult but if you're good enough you can make it at Chelsea. I don't think you'll break in at a young age, but maybe when you're older with a bit more experience.
"You've got to keep the faith and stay strong. When you see foreign players come in it just makes you work harder and want to be better than them."
But Rangers have now gone four games without a win after Saturday's draw as they sit two points away from the Championship drop zone.
It needed a 68th minute Martin Rowlands penalty to cancel out Patrick Kisnorbo's seventh-minute opener.
And John Gregory's men did not make the most of Leicester finishing the game with 10 men following Gareth McAuley's sending-off for the handball on the line
Mirror
Mirror - Chelsea's Michael mancienne
MICHAEL MANCIENNE hopes to be as good as Chelsea team-mate John Terry, with the help of Championship experience at QPR.
The 18-year-old defender is on a one-month loan at Loftus Road from Stamford Bridge and made his home debut for Rangers as a first-half substitute against Leicester.
Mancienne admits his next step is to emulate his idol Terry in QPR's centre-back role after replacing injured Patrick Kanyuka at right-back in the game.
The England Under-19 international is yet to make a first-team appearance for Chelsea, but hopes that regular games with Rangers will catch boss Jose Mourinho's eye.
..Mancienne said: "Hopefully I can be compared to John Terry because he's an idol of mine and a quality defender.
"I've learned the most from John and all the English lads like Frank Lampard. They're good role models to have around and watch every day.
"But Chelsea encouraged this loan move because QPR is a good club and plays good football.
"I was excited when I got the call because I've been waiting for something to happen so I can push myself to the next level."
Mancienne is confident there is a future for him at Stamford Bridge if he can prove himself during his Championship spell.
He added: "It is difficult but if you're good enough you can make it at Chelsea. I don't think you'll break in at a young age, but maybe when you're older with a bit more experience.
"You've got to keep the faith and stay strong. When you see foreign players come in it just makes you work harder and want to be better than them."
But Rangers have now gone four games without a win after Saturday's draw as they sit two points away from the Championship drop zone.
It needed a 68th minute Martin Rowlands penalty to cancel out Patrick Kisnorbo's seventh-minute opener.
And John Gregory's men did not make the most of Leicester finishing the game with 10 men following Gareth McAuley's sending-off for the handball on the line
Mirror
Ex-QPR Birthdays: Lee Harper & Colin Clarke
-
Lee Harper Turns 35: Born October 30, 1971.
Goalie signed by Stuart Houston from Arsenal in 1997 for approaching half a million pounds, Harper played four seasons (over 100 games) for QPR until was released after QPR's relegation to the old Third Division. Harper is currently on loan at Milton Keynes.
Harper
Colin Clarke Turns 44- Born October 30, 1962.
Northern Ireland Internation forward played for a number of clubs. Signed by Trevor Francis from Southampton for a then QPR record, 800,000 pounds in March 1989.Joined Portsmouth in the summer of 1990 for 400,000 pounds. Making his debut for Southampton, Clarke got a hattrick - against QPR!
Clarke
Lee Harper Turns 35: Born October 30, 1971.
Goalie signed by Stuart Houston from Arsenal in 1997 for approaching half a million pounds, Harper played four seasons (over 100 games) for QPR until was released after QPR's relegation to the old Third Division. Harper is currently on loan at Milton Keynes.
Harper
Colin Clarke Turns 44- Born October 30, 1962.
Northern Ireland Internation forward played for a number of clubs. Signed by Trevor Francis from Southampton for a then QPR record, 800,000 pounds in March 1989.Joined Portsmouth in the summer of 1990 for 400,000 pounds. Making his debut for Southampton, Clarke got a hattrick - against QPR!
Clarke
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Death Announced of Former QPR Player, Barry Wallace
-
News of the death of former QPR player, Barry Wallace was reportedly in yesterday's QPR Programme. Wallace played for QPR between 1977 and 1980. He was 47.
News of the death of former QPR player, Barry Wallace was reportedly in yesterday's QPR Programme. Wallace played for QPR between 1977 and 1980. He was 47.
Former QPR Player Barry Wallace Died
-
News of the death of former QPR player, Barry Wallace was reportedly in yesterday's QPR Programme. Wallace played for QPR between 1977 and 1980. He was 47.
Oklahoma Soccer
Tulsa Roughneck Barry Wallace Loses Battle With Cancer
Former Tulsa Roughneck fan favorite lost a terrible battle with cancer on October 17. According to teammate Victor Moreland, Barry had been hospitalized for several weeks in Kansas City. Barry requested not to have contact, but all Oklahoma soccer fans who watched Barry play will want to send thoughts and prayers to his family.
The funeral was held in Lenexa, Kansas, where Barry had established residency after playing soccer with the Kansas City Comets until 1990. Barry was a member of the Tulsa Roughneck Soccer Bowl champions in 1983 and also played for Wichita, Minnesota, and Tacoma.
A member of the Queens Park Rangers of the English First Division, Barry arrived in Tulsa in 1980 and became friends with Moreland. After retiring from professional soccer, Barry became a youth coach for his daughter and son’s teams.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made for his daughter’s college fund. Address checks to: In Memory of Barry Wallace, Premier Bank, 15301 W 87th Street Parkway, Lenexa, KS 66219.
Oklahoma
Wallace Profiled
News of the death of former QPR player, Barry Wallace was reportedly in yesterday's QPR Programme. Wallace played for QPR between 1977 and 1980. He was 47.
Oklahoma Soccer
Tulsa Roughneck Barry Wallace Loses Battle With Cancer
Former Tulsa Roughneck fan favorite lost a terrible battle with cancer on October 17. According to teammate Victor Moreland, Barry had been hospitalized for several weeks in Kansas City. Barry requested not to have contact, but all Oklahoma soccer fans who watched Barry play will want to send thoughts and prayers to his family.
The funeral was held in Lenexa, Kansas, where Barry had established residency after playing soccer with the Kansas City Comets until 1990. Barry was a member of the Tulsa Roughneck Soccer Bowl champions in 1983 and also played for Wichita, Minnesota, and Tacoma.
A member of the Queens Park Rangers of the English First Division, Barry arrived in Tulsa in 1980 and became friends with Moreland. After retiring from professional soccer, Barry became a youth coach for his daughter and son’s teams.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made for his daughter’s college fund. Address checks to: In Memory of Barry Wallace, Premier Bank, 15301 W 87th Street Parkway, Lenexa, KS 66219.
Oklahoma
Wallace Profiled
Saturday, October 28, 2006
QPR Held at home by Leicester - Reports & Comments
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QPR drew 1-1 at home to Leicester City and are now just two points away from being in the bottom three.
League Table
John Gregory - QPR Official Site "MAKING A POINT"
John Gregory praised the resilience and character of his players after the 1-1 draw with Leicester City.
"I think we more than deserved the point. We know we should have come off the pitch with a victory, but it just wasn't to be.
"Rob Kelly and his players will be delighted to be leaving West London with a point.''
Having taken a first half lead courtesy of Patrick Kisnorbo's early header, the Foxes were reduced to ten men midway through the second half when Gareth McAuley saw red for deliberate handball.
Martin Rowlands scored from the resultant spot-kick, but the R's failed to make their numerical advantage count in the closing stages.
"When you are playing against ten men it is still two banks of four, so it's not always easy to break a team down.
"Credit to Leicester, they came here witha game plan, did their homework and they've left with a point.''
Gregory also stated he'll be in a better position to assess his start as Rangers boss after the trip to Cardiff City on November 17th.
"After Cardiff we'll be in a better position to see where we are at.
"The stats say everything. We've got two wins, two draws and two defeats since I arrived, but I think the positives far outweigh the negatives.''
Gregory did however bemoan the R's defending: "We keep handicapping ourselves by conceding sloppy, early goals.
"There's little I can do when that happens. It's the old adage of when the players cross the white line, it's up to them to lay down a marker and we're not doing that at the moment.''
QPR
Leicester Official Site - Managerial Comments
Kelly Content With Draw
Leicester City manager Rob Kelly said he was satisfied to leave Loftus Road with a point after his side battled out a 1-1 draw with QPR on Saturday afternoon.
The Foxes took the lead with seven minutes on the clock - Patrick Kisnorbo heading home for his fourth of the season from a Danny Tiatto free-kick.
But the game turned on its head in the 68th minute when Gareth McAuley was adjudged to have handled inside his own area. The defender was sent off for his troubles - and Martin Rowlands made no mistake from the resulting penalty kick.
Kelly said: "We always set out to win games, but in the context of this match we have got to be pleased to get a point. It was a real battling performance from our players in difficult circumstances on the back of the week that we have had.
"We started the game well and scored early. That is something that we work quite hard on.
"But I thought that we had quite a few tired players out there today. We couldn't really change it because we just don't have the personnel to do that at the moment.
"John (Gregory) has got it going here. They are a bit different now and they are really up and at you.
"That's seven league games unbeaten now, and that's a base for us to build from.
"Until their penalty I just thought that we were going to see it out. We had just weathered it and it had gone a bit quiet. But we've made a mistake for the goal.
"We showed spirit. We've played 20 minutes at the end with 10 men on the back of 120 minutes on Tuesday night. I don't think the supporters could have asked of any more of the players."
Kelly finally gave an update on the fitness of James Wesolowski, who was forced from the field at half time through injury.
He added: "James took a bit of a kick during the first half and following the game against Villa on Tuesday we thought it best to take him off. It's too soon at the moment to be able to tell whether or not he'll be available for the Stoke game."
Leicester
QPR Official Site
Ten-man Leicester held on for a share of the spoils, at the end of an absorbing contest in W12.
The Foxes survived a second half onslaught from the R's to leave West London with a point, after Gareth McAuley saw red midway through the second half for deliberate handball.
Martin Rowlands stuck away the resultant spot-kick to set up a grandstand finish, but the Foxes survived and thanks to Patrick Kisnorbo's early header, made the trip back up the M1 with a plucky point.
Leicester led at the break, despite the R's creating a flurry of golden opportunities in an end-to-end first half.
Rangers' inability to keep their concentration in the opening exchanges came back to haunt them yet again, as Patrick Kisnorbo coasted into the box unchallenged to head past Simon Royce.
It was the fifth match in succession in which the R's have given conceded inside the opening quarter of an hour - a stat that will no doubt concern gaffer John Gregory.
Undeterred, Rangers went on to orchestrate proceedings for the remainder of the half, with Dexter Blackstock the chief destroyer.
On another afternoon, the R's summer signing could have bagged a first half hat-trick, but Conrad Logan was in inspired form for the Foxes.
Gregory made three changes to the side which succumbed to a 3-2 defeat against Sheffield Wednesday last Saturday.
Royce, Pat Kanyuka and Marc Nygaard all returned to the starting XI, while Steve Lomas was handed the captain's armband, with injury ruling out Marc Bircham.
Rangers made a promising start, yet despite an early rendition of 'Pig Bag' over the PA system, Dexter Blackstock's stunning second minute volley from Lee Cook's cross finished the wrong side of the post.
But it was Leicester who opened the scoring on six minutes, when Tiatto's sublime free-kick was glanced home by Kisnorbo.
The returning Royce appeared to be in control of the situation, but a slight moment's hesitancy allowed the Leicester captain the time and space he needed to finish in style.
The R's should have been on terms five minutes later, but after an almighty goalmouth scramble, Blackstock somehow scooped the ball over the bar from the edge of the six-yard box.
The better opportunities continued to fall the hosts' way and after Cook's free-kick was only half-cleared, Damion Stewart's close-range effort was superbly tipped round the post by Foxes custodian Conrad Logan.
Play quickly switched to the other end, with Royce on hand to palm away Iain Hume's effort from an acute angle.
The returning Kanyuka was soon forced from the fray with what appeared to be a hamstring injury, with Michael Mancienne coming on for his home debut.
Royce had to be at his agile best again in the 25th minute - this time on hand to save Elvis Hammond's 20-yard pile-driver.
Blackstock was leading the Foxes defence a merry dance and when the inspirational Steve Lomas fed a neat pass into his path, the former Southampton ace was unfortunate to see his looping effort finish inches over.
The same player forced Logan into another fine save on the half hour, as Rangers' superiority slowly but surely showed signs of paying dividends.
The outstanding Cook signalled Rangers' second half intentions inside the opening seconds, leaving three defenders in his wake, only to be hacked to ground by Tiatto.
Martin Rowlands' resultant free-kick flew high and wide, before the same player lobbed over from an impossible angle two minutes later.
Rowlands was like a man possessed at the start of the second half and when the ball fell to him on the edge of the box in the 53rd minute, only the width of the post denied him the goal his performance undoubtedly deserved.
Mancienne was growing in stature as the match evolved and when he was gifted the freedom of the final third, only another solid stop from Logan prevented him from opening his account for the R's.
However, despair turned to joy for the home crowd on 66 minutes, when referee Mr Stroud pointed to the spot and dismissed Gareth McAuley for deliberate handball after he palmed away Blackstock's goal-bound strike on the line.
Rowlands stepped up from the spot and made no mistake from 12-yards, sending Logan the wrong way to spark scenes of mass celebration amongst the home faithful.
The Blackstock-Logan battle showed no signs of easing up and when the former got goal-side of his marker at the back post, Logan produced more heroics, grasping the ball on his line.
Sensing the three points were there for the taking, Gregory introduced Gareth Ainsworth at the expense of the fatigued Rowlands - the fans' favourite returning after a 10-week lay-off due to a hamstring injury.
Yet despite their numerical advantage, the R's only had a weak Zesh Rehman header and a Jimmy Smith strike to show for their late efforts.
And their inability to create in the final third almost proved costly three minutes from time, when Hume fired at Royce and Matty Fryatt somehow fluffed his lines from six-yards.
QPR: Royce, Bignot, Stewart, Kanyuka (Mancienne 22), Rehman, Cook, Lomas, Smith, Rowlands (Ainsworth 74), Blackstock (Gallen 57), Nygaard.
Subs: Jones, Rose.
Scorers: Rowlands (pen) 67
Bookings: Lomas 21, Smith 88
Leicester City: Logan, Kisnorbo, Kenton, Hume, Tiatto, McAuley, Johansson, Stearman, Hammond (McCarthy 68), Wesolowski (Maybury 46), Welsh (Fryatt 74).
Subs: Henderson, Sylla.
Scorers: Kisnorbo 6
Bookings: Hume 89
Red Cards: McAuley 66
Attendance: 12, 340
Referee: Mr K P Stroud
QPR Official Site
Leicester Official Site
Ten-men Leicester City made it seven games unbeaten in the Championship after battling out a 1-1 draw at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday afternoon.
Patrick Kisnorbo's fourth goal of the season after just seven minutes handed the hosts an early advantage.
But Gareth McAuley's second half sending off, for a handball on the line, which resulted in Martin Rowlands drawing his side level from the penalty spot ensured the hosts a share of the spoils.
Iain Hume, Elvis Hammond and substitute Matty Fryatt also came close for the Foxes but Rob Kelly's men showed all their fighting qualities to keep Rangers at bay for the final 22 minutes and take home another vital point.
The hosts almost opened the scoring inside three minutes when Lee Cook's cross from the left was turned goalwards by Dexter Blackstock but his effort spun narrowly wide with Conrad Logan beaten.
However, it was the visitors who took the lead on seven minutes thanks to Kisnorbo's second goal in a week.
After Iain Hume had been fouled on the right flank, Danny Tiatto delivered a dangerous inswinging free-kick which was met by the head of his fellow Australian, who planted his effort past former Fox Simon Royce and into the back of the net for the opener.
But Rangers almost immediately hit back when Marc Nygaard's attempt from close range looped over the bar when it seemed easier to score.
The hosts continued to pour forward in search of the equaliser and were only denied by the athleticism of Logan on 16 minutes.
Cook's free-kick from the edge of the area fell at the feet of Patrick Kanyuka, via a deflection, and his snap-shot from six yards out was brilliantly palmed away by the young Irishman.
It was end-to-end action and, after latching on to a neat ball up the left flank by Nils-Eric Johansson, Hume's first time volley forced Royce into a diving save at his near post.
Steve Lomas was booked for a foul on Andy Welsh in the 22nd minute before the injured Kanyuka made way for substitute Michael Mancienne a minute later.
Hume just failed to connect with Welsh's low cross from the left soon after then Elvis Hammond forced Royce into a fine save after unleashing an effort from the edge of the area.
The striker was again involved moments later but this time his shot failed to trouble a back-tracking Royce.
Blackstock put his shot on the turn narrowly over on the half-hour before Gareth McAuley cleared off the line with Logan beaten after Jimmy Smith's pull-back from the left-hand by-line.
QPR continued to search for a first-half leveller but the Foxes were equal to the task and soaked up the pressure.
However, they were handed a let-off in first-half stoppage time when Nygaard's header from Cook's free-kick flew over the bar.
That was the last meaningful action of the first 45 minutes as the visitors went into the break a goal to the good.
Alan Maybury replaced James Wesolowski for the start of the second half with Richard Stearman moving into the centre alongside Tiatto.
Martin Rowlands fired his free-kick high over the bar on 46 minutes then Blackstock lobbed his effort over Logan but the ball dropped the wrong side of the woodwork.
City were handed a huge let-off on 52 minutes when Rowlands' follow-up effort from a Cook free-kick ricocheted back off the post and away to safety.
Kevin Gallen replaced Nygaard in the 57th minute before Hammond almost latched on to Hume's flick but the assistant referee had already raised his flag for offside.
Logan got down well to save Mancienne's shot from 18-yards out just after the hour.
However, the hosts drew level in the 68th minute through Rowlands' penalty.
Blackstock's goalbound effort was handled on the line by McAuley and as a result the referee had no alternative but to award Rangers a penalty and dismiss the defender.
Rowlands stepped up and sent Logan the wrong way for the equaliser.
Before the re-start, club captain Paddy McCarthy, complete with face-mask to protect his broken nose and damaged eye-socket, came on for Hammond as City were forced to reshuffle their pack.
Both sides then made another change on 75 minutes with Matty Fryatt, back after injury, replacing Welsh and Gareth Ainsworth coming on for goalscorer Rowlands.
Blackstock shot wide 10 minutes from time before the visitors should have restored their advantage in the dying moments.
Hume's long range effort was only parried into the path of Fryatt by Royce but the ball would not sit down for the striker and he could only place it into the arms of the keeper much to his own disappointment.
Smith was booked for a foul on Stearman on 88 minutes then Hume followed suit for dissent soon after.
After five minutes of stoppage time, the referee finally blew his whistle to call a halt to proceedings with the two teams finishing level at 1-1.
Leicester
QPR drew 1-1 at home to Leicester City and are now just two points away from being in the bottom three.
League Table
John Gregory - QPR Official Site "MAKING A POINT"
John Gregory praised the resilience and character of his players after the 1-1 draw with Leicester City.
"I think we more than deserved the point. We know we should have come off the pitch with a victory, but it just wasn't to be.
"Rob Kelly and his players will be delighted to be leaving West London with a point.''
Having taken a first half lead courtesy of Patrick Kisnorbo's early header, the Foxes were reduced to ten men midway through the second half when Gareth McAuley saw red for deliberate handball.
Martin Rowlands scored from the resultant spot-kick, but the R's failed to make their numerical advantage count in the closing stages.
"When you are playing against ten men it is still two banks of four, so it's not always easy to break a team down.
"Credit to Leicester, they came here witha game plan, did their homework and they've left with a point.''
Gregory also stated he'll be in a better position to assess his start as Rangers boss after the trip to Cardiff City on November 17th.
"After Cardiff we'll be in a better position to see where we are at.
"The stats say everything. We've got two wins, two draws and two defeats since I arrived, but I think the positives far outweigh the negatives.''
Gregory did however bemoan the R's defending: "We keep handicapping ourselves by conceding sloppy, early goals.
"There's little I can do when that happens. It's the old adage of when the players cross the white line, it's up to them to lay down a marker and we're not doing that at the moment.''
QPR
Leicester Official Site - Managerial Comments
Kelly Content With Draw
Leicester City manager Rob Kelly said he was satisfied to leave Loftus Road with a point after his side battled out a 1-1 draw with QPR on Saturday afternoon.
The Foxes took the lead with seven minutes on the clock - Patrick Kisnorbo heading home for his fourth of the season from a Danny Tiatto free-kick.
But the game turned on its head in the 68th minute when Gareth McAuley was adjudged to have handled inside his own area. The defender was sent off for his troubles - and Martin Rowlands made no mistake from the resulting penalty kick.
Kelly said: "We always set out to win games, but in the context of this match we have got to be pleased to get a point. It was a real battling performance from our players in difficult circumstances on the back of the week that we have had.
"We started the game well and scored early. That is something that we work quite hard on.
"But I thought that we had quite a few tired players out there today. We couldn't really change it because we just don't have the personnel to do that at the moment.
"John (Gregory) has got it going here. They are a bit different now and they are really up and at you.
"That's seven league games unbeaten now, and that's a base for us to build from.
"Until their penalty I just thought that we were going to see it out. We had just weathered it and it had gone a bit quiet. But we've made a mistake for the goal.
"We showed spirit. We've played 20 minutes at the end with 10 men on the back of 120 minutes on Tuesday night. I don't think the supporters could have asked of any more of the players."
Kelly finally gave an update on the fitness of James Wesolowski, who was forced from the field at half time through injury.
He added: "James took a bit of a kick during the first half and following the game against Villa on Tuesday we thought it best to take him off. It's too soon at the moment to be able to tell whether or not he'll be available for the Stoke game."
Leicester
QPR Official Site
Ten-man Leicester held on for a share of the spoils, at the end of an absorbing contest in W12.
The Foxes survived a second half onslaught from the R's to leave West London with a point, after Gareth McAuley saw red midway through the second half for deliberate handball.
Martin Rowlands stuck away the resultant spot-kick to set up a grandstand finish, but the Foxes survived and thanks to Patrick Kisnorbo's early header, made the trip back up the M1 with a plucky point.
Leicester led at the break, despite the R's creating a flurry of golden opportunities in an end-to-end first half.
Rangers' inability to keep their concentration in the opening exchanges came back to haunt them yet again, as Patrick Kisnorbo coasted into the box unchallenged to head past Simon Royce.
It was the fifth match in succession in which the R's have given conceded inside the opening quarter of an hour - a stat that will no doubt concern gaffer John Gregory.
Undeterred, Rangers went on to orchestrate proceedings for the remainder of the half, with Dexter Blackstock the chief destroyer.
On another afternoon, the R's summer signing could have bagged a first half hat-trick, but Conrad Logan was in inspired form for the Foxes.
Gregory made three changes to the side which succumbed to a 3-2 defeat against Sheffield Wednesday last Saturday.
Royce, Pat Kanyuka and Marc Nygaard all returned to the starting XI, while Steve Lomas was handed the captain's armband, with injury ruling out Marc Bircham.
Rangers made a promising start, yet despite an early rendition of 'Pig Bag' over the PA system, Dexter Blackstock's stunning second minute volley from Lee Cook's cross finished the wrong side of the post.
But it was Leicester who opened the scoring on six minutes, when Tiatto's sublime free-kick was glanced home by Kisnorbo.
The returning Royce appeared to be in control of the situation, but a slight moment's hesitancy allowed the Leicester captain the time and space he needed to finish in style.
The R's should have been on terms five minutes later, but after an almighty goalmouth scramble, Blackstock somehow scooped the ball over the bar from the edge of the six-yard box.
The better opportunities continued to fall the hosts' way and after Cook's free-kick was only half-cleared, Damion Stewart's close-range effort was superbly tipped round the post by Foxes custodian Conrad Logan.
Play quickly switched to the other end, with Royce on hand to palm away Iain Hume's effort from an acute angle.
The returning Kanyuka was soon forced from the fray with what appeared to be a hamstring injury, with Michael Mancienne coming on for his home debut.
Royce had to be at his agile best again in the 25th minute - this time on hand to save Elvis Hammond's 20-yard pile-driver.
Blackstock was leading the Foxes defence a merry dance and when the inspirational Steve Lomas fed a neat pass into his path, the former Southampton ace was unfortunate to see his looping effort finish inches over.
The same player forced Logan into another fine save on the half hour, as Rangers' superiority slowly but surely showed signs of paying dividends.
The outstanding Cook signalled Rangers' second half intentions inside the opening seconds, leaving three defenders in his wake, only to be hacked to ground by Tiatto.
Martin Rowlands' resultant free-kick flew high and wide, before the same player lobbed over from an impossible angle two minutes later.
Rowlands was like a man possessed at the start of the second half and when the ball fell to him on the edge of the box in the 53rd minute, only the width of the post denied him the goal his performance undoubtedly deserved.
Mancienne was growing in stature as the match evolved and when he was gifted the freedom of the final third, only another solid stop from Logan prevented him from opening his account for the R's.
However, despair turned to joy for the home crowd on 66 minutes, when referee Mr Stroud pointed to the spot and dismissed Gareth McAuley for deliberate handball after he palmed away Blackstock's goal-bound strike on the line.
Rowlands stepped up from the spot and made no mistake from 12-yards, sending Logan the wrong way to spark scenes of mass celebration amongst the home faithful.
The Blackstock-Logan battle showed no signs of easing up and when the former got goal-side of his marker at the back post, Logan produced more heroics, grasping the ball on his line.
Sensing the three points were there for the taking, Gregory introduced Gareth Ainsworth at the expense of the fatigued Rowlands - the fans' favourite returning after a 10-week lay-off due to a hamstring injury.
Yet despite their numerical advantage, the R's only had a weak Zesh Rehman header and a Jimmy Smith strike to show for their late efforts.
And their inability to create in the final third almost proved costly three minutes from time, when Hume fired at Royce and Matty Fryatt somehow fluffed his lines from six-yards.
QPR: Royce, Bignot, Stewart, Kanyuka (Mancienne 22), Rehman, Cook, Lomas, Smith, Rowlands (Ainsworth 74), Blackstock (Gallen 57), Nygaard.
Subs: Jones, Rose.
Scorers: Rowlands (pen) 67
Bookings: Lomas 21, Smith 88
Leicester City: Logan, Kisnorbo, Kenton, Hume, Tiatto, McAuley, Johansson, Stearman, Hammond (McCarthy 68), Wesolowski (Maybury 46), Welsh (Fryatt 74).
Subs: Henderson, Sylla.
Scorers: Kisnorbo 6
Bookings: Hume 89
Red Cards: McAuley 66
Attendance: 12, 340
Referee: Mr K P Stroud
QPR Official Site
Leicester Official Site
Ten-men Leicester City made it seven games unbeaten in the Championship after battling out a 1-1 draw at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday afternoon.
Patrick Kisnorbo's fourth goal of the season after just seven minutes handed the hosts an early advantage.
But Gareth McAuley's second half sending off, for a handball on the line, which resulted in Martin Rowlands drawing his side level from the penalty spot ensured the hosts a share of the spoils.
Iain Hume, Elvis Hammond and substitute Matty Fryatt also came close for the Foxes but Rob Kelly's men showed all their fighting qualities to keep Rangers at bay for the final 22 minutes and take home another vital point.
The hosts almost opened the scoring inside three minutes when Lee Cook's cross from the left was turned goalwards by Dexter Blackstock but his effort spun narrowly wide with Conrad Logan beaten.
However, it was the visitors who took the lead on seven minutes thanks to Kisnorbo's second goal in a week.
After Iain Hume had been fouled on the right flank, Danny Tiatto delivered a dangerous inswinging free-kick which was met by the head of his fellow Australian, who planted his effort past former Fox Simon Royce and into the back of the net for the opener.
But Rangers almost immediately hit back when Marc Nygaard's attempt from close range looped over the bar when it seemed easier to score.
The hosts continued to pour forward in search of the equaliser and were only denied by the athleticism of Logan on 16 minutes.
Cook's free-kick from the edge of the area fell at the feet of Patrick Kanyuka, via a deflection, and his snap-shot from six yards out was brilliantly palmed away by the young Irishman.
It was end-to-end action and, after latching on to a neat ball up the left flank by Nils-Eric Johansson, Hume's first time volley forced Royce into a diving save at his near post.
Steve Lomas was booked for a foul on Andy Welsh in the 22nd minute before the injured Kanyuka made way for substitute Michael Mancienne a minute later.
Hume just failed to connect with Welsh's low cross from the left soon after then Elvis Hammond forced Royce into a fine save after unleashing an effort from the edge of the area.
The striker was again involved moments later but this time his shot failed to trouble a back-tracking Royce.
Blackstock put his shot on the turn narrowly over on the half-hour before Gareth McAuley cleared off the line with Logan beaten after Jimmy Smith's pull-back from the left-hand by-line.
QPR continued to search for a first-half leveller but the Foxes were equal to the task and soaked up the pressure.
However, they were handed a let-off in first-half stoppage time when Nygaard's header from Cook's free-kick flew over the bar.
That was the last meaningful action of the first 45 minutes as the visitors went into the break a goal to the good.
Alan Maybury replaced James Wesolowski for the start of the second half with Richard Stearman moving into the centre alongside Tiatto.
Martin Rowlands fired his free-kick high over the bar on 46 minutes then Blackstock lobbed his effort over Logan but the ball dropped the wrong side of the woodwork.
City were handed a huge let-off on 52 minutes when Rowlands' follow-up effort from a Cook free-kick ricocheted back off the post and away to safety.
Kevin Gallen replaced Nygaard in the 57th minute before Hammond almost latched on to Hume's flick but the assistant referee had already raised his flag for offside.
Logan got down well to save Mancienne's shot from 18-yards out just after the hour.
However, the hosts drew level in the 68th minute through Rowlands' penalty.
Blackstock's goalbound effort was handled on the line by McAuley and as a result the referee had no alternative but to award Rangers a penalty and dismiss the defender.
Rowlands stepped up and sent Logan the wrong way for the equaliser.
Before the re-start, club captain Paddy McCarthy, complete with face-mask to protect his broken nose and damaged eye-socket, came on for Hammond as City were forced to reshuffle their pack.
Both sides then made another change on 75 minutes with Matty Fryatt, back after injury, replacing Welsh and Gareth Ainsworth coming on for goalscorer Rowlands.
Blackstock shot wide 10 minutes from time before the visitors should have restored their advantage in the dying moments.
Hume's long range effort was only parried into the path of Fryatt by Royce but the ball would not sit down for the striker and he could only place it into the arms of the keeper much to his own disappointment.
Smith was booked for a foul on Stearman on 88 minutes then Hume followed suit for dissent soon after.
After five minutes of stoppage time, the referee finally blew his whistle to call a halt to proceedings with the two teams finishing level at 1-1.
Leicester
Ex-QPR Goalie, Lee Harper Joins MK Dons on 3 Month Loan
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MK Dons Official Site - HARPER JOINS ON LOAN
Earlier today, MK Dons manager Martin Allen secured the loan signing of Northampton Town goalkeeper Lee Harper, who joins the club on a three month loan and goes straight into the squad for tomorrow's game with table-topping Walsall.
Goalkeeper Harper joined the Sixfields club in the summer of 2002 on a free transfer from tomorrow's opponents Walsall. The former Gunner stands six feet tall and is a goalkeeper of undoubted ability.
Born in London, Lee started out at non-league Sittingbourne Town before being plucked out of non-league football by Arsenal who paid £150,000 for his services in 1994. He spent time as understudy to David Seaman at Highbury, before he moved to Queens Park Rangers for £125,000 in 1997.
In four years at Loftus Road he made 132 appearances and established himself as Rangers' number one. In the summer of 2001 he moved to Walsall but only made five appearances for the Saddlers as he battled with James Walker for the goalkeeper's shirt.
Was named both the Northampton Town and the PFA Division 3 Player of the Year for 2003/2004. Signed a new 1 year contract at Sixfields in the summer of 2006
MK Dons
NORTHAMPTON OFFICIAL SITE
Northampton Town goalkeeper Lee Harper has joined Milton Keynes Dons on a 3 month loan.
Harper will join up with the Dons in time for this weekend's game with Walsall.
Youth team goalkeeper Chris Dunn is available to deputise for Mark Bunn, while the Cobblers also have the option to sign a goalkeeper themselves on an emergency loan basis, should circumstances dictate.
"MK Dons came in and expressed an interest in taking Lee," said boss John Gorman.
"Hopefully the move will benefit all parties. We hope he will have a successful time there and we wish him well."
Northampton Official Site
MK Dons Official Site - HARPER JOINS ON LOAN
Earlier today, MK Dons manager Martin Allen secured the loan signing of Northampton Town goalkeeper Lee Harper, who joins the club on a three month loan and goes straight into the squad for tomorrow's game with table-topping Walsall.
Goalkeeper Harper joined the Sixfields club in the summer of 2002 on a free transfer from tomorrow's opponents Walsall. The former Gunner stands six feet tall and is a goalkeeper of undoubted ability.
Born in London, Lee started out at non-league Sittingbourne Town before being plucked out of non-league football by Arsenal who paid £150,000 for his services in 1994. He spent time as understudy to David Seaman at Highbury, before he moved to Queens Park Rangers for £125,000 in 1997.
In four years at Loftus Road he made 132 appearances and established himself as Rangers' number one. In the summer of 2001 he moved to Walsall but only made five appearances for the Saddlers as he battled with James Walker for the goalkeeper's shirt.
Was named both the Northampton Town and the PFA Division 3 Player of the Year for 2003/2004. Signed a new 1 year contract at Sixfields in the summer of 2006
MK Dons
NORTHAMPTON OFFICIAL SITE
Northampton Town goalkeeper Lee Harper has joined Milton Keynes Dons on a 3 month loan.
Harper will join up with the Dons in time for this weekend's game with Walsall.
Youth team goalkeeper Chris Dunn is available to deputise for Mark Bunn, while the Cobblers also have the option to sign a goalkeeper themselves on an emergency loan basis, should circumstances dictate.
"MK Dons came in and expressed an interest in taking Lee," said boss John Gorman.
"Hopefully the move will benefit all parties. We hope he will have a successful time there and we wish him well."
Northampton Official Site
FA Cup Final Star, Peter Hucker Turns 47
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Peter Hucker Turns 47: Born October 28, 1959
Peter Hucker was a QPR Reserve until John Burridge (who himself had been bought only a few months earlier by Terry Venables to replace Chris Woods - who went on to play for England! - decided he didn't want to play on QPR's "controversial" artificial pitch!)
Hucker came into the QPR team in 1981-1982, and for the next 4 seasons was the QPR regular goalie. Then for whatever reason he was replaced, first by Paul Barron, and more long-term by David Seaman). Hucker joined Oxford in 1986-1987.
Hucker
Peter Hucker Profiled - 2000 The Sun
Hucker now runs Peter Hucker Soccer Schools Ltd.
Peter Hucker Turns 47: Born October 28, 1959
Peter Hucker was a QPR Reserve until John Burridge (who himself had been bought only a few months earlier by Terry Venables to replace Chris Woods - who went on to play for England! - decided he didn't want to play on QPR's "controversial" artificial pitch!)
Hucker came into the QPR team in 1981-1982, and for the next 4 seasons was the QPR regular goalie. Then for whatever reason he was replaced, first by Paul Barron, and more long-term by David Seaman). Hucker joined Oxford in 1986-1987.
Hucker
Peter Hucker Profiled - 2000 The Sun
Hucker now runs Peter Hucker Soccer Schools Ltd.
Six Months Since QPR Announced Eight Players Transfer-listed & Six Others Released
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Six months ago since QPR announced:
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - April 28, 2006: PLAYERS RELEASED
Today, following talks with Gary Waddock, several players have been released from Queens Park Rangers.
Those who still have contracts outstanding will be placed on the transfer list and those who have come to the end of their deals will be released.
Georges Santos, Richard Langley, Sammy Youssouf, Marcin Kus, Ryan Johnson and Luke Townsend will not be offered new deals by the club.
Stefan Moore, Tommy Doherty, Ian Evatt, Ugo Ukah, Marcus Bignot, Steve Lomas, Matthew Hislop and Marc Bircham will all be placed on the transfer list.
Waddock said: "Undoubtedly this is the part of management that no one in charge of a football club ever wants to do.
"But these decisions have to be made for the sake of the club as a whole.
"After the summer, I want this to be a new era, not just a new season and I have to start planning for that now.
"I felt that those who I have released don't fit in with my plans for next season, but I would like to thank them for their efforts and hard work throughout their time at QPR."
QPR
Six months ago since QPR announced:
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - April 28, 2006: PLAYERS RELEASED
Today, following talks with Gary Waddock, several players have been released from Queens Park Rangers.
Those who still have contracts outstanding will be placed on the transfer list and those who have come to the end of their deals will be released.
Georges Santos, Richard Langley, Sammy Youssouf, Marcin Kus, Ryan Johnson and Luke Townsend will not be offered new deals by the club.
Stefan Moore, Tommy Doherty, Ian Evatt, Ugo Ukah, Marcus Bignot, Steve Lomas, Matthew Hislop and Marc Bircham will all be placed on the transfer list.
Waddock said: "Undoubtedly this is the part of management that no one in charge of a football club ever wants to do.
"But these decisions have to be made for the sake of the club as a whole.
"After the summer, I want this to be a new era, not just a new season and I have to start planning for that now.
"I felt that those who I have released don't fit in with my plans for next season, but I would like to thank them for their efforts and hard work throughout their time at QPR."
QPR
Friday, October 27, 2006
Looking Back: QPR Go Into Administraton
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APRIL 2001: QPR Go Into Administration
BBC - Monday April 2, 2001 - QPR put into administration
Troubled Queens Park Rangers plight worsened when the club were put into administration on Monday.
A statement on the club's website read: "The decision has not been taken lightly and is a direct result of the losses incurred by the Group, currently running at £570,000 per month, over a sustained period of time."
The club is owned by Loftus Road plc and shares in the company have been suspended.
This move comes after chairman Chris Wright failed to find a buyer for the club.
Hopefully the day to day impact on the operation of QPR and Wasps as professional sports teams will be negligible
QPR chairman Chris Wright
Wright was believed to be in discussions with former director Andrew Ellis, but those talks seem to have broken down.
QPR share their Loftus Road ground with Wasps and Wright says he will continue to finance the day-to-day running fo the club until the end of the season.
The London club's problems could further deteriorate if they lose their battle against relegation.
Wright said: "It is a very sad day for everyone involved in Loftus Road.
"The last six months have been a real struggle financially and although my intention was to secure a sale to the right buyer before having to take this decision, it has not been forthcoming.
"I will continue to fund the day to day running of the Group until the end of the season and help to find a purchaser for QPR and Wasps.
"Hopefully the day to day impact on the operation of QPR and Wasps as professional sports teams will be negligible, at least in the short term, and will in fact make the longer term more viable."
BBC
BBC -April 3, 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
BBC
Tuesday, 3 April, 2001, 17:35 GMT 18:35 UK
QPR fans hopeful for future
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
INDEPENDENT - Football: QPR go into administration
Independent, The (London), Apr 3, 2001 by Nick Harris
QUEEN'S PARK RANGERS went into administration last night after the struggling First Division club's parent company announced its losses are running at pounds 575,000 a month. "This decision [to put QPR into administration] has not been taken lightly and is a direct result of the losses incurred by the group," a statement from Loftus Road plc, which also owns Wasps rugby club, said last night.
Wasps have not been put in administration because a takeover by an unnamed buyer is understood to be imminent. It has been reported that a former director of QPR, Andrew Ellis, is considering a takeover of the football club but negotiations are understood to be in their infancy.
Chris Wright, who stepped down as QPR chairman earlier this year, seems destined to lose the majority of the pounds 20m investment he has put into the football club. He said last night, however, that he would continue to fund both QPR and Wasps until October or until buyers for them are found, whichever comes sooner. "Hopefully the day- to-day impact on the operation of QPR and Wasps as professional sports teams will be negligible, at least in the short term, and will in fact make the longer term more viable," he said.
INDEPENDENT
QPR1st Releases from May & June 2001
Monday 4th June 2001: In depth status report from Dave Thomas
Various Other QPR 1st Releases
Scroll Down to May-June 2001
The rest of the news from June
Tuesday 5th June 2001 Update on today's press release
Monday 4th June 2001 In depth status report from Dave Thomas
Friday 1st June 2001 Response to the "Standard" Loftus Road sale article and news of this weeks activities
Tuesday 29th May 2001 Update on the meeting with the Milton Keynes Stadium Consortium
Thursday 24th May 2001 QPR1st statement regarding the sale of Loftus Road plc
Wednesday 23rd May 2001 Statement regarding the "buy back deadline"
Friday 18th May 2001 EGM special report
Extensive report on the EGM at Loftus Road
Thursday 17th May 2001 Pre EGM QPR1st statement
Wednesday 16th May 2001 Update
Tuesday 15th May 2001Update
Saturday 12th May 2001 Meeting with the administrators
Friday 11th May 2001 Update and share pooling information
Thursday 10th May 2001 Update - meeting with local MP
Wednesday 9th May 2001 Update
Thursday 3rd May 2001 Merger off - Report by Dave Thomas
Tuesday 1st May 2001 Statement about importance of 'controlled delivery'
APRIL 2001: QPR Go Into Administration
BBC - Monday April 2, 2001 - QPR put into administration
Troubled Queens Park Rangers plight worsened when the club were put into administration on Monday.
A statement on the club's website read: "The decision has not been taken lightly and is a direct result of the losses incurred by the Group, currently running at £570,000 per month, over a sustained period of time."
The club is owned by Loftus Road plc and shares in the company have been suspended.
This move comes after chairman Chris Wright failed to find a buyer for the club.
Hopefully the day to day impact on the operation of QPR and Wasps as professional sports teams will be negligible
QPR chairman Chris Wright
Wright was believed to be in discussions with former director Andrew Ellis, but those talks seem to have broken down.
QPR share their Loftus Road ground with Wasps and Wright says he will continue to finance the day-to-day running fo the club until the end of the season.
The London club's problems could further deteriorate if they lose their battle against relegation.
Wright said: "It is a very sad day for everyone involved in Loftus Road.
"The last six months have been a real struggle financially and although my intention was to secure a sale to the right buyer before having to take this decision, it has not been forthcoming.
"I will continue to fund the day to day running of the Group until the end of the season and help to find a purchaser for QPR and Wasps.
"Hopefully the day to day impact on the operation of QPR and Wasps as professional sports teams will be negligible, at least in the short term, and will in fact make the longer term more viable."
BBC
BBC -April 3, 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
BBC
Tuesday, 3 April, 2001, 17:35 GMT 18:35 UK
QPR fans hopeful for future
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
INDEPENDENT - Football: QPR go into administration
Independent, The (London), Apr 3, 2001 by Nick Harris
QUEEN'S PARK RANGERS went into administration last night after the struggling First Division club's parent company announced its losses are running at pounds 575,000 a month. "This decision [to put QPR into administration] has not been taken lightly and is a direct result of the losses incurred by the group," a statement from Loftus Road plc, which also owns Wasps rugby club, said last night.
Wasps have not been put in administration because a takeover by an unnamed buyer is understood to be imminent. It has been reported that a former director of QPR, Andrew Ellis, is considering a takeover of the football club but negotiations are understood to be in their infancy.
Chris Wright, who stepped down as QPR chairman earlier this year, seems destined to lose the majority of the pounds 20m investment he has put into the football club. He said last night, however, that he would continue to fund both QPR and Wasps until October or until buyers for them are found, whichever comes sooner. "Hopefully the day- to-day impact on the operation of QPR and Wasps as professional sports teams will be negligible, at least in the short term, and will in fact make the longer term more viable," he said.
INDEPENDENT
QPR1st Releases from May & June 2001
Monday 4th June 2001: In depth status report from Dave Thomas
June 1st - Response to the "Standard" Loftus Road sale article and news of this weeks activities
Various Other QPR 1st Releases
Scroll Down to May-June 2001
The rest of the news from June
Tuesday 5th June 2001 Update on today's press release
Monday 4th June 2001 In depth status report from Dave Thomas
Friday 1st June 2001 Response to the "Standard" Loftus Road sale article and news of this weeks activities
Tuesday 29th May 2001 Update on the meeting with the Milton Keynes Stadium Consortium
Thursday 24th May 2001 QPR1st statement regarding the sale of Loftus Road plc
Wednesday 23rd May 2001 Statement regarding the "buy back deadline"
Friday 18th May 2001 EGM special report
Extensive report on the EGM at Loftus Road
Thursday 17th May 2001 Pre EGM QPR1st statement
Wednesday 16th May 2001 Update
Tuesday 15th May 2001Update
Saturday 12th May 2001 Meeting with the administrators
Friday 11th May 2001 Update and share pooling information
Thursday 10th May 2001 Update - meeting with local MP
Wednesday 9th May 2001 Update
Thursday 3rd May 2001 Merger off - Report by Dave Thomas
Tuesday 1st May 2001 Statement about importance of 'controlled delivery'
QPR's ABC Loan: What's Known #1
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As there has been some recent increased fan focus on the issue of QPR's 10 million pound, 10% Loan from the "msterious" ABC Corporation, first some links to some previous QPR Report "Focus" on QPR's ABC Loan and who may be behind it. With just over six months to go till the halfway mark to the loan's repayment date, and with certain things possibly eligible to happen at the loan's half way mark, some a compilation might be useful..
May 27, 2006 Marking Four Years Since QPR Got Out of Administration...and entered into their ABC Corporation Loan
September 3, 2006 - Refocusing on QPR's Mysterious ABC Loan
July 5, 2006 QPR's Ongoing 10% per-annum ABC Loan & QPR's Efforts to Deal with it
August 27, 2006: Buying QPR: The Various Efforts Five Years Ago During Administration
April 14, 2006 ABC, QPR & Derby County - Looking Back
Also see Boardroom Blues
QPR1st Statements
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QPR1st
As there has been some recent increased fan focus on the issue of QPR's 10 million pound, 10% Loan from the "msterious" ABC Corporation, first some links to some previous QPR Report "Focus" on QPR's ABC Loan and who may be behind it. With just over six months to go till the halfway mark to the loan's repayment date, and with certain things possibly eligible to happen at the loan's half way mark, some a compilation might be useful..
May 27, 2006 Marking Four Years Since QPR Got Out of Administration...and entered into their ABC Corporation Loan
September 3, 2006 - Refocusing on QPR's Mysterious ABC Loan
July 5, 2006 QPR's Ongoing 10% per-annum ABC Loan & QPR's Efforts to Deal with it
August 27, 2006: Buying QPR: The Various Efforts Five Years Ago During Administration
April 14, 2006 ABC, QPR & Derby County - Looking Back
Also see Boardroom Blues
QPR1st Statements
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QPR1st
Departing Swindon Manager, Dennis Wise "It was also a pleasure to work with Mark Devlin and Bill Power.”
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As "almost" ex-QPR player, Dennis Wise departs Swindon for Leeds:
Swindon Advertiser - Why Wise quit?
EXCLUSIVE: DENNIS Wise admits off-the-field issues played a role in his sudden departure from the County Ground as he looks ahead to a new chapter at Elland Road.
Speaking exclusively to the Swindon Advertiser in his first interview since quitting Town on Monday, the former Swindon boss revealed influences away from the pitch helped him on his way....
Wise said: “A small factor in my departure was that I found it difficult to work with an unnamed individual connected with Town.
“I will say no more than that.
“I'd like to say thanks to the fans who made me feel so welcome during my time there.
“It was also a pleasure to work with Mark Devlin and Bill Power.”...
This is Swindon
As "almost" ex-QPR player, Dennis Wise departs Swindon for Leeds:
Swindon Advertiser - Why Wise quit?
EXCLUSIVE: DENNIS Wise admits off-the-field issues played a role in his sudden departure from the County Ground as he looks ahead to a new chapter at Elland Road.
Speaking exclusively to the Swindon Advertiser in his first interview since quitting Town on Monday, the former Swindon boss revealed influences away from the pitch helped him on his way....
Wise said: “A small factor in my departure was that I found it difficult to work with an unnamed individual connected with Town.
“I will say no more than that.
“I'd like to say thanks to the fans who made me feel so welcome during my time there.
“It was also a pleasure to work with Mark Devlin and Bill Power.”...
This is Swindon
Looking at QPR vs Leicester
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QPR vs Leicester at Loftus Road: Been some momentous games over the years between the two clubs: QPR's 1966/67 League Cup Quarter Final Win against Leicester...QPR's first-ever game in the (old) First Division: Leicester at Loftus Road, with an unfinished new stand and Alan Clarke making his Leicester debut. A Rodney Marsh QPR vs a Peter Shilton Leicester in the (old) Second Division...A shock home defeat in the FA Cup in 1973/74 with two goals by Leicester's debutant, Joe Walters..Several QPR home defeats. Over the years two comparable teams: Frequent promotion and relegation, playing attractive football, making good lower division buys, etc.
Leicester Official Site - Boss Looking For Repeat
City boss Rob Kelly will be hoping for a similar performance to that which he saw at Loftus Road nine months ago when his Foxes take on Queen's Park Rangers on Saturday.
Kelly began his league management career in west London back in January earlier this year following the departure of Craig Levein from the club.
And his new side gave him just the start he required - ending a baron run of six straight Championship defeats to post a 3-2 away victory against all the odds.
He said: "It was a very exciting game which seems a long, long time ago now. It's amazing to think that it was only last January.
"We went a goal down very early in the game, but the players showed the resilience and character that they have certainly shown in all my time here to compete and give it a go.
"It was a difficult time for everyone. The good thing was that we all came back to what was important - and that was trying to win football matches. It was great credit to the players and their professionalism that despite everything else that was going on they were able to shut it all out and get on with it.
"We went into the match on the back of a cup defeat to Southampton and we hadn't won for a number of league games. But the players shut all that away, remained focussed and ended up putting in a good performance and getting a good result. That game kick started us."
And Rangers themselves now have a new man at the helm.
Kelly added: "They have got a good manager there in John Gregory who I think will eventually, given the right tools, lead them out of trouble. But we have got to make sure that doesn't start on Saturday.
"We are in the middle of a decent little run and over 90 minutes we are unbeaten in eight games.
"But Loftus Road is a difficult place to go. They are the home side and it will be a difficult game for us. But if we apply ourselves then I believe we can get a result against anyone in this division."
Kelly again looks to be down to the bare bones through injury for the game, but he did admit to having an embarrassment of riches in at least one area of the pitch at the moment.
He said: "We have got three very good goalkeepers here and that is very much the type of problem that you don't mind having. Conrad Logan and Paul Henderson have both been playing well and Rab Douglas has also looked good in training.
"But we know here that we are going to need everyone. There is no sulking and there are no primadonnas. There is nobody who struts around the place. We are in it togethe
Leicester
Leicester Official Site - Head To Head: QPR
We take a look back at previous fixtures between the two clubs and reveal all the facts and figures ahead of Saturday's Championship fixture.
HEAD TO HEAD
The two clubs have met 47 times previously in all competitions, 44 of which have come in the league. Leicester have won just 18 of the clashes, and have only managed 5 wins and 4 draws in 25 visits to London.
EARLY MEETINGS
The first meeting came in Division Two as recently as 1948-49. Rangers completed the double over City that year. City had to wait until 1970-71 before recording a win at Loftus Road, when they triumphed 3-1 in what was their eighth attempt to wrest the spoils in Shepherd's Bush.
RECENT HISTORY
Last season, City produced a dramatic win at Loftus Road - the first under the management of Rob Kelly - to get the march to safety underway. At the end of January, goals from Matty Fryatt, Richard Stearman and Stephen Hughes eased the Foxes to a vital 3-2 victory under the floodlights.
BIGGEST WINS
Only once has either team hit six goals in this fixture, a feat achieved by City in a 6-2 home win in 1950-51. QPR's best was a 5-2 win at Loftus Road in an F A Cup tie in 1986-87, when Terry Fenwick scored twice for the Londoners.
MARKSMEN
Rangers' Bert Addinall and City's Arthur Rowley are the only players to have registered hat-tricks in clashes between the two clubs, and neither more recently than 1951. Addinall is the leading overall scorer in the series, with 9 counters against the Foxes, whereas City's top marksman is none other than Gary Lineker, who has pierced the Rangers' defence 6 times.
DEBUTANTS
Just 3 players have made their Leicester bow when QPR provided the opposition, but what a trio: British record signing Allan Clarke in 1968, young Joe Waters in that sensational F A Cup quarter-final in 1974, and teenager Emile Heskey, currently City record outgoing transfer holder, in 1995.
FOOT IN BOTH CAMPS
The smattering of players to have represented both clubs over the years includes Arthur Chandler, Peter Eastoe, Terry Fenwick, Les Ferdinand, Bob Hazell, Andrew Impey, Robbie James, Eddie Kelly, Frank Large, Frank McLintock, Stefan Moore, John O'Neill, Simon Royce, Dean Sturridge and David Webb.
Leicester
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - Looking at Leicester
Injuries apart, the Foxes have enjoyed a fine start to the new Championship campaign.
Rob Kelly - in his first full season at the Leicester City helm - has largely had his hands tied in terms of team selection, with no fewer than eight first team squad members currently sidelined through injury.
Master-poacher Matty Fryatt (ankle), skipper Paddy McCarthy (facial) and influential midfielder Gareth Williams (ankle) have all missed large chunks of the season so far, meaning Kelly has had to mix and match his starting XI.
Consequently, the Foxes made a slow start to the season, succumbing to back-to-back defeats against Luton Town and Burnley in the opening four days of the new campaign.
Undeterred, Leicester eventually broke their duck against Ipswich four days later, with goals from Patrick Kisnorbo, Stephen Hughes and Iain Hume clinching a morale-boosting 3-1 victory at the Walkers Stadium.
Buoyed by that win, the Foxes enjoyed a mini four match unbeaten run in August, which included a 2-0 League Cup victory against League Two strugglers Macclesfield.
But September was less than kind to the Foxes, with Kelly's men picking up just three points from a possible 15 - a run which saw them plummet towards the foot of the table.
Foxes gaffer Rob Kelly
However, instead of feeling sorry for themselves, Kelly's injury ravaged squad have rolled up their sleeves and got on with the job in hand.
And as a consequence, three fixtures which on paper looked as tough as any, have yielded three fantastic results.
An Iain Hume brace helped see off in-form Southampton in a five-goal thriller, before the Foxes heaped further woe on struggling Leeds United with a 2-1 victory at Elland Road.
A 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace last time out extended their unbeaten run and at the time of writing, the Foxes lie just five points adrift of the play-off's.
...Top scorer: Iain Hume 6
Last league game:
Leicester City 1, Crystal Palace 1.
Coca Cola Championship.
October 21st 2006.
Leicester City: Logan, Stearman, McAuley, Kisnorbo, Johansson, Low (Sylla 64), Hughes, Tiatto, Welsh, Hume, Hammond.
Subs Not Used: Henderson, Maybury, O'Grady, Wesolowski......
Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds:
QPR 13/10
Leicester City 7/4
draw 9/4
Key player: DANNY TIATTO
A firm favourite with the Foxes fans, Danny Tiatto took over the captain's armband from Matt Elliott and was voted Player of the Season by City supporters at the club's 2005 awards ceremony.
The Australian international, capped 25 times by his country, joined Leicester on a free transfer in the summer of 2004.
Head to head:
QPR wins: 19
Foxes wins: 17
Draws: 8
Last meeting:
QPR 2 (Ainsworth, Shittu), Leicester City 3 (Fryatt, Stearman, Hughes).
Football League Championship.
January 31st 2006.
Latest News:
Leicester chief executive Tim Davies has revealed the club made a profit of £1.6m in the 2005-06 season.
That marks a significant turnaround for the club after they reported a £3.5m loss for the 2004-05 campaign.
Davies attributed most of the profit to the £3m sale of striker David Connolly to Wigan and the sponsorship deal with Alliance & Leicester.
However, a fall in attendances saw gate receipts slump by almost 25% to £4.82m while broadcasting receipts also fell.
(Source: BBC Sport)
Leicester Official
QPR vs Leicester at Loftus Road: Been some momentous games over the years between the two clubs: QPR's 1966/67 League Cup Quarter Final Win against Leicester...QPR's first-ever game in the (old) First Division: Leicester at Loftus Road, with an unfinished new stand and Alan Clarke making his Leicester debut. A Rodney Marsh QPR vs a Peter Shilton Leicester in the (old) Second Division...A shock home defeat in the FA Cup in 1973/74 with two goals by Leicester's debutant, Joe Walters..Several QPR home defeats. Over the years two comparable teams: Frequent promotion and relegation, playing attractive football, making good lower division buys, etc.
Leicester Official Site - Boss Looking For Repeat
City boss Rob Kelly will be hoping for a similar performance to that which he saw at Loftus Road nine months ago when his Foxes take on Queen's Park Rangers on Saturday.
Kelly began his league management career in west London back in January earlier this year following the departure of Craig Levein from the club.
And his new side gave him just the start he required - ending a baron run of six straight Championship defeats to post a 3-2 away victory against all the odds.
He said: "It was a very exciting game which seems a long, long time ago now. It's amazing to think that it was only last January.
"We went a goal down very early in the game, but the players showed the resilience and character that they have certainly shown in all my time here to compete and give it a go.
"It was a difficult time for everyone. The good thing was that we all came back to what was important - and that was trying to win football matches. It was great credit to the players and their professionalism that despite everything else that was going on they were able to shut it all out and get on with it.
"We went into the match on the back of a cup defeat to Southampton and we hadn't won for a number of league games. But the players shut all that away, remained focussed and ended up putting in a good performance and getting a good result. That game kick started us."
And Rangers themselves now have a new man at the helm.
Kelly added: "They have got a good manager there in John Gregory who I think will eventually, given the right tools, lead them out of trouble. But we have got to make sure that doesn't start on Saturday.
"We are in the middle of a decent little run and over 90 minutes we are unbeaten in eight games.
"But Loftus Road is a difficult place to go. They are the home side and it will be a difficult game for us. But if we apply ourselves then I believe we can get a result against anyone in this division."
Kelly again looks to be down to the bare bones through injury for the game, but he did admit to having an embarrassment of riches in at least one area of the pitch at the moment.
He said: "We have got three very good goalkeepers here and that is very much the type of problem that you don't mind having. Conrad Logan and Paul Henderson have both been playing well and Rab Douglas has also looked good in training.
"But we know here that we are going to need everyone. There is no sulking and there are no primadonnas. There is nobody who struts around the place. We are in it togethe
Leicester
Leicester Official Site - Head To Head: QPR
We take a look back at previous fixtures between the two clubs and reveal all the facts and figures ahead of Saturday's Championship fixture.
HEAD TO HEAD
The two clubs have met 47 times previously in all competitions, 44 of which have come in the league. Leicester have won just 18 of the clashes, and have only managed 5 wins and 4 draws in 25 visits to London.
EARLY MEETINGS
The first meeting came in Division Two as recently as 1948-49. Rangers completed the double over City that year. City had to wait until 1970-71 before recording a win at Loftus Road, when they triumphed 3-1 in what was their eighth attempt to wrest the spoils in Shepherd's Bush.
RECENT HISTORY
Last season, City produced a dramatic win at Loftus Road - the first under the management of Rob Kelly - to get the march to safety underway. At the end of January, goals from Matty Fryatt, Richard Stearman and Stephen Hughes eased the Foxes to a vital 3-2 victory under the floodlights.
BIGGEST WINS
Only once has either team hit six goals in this fixture, a feat achieved by City in a 6-2 home win in 1950-51. QPR's best was a 5-2 win at Loftus Road in an F A Cup tie in 1986-87, when Terry Fenwick scored twice for the Londoners.
MARKSMEN
Rangers' Bert Addinall and City's Arthur Rowley are the only players to have registered hat-tricks in clashes between the two clubs, and neither more recently than 1951. Addinall is the leading overall scorer in the series, with 9 counters against the Foxes, whereas City's top marksman is none other than Gary Lineker, who has pierced the Rangers' defence 6 times.
DEBUTANTS
Just 3 players have made their Leicester bow when QPR provided the opposition, but what a trio: British record signing Allan Clarke in 1968, young Joe Waters in that sensational F A Cup quarter-final in 1974, and teenager Emile Heskey, currently City record outgoing transfer holder, in 1995.
FOOT IN BOTH CAMPS
The smattering of players to have represented both clubs over the years includes Arthur Chandler, Peter Eastoe, Terry Fenwick, Les Ferdinand, Bob Hazell, Andrew Impey, Robbie James, Eddie Kelly, Frank Large, Frank McLintock, Stefan Moore, John O'Neill, Simon Royce, Dean Sturridge and David Webb.
Leicester
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - Looking at Leicester
Injuries apart, the Foxes have enjoyed a fine start to the new Championship campaign.
Rob Kelly - in his first full season at the Leicester City helm - has largely had his hands tied in terms of team selection, with no fewer than eight first team squad members currently sidelined through injury.
Master-poacher Matty Fryatt (ankle), skipper Paddy McCarthy (facial) and influential midfielder Gareth Williams (ankle) have all missed large chunks of the season so far, meaning Kelly has had to mix and match his starting XI.
Consequently, the Foxes made a slow start to the season, succumbing to back-to-back defeats against Luton Town and Burnley in the opening four days of the new campaign.
Undeterred, Leicester eventually broke their duck against Ipswich four days later, with goals from Patrick Kisnorbo, Stephen Hughes and Iain Hume clinching a morale-boosting 3-1 victory at the Walkers Stadium.
Buoyed by that win, the Foxes enjoyed a mini four match unbeaten run in August, which included a 2-0 League Cup victory against League Two strugglers Macclesfield.
But September was less than kind to the Foxes, with Kelly's men picking up just three points from a possible 15 - a run which saw them plummet towards the foot of the table.
Foxes gaffer Rob Kelly
However, instead of feeling sorry for themselves, Kelly's injury ravaged squad have rolled up their sleeves and got on with the job in hand.
And as a consequence, three fixtures which on paper looked as tough as any, have yielded three fantastic results.
An Iain Hume brace helped see off in-form Southampton in a five-goal thriller, before the Foxes heaped further woe on struggling Leeds United with a 2-1 victory at Elland Road.
A 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace last time out extended their unbeaten run and at the time of writing, the Foxes lie just five points adrift of the play-off's.
...Top scorer: Iain Hume 6
Last league game:
Leicester City 1, Crystal Palace 1.
Coca Cola Championship.
October 21st 2006.
Leicester City: Logan, Stearman, McAuley, Kisnorbo, Johansson, Low (Sylla 64), Hughes, Tiatto, Welsh, Hume, Hammond.
Subs Not Used: Henderson, Maybury, O'Grady, Wesolowski......
Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds:
QPR 13/10
Leicester City 7/4
draw 9/4
Key player: DANNY TIATTO
A firm favourite with the Foxes fans, Danny Tiatto took over the captain's armband from Matt Elliott and was voted Player of the Season by City supporters at the club's 2005 awards ceremony.
The Australian international, capped 25 times by his country, joined Leicester on a free transfer in the summer of 2004.
Head to head:
QPR wins: 19
Foxes wins: 17
Draws: 8
Last meeting:
QPR 2 (Ainsworth, Shittu), Leicester City 3 (Fryatt, Stearman, Hughes).
Football League Championship.
January 31st 2006.
Latest News:
Leicester chief executive Tim Davies has revealed the club made a profit of £1.6m in the 2005-06 season.
That marks a significant turnaround for the club after they reported a £3.5m loss for the 2004-05 campaign.
Davies attributed most of the profit to the £3m sale of striker David Connolly to Wigan and the sponsorship deal with Alliance & Leicester.
However, a fall in attendances saw gate receipts slump by almost 25% to £4.82m while broadcasting receipts also fell.
(Source: BBC Sport)
Leicester Official
Three Months Ago: Statement about QPR Finances from QPR Holdings Chairman, Antonio Caliendo
-
[Three months ago, QPR were finishing up their pre-season, Italian "tour" and Dunga had just resigned to take over Brazil and the Chairman of QPR Holdings issued the following statement about QPR.
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - July 27, 2006 STatement for Antonio Caliendo
In the wake of widespread and further inaccurate reporting, Chairman of QPR Holdings Ltd, Antonio Caliendo, would like to issue the following statement:
"Despite Carlos Dunga tendering his resignation as a non-executive director on Tuesday, he will continue to support the Club financially.
"The Board's objective remains the same as it always has been - to get QPR back on a sound financial footing and in time, a return to the Premiership.
"I want to reassure the shareholders and supporters that we are doing everything possible to achieve that goal.
"We have invested wisely in the squad this summer and I believe we are in a fantastic position to challenge in the top half of the Championship.
"Last season was a very difficult time for the Board. Since September, we've put in over £4million to ensure the Club's finances are in a stable position to build for the future.
"As a Board, we aim to keep our promise of not selling our best players. Obviously there are certain clauses in players' contracts which means we have to allow them to speak to other Clubs, but our aim is the Premiership and to achieve this we need to keep all our best players.
"The Dan Shittu situation is a perfect example. The bottom line is that we want to keep Danny at the Club. He's a fantastic professional and a tremendous player, but if we receive a £3million bid then he has the freedom to talk to whoever comes in for him.
"We love Queens Park Rangers and we are doing everything possible to safeguard the prestige of this wonderful Club.
"Together, there is only one voice - We Are QPR.''
QPR
[Three months ago, QPR were finishing up their pre-season, Italian "tour" and Dunga had just resigned to take over Brazil and the Chairman of QPR Holdings issued the following statement about QPR.
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - July 27, 2006 STatement for Antonio Caliendo
In the wake of widespread and further inaccurate reporting, Chairman of QPR Holdings Ltd, Antonio Caliendo, would like to issue the following statement:
"Despite Carlos Dunga tendering his resignation as a non-executive director on Tuesday, he will continue to support the Club financially.
"The Board's objective remains the same as it always has been - to get QPR back on a sound financial footing and in time, a return to the Premiership.
"I want to reassure the shareholders and supporters that we are doing everything possible to achieve that goal.
"We have invested wisely in the squad this summer and I believe we are in a fantastic position to challenge in the top half of the Championship.
"Last season was a very difficult time for the Board. Since September, we've put in over £4million to ensure the Club's finances are in a stable position to build for the future.
"As a Board, we aim to keep our promise of not selling our best players. Obviously there are certain clauses in players' contracts which means we have to allow them to speak to other Clubs, but our aim is the Premiership and to achieve this we need to keep all our best players.
"The Dan Shittu situation is a perfect example. The bottom line is that we want to keep Danny at the Club. He's a fantastic professional and a tremendous player, but if we receive a £3million bid then he has the freedom to talk to whoever comes in for him.
"We love Queens Park Rangers and we are doing everything possible to safeguard the prestige of this wonderful Club.
"Together, there is only one voice - We Are QPR.''
QPR
Thursday, October 26, 2006
"An Apology" from AKUTRs - AKUTRs Statement
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QPR OFFICIAL SITE: AN APOLOGY
"The Editor of the fanzine 'A Kick Up The R's' today agreed to publish the following retraction and apology to Gianni Paladini"
Official Site
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - AN APOLOGY
The Editor and proprietor of the fanzine 'A Kick Up The R's' today agreed to publish the following retraction and apology to QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini:
In the September edition of the newsletter 'A Kick Up the R's', we published a series of articles by Cos Atiolis about Mr Paladini, the Chairman of Queen's Park Rangers football club.
In these articles we falsely suggested that Mr Paladini was involved in fraud, corruption, malpractice and dishonesty, and made a number of other serious false, misleading and defamatory statements about him.
We now fully accept that there is no truth whatsoever in these allegations and we are extremely sorry for the distress and embarrassment caused by the articles.
The newsletter containing the articles has been withdrawn from sale and we have offered Mr Paladini a full right of reply to the articles, which will appear in the next edition.
Paladini said: "I am delighted that the fanzine has withdrawn the untrue and unfair allegations it made against me, and that it was possible to resolve this without legal action.
"Although everyone has a right to free speech, and I welcome constructive criticism, I take my professional reputation very seriously and will not stand by whilst I am accused falsely.
"I find these allegations distressing, not just because they damage me, but also because of the distress they cause to my family and to QPR fans.
"I would never want to fall out with any of our fans. The way to move this club forward is to be united.
"Fortunately, AKUTRs has accepted there was no truth to the serious allegations it published and has retracted them. I will be exercising a full right to reply in the December edition, and I hope that is then the end of the matter."
QPR OFficial Site
NB: Paladini's September 25, 2006 Statement on the Offficial Site
Statement by Gianni Paladini on the recent edition of 'A Kick Up The Rs:'
The publication 'A Kick Up The Rs' has recently published a deeply misleading, inaccurate and scandalous article about myself and Queens Park Rangers FC.
A number of serious allegations have been made in that publication which are not true. The publication failed to contact myself or anyone else at the Club to verify their allegations.
Considering the seriousness of the allegations, I have been reluctantly forced to take legal action. The matter is now in the hands of my solicitors.
I expect a comprehensive retraction and apology from the publication for publishing these falsehoods. If they are not prepared to provide that, the matter will be dealt with by the courts.
I am sorry it must come to this, but in order for me to be able to defend myself from such blatant and hurtful untruths, I have no alternative than to take this action.
I shall make no further comment on this matter until either the apology and retraction has been received or legal proceedings are concluded.
QPR Official Site
QPR OFFICIAL SITE: AN APOLOGY
"The Editor of the fanzine 'A Kick Up The R's' today agreed to publish the following retraction and apology to Gianni Paladini"
Official Site
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - AN APOLOGY
The Editor and proprietor of the fanzine 'A Kick Up The R's' today agreed to publish the following retraction and apology to QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini:
In the September edition of the newsletter 'A Kick Up the R's', we published a series of articles by Cos Atiolis about Mr Paladini, the Chairman of Queen's Park Rangers football club.
In these articles we falsely suggested that Mr Paladini was involved in fraud, corruption, malpractice and dishonesty, and made a number of other serious false, misleading and defamatory statements about him.
We now fully accept that there is no truth whatsoever in these allegations and we are extremely sorry for the distress and embarrassment caused by the articles.
The newsletter containing the articles has been withdrawn from sale and we have offered Mr Paladini a full right of reply to the articles, which will appear in the next edition.
Paladini said: "I am delighted that the fanzine has withdrawn the untrue and unfair allegations it made against me, and that it was possible to resolve this without legal action.
"Although everyone has a right to free speech, and I welcome constructive criticism, I take my professional reputation very seriously and will not stand by whilst I am accused falsely.
"I find these allegations distressing, not just because they damage me, but also because of the distress they cause to my family and to QPR fans.
"I would never want to fall out with any of our fans. The way to move this club forward is to be united.
"Fortunately, AKUTRs has accepted there was no truth to the serious allegations it published and has retracted them. I will be exercising a full right to reply in the December edition, and I hope that is then the end of the matter."
QPR OFficial Site
NB: Paladini's September 25, 2006 Statement on the Offficial Site
Statement by Gianni Paladini on the recent edition of 'A Kick Up The Rs:'
The publication 'A Kick Up The Rs' has recently published a deeply misleading, inaccurate and scandalous article about myself and Queens Park Rangers FC.
A number of serious allegations have been made in that publication which are not true. The publication failed to contact myself or anyone else at the Club to verify their allegations.
Considering the seriousness of the allegations, I have been reluctantly forced to take legal action. The matter is now in the hands of my solicitors.
I expect a comprehensive retraction and apology from the publication for publishing these falsehoods. If they are not prepared to provide that, the matter will be dealt with by the courts.
I am sorry it must come to this, but in order for me to be able to defend myself from such blatant and hurtful untruths, I have no alternative than to take this action.
I shall make no further comment on this matter until either the apology and retraction has been received or legal proceedings are concluded.
QPR Official Site
Nostalgia! Ian Holloway's Q&A From a Year Ago
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QPR Official Site - October 25, 2005 - "Ollie Answers"
Ian Holloway spent Tuesday afternoon answering your questions in a live Q&A session on QPR World....Here is a brief rundown of the topics covered.
What's going on with Richard Langley?
I didn't want to lose him and I'm the one who brought him back because I believe he will be, in the future, a fantastic ball playing midfielder.
I want him to be able to go forward and back as I want the right balance. Chelsea have got people like Frank Lampard who can do both jobs.
Richard isn't as fit as he should be both physically and mentally. Sometimes he can be a bit hesitant and that's not the Richard I know.
He had a slight calf strain before the Preston game so he couldn't take part, but he had been involved before then and has been on the bench since.
Can you play Langley and Rowlands together?
There's no reason why I can't see it in the future. I think Rowlands is sadly missed at the moment. He gives us balance and closes better than anyone I've got when we haven't got the ball. Sometimes my other midfielders don't do that.
My choices in midfield are something to be proud of. As long as I've got one or two of them on the bench they will put pressure on those out there.
Why do you make substitutions so late on in games?
I wanted to bring Georges Santos on the other day against Plymouth, but by the time I got him on there wasn't any time left as the fourth official had told me a bit of a porkie.
If we're getting back in the game and creating chances, then I like to change it and I've got good help in my coaches.
A lot of the team who is playing didn't have a complete full season. Dean Sturridge is trying to get fit by playing games, which isn't ideal.
I've never picked a team that I don't believe is right for the team we are playing against. If it doesn't work I have to sit back and put my hands up and take responsibility.
Has Georges Santos got a clause in his contract that says he has to play?
No he hasn't, he's a fantastic war horse for us. He's been a great player for us, for nothing, but I think that's very unfair and harsh.
He does make mistakes and when he does they are glaring. But I think he's performing above some of the others I've got here at the moment.
Do you get a stiff neck talking to all the tall players we've got now?
I make sure they all sit down first! But I am trying to increase the size of my players. Our back line used to be far too small. You've only got to look at the Premiership boys to see how big they are.
In the modern day game you have to win the ball in both boxes. Peter Crouch has proved that you can have the height and a great touch.
Is there a possibility that we could play a more attacking midfield?
It depends who we're playing, who's fit, the report I get on the opposition and it depends on the week we're having on the training ground. I need a creative midfield but they need to be able to defend as well.
You have to be fit to play the way I want, which is high tempo and a lot of closing down. Having just seen the video of our game against Norwich, I must say I thought our passing game was very good.
I think Tommy Doherty will get better, but this is all about having options and being unpredictable for your opposition.
What is your footballing philosophy and have you ever sent out a team to express it?
I'd want to play similar to Chelsea but in Arsenal's formation. Vieira used to go forward for them but they're lacking that now. I love the way they get the ball down and pass it.
You're only as strong as your weakest link and sometimes you break down, but I think we're getting better.
Paul Furlong hasn't really been on form, why are you persevering with him?
The fact is he hasn't scored as many, but his link play is still there. He was hated when he came here and then became a legend last season. But for me he's proving irreplaceable.
If Swansea can turn down £1m for Lee Trundell how am I going to replace Paul Furlong?
Yes we need to move past Paul Furlong eventually, but I need to have everybody fit. Have we got enough strength in depth? No, I don't think so.
Scott Donnelly shouldn't have to be playing on a regular basis at the age of 16, I'll bet there isn't someone that age anywhere else in the Championship playing at that age.
It's the most expensive place on the field and look at how much we've had to spend on it. If Furlong was still 26 how much would he be worth?
I'll drop players as I see fit, and I'll stand and fall on my decisions.
Do you feel under pressure?
That's part of the job, but I don't like it when I hear people saying not to believe me because I'm just trying to get a new contract. I don't control the board I just pick the side.
I've had four chairman, two Chief Executives and now I don't have one. But at the end of the day, QPR fans still have a club and that's one thing I'm proud of - totally.
I have got the hump from the weekend because I believe certain things aren't right, there are rumours. But this will all take care of itself. You'll all know what happened, it will all be there. All you have to worry about is judging our players fairly.
If I had to leave today I'd be very proud of what my team and staff, past and present, have achieved.
Who has been a major factor for this club? It's everyone who buys a ticket - so don't leave us. If you don't agree with team selection, no problem. But don't pick sides in an argument you don't know anything about.
Will we see any players coming in or out in the next transfer window?
The board are trying to sort out all the bills at the moment. But I've been told I can look for some signings in the January transfer window, I just don't know how much I've got.
As for letting people go, there are some who aren't happy and have been out on loan and might not like having to fight for a place here.
What is the situation with Shabazz Baidoo?
We had the chance to send him to Lincoln, but you can't loan scholars out. When he's 17 we can make him a pro and he can go out on loan then. He's working on his finishing and improving very quickly.
It's hard to say how close he is, but that's up to him. We nicked him from Arsenal but he's been brought up our way and he seems very positive.
There was a rumour that West Ham wanted him but that was just a rumour. I spoke to Alan Pardew and he assured me it wasn't the case.
What's the latest on your future with the club?
Gianni said he wanted to give some stability to the club, but I feel the most important thing is that the board get sorted and I get some direction regarding the future because that's what matters to the fans.
My focus is on the team more than myself. If the board wants to talk to my agent that's fine, but I want to put that on the back burner. I'm more than happy to work for the new board in the same way that I was happy to work for the last board.
As long as whoever is in charge is happy to pick up the baton and run with it, I'm happy to work for them.
Do you want to increase the size of the squad and in what position?
I've got some loan signings lined up if people get injured and we're also looking at some targets. The most I've ever spent was borrowed from a fan and that was £250,000
Do you think Marc Nygaard can be a replacement for Furlong eventually?
Well he's a different sort of player to Furs, it may be that I need two players to replace him when that day comes. But he's a great player, he's fresh and he's hungry.
What did you think of the booing directed at Georges Santos last Saturday?
Some players are liked and some aren't, but I don't understand it. If they were booing when he scored then they have a serious problem.
What's the latest with the loan signings?
Adam Miller and Aaron Brown have been sent back but Marcus Bean is still at Swansea and is doing very well. His contract is up at the end of the season but for now I think it's good for him to be there getting some experience.
Have you ever considered watching the game from the Director's Box to get a different view?I have done it before, but I'm a bit superstitious and we've never done well when I'm up there. Plus I feel that the team need the encouragement of the coaches being down there on the touch line.
QPR Official Site
QPR Official Site - October 25, 2005 - "Ollie Answers"
Ian Holloway spent Tuesday afternoon answering your questions in a live Q&A session on QPR World....Here is a brief rundown of the topics covered.
What's going on with Richard Langley?
I didn't want to lose him and I'm the one who brought him back because I believe he will be, in the future, a fantastic ball playing midfielder.
I want him to be able to go forward and back as I want the right balance. Chelsea have got people like Frank Lampard who can do both jobs.
Richard isn't as fit as he should be both physically and mentally. Sometimes he can be a bit hesitant and that's not the Richard I know.
He had a slight calf strain before the Preston game so he couldn't take part, but he had been involved before then and has been on the bench since.
Can you play Langley and Rowlands together?
There's no reason why I can't see it in the future. I think Rowlands is sadly missed at the moment. He gives us balance and closes better than anyone I've got when we haven't got the ball. Sometimes my other midfielders don't do that.
My choices in midfield are something to be proud of. As long as I've got one or two of them on the bench they will put pressure on those out there.
Why do you make substitutions so late on in games?
I wanted to bring Georges Santos on the other day against Plymouth, but by the time I got him on there wasn't any time left as the fourth official had told me a bit of a porkie.
If we're getting back in the game and creating chances, then I like to change it and I've got good help in my coaches.
A lot of the team who is playing didn't have a complete full season. Dean Sturridge is trying to get fit by playing games, which isn't ideal.
I've never picked a team that I don't believe is right for the team we are playing against. If it doesn't work I have to sit back and put my hands up and take responsibility.
Has Georges Santos got a clause in his contract that says he has to play?
No he hasn't, he's a fantastic war horse for us. He's been a great player for us, for nothing, but I think that's very unfair and harsh.
He does make mistakes and when he does they are glaring. But I think he's performing above some of the others I've got here at the moment.
Do you get a stiff neck talking to all the tall players we've got now?
I make sure they all sit down first! But I am trying to increase the size of my players. Our back line used to be far too small. You've only got to look at the Premiership boys to see how big they are.
In the modern day game you have to win the ball in both boxes. Peter Crouch has proved that you can have the height and a great touch.
Is there a possibility that we could play a more attacking midfield?
It depends who we're playing, who's fit, the report I get on the opposition and it depends on the week we're having on the training ground. I need a creative midfield but they need to be able to defend as well.
You have to be fit to play the way I want, which is high tempo and a lot of closing down. Having just seen the video of our game against Norwich, I must say I thought our passing game was very good.
I think Tommy Doherty will get better, but this is all about having options and being unpredictable for your opposition.
What is your footballing philosophy and have you ever sent out a team to express it?
I'd want to play similar to Chelsea but in Arsenal's formation. Vieira used to go forward for them but they're lacking that now. I love the way they get the ball down and pass it.
You're only as strong as your weakest link and sometimes you break down, but I think we're getting better.
Paul Furlong hasn't really been on form, why are you persevering with him?
The fact is he hasn't scored as many, but his link play is still there. He was hated when he came here and then became a legend last season. But for me he's proving irreplaceable.
If Swansea can turn down £1m for Lee Trundell how am I going to replace Paul Furlong?
Yes we need to move past Paul Furlong eventually, but I need to have everybody fit. Have we got enough strength in depth? No, I don't think so.
Scott Donnelly shouldn't have to be playing on a regular basis at the age of 16, I'll bet there isn't someone that age anywhere else in the Championship playing at that age.
It's the most expensive place on the field and look at how much we've had to spend on it. If Furlong was still 26 how much would he be worth?
I'll drop players as I see fit, and I'll stand and fall on my decisions.
Do you feel under pressure?
That's part of the job, but I don't like it when I hear people saying not to believe me because I'm just trying to get a new contract. I don't control the board I just pick the side.
I've had four chairman, two Chief Executives and now I don't have one. But at the end of the day, QPR fans still have a club and that's one thing I'm proud of - totally.
I have got the hump from the weekend because I believe certain things aren't right, there are rumours. But this will all take care of itself. You'll all know what happened, it will all be there. All you have to worry about is judging our players fairly.
If I had to leave today I'd be very proud of what my team and staff, past and present, have achieved.
Who has been a major factor for this club? It's everyone who buys a ticket - so don't leave us. If you don't agree with team selection, no problem. But don't pick sides in an argument you don't know anything about.
Will we see any players coming in or out in the next transfer window?
The board are trying to sort out all the bills at the moment. But I've been told I can look for some signings in the January transfer window, I just don't know how much I've got.
As for letting people go, there are some who aren't happy and have been out on loan and might not like having to fight for a place here.
What is the situation with Shabazz Baidoo?
We had the chance to send him to Lincoln, but you can't loan scholars out. When he's 17 we can make him a pro and he can go out on loan then. He's working on his finishing and improving very quickly.
It's hard to say how close he is, but that's up to him. We nicked him from Arsenal but he's been brought up our way and he seems very positive.
There was a rumour that West Ham wanted him but that was just a rumour. I spoke to Alan Pardew and he assured me it wasn't the case.
What's the latest on your future with the club?
Gianni said he wanted to give some stability to the club, but I feel the most important thing is that the board get sorted and I get some direction regarding the future because that's what matters to the fans.
My focus is on the team more than myself. If the board wants to talk to my agent that's fine, but I want to put that on the back burner. I'm more than happy to work for the new board in the same way that I was happy to work for the last board.
As long as whoever is in charge is happy to pick up the baton and run with it, I'm happy to work for them.
Do you want to increase the size of the squad and in what position?
I've got some loan signings lined up if people get injured and we're also looking at some targets. The most I've ever spent was borrowed from a fan and that was £250,000
Do you think Marc Nygaard can be a replacement for Furlong eventually?
Well he's a different sort of player to Furs, it may be that I need two players to replace him when that day comes. But he's a great player, he's fresh and he's hungry.
What did you think of the booing directed at Georges Santos last Saturday?
Some players are liked and some aren't, but I don't understand it. If they were booing when he scored then they have a serious problem.
What's the latest with the loan signings?
Adam Miller and Aaron Brown have been sent back but Marcus Bean is still at Swansea and is doing very well. His contract is up at the end of the season but for now I think it's good for him to be there getting some experience.
Have you ever considered watching the game from the Director's Box to get a different view?I have done it before, but I'm a bit superstitious and we've never done well when I'm up there. Plus I feel that the team need the encouragement of the coaches being down there on the touch line.
QPR Official Site
Ian Evatt Currently in Top 5 for PFA Fans Player of the Month for League One
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PFA -Welcome to the 06/07 Season Fans Player Awards
"The PFA Fans' Player of the Month awards have kicked off for the 2006/2007 season and the top 5 in alphabetical order from each division are....for October are:
Coca-Cola Football League One
Billy Sharp Scunthorpe United FC
Caleb Folan Chesterfield Football Club
Ian Evatt Blackpool Football Club
Scott Brown Bristol City Football Club
Shaun Barker Blackpool Football Club
PFA
PFA -Welcome to the 06/07 Season Fans Player Awards
"The PFA Fans' Player of the Month awards have kicked off for the 2006/2007 season and the top 5 in alphabetical order from each division are....for October are:
Coca-Cola Football League One
Billy Sharp Scunthorpe United FC
Caleb Folan Chesterfield Football Club
Ian Evatt Blackpool Football Club
Scott Brown Bristol City Football Club
Shaun Barker Blackpool Football Club
PFA
Comparing Championship Clubs' Attendances as Percentage of Ground Capacity
-
[Not sure the origal source for this research, but extremely interesting]
Eastern Daily Press - "[Norwich] Supporters are top of the league"
"...Norwich City fans are top of the league when it comes to packing them in at home games...An average of 24,627 fans pack into Carrow Road for every home game - a staggering 96.5pc of the ground's capacity...That's way above nearest challengers Luton, who stand at 88.1pc, followed by Championship leaders Cardiff and then bottom club Southend..."
GROUND FILLERS
Team, Average crowd, Ground capacity, % of capacity
Norwich City, 24,627, 25,500, 96.5
Luton Town, 8,789, 9,975, 88.1
Cardiff City, 17,658, 21,432, 82.3
Southend , 9,810, 12,392, 79.1
West Brom, 20,855, 28,003, 74.4
Coventry City , 17,387, 23,633, 73.5
Ipswich , 21,617, 30,311, 71.3
Derby , 23,488, 33,597, 69.9
Southampton, 22,377, 32,551, 68.7
Birmingham, 20,512, 30,009, 68.3
Preston, 13,877, 20,600, 67.3
Wolves, 19,452, 29,400, 66.1
Hull City, 16,775, 25,404, 66.0
Colchester, 4,976, 7,556, 65.8
Leicester, 21,217, 32,500, 65.2
Crystal Palace, 17,121, 26,400, 64.8
QPR, 12,182, 19,148, 63.6
Sunderland, 29,179, 48,300, 60.4
Shefd Wed, 23,565, 39,859, 59.1
Plymouth, 11,788, 20,922, 56.3
Burnley, 11,403, 22,546, 50.5
Stoke City, 14,176, 28,384, 49.9
Leeds Utd, 19,074, 40,204, 47.4
Barnsley, 10,809, 23,186, 46.6
Report
[Not sure the origal source for this research, but extremely interesting]
Eastern Daily Press - "[Norwich] Supporters are top of the league"
"...Norwich City fans are top of the league when it comes to packing them in at home games...An average of 24,627 fans pack into Carrow Road for every home game - a staggering 96.5pc of the ground's capacity...That's way above nearest challengers Luton, who stand at 88.1pc, followed by Championship leaders Cardiff and then bottom club Southend..."
GROUND FILLERS
Team, Average crowd, Ground capacity, % of capacity
Norwich City, 24,627, 25,500, 96.5
Luton Town, 8,789, 9,975, 88.1
Cardiff City, 17,658, 21,432, 82.3
Southend , 9,810, 12,392, 79.1
West Brom, 20,855, 28,003, 74.4
Coventry City , 17,387, 23,633, 73.5
Ipswich , 21,617, 30,311, 71.3
Derby , 23,488, 33,597, 69.9
Southampton, 22,377, 32,551, 68.7
Birmingham, 20,512, 30,009, 68.3
Preston, 13,877, 20,600, 67.3
Wolves, 19,452, 29,400, 66.1
Hull City, 16,775, 25,404, 66.0
Colchester, 4,976, 7,556, 65.8
Leicester, 21,217, 32,500, 65.2
Crystal Palace, 17,121, 26,400, 64.8
QPR, 12,182, 19,148, 63.6
Sunderland, 29,179, 48,300, 60.4
Shefd Wed, 23,565, 39,859, 59.1
Plymouth, 11,788, 20,922, 56.3
Burnley, 11,403, 22,546, 50.5
Stoke City, 14,176, 28,384, 49.9
Leeds Utd, 19,074, 40,204, 47.4
Barnsley, 10,809, 23,186, 46.6
Report
Gino Padula - Q&A on QPRNet
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Nick Ward on Playing/Not Playing for QPR & QPR Reserves and Australia at Loftus Road
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Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Nick Ward
".... Until a month ago, Nick Ward was virtually ever-present in the Rangers side and a strong candidate to play for Australia in their friendly against Ghana on November 14 [at Loftus Road].
But the midfielder has yet to feature in the starting line-up since John Gregory took over at Loftus Road and admitted: "It's definitely a concern that I haven't been playing for a while.
"I felt my form had been quite good, but the team weren't getting results. The upshot was that a new manager came in - and he doesn't really know me yet.
"It's frustrating at the moment but that's part of the ups and downs of football - you just have to wait for your chance and, when I get it, I want to show John Gregory what I can do.....
"There's a great atmosphere at Loftus Road and I'd love to be involved. I received a text from the national team manager to say I was in contention to be selected and that's good to hear."
The 21-year-old - who narrowly missed out on a place in the Socceroos' World Cup squad last summer - was confident his international prospects would be boosted by moving to QPR from Perth Glory.
That belief seemed to be justified by Ward's inclusion on the substitutes' bench for Australia's 2-0 Asia Cup defeat in the 40-degree heat of Kuwait last month.
But, having started Rangers' first eight league games and then scored his first goal in a 2-0 win over Southend, Ward was surprised to find himself demoted to the reserves after Gregory replaced Gary Waddock.
"That's definitely something I hadn't planned for," said Ward. "I don't really feel I belong there and that level is a long way below where I'd like to be playing.
"The reason I came to QPR was because I felt the Championship was a good standard of football and I thought I'd have a good chance of playing week in, week out."
Ward was given a run-out in the second half of Rangers' 3-2 defeat at Sheffield Wednesday and failed to shine, albeit in an unfamiliar role wide on the right....
Kilburn Times
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Nick Ward
".... Until a month ago, Nick Ward was virtually ever-present in the Rangers side and a strong candidate to play for Australia in their friendly against Ghana on November 14 [at Loftus Road].
But the midfielder has yet to feature in the starting line-up since John Gregory took over at Loftus Road and admitted: "It's definitely a concern that I haven't been playing for a while.
"I felt my form had been quite good, but the team weren't getting results. The upshot was that a new manager came in - and he doesn't really know me yet.
"It's frustrating at the moment but that's part of the ups and downs of football - you just have to wait for your chance and, when I get it, I want to show John Gregory what I can do.....
"There's a great atmosphere at Loftus Road and I'd love to be involved. I received a text from the national team manager to say I was in contention to be selected and that's good to hear."
The 21-year-old - who narrowly missed out on a place in the Socceroos' World Cup squad last summer - was confident his international prospects would be boosted by moving to QPR from Perth Glory.
That belief seemed to be justified by Ward's inclusion on the substitutes' bench for Australia's 2-0 Asia Cup defeat in the 40-degree heat of Kuwait last month.
But, having started Rangers' first eight league games and then scored his first goal in a 2-0 win over Southend, Ward was surprised to find himself demoted to the reserves after Gregory replaced Gary Waddock.
"That's definitely something I hadn't planned for," said Ward. "I don't really feel I belong there and that level is a long way below where I'd like to be playing.
"The reason I came to QPR was because I felt the Championship was a good standard of football and I thought I'd have a good chance of playing week in, week out."
Ward was given a run-out in the second half of Rangers' 3-2 defeat at Sheffield Wednesday and failed to shine, albeit in an unfamiliar role wide on the right....
Kilburn Times
Lee Cook on QPR's Prospects & Waddock as Coach & Manager
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Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Lee Cook
LEE Cook has warned that QPR will be facing a relegation scrap if they fail to pick up three points against Leicester this weekend...
."We have to start winning games because we're back in the dogfight now and that's not somewhere we want to be.
"Our home form hasn't been great - we've only picked up one point from Norwich and Derby at Loftus Road - and we need to sort it out quickly. If we don't, we could be in trouble.
"We've let in a lot of goals and you can't keep coming out needing to score three to win a game. We seem to get punished for sloppy mistakes and when other teams do it we don't punish them enough.
"We've got to be confident, think about the wins we had against Hull and Southampton and get back to playing that way."...
Cook has blossomed under Gregory and his predecessor, Gary Waddock, and the current Rangers boss admitted on Saturday that the 24-year-old winger might prove 'difficult to hang on to'.
"Everyone wants to do well and play at the highest level - and I want to do that with QPR," Cook declared.
"I think we've got the right manager to take us there - he's a Premiership manager and he brings that mentality to us.
"Over time we're going to be a very good team and one that's horrible to play against - teams are not going to want to come to Loftus Road."
Waddock, who did stay on as a coach during Gregory's first month in charge, finally left Loftus Road last week and Cook admitted his departure was probably inevitable.
"Waddo's a great coach, his training sessions were always high tempo and everyone felt they were getting something out of it. He'll move on and get another coaching job, I'm sure of that.
"It's a shame to see him go, but he'd been relegated from management and no-one really expected he'd still be at the club after a new manager came in.
"I don't think he felt right at the club after that. You could tell it was a bit difficult for him, but all the players understand that and we hope he does well
Kilburn Times
Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Lee Cook
LEE Cook has warned that QPR will be facing a relegation scrap if they fail to pick up three points against Leicester this weekend...
."We have to start winning games because we're back in the dogfight now and that's not somewhere we want to be.
"Our home form hasn't been great - we've only picked up one point from Norwich and Derby at Loftus Road - and we need to sort it out quickly. If we don't, we could be in trouble.
"We've let in a lot of goals and you can't keep coming out needing to score three to win a game. We seem to get punished for sloppy mistakes and when other teams do it we don't punish them enough.
"We've got to be confident, think about the wins we had against Hull and Southampton and get back to playing that way."...
Cook has blossomed under Gregory and his predecessor, Gary Waddock, and the current Rangers boss admitted on Saturday that the 24-year-old winger might prove 'difficult to hang on to'.
"Everyone wants to do well and play at the highest level - and I want to do that with QPR," Cook declared.
"I think we've got the right manager to take us there - he's a Premiership manager and he brings that mentality to us.
"Over time we're going to be a very good team and one that's horrible to play against - teams are not going to want to come to Loftus Road."
Waddock, who did stay on as a coach during Gregory's first month in charge, finally left Loftus Road last week and Cook admitted his departure was probably inevitable.
"Waddo's a great coach, his training sessions were always high tempo and everyone felt they were getting something out of it. He'll move on and get another coaching job, I'm sure of that.
"It's a shame to see him go, but he'd been relegated from management and no-one really expected he'd still be at the club after a new manager came in.
"I don't think he felt right at the club after that. You could tell it was a bit difficult for him, but all the players understand that and we hope he does well
Kilburn Times
Ex-QPR Birthdays: Don Rogers & Steve Hodge
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Two Great players who unfortunately by the time they joined QPR were no longer at their peak.
Don Rogers Turns 61: October 25, 1945
Goalscoring winger, Rogers had a brilliant career with Swindon, doing for them what Rodney Marsh did for QPR and helping them win the League Cup against Arsenal. For years he was one of the most sought-after players outside the First Division. Rogers then had a couple of years with Crystal Palace.
Rogers joined QPR in 1974 in an exchange deal in which Terry Venables + Ian Evans + cash went to Malcolm Allison's Crystal Palace. Gordon Jago's last signing before he left and was replaced by Dave Sexton. At the time Rogers seemed like a brilliant QPR signing and a replacement for Stan Bowles who was (again) on the transfer list. Unforunately it didn't work out. He played 18 games, scoring 5 goals in the 1974/75 season and played no games during QPR's 1975/76 Championship season. In March 1976, Rogers rejoined Swindon in a part exchange in which Peter Eastoe joined QPR.
Rogers
Steve Hodge Turns 44: October 25, 1962
Ex-England International, Hodge Joined QPR from Leeds for 300,000 pounds in 1994-1995 at aged 32. Signed by Gerry Francis shortly before he left and was replaced by Ray Wilkins. Played 15 games that season and that was it. Hodge joined Watford on a free transfer, the following season. Was linked to a QPR move at the beginning of his career while with Nottingham Forest. Hodge
Two Great players who unfortunately by the time they joined QPR were no longer at their peak.
Don Rogers Turns 61: October 25, 1945
Goalscoring winger, Rogers had a brilliant career with Swindon, doing for them what Rodney Marsh did for QPR and helping them win the League Cup against Arsenal. For years he was one of the most sought-after players outside the First Division. Rogers then had a couple of years with Crystal Palace.
Rogers joined QPR in 1974 in an exchange deal in which Terry Venables + Ian Evans + cash went to Malcolm Allison's Crystal Palace. Gordon Jago's last signing before he left and was replaced by Dave Sexton. At the time Rogers seemed like a brilliant QPR signing and a replacement for Stan Bowles who was (again) on the transfer list. Unforunately it didn't work out. He played 18 games, scoring 5 goals in the 1974/75 season and played no games during QPR's 1975/76 Championship season. In March 1976, Rogers rejoined Swindon in a part exchange in which Peter Eastoe joined QPR.
Rogers
Steve Hodge Turns 44: October 25, 1962
Ex-England International, Hodge Joined QPR from Leeds for 300,000 pounds in 1994-1995 at aged 32. Signed by Gerry Francis shortly before he left and was replaced by Ray Wilkins. Played 15 games that season and that was it. Hodge joined Watford on a free transfer, the following season. Was linked to a QPR move at the beginning of his career while with Nottingham Forest. Hodge
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Ex-QPR CEO Mark Devlin Discusses Developments at Swindon
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Swindon Advertiser October 23 Mark Devlin - Paying the price
EXCLUSIVE: A “GUTTED” Mark Devlin believes County Ground boardroom politics have played a role in persuading Dennis Wise his managerial future lies elsewhere.
With Wise, agreeing a deal as Leeds United boss late last night, Devlin believes recent issues off the pitch almost definitely had an unsettling influence on the former England midfielder.
The Town chief-executive also revealed Wise and Poyet insisted a release clause was written into their contract in the summer, allowing them to talk to interested Premiership and Championship clubs.
The duo triggered the clause yesterday, after five weeks of speculation, and as talks concluded last night, Wise became Town’s shortest-ever serving manager.
Swindon had offered the pair improved terms to remain in Swindon but after a compensation fee was agreed late yesterday, somewhere in the region of a season’s salary, the Wise revolution has been brought to an abrupt end.
What started out as a dream new chapter at the County Ground, with the arrival of Poyet and Wise, has slowly turned into a nightmare as off-field problems cast shadows over the success on the pitch.
A boardroom rift has been followed by the departure of major investor Bill Power and major shareholders the Wills’ family threatening to pull the plug.
<strong>Speaking from his hospital bed after August’s plane crash Devlin, who earlier this month was given a vote of no-confidence from his fellow board members, admits the saga would not have helped in trying to secure Wise’s future.
He said: “I am sure it might have played a part in his decision. Only Dennis Wise himself will be able to tell you the real reasons though.
“I don’t suppose it helps though. All the problems behind the scenes may not affect the team but I am sure it affects the manager. It will be massively disappointing for us all because he has had such a massive impact on the club this season.”
Town fans are already questionning the decision to allow Wise and Poyet a release clause in their contracts but Devlin reveals it was a necessary evil.
He said: “They were both very keen to put that clause in, which don’t get me wrong was totally understandable on their part. From the club’s point of view it was a risk we had to take. There was no point in appointing someone we hoped would just achieve mediocrity.
“Obviously I think we all realised if they were succesful here they would eventually move on but we thought they would be around for a year or two at least.”
With friend and former Chelsea chairman Ken Bates at Elland Road, Wise has been a front-runner for the Elland Road job for the past five weeks.
A run of abysmal results have finally forced Bates’ hand and Devlin admits the possibility has always been at the back of everyone’s minds.
“He has a good working relationship with Ken Bates,” said Devlin. “It is something I think everyone was fearing.
“There was always a chance it was going to happen and now it looks like our worst fears are coming true.
“It is a great shame seeing him go. He has changed so many things here, in my opinion the team is now far more professional and he will leave a great legacy behind.
“Personally I have really enjoyed working with the two. They were very good to us when we were in hospital and I wish them both the best.
“You can’t blame them. Everyone has their ambitions and Leeds United are a massive club.”
With Town fans already speculating who could be Wise’s successor, Devlin admits he is not the man to talk to.
He said: “Obviously being in hospital I am out of it all at the moment. You will have to talk to someone else at the club.”
This is Swindon
Swindon Advertiser October 23 Mark Devlin - Paying the price
EXCLUSIVE: A “GUTTED” Mark Devlin believes County Ground boardroom politics have played a role in persuading Dennis Wise his managerial future lies elsewhere.
With Wise, agreeing a deal as Leeds United boss late last night, Devlin believes recent issues off the pitch almost definitely had an unsettling influence on the former England midfielder.
The Town chief-executive also revealed Wise and Poyet insisted a release clause was written into their contract in the summer, allowing them to talk to interested Premiership and Championship clubs.
The duo triggered the clause yesterday, after five weeks of speculation, and as talks concluded last night, Wise became Town’s shortest-ever serving manager.
Swindon had offered the pair improved terms to remain in Swindon but after a compensation fee was agreed late yesterday, somewhere in the region of a season’s salary, the Wise revolution has been brought to an abrupt end.
What started out as a dream new chapter at the County Ground, with the arrival of Poyet and Wise, has slowly turned into a nightmare as off-field problems cast shadows over the success on the pitch.
A boardroom rift has been followed by the departure of major investor Bill Power and major shareholders the Wills’ family threatening to pull the plug.
<strong>Speaking from his hospital bed after August’s plane crash Devlin, who earlier this month was given a vote of no-confidence from his fellow board members, admits the saga would not have helped in trying to secure Wise’s future.
He said: “I am sure it might have played a part in his decision. Only Dennis Wise himself will be able to tell you the real reasons though.
“I don’t suppose it helps though. All the problems behind the scenes may not affect the team but I am sure it affects the manager. It will be massively disappointing for us all because he has had such a massive impact on the club this season.”
Town fans are already questionning the decision to allow Wise and Poyet a release clause in their contracts but Devlin reveals it was a necessary evil.
He said: “They were both very keen to put that clause in, which don’t get me wrong was totally understandable on their part. From the club’s point of view it was a risk we had to take. There was no point in appointing someone we hoped would just achieve mediocrity.
“Obviously I think we all realised if they were succesful here they would eventually move on but we thought they would be around for a year or two at least.”
With friend and former Chelsea chairman Ken Bates at Elland Road, Wise has been a front-runner for the Elland Road job for the past five weeks.
A run of abysmal results have finally forced Bates’ hand and Devlin admits the possibility has always been at the back of everyone’s minds.
“He has a good working relationship with Ken Bates,” said Devlin. “It is something I think everyone was fearing.
“There was always a chance it was going to happen and now it looks like our worst fears are coming true.
“It is a great shame seeing him go. He has changed so many things here, in my opinion the team is now far more professional and he will leave a great legacy behind.
“Personally I have really enjoyed working with the two. They were very good to us when we were in hospital and I wish them both the best.
“You can’t blame them. Everyone has their ambitions and Leeds United are a massive club.”
With Town fans already speculating who could be Wise’s successor, Devlin admits he is not the man to talk to.
He said: “Obviously being in hospital I am out of it all at the moment. You will have to talk to someone else at the club.”
This is Swindon
QPR1st's Recent "Fundraising Discussion Document"
-
QPR1st Recently released a "Fundraising Discussion Document"
The document, "REBUILD QPR - QPR Supporters Fundraising Project: A Discussion Document" can be read at
REBUILD QPR
[The QPR1st Explanation of their action can be viewed at
QPR1st
QPR1st Recently released a "Fundraising Discussion Document"
The document, "REBUILD QPR - QPR Supporters Fundraising Project: A Discussion Document" can be read at
REBUILD QPR
[The QPR1st Explanation of their action can be viewed at
QPR1st
QPR1st's Recent "Fundraising Discussion Document"
-
QPR1st Recently released a "Fundraising Discussion Document"
The document, "REBUILD QPR - QPR Supporters Fundraising Project: A Discussion Document" can be read at
REBUILD QPR
[The QPR1st Explanation of their action can be viewed at
QPR1st
QPR1st Recently released a "Fundraising Discussion Document"
The document, "REBUILD QPR - QPR Supporters Fundraising Project: A Discussion Document" can be read at
REBUILD QPR
[The QPR1st Explanation of their action can be viewed at
QPR1st
Passing 250 Days of "Gardening Leave" for Tim Breaker
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According to Ian Holloway last week, Tim Breaker his coach when at QPR, who (without explanation) had been placed on "Gardening Leave" along with Holloway and QPR's other coach Gary Penrice, had still not joined Plymouth. Holloway attributed this to remaining contract issues with QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini which he hoped would shortly be resolved.
Breaker
That makes more than 250 days; 37-38 weeks; approaching nine months - of presumably paid "Gardening Leave" for Tim Breaker. It was never actually explained why Breaker (or Penrice) had been placed on Gardening Leave, when Holloway was so placed.
QPR's Official Statement back in early February Announcing the Gardening Leave for the trio.
QPR's February "Gardening Leave" Statement
According to Ian Holloway last week, Tim Breaker his coach when at QPR, who (without explanation) had been placed on "Gardening Leave" along with Holloway and QPR's other coach Gary Penrice, had still not joined Plymouth. Holloway attributed this to remaining contract issues with QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini which he hoped would shortly be resolved.
Breaker
That makes more than 250 days; 37-38 weeks; approaching nine months - of presumably paid "Gardening Leave" for Tim Breaker. It was never actually explained why Breaker (or Penrice) had been placed on Gardening Leave, when Holloway was so placed.
QPR's Official Statement back in early February Announcing the Gardening Leave for the trio.
QPR's February "Gardening Leave" Statement
25 Years Ago Today: John Gregory Scored his 4th Goal in 5 Games
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Twenty-Five Years, FULL BACK, John Gregory in his first season at QPR (The FA Cup Final Season) scored his 4th goal in five games in QPR's 2-0 win over Leicester at Loftus Road. (The other scorer was Simon Stainrod.) Also playing that day: Gary Waddock. 12,000 + were there to see the game.
QPR's Team that day:
Burridge
Fenwick Hazell Roeder Gregory
Gillard Francis Waddock Flanagan
Allen Stainrod
Sub: Burke
Twenty-Five Years, FULL BACK, John Gregory in his first season at QPR (The FA Cup Final Season) scored his 4th goal in five games in QPR's 2-0 win over Leicester at Loftus Road. (The other scorer was Simon Stainrod.) Also playing that day: Gary Waddock. 12,000 + were there to see the game.
QPR's Team that day:
Burridge
Fenwick Hazell Roeder Gregory
Gillard Francis Waddock Flanagan
Allen Stainrod
Sub: Burke
Ray Jones (& Loanee Mancienne) Back in the England U-19 Squad
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The FA.Com England U19 v Switzerland
International U19 Friendly
7.30pm, 14 November 2006 Gresty Road, Crewe Alexandra FC
Brian Eastick has confirmed his 18-man squad to take on Switzerland on 14 November, with the core of the team remaining from their recent trip to Austria for the UEFA Preparatory Tournament.
Liverpool's FA Youth Cup winning trio of Paul Anderson and Craig Lindfield, who scored three goals between them against Austria, and Adam Hammill retain their places as does Derby County's Giles Barnes.
Queen's Park Rangers' forward Ray Jones also returns to the squad after missing the visit to Austria through injury and Eastick is keen to take another look at many of the players who accquited themselves well against Spain and Italy.
Eastick said: "The nucleus of the squad is pretty much the same as that which we took to Austria because the important thing we need to look at is continuity of our preparation.
"The draw for the UEFA European U19 Championship takes place next month and that is what these games are preparing the players for. We have made a minimal number of changes to the squad and I think that will help the players continue the progress.
"We have brought back Ray Jones of QPR who was in the squad earlier this season but unfortunately had to withdraw through injury. It’s important for us to have another look at him.
"James Vaughn is also worth a mention despite not being in this squad. He is recovering from a long term injury and I went to watch him at Morecambe last week in a reserve game. The view is that right now he needs a few more games - but he is one we are keeping an eye on.
"We are hoping to build on the work we have done in the past few months with the players and put on a strong performance against Switzerland."
Squad....
Ray Jones Queens Park Rangers 18 28.08.1988
.....Michael Mancienne Chelsea (on loan to QPR ) 18 08.01.1988....
FA
The FA.Com England U19 v Switzerland
International U19 Friendly
7.30pm, 14 November 2006 Gresty Road, Crewe Alexandra FC
Brian Eastick has confirmed his 18-man squad to take on Switzerland on 14 November, with the core of the team remaining from their recent trip to Austria for the UEFA Preparatory Tournament.
Liverpool's FA Youth Cup winning trio of Paul Anderson and Craig Lindfield, who scored three goals between them against Austria, and Adam Hammill retain their places as does Derby County's Giles Barnes.
Queen's Park Rangers' forward Ray Jones also returns to the squad after missing the visit to Austria through injury and Eastick is keen to take another look at many of the players who accquited themselves well against Spain and Italy.
Eastick said: "The nucleus of the squad is pretty much the same as that which we took to Austria because the important thing we need to look at is continuity of our preparation.
"The draw for the UEFA European U19 Championship takes place next month and that is what these games are preparing the players for. We have made a minimal number of changes to the squad and I think that will help the players continue the progress.
"We have brought back Ray Jones of QPR who was in the squad earlier this season but unfortunately had to withdraw through injury. It’s important for us to have another look at him.
"James Vaughn is also worth a mention despite not being in this squad. He is recovering from a long term injury and I went to watch him at Morecambe last week in a reserve game. The view is that right now he needs a few more games - but he is one we are keeping an eye on.
"We are hoping to build on the work we have done in the past few months with the players and put on a strong performance against Switzerland."
Squad....
Ray Jones Queens Park Rangers 18 28.08.1988
.....Michael Mancienne Chelsea (on loan to QPR ) 18 08.01.1988....
FA
1,000 Days Since Almost Taking over at Port Vale
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If things had turned out just a little differently, Gianni Paladini would have just celebrated his 1,000 days since his takeover of Port Vale. Before Paladini turned his interest towards Queens Park Rangers, he first sought to invest in Port Vale.
Paladini's return to Port Vale last month in the Carling Cup (which saw Port Vale win and Gary Waddock lose his job) was his first visit since his effort to take over failed.
As reported by the Stoke Sentinel after the Port Vale victory over QPR:
STOKE SENTINEL September 20, 2006:- VALIANTS' REVENGE
Port Vale manager Martin Foyle dedicated his side's thrilling Carling Cup victory over Gianni Paladini's QPR to chairman Bill Bratt. Bratt and his QPR counterpart sat apart in the directors' box for the game, which was the Italian's first return to Vale since he fell out with Bratt during a failed takeover bid three years ago. But Bratt finished the game much the happier of the two men as Vale came from behind to claim a 3-2 win and a place in Saturday's third-round draw thanks to goals from Jeff Smith, Danny Whitaker and Richard Walker.
Paladini's return brought back memories of the power struggle which split fans and led to some supporters launching a hate campaign against Bratt.
Foyle hopes victory over Paladini's side will ease some bitter memories for Bratt.
He also believes the club is better off having turned away Paladini in favour of a rival offer from Vale fans Stan Meigh and Peter Jackson.
Foyle said: "People don't realise what the chairman went through for that seven months. It was cruel and it was personal.
"That is a little present for him because I think he might have been as proud as punch.
"Football is a cruel game and it can get personal, whether it is players, managers or whoever.
"The chairman took it to heart at the time, but it turned out he was right."
Foyle, who said his side weren't at their best despite victory over a Championship outfit, now hopes to pull out a Premiership giant in Saturday's draw.
He added: "It would be nice, and I think the supporters deserve that because they have stuck with us through thick and thin and we haven't had too much to shout about recently.
"But I'm not going to get too carried away until I see the draw."
Sentinel
Stoke Sentinel - September 20, 2006
VALE OFFER NO COMFORT TO PALADINI
Some of us have to stay at home to be ignored, though QPR chairman Gianni Paladini was probably grateful to be left alone with his thoughts after his return to Vale Park ended in an emphatic Carling Cup defeat.....
Vale chairman Bill Bratt resisted the urge to stick three fingers up to Paladini, a man he has had no time for since the two fell out over the Italian's failed takeover bid three years ago.
Vice chairman Peter Jackson revealed he did break the ice with a chat with his former rival.
He prefered to keep its contents behind the boardroom door, though it's quite possible the two men were wondering which of their clubs is the more likely to be playing in the Championship next season.....
The Sentinel
HOW IT WAS BEING REPORTED "BACK THEN"
BBC Stoke - December 2003
An Italian is just the job for vale
Valiant 2001 - the consortium which currently runs Vale
Port Vale's board have unanimously agreed to go ahead with a takeover deal involving Italian football agent, Gianni Paladini.
There's been yet another development in the long-running story of the proposed takeover at Port Vale with the announcement that an Italian football agent has agreed to buy the club.
Gianni Paladini has managed the careers of Fabrizio Ravanelli, Benito Carbone and Brazilians Emerson and Juninho.
The football agent used to play for Italian giants Juventus and Napoli, and also the national team.
His interest in the club stems from his son Stephen, who is a Port Vale supporter and is fronting most of the money in the proposed deal to buy a controlling interest in the Second Division club.
Paladini has yet to complete the takeover, but his bid has been accepted by the club's Board of Directors.
The Italian's offer comes in the wake of the withdrawal of supporter Peter Jackson's bid, who backed out after being identified by a local newspaper.
Paladini says he intends to strengthen the team significantly, but must first prove to the Football League that he has the finances to take the club forward, as only then will their transfer embargo be lifted.
BBC
BBC - December 30, 2003
Consortium saves Port Vale
Port Vale's immediate future has been secured following a major investment from a consortium led by Peter Jackson.
The consortium will purchase 30,000 shares at £5 a share to provide the club with an immediate injection of £150,000 to stabilise finances.
Jackson, a life-long Valiants fan, had to overcome a rival bid for Vale from Italian football agent Gianni Paladini.
"The investment ensures the future of the club is safe," chairman Bill Bratt told BBC Radio Stoke.
Consortium leader Peter Jackson
He added: "I believe the best decision has been made for the club and its supporters.
"We now have a solid foundation on which to build for the future and achieve our aim in progressing Port Vale both on and off the field."
The consortium - which will have a minority shareholding - will also take up an option to buy the remaining shares and have two seats on the board.
Jackson said: "We believe the club has great potential and we are confident we can introduce the right business management to enable the club to realise that potential."
The club is currently the subject of a Football League transfer embargo because of its financial difficulties.
BBC
The Sentinel (Stoke) December 30, 2003
Anger From Paladini After Increased Bid
Gianni Paladini has accused the Port Vale board of being "unprofessional" in their handling of negotiations to sell the club. Speaking minutes after learning his bid had been rejected, the Italian football agent said he was close to tears, having arrived at Vale Park yesterday morning believing he was set to finalise a deal.He said he was shocked by the last-minute arrival of successful bidder Peter Jackson and was so desperate to take control of the club he upped his offer during six hours of talks, although he refused to discuss the terms he put to the board.
Mr Paladini started the day as the firm favourite to become the club's new owner after tabling a £530,000 bid for 53 per cent of Vale's shares, with a £150,000 loan offered as an immediate payment to solve the pressing financial crisis.He said: "I feel very let down and emotional. Why did I come here to sign a contract to find they (the board) had someone else there? "We didn't expect another offer. It's very unprofessional."I'm very disappointed and I feel like crying. We put in a bid, we increased the bid."At one point we thought we had done the deal and I'm just in shock that they've accepted the other offer."I have had people come all the way from London and Manchester because we all wanted to do a deal."I don't understand why the board has made this decision and I'm baffled by it. I'm very disillusioned."
At one point I was prepared to take the club the way it is without making any checks, I was that committed to it, but I was advised against that by my solicitors." Mr Paladini insisted he will remain a Port Vale fan and will be there should the club need him in the future.And he said he hopes Stone-based businessman Mr Jackson will match his ambitious plans for the club and bring success back to Vale Park.He said: "I had players in mind to bring over - international players. I was thinking big-time for Port Vale and I hope the people who come in now have better ideas."I'm still available for Port Vale and I will still follow the club. If I can do anything for the club I will. If they need me in future I'm ready."
Mr Paladini declined to identify the big-name players, although national press had strongly linked former Italian international striker Fabrizio Ravanelli with the club.
The Sentinel (Stoke) December 27, 2003
Paladini Has Grand Plans For A Bright Vale Future:
Prospective Port Vale owner Gianni Paladini has announced ambitious plans to lift the club up the Football League ladder. The Italian football agent - who witnessed Vale's thrilling 3-2 win at Sheffield Wednesday yesterday - revealed his plans included signing a former international and finishing the Lorne Street Stand.
Paladini, who is waiting for acceptance of his offer from the board meeting on Monday, would initially purchase £150,000 worth of shares to take the club out of immediate financial trouble. He would then get an option to purchase the remaining £380,000 worth of shares to gain a controlling interest in Port Vale.He said: "I am fully committed to Port Vale now."This is not something that has happened overnight. Everybody thinks I am crazy, but only a crazy man invests money and doesn't take it seriously."For me to say we will be in the Premier League in two years is crazy, but if we are there, then why not? It depends what we do this year, if we get lucky and have a good run."Our first thing will be to finish off the stand because it is like a punch in the eye, the way it is now."We then want to start filling the stadium to capacity by bringing in exciting people and big names." Paladini is already hoping to bring a former international to Vale Park and suggested there may be more on the way.
He said: "I will have to speak of new players with the manager at first, but I don't think he will say no to the type of player I have in mind."I am hoping to bring a player to watch the first home game in the New Year. He won't be able to play because it will be too early. He played at international level until last year and he is the sort of player we need to bring to the club.Meanwhile, Vale director Charles Machin welcomed the Italian's influence and admitted he hoped a deal could be struck soon.Machin said: "I have drafted an agreement which I think is fair all round and Gianni is happy with that. If it is accepted by the club then, from Tuesday, we will be financially safe."I realise the fans will not have a controlling interest then, but they will have a very big minority interest at 46 per cent, along with four seats on the board. Hopefully it will be good news for the fans in the New Year."
See also Boardroom Blues
If things had turned out just a little differently, Gianni Paladini would have just celebrated his 1,000 days since his takeover of Port Vale. Before Paladini turned his interest towards Queens Park Rangers, he first sought to invest in Port Vale.
Paladini's return to Port Vale last month in the Carling Cup (which saw Port Vale win and Gary Waddock lose his job) was his first visit since his effort to take over failed.
As reported by the Stoke Sentinel after the Port Vale victory over QPR:
STOKE SENTINEL September 20, 2006:- VALIANTS' REVENGE
Port Vale manager Martin Foyle dedicated his side's thrilling Carling Cup victory over Gianni Paladini's QPR to chairman Bill Bratt. Bratt and his QPR counterpart sat apart in the directors' box for the game, which was the Italian's first return to Vale since he fell out with Bratt during a failed takeover bid three years ago. But Bratt finished the game much the happier of the two men as Vale came from behind to claim a 3-2 win and a place in Saturday's third-round draw thanks to goals from Jeff Smith, Danny Whitaker and Richard Walker.
Paladini's return brought back memories of the power struggle which split fans and led to some supporters launching a hate campaign against Bratt.
Foyle hopes victory over Paladini's side will ease some bitter memories for Bratt.
He also believes the club is better off having turned away Paladini in favour of a rival offer from Vale fans Stan Meigh and Peter Jackson.
Foyle said: "People don't realise what the chairman went through for that seven months. It was cruel and it was personal.
"That is a little present for him because I think he might have been as proud as punch.
"Football is a cruel game and it can get personal, whether it is players, managers or whoever.
"The chairman took it to heart at the time, but it turned out he was right."
Foyle, who said his side weren't at their best despite victory over a Championship outfit, now hopes to pull out a Premiership giant in Saturday's draw.
He added: "It would be nice, and I think the supporters deserve that because they have stuck with us through thick and thin and we haven't had too much to shout about recently.
"But I'm not going to get too carried away until I see the draw."
Sentinel
Stoke Sentinel - September 20, 2006
VALE OFFER NO COMFORT TO PALADINI
Some of us have to stay at home to be ignored, though QPR chairman Gianni Paladini was probably grateful to be left alone with his thoughts after his return to Vale Park ended in an emphatic Carling Cup defeat.....
Vale chairman Bill Bratt resisted the urge to stick three fingers up to Paladini, a man he has had no time for since the two fell out over the Italian's failed takeover bid three years ago.
Vice chairman Peter Jackson revealed he did break the ice with a chat with his former rival.
He prefered to keep its contents behind the boardroom door, though it's quite possible the two men were wondering which of their clubs is the more likely to be playing in the Championship next season.....
The Sentinel
HOW IT WAS BEING REPORTED "BACK THEN"
BBC Stoke - December 2003
An Italian is just the job for vale
Valiant 2001 - the consortium which currently runs Vale
Port Vale's board have unanimously agreed to go ahead with a takeover deal involving Italian football agent, Gianni Paladini.
There's been yet another development in the long-running story of the proposed takeover at Port Vale with the announcement that an Italian football agent has agreed to buy the club.
Gianni Paladini has managed the careers of Fabrizio Ravanelli, Benito Carbone and Brazilians Emerson and Juninho.
The football agent used to play for Italian giants Juventus and Napoli, and also the national team.
His interest in the club stems from his son Stephen, who is a Port Vale supporter and is fronting most of the money in the proposed deal to buy a controlling interest in the Second Division club.
Paladini has yet to complete the takeover, but his bid has been accepted by the club's Board of Directors.
The Italian's offer comes in the wake of the withdrawal of supporter Peter Jackson's bid, who backed out after being identified by a local newspaper.
Paladini says he intends to strengthen the team significantly, but must first prove to the Football League that he has the finances to take the club forward, as only then will their transfer embargo be lifted.
BBC
BBC - December 30, 2003
Consortium saves Port Vale
Port Vale's immediate future has been secured following a major investment from a consortium led by Peter Jackson.
The consortium will purchase 30,000 shares at £5 a share to provide the club with an immediate injection of £150,000 to stabilise finances.
Jackson, a life-long Valiants fan, had to overcome a rival bid for Vale from Italian football agent Gianni Paladini.
"The investment ensures the future of the club is safe," chairman Bill Bratt told BBC Radio Stoke.
Consortium leader Peter Jackson
He added: "I believe the best decision has been made for the club and its supporters.
"We now have a solid foundation on which to build for the future and achieve our aim in progressing Port Vale both on and off the field."
The consortium - which will have a minority shareholding - will also take up an option to buy the remaining shares and have two seats on the board.
Jackson said: "We believe the club has great potential and we are confident we can introduce the right business management to enable the club to realise that potential."
The club is currently the subject of a Football League transfer embargo because of its financial difficulties.
BBC
The Sentinel (Stoke) December 30, 2003
Anger From Paladini After Increased Bid
Gianni Paladini has accused the Port Vale board of being "unprofessional" in their handling of negotiations to sell the club. Speaking minutes after learning his bid had been rejected, the Italian football agent said he was close to tears, having arrived at Vale Park yesterday morning believing he was set to finalise a deal.He said he was shocked by the last-minute arrival of successful bidder Peter Jackson and was so desperate to take control of the club he upped his offer during six hours of talks, although he refused to discuss the terms he put to the board.
Mr Paladini started the day as the firm favourite to become the club's new owner after tabling a £530,000 bid for 53 per cent of Vale's shares, with a £150,000 loan offered as an immediate payment to solve the pressing financial crisis.He said: "I feel very let down and emotional. Why did I come here to sign a contract to find they (the board) had someone else there? "We didn't expect another offer. It's very unprofessional."I'm very disappointed and I feel like crying. We put in a bid, we increased the bid."At one point we thought we had done the deal and I'm just in shock that they've accepted the other offer."I have had people come all the way from London and Manchester because we all wanted to do a deal."I don't understand why the board has made this decision and I'm baffled by it. I'm very disillusioned."
At one point I was prepared to take the club the way it is without making any checks, I was that committed to it, but I was advised against that by my solicitors." Mr Paladini insisted he will remain a Port Vale fan and will be there should the club need him in the future.And he said he hopes Stone-based businessman Mr Jackson will match his ambitious plans for the club and bring success back to Vale Park.He said: "I had players in mind to bring over - international players. I was thinking big-time for Port Vale and I hope the people who come in now have better ideas."I'm still available for Port Vale and I will still follow the club. If I can do anything for the club I will. If they need me in future I'm ready."
Mr Paladini declined to identify the big-name players, although national press had strongly linked former Italian international striker Fabrizio Ravanelli with the club.
The Sentinel (Stoke) December 27, 2003
Paladini Has Grand Plans For A Bright Vale Future:
Prospective Port Vale owner Gianni Paladini has announced ambitious plans to lift the club up the Football League ladder. The Italian football agent - who witnessed Vale's thrilling 3-2 win at Sheffield Wednesday yesterday - revealed his plans included signing a former international and finishing the Lorne Street Stand.
Paladini, who is waiting for acceptance of his offer from the board meeting on Monday, would initially purchase £150,000 worth of shares to take the club out of immediate financial trouble. He would then get an option to purchase the remaining £380,000 worth of shares to gain a controlling interest in Port Vale.He said: "I am fully committed to Port Vale now."This is not something that has happened overnight. Everybody thinks I am crazy, but only a crazy man invests money and doesn't take it seriously."For me to say we will be in the Premier League in two years is crazy, but if we are there, then why not? It depends what we do this year, if we get lucky and have a good run."Our first thing will be to finish off the stand because it is like a punch in the eye, the way it is now."We then want to start filling the stadium to capacity by bringing in exciting people and big names." Paladini is already hoping to bring a former international to Vale Park and suggested there may be more on the way.
He said: "I will have to speak of new players with the manager at first, but I don't think he will say no to the type of player I have in mind."I am hoping to bring a player to watch the first home game in the New Year. He won't be able to play because it will be too early. He played at international level until last year and he is the sort of player we need to bring to the club.Meanwhile, Vale director Charles Machin welcomed the Italian's influence and admitted he hoped a deal could be struck soon.Machin said: "I have drafted an agreement which I think is fair all round and Gianni is happy with that. If it is accepted by the club then, from Tuesday, we will be financially safe."I realise the fans will not have a controlling interest then, but they will have a very big minority interest at 46 per cent, along with four seats on the board. Hopefully it will be good news for the fans in the New Year."
See also Boardroom Blues
Ex-QPR Mark Graham Turns 32
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Mark Graham Turns 32. Born October 24, 1974.
Graham made his debut exactly a decade ago (September 1996), breaking into the team in the 1996-97 season, under Stuart Houston. He played 18 games that season. And that was it. His brother, Richard Graham was also on the cusp of the QPR team, but unfortuately didn't break through.
Graham
Mark Graham Turns 32. Born October 24, 1974.
Graham made his debut exactly a decade ago (September 1996), breaking into the team in the 1996-97 season, under Stuart Houston. He played 18 games that season. And that was it. His brother, Richard Graham was also on the cusp of the QPR team, but unfortuately didn't break through.
Graham
Monday, October 23, 2006
Trevor Challis & Mike Kelly Birthdays & 34 Years Since Dave Thomas Debuted for QPR
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Trevor Challis - October 23, 1975
Made his debut in November 1975...Joined Bristol Rovers in August 1998
Mike Kelly Turned 64 Born October 18, 1942. Goalie, Mike Kelly Joined QPR in 1966 from non-league Wimbledon. Made his QPR debut in November 1966 (and was the backup to Peter Springett for the League Cup Final). Joined Birmingham in August 1970 (afer QPR signed Phil Parkes from Walsall)
Debuts: Dave Thomas - October 21, 1972 Midfielder/Winger Thomas was signed by Gordon Jago from Burnley in October 1972 after QPR's brilliant midfielder Martyn Busby broke his leg in a midweek game at Fulham. Thomas cost an English Second Division transfer record of 165,000 pounds. Made his debut at home to Sunderland in which QPR won 3-2.
Other Mid-October Debuts include:
Terry Mancini October 16, 1971
John O'Rourke - October 19, 1971
Peter Eastoe October 16, 1976
John Byrne October 27 1984
Michael Rutherford October 21 1989
Jan Stjskal October 20, 1990
Sieb Dykstra October 22 1994
Managers Coming to QPR in October
October 1974, Dave Sexton
October 1998, Gerry Francis returned to manage QPR again
Trevor Challis - October 23, 1975
Made his debut in November 1975...Joined Bristol Rovers in August 1998
Mike Kelly Turned 64 Born October 18, 1942. Goalie, Mike Kelly Joined QPR in 1966 from non-league Wimbledon. Made his QPR debut in November 1966 (and was the backup to Peter Springett for the League Cup Final). Joined Birmingham in August 1970 (afer QPR signed Phil Parkes from Walsall)
Debuts: Dave Thomas - October 21, 1972 Midfielder/Winger Thomas was signed by Gordon Jago from Burnley in October 1972 after QPR's brilliant midfielder Martyn Busby broke his leg in a midweek game at Fulham. Thomas cost an English Second Division transfer record of 165,000 pounds. Made his debut at home to Sunderland in which QPR won 3-2.
Other Mid-October Debuts include:
Terry Mancini October 16, 1971
John O'Rourke - October 19, 1971
Peter Eastoe October 16, 1976
John Byrne October 27 1984
Michael Rutherford October 21 1989
Jan Stjskal October 20, 1990
Sieb Dykstra October 22 1994
Managers Coming to QPR in October
October 1974, Dave Sexton
October 1998, Gerry Francis returned to manage QPR again
Sunday, October 22, 2006
QPR 19th: Sheffield Wednesday 3 QPR 2 - Reports & Comments
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TABLE: BOTTOM 8 of the Championship
Sunderland 13 16
Stoke 13 15
QPR 13 13
Sheff Wed 13 13
Barnsley 13 12
Southend 13 10
Leeds 13 10
Hull 13 9
Leage Table
QPR Official Site - John Gregory's Comments IT'S A DOGFIGHT
John Gregory readily admitted the R's are in a 'relegation dogfight' after the 3-2 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday.
A Marcus Tudgay brace and a controversial Steve MacLean spot-kick gave the Owls maximum points, after Rangers had fought back from 2-0 down thanks to a Dexter Blackstock double.
"There's still a lot to be worked on and make no mistake, we're in a dogfight,'' Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk.
"Thankfully some of the other results went for us today, but we need to return to winning ways - and quickly.''
Gregory was also keen to have his say on the controversial spot-kick, which led to the Owls winner.
"I thought it was a cast iron penalty from the touchline, but Jonah and the rest of the lads have assured me there was no contact,'' he said.
"Jonah told me he got a foot on the ball and their lad made the most of it.''
After conceding three more goals, Gregory is aware of the need to improve things in the defensive third.
"We were very nervy at times at the back. We've basically gifted them three goals by giving away possession in silly areas and you just can't afford to do that at this level.'' QPR Official Site
More Gregory Comment:
"...Rangers boss John Gregory was not convinced goalkeeper Paul Jones had touched the striker.
"Jonah said he didn't think it was a penalty," he said.
"He felt he got a foot on the ball and two or three of the defending players all said the same.
"But we gave the ball way in the middle of midfield and you can't do that against anybody.
"To lose the game in that manner was disappointing and we threw everything at them in the end - but we just couldn't that equaliser."
Gregory also accused Wednesday's players of failing to give 100% in previous games under Sturrock.
"I think they have been selling their previous manager short if they can put in that sort of performance today," he claimed.
"Paul Sturrock must sit there and feel a little bit aggrieved because those boys today gave everything for the cause.
"Marcus Tudgay, who I know from my time at Derby, was a real handful and took his two goals very well."
Sporting Life
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY MANAGER's PERSPECTIVE
McAuley: "Credit The Players"
Acting Wednesday manager Sean McAuley said the players should take all the credit for the Owls' 3-2 win over Queens Park Rangers following a difficult week at Hillsborough.
The hosts were pegged back from a 2-0 lead before winning the game through Steven MacLean's penalty and McAuley stressed that the three points should take precedence over everything else to do with the club.
The Sheffielder said: "We should focus on the performance of the players - they need to take all the credit. When somebody scores two against you in quick succession it can harm you. But they kept a belief in themselves and pushed on. It showed a lot of character and good mental strength."
McAuley said the way the Owls reacted to Dexter Blackstock's lightning brace was all the more impressive in the wake of their midweek thrashing at Colchester United: "We've got to remember what happened to the players on Wednesday night," he added.
Graham Coughlan missed out on the win with a hamstring injury and Deon Burton limped off with a calf strain, but not before he had played Marcus Tudgay in for his opening goal.
Tudgay went on to form a threatening partnership with MacLean, which pleased McAuley:
"Marcus went out and gave 100 per cent, and got his reward with the two goals," he said. "He formed a good relationship with Deon Burton and then Steven MacLean. That can only be good for the future for the club."
Sheffield Wednesday
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - Match Report
Dexter Blackstock's second half double counted for nothing, as a Steve MacLean spot-kick gave managerless Wednesday all three points.
Trailing 2-0 at the break, Blackstock had sparked hopes of a memorable Rangers comeback when he scored two goals in four second half minutes to put the R's on terms.
But his efforts ultimately proved in vein, when Paul Jones was adjudged to have sent MacLean tumbling to ground inside the box on 67 minutes and the same player converted to seal the hosts' victory.
Rangers somehow found themselves trailing 2-0 at the break, despite dominating for long spells at Hillsborough. Marcus Tudgay capitalised on a rare misplaced pass from Jimmy Smith to break the deadlock on12 minutes, before adding a second on the stroke of half-time.
In truth, the R's could have been three goals to the good by the time Tudgay opened his account for the afternoon, with Dexter Blackstock twice testing Brad Jones and Lee Cook letting fly from fully 25-yards.
But having failed to take their chances, the R's paid the ultimate price on 45 minutes, whenTudgay headed home unmarked at the back post.
John Gregory named the same starting XI for the third match in succession, which meant Chelsea loanee Smith continued his flourishing partnership with skipper Marc Bircham in the heart of the R's midfield.
His Blues team-mate Michael Mancienne was again named amongst the substitutes, alongside Simon Royce, Matthew Rose, Nicky Ward and Kevin Gallen.
The Owls - under the guidance of Caretaker Manager Sean McAuley - included Deon Burton, who found the net in the 1-1 draw at Hillsborough last season.
Despite all the pre-match protests from the Wednesday fans, Rangers were by no means overawed by the hostile home crowd, creating a chance inside the opening 60 seconds.
Unsurprisingly, it was Cook who sparked them into life, smashing a fierce drive on target, which Middlesbrough loanee Brad Jones did well to tip away for a corner.
The R's were enjoying the lion's share of possession in the opening stages and when Cook's jinking run ended with a neat pass to Blackstock, the Rangers front-man forced Jones into a fine parry from 12-yards.
The same two players combined again on seven minutes, with Blackstock heading straight at Jones from another inch-perfect Cook delivery.
Yet despite Rangers' solid start, it was the Owls who took the lead on 12 minutes, with their first attack of the contest.
A rare misplaced pass from Smith fell perfectly into the path of Burton, who in turn slid a slide-rule pass through to Tudgay.
The Wednesday front-man made no mistake from 12-yards, holding off Zesh Rehman and finishing with aplomb into the left hand corner.
Undeterred, Rangers were soon back on the front foot, only for Martin Rowlands to get his angles all wrong, curling the ball high and wide from the edge of the box.
Damion Stewart was at full stretch to prevent Burton from heading into an empty net after fine wide play from Frank Simek on 26 minutes, before Marcus Bignot received a yellow card when he hacked down the advancing Wade Small.
And from the resultant free-kick, Smith joined him in the referee's notebook, for presumably failing to retreat the full 10-yards as Chris Brunt shaped up to let fly.
At the other end, Ray Jones' stinging drive from an acute angle brought out the best in his namesake Brad Jones, as the R's continued to create the better opportunities.
But it was Wednesday winger Small who spurned the next golden opportunity, slicing his far post strike into the Kop from little more than eight-yards.
As the half neared its conclusion, a trademark free-kick from Cook was easily gathered by Jones, while Brunt's speculative volley - albeit from a ridiculous angle -flew into Row Z!
R's skipper Bircham was forced from the fray on 44 minutes, with debutant Mancienne taking his place. Steve Lomas reverted to his more accomplished midfield role, but just seconds later Rangers conceded a second.
Tudgay arrived bang on cue to head home Brunt's cross and send the Wednesday fans into ecstasy.
Hope of a Rangers revival loomed large four minutes into the second half, when Blackstock met Cook's piercing centre and thrashed an unstoppable close range finish past Jones.
The R's attack only arose after a poor piece of defending involving the Owls keeper and skipper Madjid Bougherra, but the visitors duly took full advantage.
If Rangers fans were buoyed by that, they were in dreamland three minutes later, when Blackstock added his second.
Cook again played provider, floating an inch-perfect cross on to the head of the former Saints striker, who duly beat Jones from six-yards.
Gregory was forced into his second change on 66 minutes, as Rowlands made way for Nicky Ward.
Sixty seconds later, the R's conceded a penalty when Paul Jones was adjudged to have sent Steve MacLean to ground inside the box, after Ward had conceded possession all too easily in the heart of the Rangers midfield.
The Rangers keeper was lucky to escape with just a booking, but there was to be no second reprieve, as MacLean picked himself up, brushed himself down and sent the Welsh custodian the wrong way from the spot.
Bougherra nearly made it four on 79 minutes, but thankfully for the R's, the outstanding Cook was in the right place at the right time, to clear the ball off the line.
Moments later MacLean should have doubled his tally for the afternoon - only to blast over with the goal gaping.
The introduction of Kevin Gallen on 85 minutes prompted a tactical reshuffle, yet despite the R's best efforts in four minutes of added time - when Cook twice tested Jones - it was not to be.
Sheffield Wednesday: Jones, Lunt, Tudgay (Talbot 90), Burton (MacLean 39), Brunt, Hills, Small, Simek, Bougherra, Folly, Spurr.
Subs: Adamson, Bullen, Whelan.
Scorers: Tudgay 12, Tudgay 45, MacLean 67
Bookings: Simek 52
QPR: P Jones, Lomas, Stewart, Rehman, Bignot (Gallen 85), Rowlands (Ward 66), Bircham (Mancienne 44), Smith, Cook, Blackstock, R Jones.
Subs: Royce, Rose.
Scorers: Blackstock 49, Blackstock 53
Bookings: Bignot 28, Smith 29, P Jones 67, Lomas 86
Referee: Mr K Hill
Attendance: 23, 813
QPR Official Site
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY OFFICIAL SITE
A penalty from Steven MacLean earned the Owls their third win of the season, as they recovered from losing a two-goal lead to beat Queens Park Rangers.
Marcus Tudgay had scored a first-half double to put Wednesday in the driving seat but that advantage was cancelled out by Dexter Blackstock's brace after the interval.
However MacLean popped up to convert a 70th minute penalty after being fouled, giving the Owls a second successive home triumph.
Brad Jones had a save to make with just over a minute played, turning Lee Cook's drive over the top after a jinking run by the Rangers man. Another burst from Cook saw the Owls keeper dive to hold Blackstock's effort and the pair teamed up again with Jones stopping Blackstock's diving header.
But it was the Owls who broke the deadlock with the clock showing 13 minutes, as Tudgay ran onto a Deon Burton throughball and coolly steered his left-foot shot into the far corner of Paul Jones' net.
A timely interception from Damion Stewart denied Tudgay a shot at a second goal when the centre-back headed Wade Small's cross to safety as the Wednesday man lurked at the far post. And the Owls saw a double opportunity go begging as John Hills' cross evaded Kenny Lunt's lunge and Small sliced his shot off the side of his boot.
Brunt then fired Small's centre well over the top and a timely block from Blackstock halted Tudgay as he looked to turn onto Lunt's low drive. But the former Derby man had been sniffing another goal since his opener and it came in first half stoppage time, as he met Hills' deep cross with a downward back post header past Paul Jones.
However Wednesday's lead evaporated within eight minutes of the restart, as Blackstock converted two Cook crosses to bring the Londoners level. First he sidefooted home in the 50th minute before glancing a header into Brad Jones' far corner three minutes later.
A lull in scoring chances then transpired before Wednesday got back in front with 20 minutes to go. MacLean got in behind the R's defence and rounded Paul Jones before the veteran stopped tripped him. The Scotsman stepped up to plant his kick into the left-hand corner of the keeper's net, sending him the wrong way.
Small fired over from MacLean's lay-off and Madjid Bougherra - captaining the side in Graham Coughlan's absence - had a headed nodded off the line by Cook as the Owls looked for a fourth.
MacLean then looped the ball over the top after Small failed to connect cleanly with Frank Simek's cross. The visitors had a chance when Cook drove across goal in injury time and the winger also tested Paul Jones from distance but the Owls held for the points.
Sheffield Wednesday
TABLE: BOTTOM 8 of the Championship
Sunderland 13 16
Stoke 13 15
QPR 13 13
Sheff Wed 13 13
Barnsley 13 12
Southend 13 10
Leeds 13 10
Hull 13 9
Leage Table
QPR Official Site - John Gregory's Comments IT'S A DOGFIGHT
John Gregory readily admitted the R's are in a 'relegation dogfight' after the 3-2 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday.
A Marcus Tudgay brace and a controversial Steve MacLean spot-kick gave the Owls maximum points, after Rangers had fought back from 2-0 down thanks to a Dexter Blackstock double.
"There's still a lot to be worked on and make no mistake, we're in a dogfight,'' Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk.
"Thankfully some of the other results went for us today, but we need to return to winning ways - and quickly.''
Gregory was also keen to have his say on the controversial spot-kick, which led to the Owls winner.
"I thought it was a cast iron penalty from the touchline, but Jonah and the rest of the lads have assured me there was no contact,'' he said.
"Jonah told me he got a foot on the ball and their lad made the most of it.''
After conceding three more goals, Gregory is aware of the need to improve things in the defensive third.
"We were very nervy at times at the back. We've basically gifted them three goals by giving away possession in silly areas and you just can't afford to do that at this level.'' QPR Official Site
More Gregory Comment:
"...Rangers boss John Gregory was not convinced goalkeeper Paul Jones had touched the striker.
"Jonah said he didn't think it was a penalty," he said.
"He felt he got a foot on the ball and two or three of the defending players all said the same.
"But we gave the ball way in the middle of midfield and you can't do that against anybody.
"To lose the game in that manner was disappointing and we threw everything at them in the end - but we just couldn't that equaliser."
Gregory also accused Wednesday's players of failing to give 100% in previous games under Sturrock.
"I think they have been selling their previous manager short if they can put in that sort of performance today," he claimed.
"Paul Sturrock must sit there and feel a little bit aggrieved because those boys today gave everything for the cause.
"Marcus Tudgay, who I know from my time at Derby, was a real handful and took his two goals very well."
Sporting Life
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY MANAGER's PERSPECTIVE
McAuley: "Credit The Players"
Acting Wednesday manager Sean McAuley said the players should take all the credit for the Owls' 3-2 win over Queens Park Rangers following a difficult week at Hillsborough.
The hosts were pegged back from a 2-0 lead before winning the game through Steven MacLean's penalty and McAuley stressed that the three points should take precedence over everything else to do with the club.
The Sheffielder said: "We should focus on the performance of the players - they need to take all the credit. When somebody scores two against you in quick succession it can harm you. But they kept a belief in themselves and pushed on. It showed a lot of character and good mental strength."
McAuley said the way the Owls reacted to Dexter Blackstock's lightning brace was all the more impressive in the wake of their midweek thrashing at Colchester United: "We've got to remember what happened to the players on Wednesday night," he added.
Graham Coughlan missed out on the win with a hamstring injury and Deon Burton limped off with a calf strain, but not before he had played Marcus Tudgay in for his opening goal.
Tudgay went on to form a threatening partnership with MacLean, which pleased McAuley:
"Marcus went out and gave 100 per cent, and got his reward with the two goals," he said. "He formed a good relationship with Deon Burton and then Steven MacLean. That can only be good for the future for the club."
Sheffield Wednesday
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - Match Report
Dexter Blackstock's second half double counted for nothing, as a Steve MacLean spot-kick gave managerless Wednesday all three points.
Trailing 2-0 at the break, Blackstock had sparked hopes of a memorable Rangers comeback when he scored two goals in four second half minutes to put the R's on terms.
But his efforts ultimately proved in vein, when Paul Jones was adjudged to have sent MacLean tumbling to ground inside the box on 67 minutes and the same player converted to seal the hosts' victory.
Rangers somehow found themselves trailing 2-0 at the break, despite dominating for long spells at Hillsborough. Marcus Tudgay capitalised on a rare misplaced pass from Jimmy Smith to break the deadlock on12 minutes, before adding a second on the stroke of half-time.
In truth, the R's could have been three goals to the good by the time Tudgay opened his account for the afternoon, with Dexter Blackstock twice testing Brad Jones and Lee Cook letting fly from fully 25-yards.
But having failed to take their chances, the R's paid the ultimate price on 45 minutes, whenTudgay headed home unmarked at the back post.
John Gregory named the same starting XI for the third match in succession, which meant Chelsea loanee Smith continued his flourishing partnership with skipper Marc Bircham in the heart of the R's midfield.
His Blues team-mate Michael Mancienne was again named amongst the substitutes, alongside Simon Royce, Matthew Rose, Nicky Ward and Kevin Gallen.
The Owls - under the guidance of Caretaker Manager Sean McAuley - included Deon Burton, who found the net in the 1-1 draw at Hillsborough last season.
Despite all the pre-match protests from the Wednesday fans, Rangers were by no means overawed by the hostile home crowd, creating a chance inside the opening 60 seconds.
Unsurprisingly, it was Cook who sparked them into life, smashing a fierce drive on target, which Middlesbrough loanee Brad Jones did well to tip away for a corner.
The R's were enjoying the lion's share of possession in the opening stages and when Cook's jinking run ended with a neat pass to Blackstock, the Rangers front-man forced Jones into a fine parry from 12-yards.
The same two players combined again on seven minutes, with Blackstock heading straight at Jones from another inch-perfect Cook delivery.
Yet despite Rangers' solid start, it was the Owls who took the lead on 12 minutes, with their first attack of the contest.
A rare misplaced pass from Smith fell perfectly into the path of Burton, who in turn slid a slide-rule pass through to Tudgay.
The Wednesday front-man made no mistake from 12-yards, holding off Zesh Rehman and finishing with aplomb into the left hand corner.
Undeterred, Rangers were soon back on the front foot, only for Martin Rowlands to get his angles all wrong, curling the ball high and wide from the edge of the box.
Damion Stewart was at full stretch to prevent Burton from heading into an empty net after fine wide play from Frank Simek on 26 minutes, before Marcus Bignot received a yellow card when he hacked down the advancing Wade Small.
And from the resultant free-kick, Smith joined him in the referee's notebook, for presumably failing to retreat the full 10-yards as Chris Brunt shaped up to let fly.
At the other end, Ray Jones' stinging drive from an acute angle brought out the best in his namesake Brad Jones, as the R's continued to create the better opportunities.
But it was Wednesday winger Small who spurned the next golden opportunity, slicing his far post strike into the Kop from little more than eight-yards.
As the half neared its conclusion, a trademark free-kick from Cook was easily gathered by Jones, while Brunt's speculative volley - albeit from a ridiculous angle -flew into Row Z!
R's skipper Bircham was forced from the fray on 44 minutes, with debutant Mancienne taking his place. Steve Lomas reverted to his more accomplished midfield role, but just seconds later Rangers conceded a second.
Tudgay arrived bang on cue to head home Brunt's cross and send the Wednesday fans into ecstasy.
Hope of a Rangers revival loomed large four minutes into the second half, when Blackstock met Cook's piercing centre and thrashed an unstoppable close range finish past Jones.
The R's attack only arose after a poor piece of defending involving the Owls keeper and skipper Madjid Bougherra, but the visitors duly took full advantage.
If Rangers fans were buoyed by that, they were in dreamland three minutes later, when Blackstock added his second.
Cook again played provider, floating an inch-perfect cross on to the head of the former Saints striker, who duly beat Jones from six-yards.
Gregory was forced into his second change on 66 minutes, as Rowlands made way for Nicky Ward.
Sixty seconds later, the R's conceded a penalty when Paul Jones was adjudged to have sent Steve MacLean to ground inside the box, after Ward had conceded possession all too easily in the heart of the Rangers midfield.
The Rangers keeper was lucky to escape with just a booking, but there was to be no second reprieve, as MacLean picked himself up, brushed himself down and sent the Welsh custodian the wrong way from the spot.
Bougherra nearly made it four on 79 minutes, but thankfully for the R's, the outstanding Cook was in the right place at the right time, to clear the ball off the line.
Moments later MacLean should have doubled his tally for the afternoon - only to blast over with the goal gaping.
The introduction of Kevin Gallen on 85 minutes prompted a tactical reshuffle, yet despite the R's best efforts in four minutes of added time - when Cook twice tested Jones - it was not to be.
Sheffield Wednesday: Jones, Lunt, Tudgay (Talbot 90), Burton (MacLean 39), Brunt, Hills, Small, Simek, Bougherra, Folly, Spurr.
Subs: Adamson, Bullen, Whelan.
Scorers: Tudgay 12, Tudgay 45, MacLean 67
Bookings: Simek 52
QPR: P Jones, Lomas, Stewart, Rehman, Bignot (Gallen 85), Rowlands (Ward 66), Bircham (Mancienne 44), Smith, Cook, Blackstock, R Jones.
Subs: Royce, Rose.
Scorers: Blackstock 49, Blackstock 53
Bookings: Bignot 28, Smith 29, P Jones 67, Lomas 86
Referee: Mr K Hill
Attendance: 23, 813
QPR Official Site
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY OFFICIAL SITE
A penalty from Steven MacLean earned the Owls their third win of the season, as they recovered from losing a two-goal lead to beat Queens Park Rangers.
Marcus Tudgay had scored a first-half double to put Wednesday in the driving seat but that advantage was cancelled out by Dexter Blackstock's brace after the interval.
However MacLean popped up to convert a 70th minute penalty after being fouled, giving the Owls a second successive home triumph.
Brad Jones had a save to make with just over a minute played, turning Lee Cook's drive over the top after a jinking run by the Rangers man. Another burst from Cook saw the Owls keeper dive to hold Blackstock's effort and the pair teamed up again with Jones stopping Blackstock's diving header.
But it was the Owls who broke the deadlock with the clock showing 13 minutes, as Tudgay ran onto a Deon Burton throughball and coolly steered his left-foot shot into the far corner of Paul Jones' net.
A timely interception from Damion Stewart denied Tudgay a shot at a second goal when the centre-back headed Wade Small's cross to safety as the Wednesday man lurked at the far post. And the Owls saw a double opportunity go begging as John Hills' cross evaded Kenny Lunt's lunge and Small sliced his shot off the side of his boot.
Brunt then fired Small's centre well over the top and a timely block from Blackstock halted Tudgay as he looked to turn onto Lunt's low drive. But the former Derby man had been sniffing another goal since his opener and it came in first half stoppage time, as he met Hills' deep cross with a downward back post header past Paul Jones.
However Wednesday's lead evaporated within eight minutes of the restart, as Blackstock converted two Cook crosses to bring the Londoners level. First he sidefooted home in the 50th minute before glancing a header into Brad Jones' far corner three minutes later.
A lull in scoring chances then transpired before Wednesday got back in front with 20 minutes to go. MacLean got in behind the R's defence and rounded Paul Jones before the veteran stopped tripped him. The Scotsman stepped up to plant his kick into the left-hand corner of the keeper's net, sending him the wrong way.
Small fired over from MacLean's lay-off and Madjid Bougherra - captaining the side in Graham Coughlan's absence - had a headed nodded off the line by Cook as the Owls looked for a fourth.
MacLean then looped the ball over the top after Small failed to connect cleanly with Frank Simek's cross. The visitors had a chance when Cook drove across goal in injury time and the winger also tested Paul Jones from distance but the Owls held for the points.
Sheffield Wednesday
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Remembering: Ex-QPR, Alan Glover Turns 56...
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Alan Glover - Born October 21, 1950Alan Glover made only seven appearances for QPR - all in our 1968/69 Relegation Trauma. After our relegation, teenager Glover joined West Bromwich Albion for 70,000 pounds (including ex-QPR winger Clive Clark in part exchange). At that time 70,000 pounds was the amount we paid for Terry Venables. And 150,000 pounds was the record English transfer fee. So it was a lot of money..
And then basically Glover sadly disappeared from the scene: in and out of the WBA team; and I believe ending up at Orient.
Alan Glover - Born October 21, 1950Alan Glover made only seven appearances for QPR - all in our 1968/69 Relegation Trauma. After our relegation, teenager Glover joined West Bromwich Albion for 70,000 pounds (including ex-QPR winger Clive Clark in part exchange). At that time 70,000 pounds was the amount we paid for Terry Venables. And 150,000 pounds was the record English transfer fee. So it was a lot of money..
And then basically Glover sadly disappeared from the scene: in and out of the WBA team; and I believe ending up at Orient.
Saying Goodbye: "[QPR] have parted company with Gary Waddock".... "Alan McDonald has been given notice to terminate his employment..."
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One ways of saying "goodbye" and "thanks"...
October 19, 2006 - QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - WADDOCK DEPARTS
Queens Park Rangers Football Club have parted company with Gary Waddock.
Waddock was named as manager on June 28 after a spell as caretaker manager following the departure of Ian Holloway.
The former Rangers midfielder moved into a coaching role when John Gregory was then appointed at the end of last month.
QPR would like to thank Gary and wish him every success in the future.
Statement
September 21, 2006 Official Site - Macca Departs
Alan McDonald has been given notice to terminate his employment at Queens Park Rangers Football Club.
After making 483 appearances for the Hoops in a successful 16-year spell as a player, McDonald joined the R's as Caretaker Assistant Manager in February 2006, prior to taking up the position of Assistant Manager towards the end of June.
Chairman Gianni Paladini told qpr.co.uk: "I'd like to thank Alan McDonald for all the hard work he's done here since February.
"He's been a great servant for this Club, both as a player and in his role as Assistant Manager, and I wish him all the best for the future.
QPR Official Site
And from August 2005:
STATEMENT
"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...
QPR Official Statement
One ways of saying "goodbye" and "thanks"...
October 19, 2006 - QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - WADDOCK DEPARTS
Queens Park Rangers Football Club have parted company with Gary Waddock.
Waddock was named as manager on June 28 after a spell as caretaker manager following the departure of Ian Holloway.
The former Rangers midfielder moved into a coaching role when John Gregory was then appointed at the end of last month.
QPR would like to thank Gary and wish him every success in the future.
Statement
September 21, 2006 Official Site - Macca Departs
Alan McDonald has been given notice to terminate his employment at Queens Park Rangers Football Club.
After making 483 appearances for the Hoops in a successful 16-year spell as a player, McDonald joined the R's as Caretaker Assistant Manager in February 2006, prior to taking up the position of Assistant Manager towards the end of June.
Chairman Gianni Paladini told qpr.co.uk: "I'd like to thank Alan McDonald for all the hard work he's done here since February.
"He's been a great servant for this Club, both as a player and in his role as Assistant Manager, and I wish him all the best for the future.
QPR Official Site
And from August 2005:
STATEMENT
"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...
QPR Official Statement
Sheffield Wednesday Vs QPR - The Two Clubs' Perspectives
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[QPR last played Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsbrough in March 2006, drawing 1-1: QPR's Team that day (under then-Caretaker Manager, Gary Waddock) was :
Jones, Bignot, Shittu, Rose, Milanese, Ainsworth, Lomas, Bircham, Cook, Gallen, Furlong. Subs: Royce, Evatt, Langley, Baidoo, Bailey.]
And the Promotion-winning game: May 8, 2004 - Amazingly Less than 2 1/2 years ago:
QPR: Camp, Padula, Carlisle, Rose, Edghill, Ainsworth, Bircham, Richard Johnson, Rowlands, Furlong, Gallen. Subs: Day, Palmer, Thorpe, Gnohere, Cureton.
Sheff Wed: Pressman, Geary, Barry-Murphy, Dean Smith, Wood, McLaren, McMahon, Cooke, Brunt, Robins, Shaw. Subs: Tidman, Olsen, Chambers, Mustoe, Carr.
BBC
Sheffield Wednesday Official Site
McAuley: "Get Behind Us"
Sean McAuley has asked Owls fans to fulfil their superb reputation ahead of Saturday's meeting with Queens Park Rangers.
McAuley will be in charge of the Wednesday team following the departure of Paul Sturrock and spent Friday preparing for the game.
The Sheffielder is sure that the supporters will give the players their full backing and is keen for them to be rewarded in return, by a squad who have been instructed to focus their attention firmly on the 90 minutes ahead.
"Our supporters are second to none," McAuley said. "I appeal to all the supporters to be right behind the players once that ball rolls at three o'clock and have no doubt they will be. It is important that we as players and employees give them something to shout about.
"We have trained this morning and the players looked nice and bright. They have to be professional in their approach - I have told them to clear their minds and concentrate on the job in hand. We will try and put a good performance on for the supporters and are eagerly looking forward to the game."
McAuley described his determination to stabilise the ship after a dramatic past 48 hours and make the team performance the centre of attention. He admits that football is a game where one must be prepared for different situations and knows that team progress has to be the sole focus.
"I'm employed by Sheffield Wednesday and the most important team in the club is the first team. I got the call to take charge and that's something that I'll do willingly. When I got the call, I got the cones and bibs, rallied everyone around and got them together on the training ground.
"Sympathy goes to anyone who loses their job but in football you never know what's around the corner and have to keep an open mind on everything. We have to get on with the task in hand."
Sean also spoke of the need to move on from past results and focus on the present. He plans to drill home that message prior to kick off on Saturday.
"Results in the past have gone, we have to focus on QPR. The mood among the players has been good and we want to put a good performance in."
Sheffield Wednesday
Sheffield Wednesday Official Site Preview
Queens Park Rangers Preview
Saturday 21st October at Hillsborough - Kick Off: 3pm
Team News
SWFC: Academy Director Sean McAuley takes temporary charge of the Owls and could have Chris Brunt available again after a virus kept the winger out of the Colchester game. Richard Wood and Peter Gilbert are out until November.
QPR: John Gregory could hand a debut to on-loan Chelsea defender Michael Mancienne: an unused sub for the midweek defeat by Derby. Winger Gareth Ainsworth is still sidelined due to a hamstring injury, along with forwards Paul Furlong (thigh), Adam Czerkas (hip) and Marc Nygaard (back).
Previous Line-Ups
SWFC (vs. Colchester): Jones, Simek, Coughlan, Bougherra, Hills, Bullen (Lunt 63), O'Brien, Folly, Small, MacLean (Burton 63), Tudgay (Talbot 63). Subs not used: Adamson, Spurr.
QPR (vs. Derby): Paul Jones, Lomas (Donnelly 82), Rehman, Stewart, Bignot, Rowlands, Bircham, Smith, Cook, Ray Jones (Gallen 74), Blackstock. Subs not used: Royce, Ward, Mancienne.
Form - Last 5 matches
(All competitions)
SWFC: L-W-L-L-L
QPR: L-D-W-W-L
Match Odds - courtesy of Owlsbet.co.uk
Owls win: 13/10
Draw: 21/10
QPR win: 15/8
Correct Score: Owls to win 2-0: 17/2
Scorecast: Graham Coughlan to score first and Owls win 2-0: 120/1
Complete History
(All competitions)
Wednesday wins: 24
Draws: 11
QPR wins: 17
At Hillsborough:
Wednesday wins: 17
Draws: 3
QPR wins: 7
Last Time Out
Coca Cola Championship (h) 11/03/06: Owls 1-1 QPR
Wednesday were left frustrated after being held by Queens Park Rangers despite dominating the Hillsborough contest and creating enough chances to win two matches. The Owls dominated the play but were left lamenting their inability to make their superiority count, as R's keeper Paul Jones and the woodwork kept them at bay.
Wednesday took the lead on 13 minutes when Deon Burton opened his SWFC account from Glenn Whelan's pass only for Rovers's captain Marc Bircham to equalise with a header just before half time.
Facts and Stats
Rangers have won on three of their last five visits to Hillsborough.
Wednesday have not won any of their last four meetings with the Rs.
The teams met six times in the Premiership, with the spoils even at three wins apiece.
One to Watch: Martin Rowlands (14)
From www.qpr.co.uk
Hammersmith-born midfielder Martin Rowlands joined Rangers in July 2003 on a free transfer from local rivals Brentford. With four goals from eights starts in midfield this season, the Irishman is a threat going forward. Rowly emerged as Rangers' brightest star during season 2004/05 - but his progression came to a rapid halt last season, where a long term knee injury restricted him to just 12 starts.
Rowlands began his career with non-league Farnborough, before joining the Bees for £45,000 in August 1998. He spent five seasons at Griffin Park making 186 appearances and scoring 22 goals. A skilful and pacy player, he broke his leg towards the end of the 2002/03 season, but enjoyed a complete recovery before putting pen to paper on a two year deal at Loftus Road.
Sheffield Wednesday
QPR OFFICIAL SITE PERSPECTIVE
Sheffield Wednesday are in crisis following the shock sacking of Paul Sturrock.
The Owls parted company with the Scot on Thursday afternoon - less than a month after he penned a new contract.
"Our league position says it all," Wednesday chairman Dave Allen told the club website.
"In spite of strengthening the squad this year, we have not made the desired progress and, to that end, we need a change in the coaching staff."
Sturrock joined the Owls in 2004 and committed to the Hillsborough club until the summer of 2010 in a new deal last month.
Chairman Allen said an announcement regarding who will take temporary charge of the team would be made on Friday and that the search for a new manager had already started.
Languishing in the lower reaches of the Championship, Wednesday are one of a host of former Premiership Clubs fearing the dreaded drop into the third tier of English football.
The Owls currently lie in 21st place in the Championship table, with just two victories to their name thus far.
The real problem for Wednesday arrives when they play in front of their own fans at the magnificent Hillsborough stadium.
Indeed the Owls have registered just a single victory at home this season - albeit a confidence-boosting 2-1 win against local rivals Barnsley last weekend.
An opening day stalemate at Deepdale provided hope, before a home defeat to Luton Town, coupled with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Burnley, saw Sturrock's men struggling from the outset.
Goals from Sean McAllister and Burton O'Brien eventually broke their duck at Plymouth, only for the Owls to crash to a humiliating 4-1 home defeat at the hands of Wrexham in the Carling Cup.
And it's been pretty much downhill ever since for the Owls, with losses to Leeds, Hull, Derby and Sunderland and Wednesday night's 4-0 thrashing at Colchester United only serving to compound their woes.
That proved to be the final straw for the Owls board, who parted company with Sturrock less than 24 hours later...
Top scorer: Chris Brunt 3....
Sturrock on U's: "The players have to stand up and be counted for after that performance. We were not good enough and we have let the fans down.
"There can be no excuses for us. Too many times people have been pointing the finger at injuries and suspensions.
"But we are at the point where we have to bring in players who have the heart and commitment to play for my team."...
Key player: Burton O'Brien (pictured, below)
Burton moved south to Hillsborough from Livingston in July 2005, signing a three-year contract with the Owls.
A creative left-footed player who normally operates in the centre of the park, the South African born midfielder previosuly spent three years at Ewood Park prior to making a return north with Livi in 2002.
In almost three years at the Almondvale Stadium, Burton made 119 appearances and scored 16 goals, with the highlight being Livi's Scottish League Cup win in 2004.
.....
Hillsborough holds fond memories for R's
fans and players alike
Latest News:
Sheffield Wednesday have reduced their losses by £250,000 over the last year, reports BBC Radio Sheffield.
The club's annual accounts show the Owls made a loss of £180,000 in the 12 months up to May 2006, compared to over £2.5m the year before.
The improvement is down to a 20 per cent increase in turnover following promotion to the Championship.
Chairman Dave Allen said: "The results show the club is trading successfully and showing excellent progress."
(Source: BBC Sport) QPR OFFICIAL
[QPR last played Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsbrough in March 2006, drawing 1-1: QPR's Team that day (under then-Caretaker Manager, Gary Waddock) was :
Jones, Bignot, Shittu, Rose, Milanese, Ainsworth, Lomas, Bircham, Cook, Gallen, Furlong. Subs: Royce, Evatt, Langley, Baidoo, Bailey.]
And the Promotion-winning game: May 8, 2004 - Amazingly Less than 2 1/2 years ago:
QPR: Camp, Padula, Carlisle, Rose, Edghill, Ainsworth, Bircham, Richard Johnson, Rowlands, Furlong, Gallen. Subs: Day, Palmer, Thorpe, Gnohere, Cureton.
Sheff Wed: Pressman, Geary, Barry-Murphy, Dean Smith, Wood, McLaren, McMahon, Cooke, Brunt, Robins, Shaw. Subs: Tidman, Olsen, Chambers, Mustoe, Carr.
BBC
Sheffield Wednesday Official Site
McAuley: "Get Behind Us"
Sean McAuley has asked Owls fans to fulfil their superb reputation ahead of Saturday's meeting with Queens Park Rangers.
McAuley will be in charge of the Wednesday team following the departure of Paul Sturrock and spent Friday preparing for the game.
The Sheffielder is sure that the supporters will give the players their full backing and is keen for them to be rewarded in return, by a squad who have been instructed to focus their attention firmly on the 90 minutes ahead.
"Our supporters are second to none," McAuley said. "I appeal to all the supporters to be right behind the players once that ball rolls at three o'clock and have no doubt they will be. It is important that we as players and employees give them something to shout about.
"We have trained this morning and the players looked nice and bright. They have to be professional in their approach - I have told them to clear their minds and concentrate on the job in hand. We will try and put a good performance on for the supporters and are eagerly looking forward to the game."
McAuley described his determination to stabilise the ship after a dramatic past 48 hours and make the team performance the centre of attention. He admits that football is a game where one must be prepared for different situations and knows that team progress has to be the sole focus.
"I'm employed by Sheffield Wednesday and the most important team in the club is the first team. I got the call to take charge and that's something that I'll do willingly. When I got the call, I got the cones and bibs, rallied everyone around and got them together on the training ground.
"Sympathy goes to anyone who loses their job but in football you never know what's around the corner and have to keep an open mind on everything. We have to get on with the task in hand."
Sean also spoke of the need to move on from past results and focus on the present. He plans to drill home that message prior to kick off on Saturday.
"Results in the past have gone, we have to focus on QPR. The mood among the players has been good and we want to put a good performance in."
Sheffield Wednesday
Sheffield Wednesday Official Site Preview
Queens Park Rangers Preview
Saturday 21st October at Hillsborough - Kick Off: 3pm
Team News
SWFC: Academy Director Sean McAuley takes temporary charge of the Owls and could have Chris Brunt available again after a virus kept the winger out of the Colchester game. Richard Wood and Peter Gilbert are out until November.
QPR: John Gregory could hand a debut to on-loan Chelsea defender Michael Mancienne: an unused sub for the midweek defeat by Derby. Winger Gareth Ainsworth is still sidelined due to a hamstring injury, along with forwards Paul Furlong (thigh), Adam Czerkas (hip) and Marc Nygaard (back).
Previous Line-Ups
SWFC (vs. Colchester): Jones, Simek, Coughlan, Bougherra, Hills, Bullen (Lunt 63), O'Brien, Folly, Small, MacLean (Burton 63), Tudgay (Talbot 63). Subs not used: Adamson, Spurr.
QPR (vs. Derby): Paul Jones, Lomas (Donnelly 82), Rehman, Stewart, Bignot, Rowlands, Bircham, Smith, Cook, Ray Jones (Gallen 74), Blackstock. Subs not used: Royce, Ward, Mancienne.
Form - Last 5 matches
(All competitions)
SWFC: L-W-L-L-L
QPR: L-D-W-W-L
Match Odds - courtesy of Owlsbet.co.uk
Owls win: 13/10
Draw: 21/10
QPR win: 15/8
Correct Score: Owls to win 2-0: 17/2
Scorecast: Graham Coughlan to score first and Owls win 2-0: 120/1
Complete History
(All competitions)
Wednesday wins: 24
Draws: 11
QPR wins: 17
At Hillsborough:
Wednesday wins: 17
Draws: 3
QPR wins: 7
Last Time Out
Coca Cola Championship (h) 11/03/06: Owls 1-1 QPR
Wednesday were left frustrated after being held by Queens Park Rangers despite dominating the Hillsborough contest and creating enough chances to win two matches. The Owls dominated the play but were left lamenting their inability to make their superiority count, as R's keeper Paul Jones and the woodwork kept them at bay.
Wednesday took the lead on 13 minutes when Deon Burton opened his SWFC account from Glenn Whelan's pass only for Rovers's captain Marc Bircham to equalise with a header just before half time.
Facts and Stats
Rangers have won on three of their last five visits to Hillsborough.
Wednesday have not won any of their last four meetings with the Rs.
The teams met six times in the Premiership, with the spoils even at three wins apiece.
One to Watch: Martin Rowlands (14)
From www.qpr.co.uk
Hammersmith-born midfielder Martin Rowlands joined Rangers in July 2003 on a free transfer from local rivals Brentford. With four goals from eights starts in midfield this season, the Irishman is a threat going forward. Rowly emerged as Rangers' brightest star during season 2004/05 - but his progression came to a rapid halt last season, where a long term knee injury restricted him to just 12 starts.
Rowlands began his career with non-league Farnborough, before joining the Bees for £45,000 in August 1998. He spent five seasons at Griffin Park making 186 appearances and scoring 22 goals. A skilful and pacy player, he broke his leg towards the end of the 2002/03 season, but enjoyed a complete recovery before putting pen to paper on a two year deal at Loftus Road.
Sheffield Wednesday
QPR OFFICIAL SITE PERSPECTIVE
Sheffield Wednesday are in crisis following the shock sacking of Paul Sturrock.
The Owls parted company with the Scot on Thursday afternoon - less than a month after he penned a new contract.
"Our league position says it all," Wednesday chairman Dave Allen told the club website.
"In spite of strengthening the squad this year, we have not made the desired progress and, to that end, we need a change in the coaching staff."
Sturrock joined the Owls in 2004 and committed to the Hillsborough club until the summer of 2010 in a new deal last month.
Chairman Allen said an announcement regarding who will take temporary charge of the team would be made on Friday and that the search for a new manager had already started.
Languishing in the lower reaches of the Championship, Wednesday are one of a host of former Premiership Clubs fearing the dreaded drop into the third tier of English football.
The Owls currently lie in 21st place in the Championship table, with just two victories to their name thus far.
The real problem for Wednesday arrives when they play in front of their own fans at the magnificent Hillsborough stadium.
Indeed the Owls have registered just a single victory at home this season - albeit a confidence-boosting 2-1 win against local rivals Barnsley last weekend.
An opening day stalemate at Deepdale provided hope, before a home defeat to Luton Town, coupled with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Burnley, saw Sturrock's men struggling from the outset.
Goals from Sean McAllister and Burton O'Brien eventually broke their duck at Plymouth, only for the Owls to crash to a humiliating 4-1 home defeat at the hands of Wrexham in the Carling Cup.
And it's been pretty much downhill ever since for the Owls, with losses to Leeds, Hull, Derby and Sunderland and Wednesday night's 4-0 thrashing at Colchester United only serving to compound their woes.
That proved to be the final straw for the Owls board, who parted company with Sturrock less than 24 hours later...
Top scorer: Chris Brunt 3....
Sturrock on U's: "The players have to stand up and be counted for after that performance. We were not good enough and we have let the fans down.
"There can be no excuses for us. Too many times people have been pointing the finger at injuries and suspensions.
"But we are at the point where we have to bring in players who have the heart and commitment to play for my team."...
Key player: Burton O'Brien (pictured, below)
Burton moved south to Hillsborough from Livingston in July 2005, signing a three-year contract with the Owls.
A creative left-footed player who normally operates in the centre of the park, the South African born midfielder previosuly spent three years at Ewood Park prior to making a return north with Livi in 2002.
In almost three years at the Almondvale Stadium, Burton made 119 appearances and scored 16 goals, with the highlight being Livi's Scottish League Cup win in 2004.
.....
Hillsborough holds fond memories for R's
fans and players alike
Latest News:
Sheffield Wednesday have reduced their losses by £250,000 over the last year, reports BBC Radio Sheffield.
The club's annual accounts show the Owls made a loss of £180,000 in the 12 months up to May 2006, compared to over £2.5m the year before.
The improvement is down to a 20 per cent increase in turnover following promotion to the Championship.
Chairman Dave Allen said: "The results show the club is trading successfully and showing excellent progress."
(Source: BBC Sport) QPR OFFICIAL
Friday, October 20, 2006
"Ex" Coach, Tim Breaker STILL a QPR Employee?
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Plymouth Official Site - October 19, 2006 TIM DELAYED
TIM Breacker's arrival at Argyle as part of the Home Park coaching team has been further delayed.
Breacker was placed on gardening leave at QPR, along with Ian Holloway, and he is been trying to sort out contract complications with Rangers' chairman Gianni Palladini.
Holloway remains confident that Breacker will be on board soon as Argyle chariman Paul Stapleton is continuing discussions with Mr Palladini.
"Tim Breacker will hopefully be here soon," said Holloway.
"The chairman is talking to Mr Palladini. Hopefully, my chairman will sort that out.
"If it takes ten months to get him here, I don't care. He should never have been placed on gardening leave. He should have taken over the team if they were not happy with me."
Plymouth
Plymouth Official Site - October 19, 2006 TIM DELAYED
TIM Breacker's arrival at Argyle as part of the Home Park coaching team has been further delayed.
Breacker was placed on gardening leave at QPR, along with Ian Holloway, and he is been trying to sort out contract complications with Rangers' chairman Gianni Palladini.
Holloway remains confident that Breacker will be on board soon as Argyle chariman Paul Stapleton is continuing discussions with Mr Palladini.
"Tim Breacker will hopefully be here soon," said Holloway.
"The chairman is talking to Mr Palladini. Hopefully, my chairman will sort that out.
"If it takes ten months to get him here, I don't care. He should never have been placed on gardening leave. He should have taken over the team if they were not happy with me."
Plymouth
Alan McDonald on QPR: "No Hard Feelings...It hasn't changed my affection for QPR""
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Ealing Gazette - October 16, 2006
No hard feelings, says Mcdonald
ALAN McDonald insists he has no hard feelings towards QPR following his exit in the wake of John Gregory's appointment as manager.
McDonald, who spent 17 years as a player at Loftus Road, left his job as assistant boss soon after Gregory was installed.
The former Northern Ireland international could be forgiven for having his feelings towards the club permanently soured.
He was unhappy at the manner of his release as a player in 1997 after giving Rangers such loyal service.
McDonald was then in the process of moving to Belfast - and was in contention for the Glentoran manager's job - before a sudden return to west London as Gary Waddock's right-hand man, only to find himself out of work just eight games into the new season.
Alan M But McDonald reflected: "That's part of being in football. I'll just spend some time with my family and see what happens in the future.
"I'm moving back to Belfast, which was the plan before I went back to QPR. It's a shame in many ways to have left the club again but these things happen."
McDonald has no complaints about the decision to wield the axe, although he is reluctant to comment on the abrupt manner of his departure.
Gregory was in place within hours of the League Cup defeat at Port Vale and had been lined up to take over before the game.
"Results weren't good and I take my share of the responsibility for that," McDonald admitted.
"It hasn't changed my affection for QPR. That will never happen.
It was always the first result I looked for before I came back and will always be the first the result I look for."
McDonald believes his former team-mate Gregory will prove to be a success in the Rs hotseat. The new boss has made the perfect start with wins over Hull and promotion-chasing Southampton, and McDonald is convinced the turnaround will be maintained. QPR are in action again tomorrow at home to Norwich.
"John will do well," he predicted. "There's a good enough squad there to finish quite high up that division.
"You've got lads like Ray Jones, Shabazz Baidoo and Pat Kanyuka coming through and that's great to see, because bringing on the youngsters is something the club was always good at and hopefully will be in the future."
Ealing Gazette
Ealing Gazette - October 16, 2006
No hard feelings, says Mcdonald
ALAN McDonald insists he has no hard feelings towards QPR following his exit in the wake of John Gregory's appointment as manager.
McDonald, who spent 17 years as a player at Loftus Road, left his job as assistant boss soon after Gregory was installed.
The former Northern Ireland international could be forgiven for having his feelings towards the club permanently soured.
He was unhappy at the manner of his release as a player in 1997 after giving Rangers such loyal service.
McDonald was then in the process of moving to Belfast - and was in contention for the Glentoran manager's job - before a sudden return to west London as Gary Waddock's right-hand man, only to find himself out of work just eight games into the new season.
Alan M But McDonald reflected: "That's part of being in football. I'll just spend some time with my family and see what happens in the future.
"I'm moving back to Belfast, which was the plan before I went back to QPR. It's a shame in many ways to have left the club again but these things happen."
McDonald has no complaints about the decision to wield the axe, although he is reluctant to comment on the abrupt manner of his departure.
Gregory was in place within hours of the League Cup defeat at Port Vale and had been lined up to take over before the game.
"Results weren't good and I take my share of the responsibility for that," McDonald admitted.
"It hasn't changed my affection for QPR. That will never happen.
It was always the first result I looked for before I came back and will always be the first the result I look for."
McDonald believes his former team-mate Gregory will prove to be a success in the Rs hotseat. The new boss has made the perfect start with wins over Hull and promotion-chasing Southampton, and McDonald is convinced the turnaround will be maintained. QPR are in action again tomorrow at home to Norwich.
"John will do well," he predicted. "There's a good enough squad there to finish quite high up that division.
"You've got lads like Ray Jones, Shabazz Baidoo and Pat Kanyuka coming through and that's great to see, because bringing on the youngsters is something the club was always good at and hopefully will be in the future."
Ealing Gazette
Ex-QPR Goalie Sieb Dykstra Turns 40
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Seib Dyskstra: Born October 20, 1966. Signed from Motherwell by Gerry Francis in 1994 to replace Jan Stejskal. Dykstra was at QPR for two years.
Mini Profile
Seib Dyskstra: Born October 20, 1966. Signed from Motherwell by Gerry Francis in 1994 to replace Jan Stejskal. Dykstra was at QPR for two years.
Mini Profile
Thursday, October 19, 2006
QPR "Part Company" with Waddock - Less than a Month after Chairman Paladini Declared Waddock Would Remain at QPR Under Gregory
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[The departure comes less than a month after Chairman Paladini specifically declared that Waddock would be staying and working with/under John Gregory.]
QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - WADDOCK DEPARTS
Queens Park Rangers Football Club have parted company with Gary Waddock.
Waddock was named as manager on June 28 after a spell as caretaker manager following the departure of Ian Holloway.
The former Rangers midfielder moved into a coaching role when John Gregory was then appointed at the end of last month.
QPR would like to thank Gary and wish him every success in the future.
Statement
NB: Chairman Paladini's September 22 comments re John Gregory's appointment as manager, and Gary Waddock's role in the new regime
Paladini Video
[The departure comes less than a month after Chairman Paladini specifically declared that Waddock would be staying and working with/under John Gregory.]
QPR OFFICIAL STATEMENT - WADDOCK DEPARTS
Queens Park Rangers Football Club have parted company with Gary Waddock.
Waddock was named as manager on June 28 after a spell as caretaker manager following the departure of Ian Holloway.
The former Rangers midfielder moved into a coaching role when John Gregory was then appointed at the end of last month.
QPR would like to thank Gary and wish him every success in the future.
Statement
NB: Chairman Paladini's September 22 comments re John Gregory's appointment as manager, and Gary Waddock's role in the new regime
Paladini Video
"He Said/He Said" Paladini on AKUTRs
-
On September 25, QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini made the following statement about AKUTRs which was posted on QPR's Official Site as a "Club Statement." Paladini concluded his statement "I shall make no further comment on this matter until either the apology and retraction has been received or legal proceedings are concluded." Three weeks later, at the Fan Forum, Paladini spoke about the AKUTRs (in response to a question.)
September 25: Club Statement by Gianni Paladini on the recent edition of 'A Kick Up The Rs:'
The publication 'A Kick Up The Rs' has recently published a deeply misleading, inaccurate and scandalous article about myself and Queens Park Rangers FC.
A number of serious allegations have been made in that publication which are not true. The publication failed to contact myself or anyone else at the Club to verify their allegations.
Considering the seriousness of the allegations, I have been reluctantly forced to take legal action. The matter is now in the hands of my solicitors.
I expect a comprehensive retraction and apology from the publication for publishing these falsehoods. If they are not prepared to provide that, the matter will be dealt with by the courts.
I am sorry it must come to this, but in order for me to be able to defend myself from such blatant and hurtful untruths, I have no alternative than to take this action.
I shall make no further comment on this matter until either the apology and retraction has been received or legal proceedings are concluded.
Official
October 13: QPR OFFICIAL Site - Paladini at the October 12 Fan Forum
GP on AKUTR'S: I didn't take this man to court. People think I take people to court because the coffee is too cold. ....The magazine, I never said I would take them to court, I wanted a chance to respond to serious things that were said about me in that magazine, he never had the decency to get in touch with me for a discussion and my side, I'm talking about the journalist here not the man who edits the magazine. If you don't do anything about this, you're guilty. The allegations he made against me are wrong. If they are true then I shouldn't be the chairman. If they are right I'd resign tomorrow
Fan Forum
On September 25, QPR Chairman, Gianni Paladini made the following statement about AKUTRs which was posted on QPR's Official Site as a "Club Statement." Paladini concluded his statement "I shall make no further comment on this matter until either the apology and retraction has been received or legal proceedings are concluded." Three weeks later, at the Fan Forum, Paladini spoke about the AKUTRs (in response to a question.)
September 25: Club Statement by Gianni Paladini on the recent edition of 'A Kick Up The Rs:'
The publication 'A Kick Up The Rs' has recently published a deeply misleading, inaccurate and scandalous article about myself and Queens Park Rangers FC.
A number of serious allegations have been made in that publication which are not true. The publication failed to contact myself or anyone else at the Club to verify their allegations.
Considering the seriousness of the allegations, I have been reluctantly forced to take legal action. The matter is now in the hands of my solicitors.
I expect a comprehensive retraction and apology from the publication for publishing these falsehoods. If they are not prepared to provide that, the matter will be dealt with by the courts.
I am sorry it must come to this, but in order for me to be able to defend myself from such blatant and hurtful untruths, I have no alternative than to take this action.
I shall make no further comment on this matter until either the apology and retraction has been received or legal proceedings are concluded.
Official
October 13: QPR OFFICIAL Site - Paladini at the October 12 Fan Forum
GP on AKUTR'S: I didn't take this man to court. People think I take people to court because the coffee is too cold. ....The magazine, I never said I would take them to court, I wanted a chance to respond to serious things that were said about me in that magazine, he never had the decency to get in touch with me for a discussion and my side, I'm talking about the journalist here not the man who edits the magazine. If you don't do anything about this, you're guilty. The allegations he made against me are wrong. If they are true then I shouldn't be the chairman. If they are right I'd resign tomorrow
Fan Forum
Nostalgia: QPR's Lineup, 4 Years ago today (vs Cheltenham)
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Ian Holloway/Kenny Jackett's QPR travelled to Cheltenham and drew 1-1.
QPR's lineup: Royce Forbes Carlisle Shittu Rose - Williams, Palmer, Langley, Thomas -Gallen, Connolly. Subs: Digby, Padula Thompson, Doudou, Oli. Thomas put QPR ahead. Carlisle was sent off.
Details
Ian Holloway/Kenny Jackett's QPR travelled to Cheltenham and drew 1-1.
QPR's lineup: Royce Forbes Carlisle Shittu Rose - Williams, Palmer, Langley, Thomas -Gallen, Connolly. Subs: Digby, Padula Thompson, Doudou, Oli. Thomas put QPR ahead. Carlisle was sent off.
Details
From a Year Ago: "The ABC of Boardroom Intrigue at Loftus Road"
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From David Conn/The Guardian - October 19, 2005
The ABC of boardroom intrigue at Loftus Road
We know plenty more now about how Chelsea were airlifted from Ken Bates' debt mountain by the billionaire from nowhere, but for their near-neighbours, Queens Park Rangers, no such outrageous fortune has delivered them from turmoil. QPR were threatened with expulsion by the Football League in 2002, having been in administration for a year, and staggered out only by clutching a £10m loan from the mysterious Panama-registered ABC Corporation, which has burdened them ever since.
Now, after a string of boardroom showdowns, the club is run by Gianni Paladini, an Italian former players' agent and, increasingly, Antonio Caliendo, the one-time Mr Big of Italian agents who in 1991 received a 10-month suspended prison sentence for attempted corruption. QPR are mostly owned by two New York-registered companies, Barnaby and Wenlock, who operate from Monte Carlo.
"I have fallen in love with Queens Park Rangers, its name and history," Caliendo told me, through an interpreter, this week. "We want to rebuild it both as a team and a business."
Caliendo, 61, found early success selling encyclopaedias door-to-door, rose up the ranks of the De Agostini publishing group, then in 1979 fixed what were thought to be the first personal endorsements by an Italian footballer, for the international playmaker Giancarlo Antognoni. Caliendo claims that in the 1990 World Cup final between West Germany and Argentina, he represented 12 of the 22 players on the pitch, but he also dates his troubles in Italy from the same year, after his client Roberto Baggio's move from Fiorentina to Juventus, which provoked riots by Fiorentina fans.
In 1991, officers from the Italian tax authorities raided Caliendo's offices, he was arrested, then on May 30 he did a deal, accepting a 10-month suspended prison sentence for attempted corruption. Caliendo told me he is intensely proud of his record and defends his reputation for "moral integrity" absolutely. He said he accepted the conviction only on his solicitor's advice, to secure a quick release from prison, and considered suing the government.
A year later, in July 1992, an investigation into the collapse of the Italian club, Hellas Verona, led to Caliendo, among others, being arrested and remanded in custody, but, after a long investigation, he was not prosecuted. "I was never convicted of anything in relation to Verona," Caliendo said. "Several high-profile figures were attacked by the Revenue in Italy at that time."
Caliendo said he is ready to "accept new challenges", and, like Paladini, a long-term associate, has given up his agent's licence to become fully involved at Loftus Road. Caliendo is shortly expected to become the club's new chairman. It is expected he will pass the Football League's "fit and proper person test" for directors, because his criminal conviction dates from long enough ago to be regarded as spent.
QPR are still reaping the consequences of their version of living the dream, after they were taken over and floated on the stock market in 1996 by Chris Wright, the Chrysalis music entrepreneur. He invested £10m but, in April 2001, with QPR having lost £27m, Wright put QPR into administration. A month later they were relegated to the then Second Division.
In May 2002, with the Football League insisting the club could not start the new season in administration, QPR accepted the £10m loan from the ABC Corporation, at 10%, £1m, annual interest, secured on Loftus Road. ABC's owners cannot be officially identified, but sources at QPR believe the man behind the company is Michael Hunt, the former Nissan UK director who in 1993 was sentenced to eight years in jail for his role in what was then Britain's largest tax fraud.
In July 2003 a QPR fan and businessman, Bill Power, born and bred in Shepherd's Bush, bought some unissued shares and joined the board; QPR rallied and, with Ian Holloway their manager, won promotion to the Championship.
Gianni Paladini told me that, like Caliendo, he was looking for a new challenge, and examined Port Vale and Derby - which also has a loan from the ABC Corporation, £15m - then eventually offered £670,000 for 10% of QPR. The club, facing another red tax bill, accepted the investment hungrily.
This barely staunched the financial problems, however, so then, arranged by Caliendo, the two New York-registered vehicles, Barnaby and Wenlock, paid £1.7m for 29.9% of QPR, most of which went straight to the tax man.
In August, following boardroom upheavals, Power quit, Mark Devlin was made redundant as chief executive, and the last London-based director, Kevin McGrath, resigned last month. QPR's directors now are Paladini, the former Brazil captain Dunga, representing Barnaby, and Gualtiero Trucco, a 34-year-old based in Monte Carlo, representing Wenlock.
The club and its fans are reeling from a series of revelations, particularly about ballooning agents' fees paid out since Paladini became more closely involved. In the six months to June 30 2004, the Football League's list of agents' payments show QPR paid just £12,000 altogether. Then, from July 1 2004 to June 30 this year, QPR paid £320,935 in fees.
Many of the payments were to agents who are friends or former associates of Paladini. Brian Hassall, a Midlands-based agent, was involved in a long-running legal claim against Paladini, which was eventually settled, and he was paid the highest single fee, £60,000, when QPR signed the Danish striker Marc Nygaard at the beginning of this season.
Paladini told me the payment was absolutely legitimate and not connected to his legal battle: "Brian and I settled it, now we are friends, and of course I deal with people I know. Ian Holloway was looking for a big lad, Nygaard was at Brescia, I checked him out with Roberto Baggio, who said he would be perfect for English football. When you sign a player, you pay agents, that's how football works. Now, after all this fuss, we will try not to do it in future, but all the deals were above board and in the best interests of QPR."
All the agents' payments are understood to have been registered with the League, as required by the rules, except one, £10,000 paid to Paladini's close friend Mel Eves when QPR signed Dean Sturridge from Wolves. Paladini explained that Eves was acting for QPR as a dealmaker and so the payment did not need to be registered.
The League is understood to have discussed QPR's situation with the FA's financial advisory unit, but neither the FA nor the League is taking any action currently. "We are monitoring the situation," a League spokesman said.
Paladini told me that he, Caliendo and the investors, are the only game in town: "What have we done wrong? Put money in to save this club? We want the club to succeed, then everybody, including the investors, will be happy."
Talks have begun with a developer about possibly relocating from Loftus Road and building a new stadium in White City, which may clear QPR's financial problems and make them money. Paladini said he could understand, "100%", fans worrying that, in the hands of former agents, their club might be used to make money by moving players in and out.
But he said: "Nothing under the table is going on. If anybody thinks there is, let them bring the evidence. But, actually, isn't it better to have people in who know football and have made a living out of it? Clubs got into a mess partly because rich people, who knew nothing about football, put money in - and they got ripped off."
david.conn@guardian.co.uk. Additional research: John Hooper....
Guardian
From David Conn/The Guardian - October 19, 2005
The ABC of boardroom intrigue at Loftus Road
We know plenty more now about how Chelsea were airlifted from Ken Bates' debt mountain by the billionaire from nowhere, but for their near-neighbours, Queens Park Rangers, no such outrageous fortune has delivered them from turmoil. QPR were threatened with expulsion by the Football League in 2002, having been in administration for a year, and staggered out only by clutching a £10m loan from the mysterious Panama-registered ABC Corporation, which has burdened them ever since.
Now, after a string of boardroom showdowns, the club is run by Gianni Paladini, an Italian former players' agent and, increasingly, Antonio Caliendo, the one-time Mr Big of Italian agents who in 1991 received a 10-month suspended prison sentence for attempted corruption. QPR are mostly owned by two New York-registered companies, Barnaby and Wenlock, who operate from Monte Carlo.
"I have fallen in love with Queens Park Rangers, its name and history," Caliendo told me, through an interpreter, this week. "We want to rebuild it both as a team and a business."
Caliendo, 61, found early success selling encyclopaedias door-to-door, rose up the ranks of the De Agostini publishing group, then in 1979 fixed what were thought to be the first personal endorsements by an Italian footballer, for the international playmaker Giancarlo Antognoni. Caliendo claims that in the 1990 World Cup final between West Germany and Argentina, he represented 12 of the 22 players on the pitch, but he also dates his troubles in Italy from the same year, after his client Roberto Baggio's move from Fiorentina to Juventus, which provoked riots by Fiorentina fans.
In 1991, officers from the Italian tax authorities raided Caliendo's offices, he was arrested, then on May 30 he did a deal, accepting a 10-month suspended prison sentence for attempted corruption. Caliendo told me he is intensely proud of his record and defends his reputation for "moral integrity" absolutely. He said he accepted the conviction only on his solicitor's advice, to secure a quick release from prison, and considered suing the government.
A year later, in July 1992, an investigation into the collapse of the Italian club, Hellas Verona, led to Caliendo, among others, being arrested and remanded in custody, but, after a long investigation, he was not prosecuted. "I was never convicted of anything in relation to Verona," Caliendo said. "Several high-profile figures were attacked by the Revenue in Italy at that time."
Caliendo said he is ready to "accept new challenges", and, like Paladini, a long-term associate, has given up his agent's licence to become fully involved at Loftus Road. Caliendo is shortly expected to become the club's new chairman. It is expected he will pass the Football League's "fit and proper person test" for directors, because his criminal conviction dates from long enough ago to be regarded as spent.
QPR are still reaping the consequences of their version of living the dream, after they were taken over and floated on the stock market in 1996 by Chris Wright, the Chrysalis music entrepreneur. He invested £10m but, in April 2001, with QPR having lost £27m, Wright put QPR into administration. A month later they were relegated to the then Second Division.
In May 2002, with the Football League insisting the club could not start the new season in administration, QPR accepted the £10m loan from the ABC Corporation, at 10%, £1m, annual interest, secured on Loftus Road. ABC's owners cannot be officially identified, but sources at QPR believe the man behind the company is Michael Hunt, the former Nissan UK director who in 1993 was sentenced to eight years in jail for his role in what was then Britain's largest tax fraud.
In July 2003 a QPR fan and businessman, Bill Power, born and bred in Shepherd's Bush, bought some unissued shares and joined the board; QPR rallied and, with Ian Holloway their manager, won promotion to the Championship.
Gianni Paladini told me that, like Caliendo, he was looking for a new challenge, and examined Port Vale and Derby - which also has a loan from the ABC Corporation, £15m - then eventually offered £670,000 for 10% of QPR. The club, facing another red tax bill, accepted the investment hungrily.
This barely staunched the financial problems, however, so then, arranged by Caliendo, the two New York-registered vehicles, Barnaby and Wenlock, paid £1.7m for 29.9% of QPR, most of which went straight to the tax man.
In August, following boardroom upheavals, Power quit, Mark Devlin was made redundant as chief executive, and the last London-based director, Kevin McGrath, resigned last month. QPR's directors now are Paladini, the former Brazil captain Dunga, representing Barnaby, and Gualtiero Trucco, a 34-year-old based in Monte Carlo, representing Wenlock.
The club and its fans are reeling from a series of revelations, particularly about ballooning agents' fees paid out since Paladini became more closely involved. In the six months to June 30 2004, the Football League's list of agents' payments show QPR paid just £12,000 altogether. Then, from July 1 2004 to June 30 this year, QPR paid £320,935 in fees.
Many of the payments were to agents who are friends or former associates of Paladini. Brian Hassall, a Midlands-based agent, was involved in a long-running legal claim against Paladini, which was eventually settled, and he was paid the highest single fee, £60,000, when QPR signed the Danish striker Marc Nygaard at the beginning of this season.
Paladini told me the payment was absolutely legitimate and not connected to his legal battle: "Brian and I settled it, now we are friends, and of course I deal with people I know. Ian Holloway was looking for a big lad, Nygaard was at Brescia, I checked him out with Roberto Baggio, who said he would be perfect for English football. When you sign a player, you pay agents, that's how football works. Now, after all this fuss, we will try not to do it in future, but all the deals were above board and in the best interests of QPR."
All the agents' payments are understood to have been registered with the League, as required by the rules, except one, £10,000 paid to Paladini's close friend Mel Eves when QPR signed Dean Sturridge from Wolves. Paladini explained that Eves was acting for QPR as a dealmaker and so the payment did not need to be registered.
The League is understood to have discussed QPR's situation with the FA's financial advisory unit, but neither the FA nor the League is taking any action currently. "We are monitoring the situation," a League spokesman said.
Paladini told me that he, Caliendo and the investors, are the only game in town: "What have we done wrong? Put money in to save this club? We want the club to succeed, then everybody, including the investors, will be happy."
Talks have begun with a developer about possibly relocating from Loftus Road and building a new stadium in White City, which may clear QPR's financial problems and make them money. Paladini said he could understand, "100%", fans worrying that, in the hands of former agents, their club might be used to make money by moving players in and out.
But he said: "Nothing under the table is going on. If anybody thinks there is, let them bring the evidence. But, actually, isn't it better to have people in who know football and have made a living out of it? Clubs got into a mess partly because rich people, who knew nothing about football, put money in - and they got ripped off."
david.conn@guardian.co.uk. Additional research: John Hooper....
Guardian
Birthdays: Danny Dichio Turns 32...Mark Perry is 28
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Danny Dichio - October 19, 1974, turns 32.
Made 75 appearances for QPR, scoring 20 goals before joining Sampadoria. Given his debut in October 1994 by Gerry Francis. In QPR's Relegation season formed a strike partnership alongside Kevin Gallen.
Dichio
Mark Perry - October 19, 1978.
Defender, made his debut for QPR in 1996, immediately after Ray Wilkins left (scoring).
Perry
Danny Dichio - October 19, 1974, turns 32.
Made 75 appearances for QPR, scoring 20 goals before joining Sampadoria. Given his debut in October 1994 by Gerry Francis. In QPR's Relegation season formed a strike partnership alongside Kevin Gallen.
Dichio
Mark Perry - October 19, 1978.
Defender, made his debut for QPR in 1996, immediately after Ray Wilkins left (scoring).
Perry
Kilburn Times Perspective of "The Trial" and Tracy Stent's QPR Trial Report
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Kilburn Times - 18 October 2006 nwl.sport@archant.co.uk
Court case raises more questions
IF the history of Queens Park Rangers FC is ever deemed suitable material for a TV drama, it's a fair bet that August 13, 2005 will feature heavily in the production.
Allegations of kidnapping and blackmail, set against the backdrop of a bitter boardroom battle for control of the club, resulted in the court case that gripped Rangers fans and journalists alike for several weeks during the summer.
Tracy Stent, of supporters' group QPR 1st, attended every day of the trial, which eventually saw seven men, including Dave Morris - listed as an honorary director of the club - cleared of all charges.
Her in-depth account of proceedings, spread over 173 pages, was posted on the www.rivals.net website last week - and brought to the fore several questions that remain unanswered.
What was the role of Phil Emmell, the business partner of ex-chairman Bill Power, at QPR?
Evidence given during the trial indicated that Emmell, along with Morris, took over contracts for catering and building work at the club without the knowledge of the majority of the board of directors.
Why was a £500,000 loan from businessman Val Ehmer arranged without the approval of the QPR board - and then used to repay money that had been loaned to the club by individual directors?
Since being ousted as chairman, Power has invested £1m in League Two club Swindon Town - yet reports suggest some uncertainty as to the status of that investment since a recent decision to cease his involvement with the Robins.
Much court time was taken up in piecing together the events of August 13 prior to Rangers' home game with Sheffield United, when staff testified that they were prevented from gaining access to offices on the third floor.
Power gave evidence that, even after identifying himself as chairman of QPR, he was refused entry by 'some of the largest men I have seen in my life' - so why, in that situation, did he not contact security staff or even the police?
In fairness to Power, very few of the leading figures involved in the case emerge with much credit from those 173 pages.
One exception, though, is former QPR manager Ian Holloway - who, as well as livening court proceedings, gave some indication of how ongoing boardroom tension made his job increasingly difficult.
With hindsight, it's hardly surprising that Rangers - joint top of the table on August 13 - ended the season just one place above the relegation zone.
Kilburn Times
[NB:Tracy Stent's Trial Report can be read at TRIAL REPORT
Kilburn Times - 18 October 2006 nwl.sport@archant.co.uk
Court case raises more questions
IF the history of Queens Park Rangers FC is ever deemed suitable material for a TV drama, it's a fair bet that August 13, 2005 will feature heavily in the production.
Allegations of kidnapping and blackmail, set against the backdrop of a bitter boardroom battle for control of the club, resulted in the court case that gripped Rangers fans and journalists alike for several weeks during the summer.
Tracy Stent, of supporters' group QPR 1st, attended every day of the trial, which eventually saw seven men, including Dave Morris - listed as an honorary director of the club - cleared of all charges.
Her in-depth account of proceedings, spread over 173 pages, was posted on the www.rivals.net website last week - and brought to the fore several questions that remain unanswered.
What was the role of Phil Emmell, the business partner of ex-chairman Bill Power, at QPR?
Evidence given during the trial indicated that Emmell, along with Morris, took over contracts for catering and building work at the club without the knowledge of the majority of the board of directors.
Why was a £500,000 loan from businessman Val Ehmer arranged without the approval of the QPR board - and then used to repay money that had been loaned to the club by individual directors?
Since being ousted as chairman, Power has invested £1m in League Two club Swindon Town - yet reports suggest some uncertainty as to the status of that investment since a recent decision to cease his involvement with the Robins.
Much court time was taken up in piecing together the events of August 13 prior to Rangers' home game with Sheffield United, when staff testified that they were prevented from gaining access to offices on the third floor.
Power gave evidence that, even after identifying himself as chairman of QPR, he was refused entry by 'some of the largest men I have seen in my life' - so why, in that situation, did he not contact security staff or even the police?
In fairness to Power, very few of the leading figures involved in the case emerge with much credit from those 173 pages.
One exception, though, is former QPR manager Ian Holloway - who, as well as livening court proceedings, gave some indication of how ongoing boardroom tension made his job increasingly difficult.
With hindsight, it's hardly surprising that Rangers - joint top of the table on August 13 - ended the season just one place above the relegation zone.
Kilburn Times
[NB:Tracy Stent's Trial Report can be read at TRIAL REPORT
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
QPR 1 - Derby 2: Reports & Managerial Comments
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MANAGERIAL COMMENTS:
QPR's John Gregory's Comments - QPR OFFICIAL SITE
John Gregory refused to be downbeat after the 2-1 defeat to Derby.
Goals from Morten Bisgaard and Steve Howard gave the Rams all three points.
"I've learnt a lot my players again today,'' Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk.
"I've always had teams or been in teams that set their stall out early, but it's something we need to work on.
"It's down to me to get it right on the training ground and we'll work on it before the weekend.
"The old adage that you learn more after a defeat is paramount in my thoughts at the moment, and I'm looking for a response on Saturday.
"There's never a good time to lose, especially at home, but we'll deal with it and move on.''
The gaffer yet again paid tribute to Chelsea loanee Jimmy Smith, whose stunning goal proved in vein: "One of the lads suggested afterwards that if it was anyone but Chelsea, Jimmy would've been recalled after his last two displays.
"His goal was magnificent and he and Marc Bircham were outstanding.''
QPR
DERBY'S BILLY DAVIES
Billy Davies felt only a wonderful performance from QPR goalkeeper Paul Jones prevented the Rams from winning at Loftus Road by more than the one goal.
Morten Bisgaard and Steve Howard struck in the first half to give Derby all three points from a 2-1 success but a string of fine saves from Jones kept them to two and left the game always on a knife-edge.
Jimmy Smith had equalised for the Hoops but Jones was by far the busier keeper on the night and showed his best form on numerous occasions.
"I thought their goalkeeper was magnificent and I don't know how many saves he made but he kept them in the game," Davies told www.dcfc.co.uk.
"We created a lot of chances and played very well.
"We had to battle as it was a scrappy game at times, and a difficult match for the referee, but it was a fantastic three points for us.
"I said previously that the two games in three days was a big test for us with QPR having that extra day's recovery but I felt we looked far fitter this time around than the first time it happened this season."
Derby
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
Jimmy Smith's wonder-goal proved in vein, as the R's unbeaten run hit a stumbling block against Derby County at Loftus Road.
First half goals from Morten Bisgaard and Steve Howard proved decisive, as John Gregory's men succumbed to their first defeat in four Championship fixtures.
Rangers trailed 2-1 at the break, despite Smith bagging an early contender for goal of the season.
After conceding so early on against Norwich on Saturday, you would have expected the R's to have learned their lesson.
Unfortunately for an expectant home crowd that wasn't the case, as Bisgaard capitalised on some poor marking in the heart of the defensive third to curl a sublime third minute effort past Paul Jones.
Undeterred, Rangers were on terms three minutes later courtesy of a stunning strike from Smith.
After marking his home debut in style on Saturday with a strike that belied his tender age, the Chelsea teenager went one better with the type of volley that wouldn't look out of place on the biggest stage of them all.
Rangers were indebted to Jones for keeping them in the contest as the half evolved, as the veteran Welsh stopper rolled back the years, producing two world-class saves to keep the Rams at bay.
But all his hard work went to waste on 32 minutes, when Howard followed up Arturo Lupoli's 15-yard strike to give the Rams the advantage at the break.
John Gregory named an unchanged line-up for the visit of one of his former sides to Loftus Road.
Chelsea loanee Smith continued his flourishing partnership with Marc Bircham in the heart of the R's midfield, while his Blues team-mate Michael Mancienne was named on the R's bench.
Buoyed by his two goal salvo on Saturday, it was man of the moment Martin Rowlands who sparked the R's into life early on.
After seeing his 25-yard free-kick blocked for a corner, his resultant second minute set-piece found Damion Stewart, who was unlucky to see his powerful header blocked to safety.
A minute later Derby were ahead. Bisgaard was gifted far too much time and space 25-yards from goal and he duly took advantage, curling a superb right footed strike past the despairing dive of Paul Jones.
Rangers should've been level two minutes later when a sublime cross from Lee Cook fell perfectly on to the head of Dexter Blackstock, only for Lee Grant to pull off a top-drawer save from point-blank range to deny the former Rams loanee.
Moments later the R's were on terms and what a goal it was too.
There appeared to be little danger when the ball fell at the feet of Smith 20-yards from goal, but the Chelsea youngster had other ideas, letting fly with an unstoppable left footed half-volley that gave Grant absolutely no chance.
The reaction from his team-mates told its own story, as all 10 outfield players rejoiced as one to mark a truly sensational strike.
Rangers were revelling in the atmosphere of a pumped up Loftus Road and few were expressing themselves more than Cook.
When Marcus Bignot clipped a neat pass into his path on the left wing on 12 minutes, only a superb defensive header from Michael Johnson prevented the onrushing Blackstock and Ray Jones adding to the R's tally.
While Cook was excelling at one end, Jones was producing absolute wonders at the other.
Lupoli seemed destined to make it 2-1 when he was gifted the freedom of the six-yard box on 18 minutes, but the Welsh stopper flung himself full length to his right to deny the Arsenal teenager.
The Rangers keeper was at it again two minutes, producing an even better one handed stop to prevent Seth Johnson's stunning strike from hitting the back of the net.
But he was powerless to prevent Howard from making it two on 32 minutes.
Lupoli's initial effort was only parried by Jones and the unmarked Howard arrived bang on cue to slot into an unguarded net.
Rangers had strong appeals for a spot-kick when Blackstock appeared to be tugged to ground a minute later, but referee Mr Thorpe waved play on, as the R's went in trailing.
After Howard's lucky ricochet cannoned a yard over the Rangers bar on 47 minutes, play quickly switched to the other end, with Blackstock seeing his deft header from an acute angle hacked off the line by Michael Johnson.
Moments later Rowlands let fly with a fearsome 18-yard strike that flew inches wide of the right hand upright, as Rangers started to take control.
Seth Johnson became the third Rams player to see yellow for a rash challenge on Bignot, before Cook received a caution for kicking the ball away in disgust after a perfectly timed tackle.
But just when it seemed as though an equaliser was on the cards, Jones had to be at his best to produce yet more heroics at the other end, tipping round Bisgaard's goal-bound free-kick, before thwarting Howard from close range.
Derby were slowly but surely beginning to orchestrate proceedings, with Billy Davies' men hitting the woodwork twice in as many minutes.
Firstly, second half substitute Jon Stead struck a thunderous effort against the post, before Howard headed onto the top of the bar from 10-yards.
Adam Bolder should've wrapped it all up on 71 minutes, but after fine wide play from Stead, he somehow missed his kick from little more than three yards.
Smith did his best to spark the R's into action when his stinging 20-yard drive flew inches over the top on 73 minutes, before Gregory made his first change, introducing Kevin Gallen at the expense of Jones.
Bircham stung the palms of Grant with a speculative 30-yard drive on 84 minutes, while Blackstock headed over from six-yards out when it seemed easier to score.
Jones' cameo display in the Rangers goal continued right up until the final whistle when he saved well from Stead, before at the other end, Rowlands' close range strike on 90 minutes was deflected wide for a corner.
QPR: P Jones, Lomas (Donnelly 81), Stewart, Rehman, Bignot, Rowlands, Bircham, Smith, Cook, Blackstock, R Jones (Gallen 73).
Subs: Royce,Ward, Mancienne.
Scorers: Smith 6
Bookings: Cook 57
Derby County: Grant, Edworthy, Camara, Bolder, Leacock (Boertien 90), M Johnson, Bisgaard (Moore 84), Howard, Lupoli (Stead 61), S Johnson, Oakley.
Subs: Bywater, Smith.
Scorers: Bisgaard 3
Bookings: Bolder 25, Howard 32, S Johnson 55, Edworthy 65
Attendance: 10,882
Referee: M Thorpe
QPR
DERBY OFFICIAL SITE
Quite how this game finished with only three goals is anybody's guess but Derby won't be complaining after they recorded a fine win on the road.
Morten Bisgaard curled them in front five minutes in but the home side were level almost immediately through Jimmy Smith's thunderbolt.
Arturo Lupoli and Seth Johnson were denied by fine Paul Jones saves but Steve Howard was on target from close range to give Derby the lead at half-time.
After the break it was more of the same as Howard and Jon Stead both hit the woodwork, while Jones pulled out fine stops to deny the front pair.
QPR had their moments too but Derby stuck at their task well and put right the defeat at Plymouth with a deserved three points.
Seth Johnson and Dean Leacock returned to the Derby County side as Billy Davies made two changes following Sunday's 3-1 defeat at Plymouth Argyle.
Leacock's introduction was a straight swap for Darren Moore at the heart of the defence while Johnson's return was in place of Jon Stead, who was on the bench after playing the full 90 minutes at Home Park just 48 hours after signing for the club.
That meant a switch to a five-man midfield consisting of Morten Bisgaard, team skipper Matt Oakley, Johnson, Adam Bolder and Arturo Lupoli, with Steve Howard leading the line in attack.
Only five minutes were on the clock and the Rams were in front thanks to Bisgaard's first goal of the season.
Rangers failed to deal with a long ball and it fell to the Dane 20 yards out, who curled his shot beautifully past Paul Jones and into the bottom-left corner.
The home side had a great chance to equalise immediately as Dexter Blackstock met Lee Cook's left-wing cross with a firm header, but Lee Grant was equal to it with a fine save.
But equalise they did just two minutes later with a thunderous volley from the edge of the box.
Derby failed to clear their lines and the ball dropped to Jimmy Smith, who cracked home his shot and left Grant with no chance.
The goal gave Rangers an immediate lift and they peppered the Derby box with crosses to their two tall strikers, but each time they met with a confident fist from Grant.
Derby should have been back in front on 18 but were denied by a wonder-save from Jones.
Bisgaard found himself in space on the right and his cross was inch-perfect for the head of Lupoli, but Jones's reactions were equal to the close-range effort.
Jones then showed agility beyond his 39 years to tip over a powerful Seth Johnson 25-yarder that looked destined for the top-left corner.
The Rams were getting up a head of steam and Howard chipped over from the edge of the box when he perhaps could have rolled in either Bisgaard or Bolder, who were in better positions.
Bolder found himself cautioned for hacking down Smith in full-flight, and it left the Rams facing a potentially dangerous situation - a free-kick some 25 yards out, and slightly left of centre.
However the wall stood firm to block out Steve Lomas's strong shot.
Derby were back in front 12 minutes before half-time after breaking quickly down the left through Bolder and Mo Camara.
Camara's cross was blocked out to Lupoli, whose 14-yard shot was well saved by Jones, but Howard was on hand to ram home the rebound from close range.
Lupoli was forced wide as he looked to close in on goal but on the balance of chances so far, if not necessarily possession, Derby were good value for their interval lead.
Derby opened up the second half on the attack and came close to extending their lead in freak circumstances as Bolder got in the way of Rehman's clearance only for the ball to bounce just over Jones's bar.
At the other end Cook's cross was headed back in front of goal by Blackstock, but Leacock showed great calmness and composure to clear the danger.
Martin Rowlands saw his 16-yard drive flash just over as the second half promised to continue in the same vein as the first.
Seth Johnson picked up a caution for time-wasting with 55 minutes on the clock.
Left-winger Cook was proving a danger but he too found himself cautioned for kicking the ball away after a couple of close decisions went against him.
Derby's first change came on 61 minutes as Stead replaced Lupoli, and from the free-kick the Rams were waiting to take Jones made another fine save - this time from Bisgaard's low effort.
The switch saw Stead move up alongside Howard, Bisgaard move over to the left of midfield, Oakley on the right with Bolder and Seth Johnson in the middle.
Edworthy was the next Ram to be cautioned, again for time-wasting, but with 25 minutes still on the clock Rangers were offering little other than balls into the box that were comfortably dealt with.
Derby had a great chance to make it three when Rehman failed to deal with a long ball and let Howard through, but the big number nine never quite got the ball out from under his feet and Jones saved well.
Stead then struck a post from 20 yards with a shot that came completely out of nowhere, and as Rangers failed to clear their lines Howard headed Camara's cross against the bar.
The understanding between Howard and Stead produced another golden chance for Derby, but this time Bolder was the guilty party as all he had to do was make contact with Stead's low cross five yards out, but somehow the midfielder missed his kick.
Bircham and Smith combined for the on-loan Chelsea youngster to crack over on 73 minutes before Rangers boss John Gregory made his first change of the night, Kevin Gallen replacing teenager Ray Jones in attack.
Referee Mick Thorpe added the name of Rangers' centre-half Rehman to his notebook, for a 78th-minute tackle from behind on Howard.
Scott Donnelly came on in place of Lomas with eight minutes remaining as Gregory looked to recover something from the game.
Grant produced a fine diving save to push away Bircham's 25-yard pile-driver but Derby were next on the substitution run as Darren Moore took over from Bisgaard on 84 minutes.
Moore slotted in alongside Leacock and Michael Johnson as Derby looked to play out the game with three centre-backs.
Blackstock headed over from close range with three minutes left as the Rams lived a little dangerously from Cook's in-swinging free-kick.
Stead did well to hold up Camara's ball and turn cleverly past Damion Stewart on the edge of the box, but once again Jones pulled out a fine save from the striker's low shot.
Gallen missed a stoppage-time sitter for the home side, while Derby saw Leacock hobble off through injury, but Derby held out for their fourth win on the road this season.
Derby
DERBY EVENING TELEGRAPH
Gregory gutted as Billy celebrates
QPR 1 v 2 Derby County
QPR manager John Gregory admitted his first defeat felt "horrible" after his former employers Derby left Loftus Road celebrating a 2-1 victory.
Steve Howard ensured Gregory's unbeaten start was brought to a halt by the club which left him on the managerial scrapheap more than three years ago.
Chelsea teenager Jimmy Smith grabbed his second goal in two matches with a spectacular volley to cancel out Morten Bisgaard's early opener for Derby but Howard, a £1million summer signing from Luton, grabbed his fifth of the season to condemn Rangers to defeat.
If Gregory needed any extra incentive as he looked to guide Rangers to a third win in his fourth game in charge then the visitors provided plenty.
Derby sacked Gregory in 2003 for alleged misconduct, and despite subsequently winning #1million in compensation for unfair dismissal, the rumours and innuendo surrounding the former Aston Villa manager's departure were sufficient to keep him out of the game for three and a half years until QPR came calling last month.
But County appeared just as keen to put one over on their old boss, although Gregory stressed: "It was just another game.
"I sometimes don't even see the opposition when I'm focused on my team - although the Derby fans let me know they were there with one or two insulting remarks.
"It's my first setback and it feels horrible, but you learn a lot about people in defeat and this lot will bounce back."
Gregory was also quick to praise midfielder Smith, whom Jose Mourinho has loaned to Rangers for an initial month.
"I think Jose's glad he's only down the road so he can keep an eye on him," added Gregory.
"And he can go back and tell Frank (Lampard) all about his goals. But by the time he goes back, whenever that is, he could well find himself thrust straight in."
Derby boss Billy Davies was delighted with the character his side showed in bouncing back from a disappointing 3-1 defeat by Plymouth on Saturday.
The Rams have now won four times on the road this season and lie in a healthy eighth spot, and Davies said: "It was a big ask, two long trips in three days, but I thought we answered it and showed a lot character.
"We showed in the second half our fitness has improved and it was a big performance from us. It was a tough game - I felt sorry for the ball at times - so we'll enjoy the the long trip home.
"It's an important three points for us against a team you know will make it difficult for you."
The night ended on a sour note, however, when Derby defender Dean Leacock was taken to hospital after a clash of heads towards the end of the game.
"He's concussed and he's off to hospital. I was disappointed the ref didn't stop the game sooner. It's a concern," added Davies.
We'll have more reaction from the game tomorrow.
Derby
Also QPR NET: Justin Skinner/QPR NET Match Report
MANAGERIAL COMMENTS:
QPR's John Gregory's Comments - QPR OFFICIAL SITE
John Gregory refused to be downbeat after the 2-1 defeat to Derby.
Goals from Morten Bisgaard and Steve Howard gave the Rams all three points.
"I've learnt a lot my players again today,'' Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk.
"I've always had teams or been in teams that set their stall out early, but it's something we need to work on.
"It's down to me to get it right on the training ground and we'll work on it before the weekend.
"The old adage that you learn more after a defeat is paramount in my thoughts at the moment, and I'm looking for a response on Saturday.
"There's never a good time to lose, especially at home, but we'll deal with it and move on.''
The gaffer yet again paid tribute to Chelsea loanee Jimmy Smith, whose stunning goal proved in vein: "One of the lads suggested afterwards that if it was anyone but Chelsea, Jimmy would've been recalled after his last two displays.
"His goal was magnificent and he and Marc Bircham were outstanding.''
QPR
DERBY'S BILLY DAVIES
Billy Davies felt only a wonderful performance from QPR goalkeeper Paul Jones prevented the Rams from winning at Loftus Road by more than the one goal.
Morten Bisgaard and Steve Howard struck in the first half to give Derby all three points from a 2-1 success but a string of fine saves from Jones kept them to two and left the game always on a knife-edge.
Jimmy Smith had equalised for the Hoops but Jones was by far the busier keeper on the night and showed his best form on numerous occasions.
"I thought their goalkeeper was magnificent and I don't know how many saves he made but he kept them in the game," Davies told www.dcfc.co.uk.
"We created a lot of chances and played very well.
"We had to battle as it was a scrappy game at times, and a difficult match for the referee, but it was a fantastic three points for us.
"I said previously that the two games in three days was a big test for us with QPR having that extra day's recovery but I felt we looked far fitter this time around than the first time it happened this season."
Derby
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
Jimmy Smith's wonder-goal proved in vein, as the R's unbeaten run hit a stumbling block against Derby County at Loftus Road.
First half goals from Morten Bisgaard and Steve Howard proved decisive, as John Gregory's men succumbed to their first defeat in four Championship fixtures.
Rangers trailed 2-1 at the break, despite Smith bagging an early contender for goal of the season.
After conceding so early on against Norwich on Saturday, you would have expected the R's to have learned their lesson.
Unfortunately for an expectant home crowd that wasn't the case, as Bisgaard capitalised on some poor marking in the heart of the defensive third to curl a sublime third minute effort past Paul Jones.
Undeterred, Rangers were on terms three minutes later courtesy of a stunning strike from Smith.
After marking his home debut in style on Saturday with a strike that belied his tender age, the Chelsea teenager went one better with the type of volley that wouldn't look out of place on the biggest stage of them all.
Rangers were indebted to Jones for keeping them in the contest as the half evolved, as the veteran Welsh stopper rolled back the years, producing two world-class saves to keep the Rams at bay.
But all his hard work went to waste on 32 minutes, when Howard followed up Arturo Lupoli's 15-yard strike to give the Rams the advantage at the break.
John Gregory named an unchanged line-up for the visit of one of his former sides to Loftus Road.
Chelsea loanee Smith continued his flourishing partnership with Marc Bircham in the heart of the R's midfield, while his Blues team-mate Michael Mancienne was named on the R's bench.
Buoyed by his two goal salvo on Saturday, it was man of the moment Martin Rowlands who sparked the R's into life early on.
After seeing his 25-yard free-kick blocked for a corner, his resultant second minute set-piece found Damion Stewart, who was unlucky to see his powerful header blocked to safety.
A minute later Derby were ahead. Bisgaard was gifted far too much time and space 25-yards from goal and he duly took advantage, curling a superb right footed strike past the despairing dive of Paul Jones.
Rangers should've been level two minutes later when a sublime cross from Lee Cook fell perfectly on to the head of Dexter Blackstock, only for Lee Grant to pull off a top-drawer save from point-blank range to deny the former Rams loanee.
Moments later the R's were on terms and what a goal it was too.
There appeared to be little danger when the ball fell at the feet of Smith 20-yards from goal, but the Chelsea youngster had other ideas, letting fly with an unstoppable left footed half-volley that gave Grant absolutely no chance.
The reaction from his team-mates told its own story, as all 10 outfield players rejoiced as one to mark a truly sensational strike.
Rangers were revelling in the atmosphere of a pumped up Loftus Road and few were expressing themselves more than Cook.
When Marcus Bignot clipped a neat pass into his path on the left wing on 12 minutes, only a superb defensive header from Michael Johnson prevented the onrushing Blackstock and Ray Jones adding to the R's tally.
While Cook was excelling at one end, Jones was producing absolute wonders at the other.
Lupoli seemed destined to make it 2-1 when he was gifted the freedom of the six-yard box on 18 minutes, but the Welsh stopper flung himself full length to his right to deny the Arsenal teenager.
The Rangers keeper was at it again two minutes, producing an even better one handed stop to prevent Seth Johnson's stunning strike from hitting the back of the net.
But he was powerless to prevent Howard from making it two on 32 minutes.
Lupoli's initial effort was only parried by Jones and the unmarked Howard arrived bang on cue to slot into an unguarded net.
Rangers had strong appeals for a spot-kick when Blackstock appeared to be tugged to ground a minute later, but referee Mr Thorpe waved play on, as the R's went in trailing.
After Howard's lucky ricochet cannoned a yard over the Rangers bar on 47 minutes, play quickly switched to the other end, with Blackstock seeing his deft header from an acute angle hacked off the line by Michael Johnson.
Moments later Rowlands let fly with a fearsome 18-yard strike that flew inches wide of the right hand upright, as Rangers started to take control.
Seth Johnson became the third Rams player to see yellow for a rash challenge on Bignot, before Cook received a caution for kicking the ball away in disgust after a perfectly timed tackle.
But just when it seemed as though an equaliser was on the cards, Jones had to be at his best to produce yet more heroics at the other end, tipping round Bisgaard's goal-bound free-kick, before thwarting Howard from close range.
Derby were slowly but surely beginning to orchestrate proceedings, with Billy Davies' men hitting the woodwork twice in as many minutes.
Firstly, second half substitute Jon Stead struck a thunderous effort against the post, before Howard headed onto the top of the bar from 10-yards.
Adam Bolder should've wrapped it all up on 71 minutes, but after fine wide play from Stead, he somehow missed his kick from little more than three yards.
Smith did his best to spark the R's into action when his stinging 20-yard drive flew inches over the top on 73 minutes, before Gregory made his first change, introducing Kevin Gallen at the expense of Jones.
Bircham stung the palms of Grant with a speculative 30-yard drive on 84 minutes, while Blackstock headed over from six-yards out when it seemed easier to score.
Jones' cameo display in the Rangers goal continued right up until the final whistle when he saved well from Stead, before at the other end, Rowlands' close range strike on 90 minutes was deflected wide for a corner.
QPR: P Jones, Lomas (Donnelly 81), Stewart, Rehman, Bignot, Rowlands, Bircham, Smith, Cook, Blackstock, R Jones (Gallen 73).
Subs: Royce,Ward, Mancienne.
Scorers: Smith 6
Bookings: Cook 57
Derby County: Grant, Edworthy, Camara, Bolder, Leacock (Boertien 90), M Johnson, Bisgaard (Moore 84), Howard, Lupoli (Stead 61), S Johnson, Oakley.
Subs: Bywater, Smith.
Scorers: Bisgaard 3
Bookings: Bolder 25, Howard 32, S Johnson 55, Edworthy 65
Attendance: 10,882
Referee: M Thorpe
QPR
DERBY OFFICIAL SITE
Quite how this game finished with only three goals is anybody's guess but Derby won't be complaining after they recorded a fine win on the road.
Morten Bisgaard curled them in front five minutes in but the home side were level almost immediately through Jimmy Smith's thunderbolt.
Arturo Lupoli and Seth Johnson were denied by fine Paul Jones saves but Steve Howard was on target from close range to give Derby the lead at half-time.
After the break it was more of the same as Howard and Jon Stead both hit the woodwork, while Jones pulled out fine stops to deny the front pair.
QPR had their moments too but Derby stuck at their task well and put right the defeat at Plymouth with a deserved three points.
Seth Johnson and Dean Leacock returned to the Derby County side as Billy Davies made two changes following Sunday's 3-1 defeat at Plymouth Argyle.
Leacock's introduction was a straight swap for Darren Moore at the heart of the defence while Johnson's return was in place of Jon Stead, who was on the bench after playing the full 90 minutes at Home Park just 48 hours after signing for the club.
That meant a switch to a five-man midfield consisting of Morten Bisgaard, team skipper Matt Oakley, Johnson, Adam Bolder and Arturo Lupoli, with Steve Howard leading the line in attack.
Only five minutes were on the clock and the Rams were in front thanks to Bisgaard's first goal of the season.
Rangers failed to deal with a long ball and it fell to the Dane 20 yards out, who curled his shot beautifully past Paul Jones and into the bottom-left corner.
The home side had a great chance to equalise immediately as Dexter Blackstock met Lee Cook's left-wing cross with a firm header, but Lee Grant was equal to it with a fine save.
But equalise they did just two minutes later with a thunderous volley from the edge of the box.
Derby failed to clear their lines and the ball dropped to Jimmy Smith, who cracked home his shot and left Grant with no chance.
The goal gave Rangers an immediate lift and they peppered the Derby box with crosses to their two tall strikers, but each time they met with a confident fist from Grant.
Derby should have been back in front on 18 but were denied by a wonder-save from Jones.
Bisgaard found himself in space on the right and his cross was inch-perfect for the head of Lupoli, but Jones's reactions were equal to the close-range effort.
Jones then showed agility beyond his 39 years to tip over a powerful Seth Johnson 25-yarder that looked destined for the top-left corner.
The Rams were getting up a head of steam and Howard chipped over from the edge of the box when he perhaps could have rolled in either Bisgaard or Bolder, who were in better positions.
Bolder found himself cautioned for hacking down Smith in full-flight, and it left the Rams facing a potentially dangerous situation - a free-kick some 25 yards out, and slightly left of centre.
However the wall stood firm to block out Steve Lomas's strong shot.
Derby were back in front 12 minutes before half-time after breaking quickly down the left through Bolder and Mo Camara.
Camara's cross was blocked out to Lupoli, whose 14-yard shot was well saved by Jones, but Howard was on hand to ram home the rebound from close range.
Lupoli was forced wide as he looked to close in on goal but on the balance of chances so far, if not necessarily possession, Derby were good value for their interval lead.
Derby opened up the second half on the attack and came close to extending their lead in freak circumstances as Bolder got in the way of Rehman's clearance only for the ball to bounce just over Jones's bar.
At the other end Cook's cross was headed back in front of goal by Blackstock, but Leacock showed great calmness and composure to clear the danger.
Martin Rowlands saw his 16-yard drive flash just over as the second half promised to continue in the same vein as the first.
Seth Johnson picked up a caution for time-wasting with 55 minutes on the clock.
Left-winger Cook was proving a danger but he too found himself cautioned for kicking the ball away after a couple of close decisions went against him.
Derby's first change came on 61 minutes as Stead replaced Lupoli, and from the free-kick the Rams were waiting to take Jones made another fine save - this time from Bisgaard's low effort.
The switch saw Stead move up alongside Howard, Bisgaard move over to the left of midfield, Oakley on the right with Bolder and Seth Johnson in the middle.
Edworthy was the next Ram to be cautioned, again for time-wasting, but with 25 minutes still on the clock Rangers were offering little other than balls into the box that were comfortably dealt with.
Derby had a great chance to make it three when Rehman failed to deal with a long ball and let Howard through, but the big number nine never quite got the ball out from under his feet and Jones saved well.
Stead then struck a post from 20 yards with a shot that came completely out of nowhere, and as Rangers failed to clear their lines Howard headed Camara's cross against the bar.
The understanding between Howard and Stead produced another golden chance for Derby, but this time Bolder was the guilty party as all he had to do was make contact with Stead's low cross five yards out, but somehow the midfielder missed his kick.
Bircham and Smith combined for the on-loan Chelsea youngster to crack over on 73 minutes before Rangers boss John Gregory made his first change of the night, Kevin Gallen replacing teenager Ray Jones in attack.
Referee Mick Thorpe added the name of Rangers' centre-half Rehman to his notebook, for a 78th-minute tackle from behind on Howard.
Scott Donnelly came on in place of Lomas with eight minutes remaining as Gregory looked to recover something from the game.
Grant produced a fine diving save to push away Bircham's 25-yard pile-driver but Derby were next on the substitution run as Darren Moore took over from Bisgaard on 84 minutes.
Moore slotted in alongside Leacock and Michael Johnson as Derby looked to play out the game with three centre-backs.
Blackstock headed over from close range with three minutes left as the Rams lived a little dangerously from Cook's in-swinging free-kick.
Stead did well to hold up Camara's ball and turn cleverly past Damion Stewart on the edge of the box, but once again Jones pulled out a fine save from the striker's low shot.
Gallen missed a stoppage-time sitter for the home side, while Derby saw Leacock hobble off through injury, but Derby held out for their fourth win on the road this season.
Derby
DERBY EVENING TELEGRAPH
Gregory gutted as Billy celebrates
QPR 1 v 2 Derby County
QPR manager John Gregory admitted his first defeat felt "horrible" after his former employers Derby left Loftus Road celebrating a 2-1 victory.
Steve Howard ensured Gregory's unbeaten start was brought to a halt by the club which left him on the managerial scrapheap more than three years ago.
Chelsea teenager Jimmy Smith grabbed his second goal in two matches with a spectacular volley to cancel out Morten Bisgaard's early opener for Derby but Howard, a £1million summer signing from Luton, grabbed his fifth of the season to condemn Rangers to defeat.
If Gregory needed any extra incentive as he looked to guide Rangers to a third win in his fourth game in charge then the visitors provided plenty.
Derby sacked Gregory in 2003 for alleged misconduct, and despite subsequently winning #1million in compensation for unfair dismissal, the rumours and innuendo surrounding the former Aston Villa manager's departure were sufficient to keep him out of the game for three and a half years until QPR came calling last month.
But County appeared just as keen to put one over on their old boss, although Gregory stressed: "It was just another game.
"I sometimes don't even see the opposition when I'm focused on my team - although the Derby fans let me know they were there with one or two insulting remarks.
"It's my first setback and it feels horrible, but you learn a lot about people in defeat and this lot will bounce back."
Gregory was also quick to praise midfielder Smith, whom Jose Mourinho has loaned to Rangers for an initial month.
"I think Jose's glad he's only down the road so he can keep an eye on him," added Gregory.
"And he can go back and tell Frank (Lampard) all about his goals. But by the time he goes back, whenever that is, he could well find himself thrust straight in."
Derby boss Billy Davies was delighted with the character his side showed in bouncing back from a disappointing 3-1 defeat by Plymouth on Saturday.
The Rams have now won four times on the road this season and lie in a healthy eighth spot, and Davies said: "It was a big ask, two long trips in three days, but I thought we answered it and showed a lot character.
"We showed in the second half our fitness has improved and it was a big performance from us. It was a tough game - I felt sorry for the ball at times - so we'll enjoy the the long trip home.
"It's an important three points for us against a team you know will make it difficult for you."
The night ended on a sour note, however, when Derby defender Dean Leacock was taken to hospital after a clash of heads towards the end of the game.
"He's concussed and he's off to hospital. I was disappointed the ref didn't stop the game sooner. It's a concern," added Davies.
We'll have more reaction from the game tomorrow.
Derby
Also QPR NET: Justin Skinner/QPR NET Match Report
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
On this Day: Andy McCulloch Scored on his Debut as Marsh Hattrick vs Birmingham!
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Andy McCulloch: Signed by Les Allen from non-league Walton & Hersham, Center forward Andy McCulloch made his debut in QPR's home game in place of Frank Saul vs Birmingham, October 17, 1970 (which was shown on "The Big Match" the next day). Marsh got a brilliant hattrick as QPR won 5-2 vs a good Birmingham team. QPR's team that day: Parkes, Clement, Hazell, Watson, Gillard. Ferguson Venables Hunt Morgan Marsh McCulloch. (In their previous home game, a brilliant Martyn Busby playing up front had led QPR to a 5-1 at home to Orient.) McCulloch was eventually sold to Oxford for 45,000 pounds in 1972, and he became a prolific goalscorer in the lower leagues.
Birthday on this day: Maurice Doyle. Signed by Trevor Francis from Crewe. Born October 17, 1969
Andy McCulloch: Signed by Les Allen from non-league Walton & Hersham, Center forward Andy McCulloch made his debut in QPR's home game in place of Frank Saul vs Birmingham, October 17, 1970 (which was shown on "The Big Match" the next day). Marsh got a brilliant hattrick as QPR won 5-2 vs a good Birmingham team. QPR's team that day: Parkes, Clement, Hazell, Watson, Gillard. Ferguson Venables Hunt Morgan Marsh McCulloch. (In their previous home game, a brilliant Martyn Busby playing up front had led QPR to a 5-1 at home to Orient.) McCulloch was eventually sold to Oxford for 45,000 pounds in 1972, and he became a prolific goalscorer in the lower leagues.
Birthday on this day: Maurice Doyle. Signed by Trevor Francis from Crewe. Born October 17, 1969
Derby Look at QPR ..QPR Look at Derby: Very Different Lineup from last game against Derby
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QPR's team when we played Derby in April: Just two - at most three - from that lineup set to play tonight with one of two others from that 16 on the bench:
QPR vs Derby from April: Jones, Kus, Shittu, Evatt, Milanese, Ainsworth, Donnelly (Furlong 58), Bailey, Langley, Cook, Nygaard. Subs: Cole, Santos, Lomas, Howell.
Derby Official Site - GREGORY'S HOOPS
An in-depth look at Tuesday's clash with Queens Park Rangers.
TEAM NEWS
Derby: The Rams' major injury headache is midfielder Bob Malcolm, who picked up an ankle injury in training on Saturday.
The Scot was absent from the squad that lost at Plymouth Argyle on Sunday and the results of a scan on his injury are still awaited.
Giles Barnes completes his three-match suspension while Paul Peschisolido remains on the sidelines with his thigh injury.
QPR: The Hoops have landed defender Michael Mancienne on loan from Premiership champions Chelsea and he goes straight into the squad.
Dexter Blackstock is expected to lead the line for Rangers, and will be looking to get one over on the club he had a spell on loan with during 2005/06.
THE REFEREE Norfolk's Mike Thorpe is the man in the middle on Tuesday night.
Thorpe's only previous Derby County assignment came exactly 12 months ago when he took charge of the 1-1 draw at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
This season he has issued 19 yellow cards in his seven games, and is yet to dismiss a player.
Queens Park Rangers
LAST TIME AT LOFTUS ROAD
Queens Park Rangers 1 Derby County 1
Coca-Cola Championship April 15 2006
QPR: Jones, Kus, Shittu, Evatt, Milanese, Ainsworth, Donnelly (Furlong 58), Bailey, Langley, Cook, Nygaard.
Subs: Cole, Santos, Lomas, Howell.
Scorer: Nygaard 59.
Derby: Camp, Jackson, Moore (sent off 88), Nyatanga, Michael Johnson, Smith, Barnes (Peschisolido 64), Bolder (Idiakez 64), Seth Johnson, McIndoe (Holmes 64), Lisbie.
Subs: Poole, Edworthy.
Scorer: Smith 67.
Bookings: Bailey (QPR) Moore (Derby).
Attendance: 12,606....
TICKETS
Seats are on sale now for the Loftus Road encounter.
They are priced at £24 for adults, £14 for fans over 60 and full-time students (under 22), £8 for unaccompanied fans under 16, £5 for fans under 16 with an adult, and fans under eight are admitted free...
QPR OFFICIAL
Derby County's inauspicious start to the Championship would hardly have surprised those that followed the merry-go round at Pride Park over the summer.
At the time of writing, the Rams occupy 12th place in the table, but in truth, Billy Davies' men are yet to fire on all cylinders after a summer of wholesale changes in the Midlands.
Davies' high-profile arrival from Preston, coupled with the addition of seven new signings, always ensured it was going to take time to bed a side capable of competing in the upper echelons of the division.
Yet despite a poor start - which saw the Rams register just five points from their opening six matches - the feel-good factor is slowly, but surely returning to the former Premiership Club.
However, a setback at Home Park on Sunday, coupled with tough fixtures against table-topping Cardiff and pre-season title favourites Birmingham to come in the next fortnight, Davies will be fully aware of the need to pick up points at places like Loftus Road in the foreseeable future.
He may well be boosted by the return of two key players for the trip to West London on Tuesday night.
The two week international break could prove a blessing for Davies, who is set to welcome back goalkeeper Stephen Bywater and former Fulham defender Dean Leacock.
However, whether their return will be enough to halt the rampant R's remains to be seen...
Top scorer: Arturo Lupoli 5
Last league game:
Plymouth 3, Derby County 1.
Coca Cola Championship.
October 15th 2006.
Derby County: Grant, Edworthy, Moore (Leacock 56), Michael Johnson, Camara, Bisgaard (Smith 68), Bolder, Oakley (Seth Johnson 77), Lupoli, Howard, Stead.
Subs Not Used: Bywater, Jackson
Davies on Argyle: "Two decisions cost us dearly. We felt Jon Stead was impeded leading up to their first penalty.
"The one that really hurt us was the second penalty. We don't think it was a penalty and it knocked the stuffing out of us.
"Decisions like that cost you - and after that we looked nervous."
Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds:
QPR 6/5
Derby 2/1
draw 11/5
Rams hot-shot Steve Howard
Key player: STEVE HOWARD
Howard moved to Pride Park on a three-year contract in July 2006 after over five years with Luton Town - during which time he scored more than 100 goals.
The Durham-born front-man became Billy Davies's first signing since taking over as Rams boss in June and at £1 million, Howard is the club's most expensive incoming transfer since the capture of Francois Grenet in November 2001.
Head to head:
QPR wins: 9
Rams wins: 12
Draws: 11
Last meeting:
QPR 1 (Nygaard), Derby County 1 (Smith).
Football League Championship.
April 15th 2006.
Latest News:
Derby have signed Sunderland striker Jon Stead on loan until the New Year.
The 23-year-old will stay with the club until 2 January 2007.
Stead has fallen out of favour at the Stadium of Light since the arrival of Roy Keane as manager in August. (Source: BBC Sport)
QPR OFFICIAL
QPR's team when we played Derby in April: Just two - at most three - from that lineup set to play tonight with one of two others from that 16 on the bench:
QPR vs Derby from April: Jones, Kus, Shittu, Evatt, Milanese, Ainsworth, Donnelly (Furlong 58), Bailey, Langley, Cook, Nygaard. Subs: Cole, Santos, Lomas, Howell.
Derby Official Site - GREGORY'S HOOPS
An in-depth look at Tuesday's clash with Queens Park Rangers.
TEAM NEWS
Derby: The Rams' major injury headache is midfielder Bob Malcolm, who picked up an ankle injury in training on Saturday.
The Scot was absent from the squad that lost at Plymouth Argyle on Sunday and the results of a scan on his injury are still awaited.
Giles Barnes completes his three-match suspension while Paul Peschisolido remains on the sidelines with his thigh injury.
QPR: The Hoops have landed defender Michael Mancienne on loan from Premiership champions Chelsea and he goes straight into the squad.
Dexter Blackstock is expected to lead the line for Rangers, and will be looking to get one over on the club he had a spell on loan with during 2005/06.
THE REFEREE Norfolk's Mike Thorpe is the man in the middle on Tuesday night.
Thorpe's only previous Derby County assignment came exactly 12 months ago when he took charge of the 1-1 draw at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
This season he has issued 19 yellow cards in his seven games, and is yet to dismiss a player.
Queens Park Rangers
LAST TIME AT LOFTUS ROAD
Queens Park Rangers 1 Derby County 1
Coca-Cola Championship April 15 2006
QPR: Jones, Kus, Shittu, Evatt, Milanese, Ainsworth, Donnelly (Furlong 58), Bailey, Langley, Cook, Nygaard.
Subs: Cole, Santos, Lomas, Howell.
Scorer: Nygaard 59.
Derby: Camp, Jackson, Moore (sent off 88), Nyatanga, Michael Johnson, Smith, Barnes (Peschisolido 64), Bolder (Idiakez 64), Seth Johnson, McIndoe (Holmes 64), Lisbie.
Subs: Poole, Edworthy.
Scorer: Smith 67.
Bookings: Bailey (QPR) Moore (Derby).
Attendance: 12,606....
TICKETS
Seats are on sale now for the Loftus Road encounter.
They are priced at £24 for adults, £14 for fans over 60 and full-time students (under 22), £8 for unaccompanied fans under 16, £5 for fans under 16 with an adult, and fans under eight are admitted free...
QPR OFFICIAL
Derby County's inauspicious start to the Championship would hardly have surprised those that followed the merry-go round at Pride Park over the summer.
At the time of writing, the Rams occupy 12th place in the table, but in truth, Billy Davies' men are yet to fire on all cylinders after a summer of wholesale changes in the Midlands.
Davies' high-profile arrival from Preston, coupled with the addition of seven new signings, always ensured it was going to take time to bed a side capable of competing in the upper echelons of the division.
Yet despite a poor start - which saw the Rams register just five points from their opening six matches - the feel-good factor is slowly, but surely returning to the former Premiership Club.
However, a setback at Home Park on Sunday, coupled with tough fixtures against table-topping Cardiff and pre-season title favourites Birmingham to come in the next fortnight, Davies will be fully aware of the need to pick up points at places like Loftus Road in the foreseeable future.
He may well be boosted by the return of two key players for the trip to West London on Tuesday night.
The two week international break could prove a blessing for Davies, who is set to welcome back goalkeeper Stephen Bywater and former Fulham defender Dean Leacock.
However, whether their return will be enough to halt the rampant R's remains to be seen...
Top scorer: Arturo Lupoli 5
Last league game:
Plymouth 3, Derby County 1.
Coca Cola Championship.
October 15th 2006.
Derby County: Grant, Edworthy, Moore (Leacock 56), Michael Johnson, Camara, Bisgaard (Smith 68), Bolder, Oakley (Seth Johnson 77), Lupoli, Howard, Stead.
Subs Not Used: Bywater, Jackson
Davies on Argyle: "Two decisions cost us dearly. We felt Jon Stead was impeded leading up to their first penalty.
"The one that really hurt us was the second penalty. We don't think it was a penalty and it knocked the stuffing out of us.
"Decisions like that cost you - and after that we looked nervous."
Superhoopsbet.co.uk match odds:
QPR 6/5
Derby 2/1
draw 11/5
Rams hot-shot Steve Howard
Key player: STEVE HOWARD
Howard moved to Pride Park on a three-year contract in July 2006 after over five years with Luton Town - during which time he scored more than 100 goals.
The Durham-born front-man became Billy Davies's first signing since taking over as Rams boss in June and at £1 million, Howard is the club's most expensive incoming transfer since the capture of Francois Grenet in November 2001.
Head to head:
QPR wins: 9
Rams wins: 12
Draws: 11
Last meeting:
QPR 1 (Nygaard), Derby County 1 (Smith).
Football League Championship.
April 15th 2006.
Latest News:
Derby have signed Sunderland striker Jon Stead on loan until the New Year.
The 23-year-old will stay with the club until 2 January 2007.
Stead has fallen out of favour at the Stadium of Light since the arrival of Roy Keane as manager in August. (Source: BBC Sport)
QPR OFFICIAL
Ex-QPRs Jackett Transfers Leon Knight...Knight Reacts
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Western Mail
Jackett cites Knight's lack of fight for decisionOct 17 2006
KENNY JACKETT pulled no punches yesterday as he explained his decision to place his top scorer on the transfer list.
But rather than for causing a scrap, it was Leon Knight's lack of fight that the Swans boss pointed to regarding his decision to cut the striker loose.
Some reports have suggested a half-time bust-up at Nottingham Forest last month involving Knight eventually culminated in the 24-year-old's omission from the Swans squad that travelled to Chesterfield on Saturday.
That, and a general unhappiness with his attitude, was thought to be behind Jackett's move to take the next step yesterday and make Knight available for transfer.
But Jackett backed the player by insisting there was no single incident that has caused the sudden end of Knight's Swansea career.
And, instead, Jackett claimed Knight's unwillingness to pull his weight when the going gets tough provoked yesterday's shock move.
"Leon is in a situation where the best thing for him and the club is that he goes to seek pastures new," said Jackett.
"The main reason, and I've told him, is that I think he can work harder.
"And for our side to get out of this division we need to work, we need to scrap and battle through and get results when perhaps we don't deserve them. Spirit and attitude get you out of this division.
"There's no one particular incident. It's nothing personal with me or Leon, I just feel it's the right thing for the club.
"It's not a bust up, not an individual thing, it's just my view on the whole time he's been here as opposed to one incident or argument with me."
Rumours began to fly at the weekend as to just why Jackett had decided to drop his top striker with a goal-scoring record in a Swansea shirt that cannot be faulted.
When a player with 19 goals in 25 starts is left out of a match-day 18 altogether, questions will be asked.
Jackett responded by citing football reasons for his absence and when the pair sat down to clear the air yesterday it became apparent the decision had been made to circulate Knight's name to rival bosses.
"He's very disappointed but after being left out of the squad he came to see me," said Jackett. "He wanted some sort of clear indication where his future lies - I said his future lies elsewhere and I'll be placing him on the transfer list.
"People will be surprised as he stands at the moment as the top scorer but I think it's the right decision. Otherwise I wouldn't do it.
"And yes, I'm disappointed with the way things have worked out because he's tremendously talented player. But he's one who I don't see with a future at Swansea City.
"You never say never but it is doubtful if you'll see him in a Swansea shirt and I think a nice clean break is the best thing for all concerned."
It was a shock to Knight himself that he will soon be leaving the Liberty, just as Jackett had shocked the opposition when he pounced to sign him back in January.
Regarded as a steal at £125,000, Jackett would have been well aware of the bad-boy reputation that accompanied the Londoner, his departure from Brighton prompted after a high-profile fall-out with manager Mark McGhee.
But Jackett avoided questions on whether Knight was indeed being shown the door for being an unsettling influence.
"I certainly think he can work harder and I certainly think my side, needs - without a doubt - to fight, to scrap and to work hard," he said. "There was some outstanding bits of quality on Saturday but also what I'm looking for is when we have to go to the Chesterfields with our tin hats and get those type of results.
"Where Leon comes into that, in the mix of personalities, I think the best thing for the club is that he finds pastures new - and I've told him that. I'm looking at the mix of my players, how they react and respond to each other. That is a big thing in any promotion side.
"Perhaps it was gamble to sign him in the first place but what he did at the end of last season he almost fired us into the Championship as well.
"With his goal-scoring record he will be sought after and we will be looking for a fee for him."
What Swansea will get is unknown, depending on whether other managers - rightly or wrongly - are put off by Knight's reputation or if a club find themselves a striker light. But Swansea would certainly be looking to recoup the money they paid, especially with the Seagulls due a sell-on percentage....
Western Mail
Staff Reporter, Western Mail - Leon Knight Responds
LEON KNIGHT last night expressed his shock after being sensationally placed on the transfer list yesterday.
Swansea City's top goalscorer was instructed he was no longer wanted at the club when he met manager Kenny Jackett for the first time since being told he wouldn't be travelling to Chesterfield for Saturday's League One clash.
The Swansea manager had insisted Knight's absence from the 18-man matchday squad was purely for footballing reasons.
But Jackett has now admitted it was Knight's attitude that has cost him his Swans career, claiming he could have worked harder for the team.
Last night a shocked Knight vehemently denied sparking any fights or causing a rift inside the Swans dressing room.
It's nothing to do with me or there being a ruckus," said a visibly shaken Knight when he spoke to the Western Mail just moments after being given the news by Jackett.
"I've heard a lot of things being said about there being fights or cliques being made in and around the dressing room.
"Everyone moans on the training pitch and I moan because I'm a winner and I want to win.
"I'm a big enough man to admit that sometimes on the training pitch I do say the wrong thing, or perhaps just things in the wrong way, but everything stays there.
"I'm too old for stuff like fights or anything like that. I've been involved in that kind of thing before, which everyone is well aware of, and I'm not looking to go back down that road.
"People aren't going to believe it's for footballing reasons, but that's what it is."
Knight's fantastic scoring record since his £125,000 move from Brighton in January will no doubt produce raised eyebrows at Jackett's decision.
With 19 goals in just 25 league and cup starts, the product of the Chelsea youth system had represented good value for money.
Knight's end-of-season goals fired Swansea into the League One play-off final last season and he is this term's top scorer with seven.
"I don't know what to think to be honest," said Knight. "I've been told it's for footballing reasons - he (Jackett) wants to try something new, I don't work hard enough and I moan too much basically.
"That's his opinion and everyone's entitled to their own. But I'm sure there's people who are surprised this has happened if they look at my goal record - and that's what's running through my head as well.
"Of course I'm disappointed it's ended like this but what can I say or do? I can't tell the manager how to do his job.
"If he wants to try something new and I haven't got a part to play in that then what can I say?
"The manager brought me here and I'm a goalscorer - nothing else but a goalscorer.
"People saying I'm not working hard enough, well there's different types of striker like Rory (Fallon) who will go back for corners and work a lot.
"But then you've got natural goalscorers - and I'm one of them.
"I could be quiet for 89 minutes then pop up in the 90th and score the winning goal.
"I'm one of them but obviously the gaffer doesn't want that sort of striker in the squad and that's why he's put me on the transfer list."
[Western Mail
Western Mail
Jackett cites Knight's lack of fight for decisionOct 17 2006
KENNY JACKETT pulled no punches yesterday as he explained his decision to place his top scorer on the transfer list.
But rather than for causing a scrap, it was Leon Knight's lack of fight that the Swans boss pointed to regarding his decision to cut the striker loose.
Some reports have suggested a half-time bust-up at Nottingham Forest last month involving Knight eventually culminated in the 24-year-old's omission from the Swans squad that travelled to Chesterfield on Saturday.
That, and a general unhappiness with his attitude, was thought to be behind Jackett's move to take the next step yesterday and make Knight available for transfer.
But Jackett backed the player by insisting there was no single incident that has caused the sudden end of Knight's Swansea career.
And, instead, Jackett claimed Knight's unwillingness to pull his weight when the going gets tough provoked yesterday's shock move.
"Leon is in a situation where the best thing for him and the club is that he goes to seek pastures new," said Jackett.
"The main reason, and I've told him, is that I think he can work harder.
"And for our side to get out of this division we need to work, we need to scrap and battle through and get results when perhaps we don't deserve them. Spirit and attitude get you out of this division.
"There's no one particular incident. It's nothing personal with me or Leon, I just feel it's the right thing for the club.
"It's not a bust up, not an individual thing, it's just my view on the whole time he's been here as opposed to one incident or argument with me."
Rumours began to fly at the weekend as to just why Jackett had decided to drop his top striker with a goal-scoring record in a Swansea shirt that cannot be faulted.
When a player with 19 goals in 25 starts is left out of a match-day 18 altogether, questions will be asked.
Jackett responded by citing football reasons for his absence and when the pair sat down to clear the air yesterday it became apparent the decision had been made to circulate Knight's name to rival bosses.
"He's very disappointed but after being left out of the squad he came to see me," said Jackett. "He wanted some sort of clear indication where his future lies - I said his future lies elsewhere and I'll be placing him on the transfer list.
"People will be surprised as he stands at the moment as the top scorer but I think it's the right decision. Otherwise I wouldn't do it.
"And yes, I'm disappointed with the way things have worked out because he's tremendously talented player. But he's one who I don't see with a future at Swansea City.
"You never say never but it is doubtful if you'll see him in a Swansea shirt and I think a nice clean break is the best thing for all concerned."
It was a shock to Knight himself that he will soon be leaving the Liberty, just as Jackett had shocked the opposition when he pounced to sign him back in January.
Regarded as a steal at £125,000, Jackett would have been well aware of the bad-boy reputation that accompanied the Londoner, his departure from Brighton prompted after a high-profile fall-out with manager Mark McGhee.
But Jackett avoided questions on whether Knight was indeed being shown the door for being an unsettling influence.
"I certainly think he can work harder and I certainly think my side, needs - without a doubt - to fight, to scrap and to work hard," he said. "There was some outstanding bits of quality on Saturday but also what I'm looking for is when we have to go to the Chesterfields with our tin hats and get those type of results.
"Where Leon comes into that, in the mix of personalities, I think the best thing for the club is that he finds pastures new - and I've told him that. I'm looking at the mix of my players, how they react and respond to each other. That is a big thing in any promotion side.
"Perhaps it was gamble to sign him in the first place but what he did at the end of last season he almost fired us into the Championship as well.
"With his goal-scoring record he will be sought after and we will be looking for a fee for him."
What Swansea will get is unknown, depending on whether other managers - rightly or wrongly - are put off by Knight's reputation or if a club find themselves a striker light. But Swansea would certainly be looking to recoup the money they paid, especially with the Seagulls due a sell-on percentage....
Western Mail
Staff Reporter, Western Mail - Leon Knight Responds
LEON KNIGHT last night expressed his shock after being sensationally placed on the transfer list yesterday.
Swansea City's top goalscorer was instructed he was no longer wanted at the club when he met manager Kenny Jackett for the first time since being told he wouldn't be travelling to Chesterfield for Saturday's League One clash.
The Swansea manager had insisted Knight's absence from the 18-man matchday squad was purely for footballing reasons.
But Jackett has now admitted it was Knight's attitude that has cost him his Swans career, claiming he could have worked harder for the team.
Last night a shocked Knight vehemently denied sparking any fights or causing a rift inside the Swans dressing room.
It's nothing to do with me or there being a ruckus," said a visibly shaken Knight when he spoke to the Western Mail just moments after being given the news by Jackett.
"I've heard a lot of things being said about there being fights or cliques being made in and around the dressing room.
"Everyone moans on the training pitch and I moan because I'm a winner and I want to win.
"I'm a big enough man to admit that sometimes on the training pitch I do say the wrong thing, or perhaps just things in the wrong way, but everything stays there.
"I'm too old for stuff like fights or anything like that. I've been involved in that kind of thing before, which everyone is well aware of, and I'm not looking to go back down that road.
"People aren't going to believe it's for footballing reasons, but that's what it is."
Knight's fantastic scoring record since his £125,000 move from Brighton in January will no doubt produce raised eyebrows at Jackett's decision.
With 19 goals in just 25 league and cup starts, the product of the Chelsea youth system had represented good value for money.
Knight's end-of-season goals fired Swansea into the League One play-off final last season and he is this term's top scorer with seven.
"I don't know what to think to be honest," said Knight. "I've been told it's for footballing reasons - he (Jackett) wants to try something new, I don't work hard enough and I moan too much basically.
"That's his opinion and everyone's entitled to their own. But I'm sure there's people who are surprised this has happened if they look at my goal record - and that's what's running through my head as well.
"Of course I'm disappointed it's ended like this but what can I say or do? I can't tell the manager how to do his job.
"If he wants to try something new and I haven't got a part to play in that then what can I say?
"The manager brought me here and I'm a goalscorer - nothing else but a goalscorer.
"People saying I'm not working hard enough, well there's different types of striker like Rory (Fallon) who will go back for corners and work a lot.
"But then you've got natural goalscorers - and I'm one of them.
"I could be quiet for 89 minutes then pop up in the 90th and score the winning goal.
"I'm one of them but obviously the gaffer doesn't want that sort of striker in the squad and that's why he's put me on the transfer list."
[Western Mail
Monday, October 16, 2006
Rowlands in "Team of the Week" (This Time Club Takes Notice!)
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Championship's "Football Team of the Week includes Martin Rowlands
Others in team include: Almost-QPRs: Preston Defender, Matthew Hill and Plymouth's Barry Hayles.
Coca Cola Championship
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - ROWLY'S REWARD
Saturday's two-goal hero Martin Rowlands has been named in the Football League Team of the Week.
The R's midfielder bagged his third and fourth goals of the season in the 3-3 draw with Norwich City at the weekend.
An unstoppable 20-yard free-kick gave Rangers the initiative on the stroke of half-time, before the 27 year-old popped up again in the second minute of second half stoppage time to salvage the R's a share of the spoils.
Rowly's bullet free-kick put the R's 2-1 up at half-time
Produced by the Press Association, the Teams of the Week feature the 11 top performing players from each division from this weekend's matches.
QPR Official Site
LEE COOK IN "TEAM OF THE WEEK" TWO WEEKS AGO
[Unfortunately, the QPR Official Site failed to take note of Lee Cook's inclusion in the Team of the Week two weeks ago!]
Championship's "Football Team of the Week includes Martin Rowlands
Others in team include: Almost-QPRs: Preston Defender, Matthew Hill and Plymouth's Barry Hayles.
Coca Cola Championship
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - ROWLY'S REWARD
Saturday's two-goal hero Martin Rowlands has been named in the Football League Team of the Week.
The R's midfielder bagged his third and fourth goals of the season in the 3-3 draw with Norwich City at the weekend.
An unstoppable 20-yard free-kick gave Rangers the initiative on the stroke of half-time, before the 27 year-old popped up again in the second minute of second half stoppage time to salvage the R's a share of the spoils.
Rowly's bullet free-kick put the R's 2-1 up at half-time
Produced by the Press Association, the Teams of the Week feature the 11 top performing players from each division from this weekend's matches.
QPR Official Site
LEE COOK IN "TEAM OF THE WEEK" TWO WEEKS AGO
[Unfortunately, the QPR Official Site failed to take note of Lee Cook's inclusion in the Team of the Week two weeks ago!]
QPR vs Norwich - Still Further Reports
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Independent/Jonathan Wilson - October 16, 2006
Queen's Park Rangers 3 Norwich City 3: Grant faces sizeable task
When Peter Grant was a midfielder at Celtic, ostentatious gesticulation was such a part of his game that he acquired the nickname "Peter the Pointer". As he watched the Norwich side he takes formal charge of today collapse as they defended a 3-2 lead in the final minutes, it must have occurred to him that a lot more pointing will be in order in the weeks to come.
Not that Queen's Park Rangers were much better at the back. Purists would have despaired of a game liberally sprinkled with goals long before the fourth official raised his board to announce five minutes of injury time, but it was then that panic gripped Norwich. John Gregory spoke of resilience, but the truth is that QPR preserved their unbeaten record under him largely because Norwich seemed paralysed by the prospect of a first away win of the season.
A long ball, a half-blocked shot, was followed by Martin Rowlands, picking up the rebound and squeezing in his shot at the near post from a narrow angle. It was all very messy, very avoidable and very predictable. It is that lack of confidence Grant will have to address. Craig Fleming, who played with Grant at Carrow Road in the late 1990s, believes he can. "He was definitely management material. He was an organiser," he said.
Organisation was almost entirely lacking on Saturday. First, Darren Huckerby was untended to give Norwich the lead, then Jimmy Smith was left in space to equalise. Rowlands thumped in a free-kick to give the home side a half-time advantage, but Dion Dublin tipped things back Norwich's way as he exploited a static defence.
Only six minutes were left when Rob Earnshaw converted a penalty awarded for Zesh Rehmann's needless tug on Huckerby, but that was still enough time for QPR to find an equaliser.
Goals: Huckerby (4) 0-1; Smith (24) 1-1; Rowlands (45) 2-1; Dublin (72) 2-2: Earnshaw (pen 84) 2-3; Rowlands (90) 3-3.
Queen's Park Rangers (4-4-2): P Jones; Lomas (Rose, 90), Rehman, Stewart, Bignot; Rowlands, Bircham, Smith, Cook; R Jones (Gallen, 77), Blackstock. Substitutes not used: Royce (gk), Ward, Bailey.
Norwich City (4-3-3): Gallacher; Colin, Fleming, Shackell, Drury; Etuhu, Robinson (Dublin, 67), Hughes (Safri, 75); Croft (McVeigh, 87), Earnshaw, Huckerby. Substitutes not used: Camp (gk), R Jarvis
Referee: Andre Mariner (W Midlands).
Booked: QPR Rehman, Smith, Lomas; Norwich Shackell.
Man of the match: Rowlands.
Attendance: 14,793.
Independent
TELEGRAPH - Stewart Jackson
Queens Park Rangers (2) 3 Norwich City (1) 3
Only Craig Fleming knows whether he was planning to invite former Norwich team-mate Peter Grant to play in his testimonial at the end of the season, but the defender will certainly feel obliged to find room for him now.
Fleming joined Norwich in August 1997, the same month as Grant. While Fleming has stayed, the Scot moved on after two seasons and has now returned to succeed Nigel Worthington as manager. What Grant made of Saturday's goal-fest from his seat in the directors' box is anyone's guess, but Fleming is confident the new manager has what it takes to turn things around for Norwich.
"He was definitely management material," Fleming said. "You have people in the dressing room who you think might go on to do something and Peter was one. He's hard-working, with great enthusiasm for the game."
With Norwich having conceded 10 goals in the past three games, defence will be the priority for Grant, who was most recently assistant manager at West Ham, when he takes up his post this morning.
Caretaker manager Martin Hunter had a perfect start to his sole game in charge when Darren Huckerby gave Norwich an early lead, but by the break they were behind. First Jimmy Smith, on loan from Chelsea, capped his first start for QPR with a drive from 25 yards, then Martin Rowlands scored from even further out.
Substitute Dion Dublin levelled and Norwich looked to have secured their first away win when Robert Earnshaw converted a penalty. A roar went up around Loftus Road with the announcement of five minutes' added time, during which Rowlands' goal finished off a thrilling game.
Telegraph
THE TIMES - Norwich give Grant food for thought
By Alyson Rudd - Queens Park Rangers 3 Norwich City 3
JOHN GREGORY CALLED HIS NEW club’s schedule “mental” and if they are involved in many more matches such as this, they may implode. But then, as he pointed out, if everything was perfect at Queens Park Rangers, he would not have been asked to take over as manager.
And that must have been what Peter Grant was thinking as he watched from the directors’ box, having just been appointed Norwich City’s new manager. Grant was not in charge and his role was reduced to that of smiling a good deal, having his back slapped and being shielded from the media.
But Grant, who has left West Ham United, where he was Alan Pardew’s assistant, was presented with a neat summary of what he has inherited from Nigel Worthington. Norwich were, by turns, mature, naive, experienced, exciting and laughable.
According to Craig Fleming, Norwich’s long-serving centre half, Grant will be able to toughen up Norwich. Grant played in the same Norwich team as Fleming eight years ago, when Grant may have impressed Norwich fans with his uncompromising style, but did not gain the status befitting a legend.
“A lot of the time big names are not the answer,” Fleming said. “It does not always guarantee success. I was speaking to a big mate of mine, ‘Aidy’ (Adrian) Boothroyd at Watford, who goes to show exactly what can be done if you get the right man with the right ambition. Peter’s got a better pedigree than Aidy. Aidy hadn’t really worked at first-team level. They (Norwich) want somebody with a bit of pizzazz, a bit of drive, and that is Peter.
“He’ll be pushing us on, trying to get us into those play-off positions. He had a great working partnership with Pardew and in many ways had more to do with it (West Ham’s rise) because first-team coaches have more to do with the day-to-day running of the team.”
Norwich managed to resemble a team who should be in the Premiership and one who could be relegated. They took the lead through Darren Huckerby, who used his sprightly style to sneak through the QPR defence to beat Paul Jones after four minutes. Jones, who had returned from international duty with Wales with the chip on his shoulder of having let in five goals against Slovakia, must have felt a terrible sense of déjà vu.
But although he was beaten twice more on Saturday, he ended the match winning plaudits from his manager for a couple of superb one-handed saves that kept the home team in the hunt for victory.
QPR equalised through Jimmy Smith’s lovely strike. Smith is on loan from Chelsea and will probably stay at Loftus Road beyond his one-month deal, not least because, as Gregory pointed out, he is unlikely to oust, in the short term, Frank Lampard or Michael Ballack. Shortly before the half-time whistle, Martin Rowlands put QPR ahead, but no one in the stadium believed that could be a decisive goal.
Sure enough, the second half was even more open. Robert Earnshaw tormented the home team, while the Norwich defence were troubled by Gregory’s youthful forwards. Martin Hunter, the Norwich caretaker manager, responded by adding a dash of experience with the introduction of Dion Dublin.
Five minutes later, Dublin, who signed from Celtic this summer, scored the goal of the game as a swift, neat build-up left Andy Hughes free to cross into the path of Dublin’s run. Earnshaw scored from the penalty spot to give Norwich the lead again after Zesh Rehman had brought down Huckerby.
A matter of seconds after a huge roar greeted the announcement that there would be five minutes of added time, Rowlands grabbed the final equaliser. “Anybody in this league can beat anybody,” Hunt said, but that never looked likely during this confrontation. The draw was a fair result.
Fleming said: “All the teams that win this league have to be gritty, hard to be beat.” So it is fair to conclude that Gregory and Grant have their work cut out.
Times
Independent/Jonathan Wilson - October 16, 2006
Queen's Park Rangers 3 Norwich City 3: Grant faces sizeable task
When Peter Grant was a midfielder at Celtic, ostentatious gesticulation was such a part of his game that he acquired the nickname "Peter the Pointer". As he watched the Norwich side he takes formal charge of today collapse as they defended a 3-2 lead in the final minutes, it must have occurred to him that a lot more pointing will be in order in the weeks to come.
Not that Queen's Park Rangers were much better at the back. Purists would have despaired of a game liberally sprinkled with goals long before the fourth official raised his board to announce five minutes of injury time, but it was then that panic gripped Norwich. John Gregory spoke of resilience, but the truth is that QPR preserved their unbeaten record under him largely because Norwich seemed paralysed by the prospect of a first away win of the season.
A long ball, a half-blocked shot, was followed by Martin Rowlands, picking up the rebound and squeezing in his shot at the near post from a narrow angle. It was all very messy, very avoidable and very predictable. It is that lack of confidence Grant will have to address. Craig Fleming, who played with Grant at Carrow Road in the late 1990s, believes he can. "He was definitely management material. He was an organiser," he said.
Organisation was almost entirely lacking on Saturday. First, Darren Huckerby was untended to give Norwich the lead, then Jimmy Smith was left in space to equalise. Rowlands thumped in a free-kick to give the home side a half-time advantage, but Dion Dublin tipped things back Norwich's way as he exploited a static defence.
Only six minutes were left when Rob Earnshaw converted a penalty awarded for Zesh Rehmann's needless tug on Huckerby, but that was still enough time for QPR to find an equaliser.
Goals: Huckerby (4) 0-1; Smith (24) 1-1; Rowlands (45) 2-1; Dublin (72) 2-2: Earnshaw (pen 84) 2-3; Rowlands (90) 3-3.
Queen's Park Rangers (4-4-2): P Jones; Lomas (Rose, 90), Rehman, Stewart, Bignot; Rowlands, Bircham, Smith, Cook; R Jones (Gallen, 77), Blackstock. Substitutes not used: Royce (gk), Ward, Bailey.
Norwich City (4-3-3): Gallacher; Colin, Fleming, Shackell, Drury; Etuhu, Robinson (Dublin, 67), Hughes (Safri, 75); Croft (McVeigh, 87), Earnshaw, Huckerby. Substitutes not used: Camp (gk), R Jarvis
Referee: Andre Mariner (W Midlands).
Booked: QPR Rehman, Smith, Lomas; Norwich Shackell.
Man of the match: Rowlands.
Attendance: 14,793.
Independent
TELEGRAPH - Stewart Jackson
Queens Park Rangers (2) 3 Norwich City (1) 3
Only Craig Fleming knows whether he was planning to invite former Norwich team-mate Peter Grant to play in his testimonial at the end of the season, but the defender will certainly feel obliged to find room for him now.
Fleming joined Norwich in August 1997, the same month as Grant. While Fleming has stayed, the Scot moved on after two seasons and has now returned to succeed Nigel Worthington as manager. What Grant made of Saturday's goal-fest from his seat in the directors' box is anyone's guess, but Fleming is confident the new manager has what it takes to turn things around for Norwich.
"He was definitely management material," Fleming said. "You have people in the dressing room who you think might go on to do something and Peter was one. He's hard-working, with great enthusiasm for the game."
With Norwich having conceded 10 goals in the past three games, defence will be the priority for Grant, who was most recently assistant manager at West Ham, when he takes up his post this morning.
Caretaker manager Martin Hunter had a perfect start to his sole game in charge when Darren Huckerby gave Norwich an early lead, but by the break they were behind. First Jimmy Smith, on loan from Chelsea, capped his first start for QPR with a drive from 25 yards, then Martin Rowlands scored from even further out.
Substitute Dion Dublin levelled and Norwich looked to have secured their first away win when Robert Earnshaw converted a penalty. A roar went up around Loftus Road with the announcement of five minutes' added time, during which Rowlands' goal finished off a thrilling game.
Telegraph
THE TIMES - Norwich give Grant food for thought
By Alyson Rudd - Queens Park Rangers 3 Norwich City 3
JOHN GREGORY CALLED HIS NEW club’s schedule “mental” and if they are involved in many more matches such as this, they may implode. But then, as he pointed out, if everything was perfect at Queens Park Rangers, he would not have been asked to take over as manager.
And that must have been what Peter Grant was thinking as he watched from the directors’ box, having just been appointed Norwich City’s new manager. Grant was not in charge and his role was reduced to that of smiling a good deal, having his back slapped and being shielded from the media.
But Grant, who has left West Ham United, where he was Alan Pardew’s assistant, was presented with a neat summary of what he has inherited from Nigel Worthington. Norwich were, by turns, mature, naive, experienced, exciting and laughable.
According to Craig Fleming, Norwich’s long-serving centre half, Grant will be able to toughen up Norwich. Grant played in the same Norwich team as Fleming eight years ago, when Grant may have impressed Norwich fans with his uncompromising style, but did not gain the status befitting a legend.
“A lot of the time big names are not the answer,” Fleming said. “It does not always guarantee success. I was speaking to a big mate of mine, ‘Aidy’ (Adrian) Boothroyd at Watford, who goes to show exactly what can be done if you get the right man with the right ambition. Peter’s got a better pedigree than Aidy. Aidy hadn’t really worked at first-team level. They (Norwich) want somebody with a bit of pizzazz, a bit of drive, and that is Peter.
“He’ll be pushing us on, trying to get us into those play-off positions. He had a great working partnership with Pardew and in many ways had more to do with it (West Ham’s rise) because first-team coaches have more to do with the day-to-day running of the team.”
Norwich managed to resemble a team who should be in the Premiership and one who could be relegated. They took the lead through Darren Huckerby, who used his sprightly style to sneak through the QPR defence to beat Paul Jones after four minutes. Jones, who had returned from international duty with Wales with the chip on his shoulder of having let in five goals against Slovakia, must have felt a terrible sense of déjà vu.
But although he was beaten twice more on Saturday, he ended the match winning plaudits from his manager for a couple of superb one-handed saves that kept the home team in the hunt for victory.
QPR equalised through Jimmy Smith’s lovely strike. Smith is on loan from Chelsea and will probably stay at Loftus Road beyond his one-month deal, not least because, as Gregory pointed out, he is unlikely to oust, in the short term, Frank Lampard or Michael Ballack. Shortly before the half-time whistle, Martin Rowlands put QPR ahead, but no one in the stadium believed that could be a decisive goal.
Sure enough, the second half was even more open. Robert Earnshaw tormented the home team, while the Norwich defence were troubled by Gregory’s youthful forwards. Martin Hunter, the Norwich caretaker manager, responded by adding a dash of experience with the introduction of Dion Dublin.
Five minutes later, Dublin, who signed from Celtic this summer, scored the goal of the game as a swift, neat build-up left Andy Hughes free to cross into the path of Dublin’s run. Earnshaw scored from the penalty spot to give Norwich the lead again after Zesh Rehman had brought down Huckerby.
A matter of seconds after a huge roar greeted the announcement that there would be five minutes of added time, Rowlands grabbed the final equaliser. “Anybody in this league can beat anybody,” Hunt said, but that never looked likely during this confrontation. The draw was a fair result.
Fleming said: “All the teams that win this league have to be gritty, hard to be beat.” So it is fair to conclude that Gregory and Grant have their work cut out.
Times
Loan Signing Complete - Chelsea's Mancienne
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QPR OFFICIAL SITE LOAN RANGER
QPR have completed the one month loan signing of Chelsea defender Michael Mancienne.
The 18 year-old put pen to paper at Harlington on Monday morning, ahead of the Championship fixture against Derby County on Tuesday (8.00pm).
"He is a fantastic prospect,'' gaffer John Gregory told qpr.co.uk.
"Michael will go straight into the squad on Tuesday and it's a great chance for the QPR fans to see one of Chelsea's - and England's - brightest young talents in action.''
The teenager, who is a product of the Chelsea academy scheme and has captained England at Under-18 level, joined Frank Lampard, John Terry et al on the Blues' first team pre-season tour of the United States.
Mancienne was an unused substitute for Chelsea in the 2006 Community Shield match versus Liverpool and the first two Premiership games of the season versus Manchester City and Blackburn Rovers.
QPR
QPR OFFICIAL SITE LOAN RANGER
QPR have completed the one month loan signing of Chelsea defender Michael Mancienne.
The 18 year-old put pen to paper at Harlington on Monday morning, ahead of the Championship fixture against Derby County on Tuesday (8.00pm).
"He is a fantastic prospect,'' gaffer John Gregory told qpr.co.uk.
"Michael will go straight into the squad on Tuesday and it's a great chance for the QPR fans to see one of Chelsea's - and England's - brightest young talents in action.''
The teenager, who is a product of the Chelsea academy scheme and has captained England at Under-18 level, joined Frank Lampard, John Terry et al on the Blues' first team pre-season tour of the United States.
Mancienne was an unused substitute for Chelsea in the 2006 Community Shield match versus Liverpool and the first two Premiership games of the season versus Manchester City and Blackburn Rovers.
QPR
Sunday, October 15, 2006
News About "Ex-QPRs" on Saturday
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At Luton, Richard Langley was "rested."
Luton Today: "The game saw Town reshuffle with Stephen O'Leary coming in for the rested Richard Langley. [Mike] Newell said: "We decided to give Richard a rest. He's not been playing with the same confidence he was in the first few games so we thought we'd give some of the others a chance.
Luton Today
Ian Evatt played for Blackpool...but Marcus Bean was not on the bench and might be going out on loan.
At Luton, Richard Langley was "rested."
Luton Today: "The game saw Town reshuffle with Stephen O'Leary coming in for the rested Richard Langley. [Mike] Newell said: "We decided to give Richard a rest. He's not been playing with the same confidence he was in the first few games so we thought we'd give some of the others a chance.
Luton Today
Ian Evatt played for Blackpool...but Marcus Bean was not on the bench and might be going out on loan.
Saturday, October 14, 2006
QPR vs Norwich - Further Reports & Comments
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BBC- QPR & NORWICH MANAGERS'COMMENTS
QPR manager John Gregory:
"We gifted our three goals, which is something that was becoming a habit here.
"If everything had been perfect, they wouldn't have brought me here in the first place - but the players showed great spirit."
Norwich caretaker boss Martin Hunter on the decision to add five minutes of injury time:
"I asked the fourth official if he was counting the time on a sundial.
"The five minutes gave the home crowd a lift. But there are some proud players in that dressing room, and we showed more steel today.
"The division is very tight. No-one will run away with it this season."
BBC
INDEPENDENT - QPR 3 Norwich City 3: Rowlands ruins Hunter's brief reign
By Jonathan Wilson at Loftus Road
A mayfly, the TV ad says, having a life span of only 24 hours, tries to make the most of every second. Martin Hunter, similarly, lived life to the full in his one game in charge of Norwich before Peter Grant takes over as Nigel Worthington's full-time successor tomorrow.
"Frustrating," was Hunter's one-word summary, but that was far from the full story.
"It was the old end-to-end football, to use the cliché," he added. "A great one for the spectators, but it was horrible sat on the bench. There were some very good pieces of play and some poor defending."
That pattern was evident as early as the fourth minute, as Lee Croft touched Dickson Etuhu's pass on to Darren Huckerby, who calmly tucked his finish under Paul Jones. Having conceded five while playing for Wales against Slovakia last Saturday, the keeper would have been forgiven for fearing another embarrassing afternoon, but he made a superb save plunging to his right to keep out a Rob Earnshaw header six minutes later, and that seemed to spark QPR into life.
Jimmy Smith equalised midway through the half, cleverly dropping off as Norwich's back four retreated and sidefooting a firm finish after gathering Lee Cook's pass in space just outside the area. Martin Rowlands then thumped in a free-kick to put the home side ahead in first-half injury time.
The introduction of the 37-year-old Dion Dublin turned things back Norwich's way, the veteran - who eight years ago was signed for Aston Villa by the QPR manager, John Gregory - levelling from an Andy Hughes cut-back with 18 minutes remaining. When Zesh Rehmann then hauled down Huckerby to earn a penalty that Rob Earnshaw converted, Norwich were dreaming of a first away win of the season.
Hunter bafflingly spoke of them having shown more "steel" than previously this season, but the announcement of five minutes of injury time induced panic. QPR swept forward, a half-blocked shot fell for Rowlands, and his first-time effort from a narrow angle squirted in off Paul Gallagher to extend Gregory's unbeaten start to life at Loftus Road to three. Independent
SUNDAY TIMES - QPR 3 Norwich City 3: Norwich squanders lead
Barry Flatman at Loftus Road
Anyone looking for a perfect illustration in the chasm of quality between the Premiership and Championship need look no further than this error strewn draw. However a week after experiencing the sort of humiliation which might drive lesser 39 year-olds directly into retirement, no blame could possibly be attributed to the ill-fated Paul Jones.
True the veteran Welshman conceded another three goals to add to the five scored by the Slovak Republic that will be lodged prominently in his conscience for the rest of his life. But all could be attributed to the inept defensive qualities of the men playing in front of him and if not for two morale boosting saves from international colleague Robert Earnshaw, he could again be looking at the sort of scoreline to promote more nightmares.
Norwich’s newly appointed manager Peter Grant has much on which to ponder before addressing the players tomorrow afternoon; not less the fact they twice squandered a lead and have still to win away in the league this season. But as Martin Hunter, caretaker for just one match and unsure what the future holds pointed out: “The two defining moments of the match were both wonderful saves from Paul Jones.”
QPR manager John Gregory, unbeaten in three matches since taking charge but by his own admission fortunate to pondering on a point concurred. But he had sympathy for Jones who was dropped from the Wales side that rebounded to beat Cyprus on Wednesday. “I put my arm around him when he came back on Thursday and had previously been on the phone to him,” said Gregory. “I assured him he would be playing today “He did very well for us. There was nothing he could do about any of the goal and we left him exposed for all of them.”
Only three minutes had elapsed when a deft touch by Lee Croft exposed the immobility of central defenders Zesh Rehman and Damion Stewart and allowed Darren Huckerby the simplest of chances to sidefoot a shot past an appalled and distinctly helpless Jones.
But the keeper’s stoicism was illustrated as he made a spectacular reflex stop from Earnshaw as the little striker was allowed immeasurable space in the penalty area for a free header from Croft’s cross. Early in the second half Earnshaw eluded his markers again and hit a rising right footed drive that was palmed over the crossbar.
In between QPR had snatched the lead with Jimmy Smith, loaned by Chelsea, scoring with a vicious 20 yard volley after neat play by Lee Cook and Martin Rowland following up with an equally well struck right footed drive to connect with Marc Bircham’s free kick.
Gregory seemed set for a third win in as many games until 37 year-old Dion Dublin was introduced as substitute and within four minutes had began and finished a neat move that again mocked QPR’s defending. Then Rehman made an indisputably bad day worse when he wrestled Huckerby to the floor and this time Earnshaw finally got the better of his Welsh compatriot with penalty.
The sight of an additional time board that showed five minutes was sufficient inspiration for QPR to fight back again and Rowlands took a chance with an angled drive from wide on the right and Paul Gallagher could only fumble the shot into the net at the near post. The length of the pitch distant stood Jones, magnanimous to the last, looking on with a mixture of happiness and sympathy.
Queens Park Rangers: P Jones, Lomas, Rehman, Stewart, Bignot, Rowlands, Bircham, Smith, Cook, R Jones, Blackstock
Norwich: Gallacher, Colin, Fleming, Shackell, Drury, Etuhu, Robinson, Hughes, Croft, Earnshaw, Huckerby Sunday Times
SUNDAY MIRROR RANGERS SNATCH A SHARE Ian Gibb At Loftus Road
WHAT a difference a week makes. Rangers keeper Paul Jones trudged from the Millennium Stadium pitch humiliated after his nightmare display in Wales's 5-1 defeat by Slovakia.
Yet the 39-year-old departed Loftus Road yesterday a hero after vital saves helped QPR salvage a precious point.
Jones clawed away a Rob Earnshaw header then turned another effort from his compatriot over the bar.
But it took Martin Rowlands' late second goal to earn a point against a Norwich side managed for the first and only time by caretaker Martin Hunter, before Peter Grant takes over tomorrow.
QPR boss John Gregory said: "Paul made two great saves to keep us in it.
"I just had a word when he came back on Thursday and told him he was starting today. I wanted to end any doubts because in our last two games he has done nothing wrong."
On a day of crazy defending, Rangers went behind when Darren Huckerby was left alone in the fourth minute to tuck the ball under Jones.
But Jimmy Smith, a 19-year-old midfielder on loan from Chelsea, hit a spectacular 24th-minute equaliser.
Then Rowlands fired a free-kick through the Norwich wall to make it 2-1 just before half-time.
Veteran Dion Dublin started and finished a brilliant 72nd-minute move before rolling in the equaliser. And six minutes from time, Zech Rahman tripped Huckerby in the box - Earnshaw scored from the spot.
But in added time Rowlands squeezed home an angled drive.
HOW THEY RATED
QPR - Jones 7, Lomas 5 (Rose 5), Rehman 4, Stewart 6, Bignot 7, ROWLANDS 8, Smith 7, Bircham 7, Cook 7, Blackstock 6, Jones 7 (Gallen 6).
MANAGER Gregory 6
NORWICH - Gallagher 6, Colin 6, Fleming 6, Shackell 6, Drury 5, Croft 6 (McVeigh 5), Hughes 6 (Safri 5), Robinson 6 (Dublin 7), Etuhu 7, Huckerby 8, Earnshaw 7.
MANAGER Hunter 7
REFEREE A Marinner 6
MAN OF THE MATCH
MARTIN ROWLANDS
Two goals, including the injury-time point-saver
Mirror
PEOPLE - GOOD ROW SUITS GREGORY IN END By Tony Stevens
PETER GRANT looked on as his new team Norwich grabbed a share of the spoils in this six-goal thriller.
Just days after he replaced Nigel Worthington as manager, the Canaries looked a different team to the tame outfit thumped 4-1 at home by Burnley a fortnight ago.
They took the lead after four minutes when Darren Huckerby caught the home defence cold to slot home a Dickson Etuhu pass.
But QPR are a changed team too under John Gregory, and after two wins out of two prior to this game, the new manager has given the Londoners belief. This showed as they fought back throughout the rest of the first half to be in front by the end of it.
Gregory's only signing so far, Jimmy Smith - on a month's loan from Chelsea - scored the equaliser with a first-time shot from the edge of the box on 24 minutes.
At the heart of most of Rangers' hard work was winger Martin Rowlands, and he was rewarded with the second goal on 45 minutes, unleashing an unstoppable free-kick from 20 yards.
Gregory's men could not keep the momentum up in the second half, though, and Dion Dublin's 72nd-minute equaliser was followed by a Robert Earnshaw penalty six minutes from time.
Grant would not have been happy to see Rowlands equalise in the dying seconds, but must have been encouraged by the improvement.
QPR: P Jones 7 - Lomas 6 (Rose, 90mins), Stewart 7, Rehman 5, Bignot 6 - *ROWLANDS 9 - Smith 8, Bircham 7, Cook 8 - R Jones 7 (Gallen, 77mins), Blackstock 8.
NORWICH: Gallagher 8 - Colin 7, *FLEMING 9, Shackell 8, Drury 6 - Croft 7 (McVeigh, 87mins), Hughes 5 (Safri, 75mins), Robinson 6 (Dublin, 67mins, 7), Etuhu 8, Huckerby 7 - Earnshaw 7. Ref: A Marriner 6.
People
BBC- QPR & NORWICH MANAGERS'COMMENTS
QPR manager John Gregory:
"We gifted our three goals, which is something that was becoming a habit here.
"If everything had been perfect, they wouldn't have brought me here in the first place - but the players showed great spirit."
Norwich caretaker boss Martin Hunter on the decision to add five minutes of injury time:
"I asked the fourth official if he was counting the time on a sundial.
"The five minutes gave the home crowd a lift. But there are some proud players in that dressing room, and we showed more steel today.
"The division is very tight. No-one will run away with it this season."
BBC
INDEPENDENT - QPR 3 Norwich City 3: Rowlands ruins Hunter's brief reign
By Jonathan Wilson at Loftus Road
A mayfly, the TV ad says, having a life span of only 24 hours, tries to make the most of every second. Martin Hunter, similarly, lived life to the full in his one game in charge of Norwich before Peter Grant takes over as Nigel Worthington's full-time successor tomorrow.
"Frustrating," was Hunter's one-word summary, but that was far from the full story.
"It was the old end-to-end football, to use the cliché," he added. "A great one for the spectators, but it was horrible sat on the bench. There were some very good pieces of play and some poor defending."
That pattern was evident as early as the fourth minute, as Lee Croft touched Dickson Etuhu's pass on to Darren Huckerby, who calmly tucked his finish under Paul Jones. Having conceded five while playing for Wales against Slovakia last Saturday, the keeper would have been forgiven for fearing another embarrassing afternoon, but he made a superb save plunging to his right to keep out a Rob Earnshaw header six minutes later, and that seemed to spark QPR into life.
Jimmy Smith equalised midway through the half, cleverly dropping off as Norwich's back four retreated and sidefooting a firm finish after gathering Lee Cook's pass in space just outside the area. Martin Rowlands then thumped in a free-kick to put the home side ahead in first-half injury time.
The introduction of the 37-year-old Dion Dublin turned things back Norwich's way, the veteran - who eight years ago was signed for Aston Villa by the QPR manager, John Gregory - levelling from an Andy Hughes cut-back with 18 minutes remaining. When Zesh Rehmann then hauled down Huckerby to earn a penalty that Rob Earnshaw converted, Norwich were dreaming of a first away win of the season.
Hunter bafflingly spoke of them having shown more "steel" than previously this season, but the announcement of five minutes of injury time induced panic. QPR swept forward, a half-blocked shot fell for Rowlands, and his first-time effort from a narrow angle squirted in off Paul Gallagher to extend Gregory's unbeaten start to life at Loftus Road to three. Independent
SUNDAY TIMES - QPR 3 Norwich City 3: Norwich squanders lead
Barry Flatman at Loftus Road
Anyone looking for a perfect illustration in the chasm of quality between the Premiership and Championship need look no further than this error strewn draw. However a week after experiencing the sort of humiliation which might drive lesser 39 year-olds directly into retirement, no blame could possibly be attributed to the ill-fated Paul Jones.
True the veteran Welshman conceded another three goals to add to the five scored by the Slovak Republic that will be lodged prominently in his conscience for the rest of his life. But all could be attributed to the inept defensive qualities of the men playing in front of him and if not for two morale boosting saves from international colleague Robert Earnshaw, he could again be looking at the sort of scoreline to promote more nightmares.
Norwich’s newly appointed manager Peter Grant has much on which to ponder before addressing the players tomorrow afternoon; not less the fact they twice squandered a lead and have still to win away in the league this season. But as Martin Hunter, caretaker for just one match and unsure what the future holds pointed out: “The two defining moments of the match were both wonderful saves from Paul Jones.”
QPR manager John Gregory, unbeaten in three matches since taking charge but by his own admission fortunate to pondering on a point concurred. But he had sympathy for Jones who was dropped from the Wales side that rebounded to beat Cyprus on Wednesday. “I put my arm around him when he came back on Thursday and had previously been on the phone to him,” said Gregory. “I assured him he would be playing today “He did very well for us. There was nothing he could do about any of the goal and we left him exposed for all of them.”
Only three minutes had elapsed when a deft touch by Lee Croft exposed the immobility of central defenders Zesh Rehman and Damion Stewart and allowed Darren Huckerby the simplest of chances to sidefoot a shot past an appalled and distinctly helpless Jones.
But the keeper’s stoicism was illustrated as he made a spectacular reflex stop from Earnshaw as the little striker was allowed immeasurable space in the penalty area for a free header from Croft’s cross. Early in the second half Earnshaw eluded his markers again and hit a rising right footed drive that was palmed over the crossbar.
In between QPR had snatched the lead with Jimmy Smith, loaned by Chelsea, scoring with a vicious 20 yard volley after neat play by Lee Cook and Martin Rowland following up with an equally well struck right footed drive to connect with Marc Bircham’s free kick.
Gregory seemed set for a third win in as many games until 37 year-old Dion Dublin was introduced as substitute and within four minutes had began and finished a neat move that again mocked QPR’s defending. Then Rehman made an indisputably bad day worse when he wrestled Huckerby to the floor and this time Earnshaw finally got the better of his Welsh compatriot with penalty.
The sight of an additional time board that showed five minutes was sufficient inspiration for QPR to fight back again and Rowlands took a chance with an angled drive from wide on the right and Paul Gallagher could only fumble the shot into the net at the near post. The length of the pitch distant stood Jones, magnanimous to the last, looking on with a mixture of happiness and sympathy.
Queens Park Rangers: P Jones, Lomas, Rehman, Stewart, Bignot, Rowlands, Bircham, Smith, Cook, R Jones, Blackstock
Norwich: Gallacher, Colin, Fleming, Shackell, Drury, Etuhu, Robinson, Hughes, Croft, Earnshaw, Huckerby Sunday Times
SUNDAY MIRROR RANGERS SNATCH A SHARE Ian Gibb At Loftus Road
WHAT a difference a week makes. Rangers keeper Paul Jones trudged from the Millennium Stadium pitch humiliated after his nightmare display in Wales's 5-1 defeat by Slovakia.
Yet the 39-year-old departed Loftus Road yesterday a hero after vital saves helped QPR salvage a precious point.
Jones clawed away a Rob Earnshaw header then turned another effort from his compatriot over the bar.
But it took Martin Rowlands' late second goal to earn a point against a Norwich side managed for the first and only time by caretaker Martin Hunter, before Peter Grant takes over tomorrow.
QPR boss John Gregory said: "Paul made two great saves to keep us in it.
"I just had a word when he came back on Thursday and told him he was starting today. I wanted to end any doubts because in our last two games he has done nothing wrong."
On a day of crazy defending, Rangers went behind when Darren Huckerby was left alone in the fourth minute to tuck the ball under Jones.
But Jimmy Smith, a 19-year-old midfielder on loan from Chelsea, hit a spectacular 24th-minute equaliser.
Then Rowlands fired a free-kick through the Norwich wall to make it 2-1 just before half-time.
Veteran Dion Dublin started and finished a brilliant 72nd-minute move before rolling in the equaliser. And six minutes from time, Zech Rahman tripped Huckerby in the box - Earnshaw scored from the spot.
But in added time Rowlands squeezed home an angled drive.
HOW THEY RATED
QPR - Jones 7, Lomas 5 (Rose 5), Rehman 4, Stewart 6, Bignot 7, ROWLANDS 8, Smith 7, Bircham 7, Cook 7, Blackstock 6, Jones 7 (Gallen 6).
MANAGER Gregory 6
NORWICH - Gallagher 6, Colin 6, Fleming 6, Shackell 6, Drury 5, Croft 6 (McVeigh 5), Hughes 6 (Safri 5), Robinson 6 (Dublin 7), Etuhu 7, Huckerby 8, Earnshaw 7.
MANAGER Hunter 7
REFEREE A Marinner 6
MAN OF THE MATCH
MARTIN ROWLANDS
Two goals, including the injury-time point-saver
Mirror
PEOPLE - GOOD ROW SUITS GREGORY IN END By Tony Stevens
PETER GRANT looked on as his new team Norwich grabbed a share of the spoils in this six-goal thriller.
Just days after he replaced Nigel Worthington as manager, the Canaries looked a different team to the tame outfit thumped 4-1 at home by Burnley a fortnight ago.
They took the lead after four minutes when Darren Huckerby caught the home defence cold to slot home a Dickson Etuhu pass.
But QPR are a changed team too under John Gregory, and after two wins out of two prior to this game, the new manager has given the Londoners belief. This showed as they fought back throughout the rest of the first half to be in front by the end of it.
Gregory's only signing so far, Jimmy Smith - on a month's loan from Chelsea - scored the equaliser with a first-time shot from the edge of the box on 24 minutes.
At the heart of most of Rangers' hard work was winger Martin Rowlands, and he was rewarded with the second goal on 45 minutes, unleashing an unstoppable free-kick from 20 yards.
Gregory's men could not keep the momentum up in the second half, though, and Dion Dublin's 72nd-minute equaliser was followed by a Robert Earnshaw penalty six minutes from time.
Grant would not have been happy to see Rowlands equalise in the dying seconds, but must have been encouraged by the improvement.
QPR: P Jones 7 - Lomas 6 (Rose, 90mins), Stewart 7, Rehman 5, Bignot 6 - *ROWLANDS 9 - Smith 8, Bircham 7, Cook 8 - R Jones 7 (Gallen, 77mins), Blackstock 8.
NORWICH: Gallagher 8 - Colin 7, *FLEMING 9, Shackell 8, Drury 6 - Croft 7 (McVeigh, 87mins), Hughes 5 (Safri, 75mins), Robinson 6 (Dublin, 67mins, 7), Etuhu 8, Huckerby 7 - Earnshaw 7. Ref: A Marriner 6.
People
QPR Draw 3-3 at home to Norwich with an Injury-Time Equalizer...Reports & Comments
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QPR OFFICIAL SITEMartin Rowlands bagged a last gasp equaliser, as honours finished even in a six-goal thriller at Loftus Road.
Rowlands bagged his second goal of the contest in the second minute of added time, as the R's fought back twice to claim a point against the managerless Canaries.
Robert Earnshaw looked like breaking QPR hearts when he put Norwich 3-2 in front from the penalty spot with just eight minutes remaining, after Dion Dublin had earlier put the visitors on terms with his first Norwich goal.
In truth, a draw was a fair reflection, at the end of a truly absorbing contest in W12.
Despite trailing early on, Rangers led 2-1 at the break courtesy of a stunning strike from debutant Jimmy Smith and a trademark Rowlands free-kick.
Darren Huckerby bagged the opening goal of the game on three minutes, finishing with aplomb from 15-yards.
Undeterred, the R's were on terms midway through the half when Smith capped a promising home debut with a textbook strike from the edge of the box.
Both sides went in search of a second goal in a lively end to the half, yet despite the best efforts of Robert Earnshaw at one end, and Dexter Blackstock at the other, it seemed destined to remain 1-1.
But Rowlands had other ideas, smashing home a fearsome free-kick to put the R's in front on the stroke of half-time.
John Gregory handed Chelsea loanee Smith his first start in a QPR jersey, while Steve Lomas replaced Matthew Rose at right-back.
In his first and in all likelihood last match in Caretaker charge of the Canaries, Martin Hunter was able to recall Club Captain Adam Drury from injury, but there was no place in the starting XI for veteran front-man Dion Dublin.
Norwich and Hunter got off to the dream start inside three minutes, when Huckerby latched onto an innocuous through ball before sliding the ball under the exposed Paul Jones.
Undeterred, Rangers' first shot on target arrived 60 seconds later, but debutant Smith failed to generate enough power to trouble Canaries custodian Paul Gallagher.
Buoyed by the goal, Norwich continued to pose the greater attacking threat, with Huckerby's in-swinging corner forcing Jones to punch clear from under his own bar.
Jones was in the right place at the right time again on 11 minutes, flinging himself full stretch to his right to tip round Earnshaw's goal-bound header.
It was a truly stunning stop from the veteran keeper, as the Welshman instantly repaid the faith shown in him by his manager despite his International woes last weekend.
The R's grew in stature as the half wore on and when Damion Stewart found Cook with a searching cross-field ball on 22 minutes, the R's winger lashed a speculative 25-yard drive wide of Gallagher's right hand post.
The goal the R's improved performance deserved duly arrived on 24 minutes and it was a Chelsea player who got it!
Cook's sublime lay-off fell perfectly into the path of Smith, who delivered a composed finish from the edge of the 18-yard box.
It was a classic strike from the teenage midfielder, with comparisons to his Chelsea team-mate Frank Lampard being made almost instantaneously in the press box.
As an entertaining half drew to a conclusion, livewire Earnshaw curled a free-kick inches over the bar, while Blackstock thrashed a ferocious left foot volley inches over the bar with Gallagher seemingly beaten all ends up.
But there was still time for another twist in the tale after Blackstock was fouled on the edge of the box by Jason Shackell.
Cook rolled the ball into the path of Rowlands, who smashed an unstoppable right footed strike past the despairing dive of Gallagher.
Rangers picked up from where they left off at the start of the second half and after Zesh Rehman fed Rowlands in acres of space on the right wing, the hardworking midfielder called Gallagher into action with a superb save with his feet.
The action was relentless and after Rangers had vocal appeals for a spot-kick waved away when Smith's blockbuster volley appeared to strike Shackell's hand, Norwich broke at pace and Jones denied his Welsh compatriot Earnshaw with another stunning finger-tip save.
Smith had yet another penalty appeal turned down on 52 minutes, when his close tricky completely fooled a Norwich defender, only for referee Mr Marriner to wave away his claims.
Lee Croft squandered arguably the easiest chance he'll ever get as a professional footballer 60 seconds later, somehow scuffing the ball wide from two yards out, with the goal at his mercy.
If Paul Robinson felt bad after his error against Croatia in midweek, Croft was surely waiting for the ground to swallow him up.
Smith's action-packed debut took another twist when he rather harshly received a yellow card for handball, but thankfully for the R's, Earnshaw's resultant free-kick flew well wide of Jones' left hand post.
A fourth goal was in the offing and when Ray Jones out-jumped Gallagher, only a sensational goal-line clearance from Jurgen Colin denied the teenage front-man his third goal in as many matches.
Rangers were playing some superb passing football at times, to the delight of a season's best crowd of 14,793.
Hunter threw caution to the wind midway through the half, sending on Dublin in place of Carl Robinson and reverting to a 4-4-2 formation.
But it was Rangers who continued to throw men forward, with Jones just failing to connect with Blackstock's nod down after more wizardry from Cook.
Yet despite seeing the R's create the better goalscoring opportunities, it was Norwich who bagged the fourth goal of an amazing contest on 71 minutes.
Former Manchester United and Coventry striker Dublin arrived bang on cue to finish a superb passing move from the visitors, to the delight of the 3,000 travelling Canary fans.
Disaster struck for the hosts eight minutes from time though when Rehman was adjudged to have sent Huckerby tumbling to ground inside the box.
Earnshaw stepped up to convert, as all thoughts harped back to the Canaries 3-2 victory at Carrow Road last year.
But Rangers are a resilient outfit under the new gaffer and when the ball broke to Rowlands at an acute angle 10-yards from goal, the midfielder beat Gallagher at his near post to send the home fans into raptures.
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Rehman, Stewart, Lomas (Rose 90), Cook, Bircham, Smith, Rowlands, Blackstock, R Jones (Gallen 76).
Subs: Royce, Ward, Bailey.
Scorers: Smith 24, Rowlands 45 & 90
Bookings: Rehman 32, Smith 56, Lomas 80
Norwich City: Gallagher, Drury, Shackell, Fleming, Huckerby, Croft (McVeigh 86), Earnshaw, Hughes (Safri 73), Etuhu, Colin, Robinson (Dublin 66).
Subs: Camp, Jarvis.
Scorers: Huckerby 3, Dublin 71, Earnshaw 82
Bookings: Shackell 45
Attendance: 14, 793
Referee: A M Marriner
QPR Official
JOHN GREGORY'S PERSPECTIVE - QPR OFFICIAL SITE
John Gregory paid tribute to debutant Jimmy Smith in the wake of the 3-3 draw with Norwich City.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk after seeing his side come from behind twice to grab a share of the spoils in a six-goal thriller, Gregory said: "I'm delighted for Jimmy. To score on your debut is fantastic, but there's so much more to come from him.
"The fans have seen why I brought him here today. He's box-to-box, works exceptionally hard and has great ability in the final third.''
Despite dropping his first points as R's boss, Gregory believes the positives far outweighed the negatives, at the end of what he described as a 'classic' match.
"There's a hell of a lot of positives to take, even though we've only got a point.
"It was a great game for the fans, but no so good for me and Martin Hunter.
"It was a classic - end-to-end, great goals, mistakes. But I'm just delighted that we've come out of it with a point and maintained our unbeaten run.
"I have to give great credit to the players. They put in an enormous amount of effort and energy and deserved the end reward.''
Gregory continued: "We did exceptionally well to come from behind twice, but I felt we gave the ball away all too easily in the 15 or 20 minute spell we dominated at the start of the second half.
"If we'd have taken our chances there and then, I'd be talking about another win here, instead of a point.
"It's by no means a bad point against Norwich. You take one look at their squad and collectively it's worth about £30-40 million which is staggering. There's lot of players there that know what it's about at this level.
Gregory also took time out ot praise goalkeeper Paul Jones, adding: "Jonah's had a tough few days but he showed what he's all about with some of those saves.''
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
NORWICH OFFICIAL SITE
QPR 3-3 NORWICH CITY
AN injury time goal from Martin Rowlands denied City their first away league win of the season.
City had been defending a 3-2 lead in injury time, given to them just seven minutes earlier thanks to Robert Earnshaw's penalty.
But with five minutes of injury time signalled moments earlier, Martin Rowlands managed to squeeze in an equaliser at Gallacher's near post to bring back memories of the game at Southend last month.
All the same, it was a hugely entertaining game for both sets of fans on a day when a new era was ushered in at Carrow Road.
City had taken the lead as early as the fourth minute when Huckerby went through to finish neatly from close range.
But QPR went into the break ahead, first Jimmy Smith smashing home before Martin Rowlands struck a free kick on the stroke of half time.
After the break a switch to 4-4-2 proved inspired, with substitute Dion Dublin levelling things after Andy Hughes' neat pull-back.
And Earnshaw's penalty looked to have won it for City, but it was not to be.
City caretaker boss Martin Hunter took charge of the Canaries for the first and last time at Loftus Road with the Canaries in desperate search of three points to revitalise their stuttering campaign.
With new manager Peter Grant watching from the stands, Hunter reverted to a 4-3-3 formation, with Huckerby, Croft and Earnshaw at the sharp end.
Jason Shackell was recalled in place of the suspended Gary Doherty, with Andy Hughes taking the place of Youssef Safri, who had to be content with a place on the bench after recovering from a calf strain.
Skipper Adam Drury was back in the side after his ankle operation in place of on-loan Everton youngster Patrick Boyle.
It was a sprightly start for City and they took the lead in the fourth minute.
The chance came from a slick passing move involving Drury, Robinson and Etuhu, with the latter firing the ball into the feet of Croft on the edge of the area.
Darren Huckerby
GOAL: Hucks celebrates his strike
His touch fell to Huckerby on the overlap on the edge of the area and he took one touch before firing beneath Paul Jones for his third of the season.
It was a great start for City and the perfect way to signal a new era for the Club.
The goal certainly seemed to lift Norwich, backed by a vociferous away following, which was some 2,800 strong.
Croft in particular was causing all sorts of problems for the Rangers' defence, with his trickery creating plenty of pressure in the opposition half.
And on 12 minutes only a brilliant save by Jones kept the scoreline at 1-0.
Huckerby's mis-hit corner from the right was cleared back to his feet, and he whipped in a great ball with his left foot which found Earnshaw unmarked 12 yards out.
His header looked to be heading for the bottom corner, but the Welsh international dived down to his right brilliantly to push it to safety.
It wasn't all one way traffic though, with the home side looking particularly dangerous from set plays.
On 16 minutes Lee Cook whipped in a great ball from the right, but Gallacher was on his toes well to grab the ball off the head of Blackstock as he homed in.
On 20 minutes City had appeals for a penalty waved away after a swift counter-attack following a Rangers' corner.
Huckerby brought the ball clear down the left before finding Earnshaw 20 yards from goal.
He neatly flicked the ball back into the path of Croft, and while he was certainly brought to the ground by Rehman, the former City loan man clearly took the ball, with the home fans furious with appeals to win a spot kick.
Two minutes later and QPR came within a few yards of grabbing an equaliser.
Lee Cook had already enjoyed limited success against the City defence, and he cut inside Drury before launching a wicked shot, which arched over the angle of post and bar.
But the let off proved short-lived as they levelled things in the 24th minute.
Jimmy Smith was awarded far too much space on the edge of the area, and he wasted no time in picking his spot beyond the despairing dive of Gallacher.
It was now the home side in the ascendancy, and on 28 minutes they wasted a gift-wrapped opportunity to take the lead.
Gallacher came out and punched unconvincingly at a hopeful hoof forward, with the ball falling straight at the feet of Cook just inside the area.
But the winger scuffed his effort horribly, allowing a desperate City defence to hack clear.
On 33 minutes Rehman earned himself the first card of the afternoon for hauling down Earnshaw just outside the D.
The striker dusted himself down to flick the resulting free kick over the wall and onto the roof of Jones' net.
On 40 minutes the home side came within a whisker of taking the lead.
A corner from the right was only cleared to the edge of the box, and Dexter Blackstock struck a fierce right-foot volley which flew inches over.
As the half drew to a close Shackell was given a yellow card after knocking down Blackstock on the edge of the area as he threatened to spring clear.
And it proved a costly free kick to give away as the ball was rolled sideways to Martin Rowland who fired a right-foot shot through the wall and into the back of the net.
It was a gutting way to finish the half for City, who had put in a bright display in the first 45 minutes.
Half time: QPR 2-1 Norwich City
Both teams kicked off the second half unchanged, with City looking to get back on level terms following the sucker punch seconds before the interval.
But it was the home side who created the first clear opening of the second period on 47 minutes.
Rowlands turned Drury inside-out on the left and created a shooting chance for himself inside the box.
Fortunately, Gallacher stood up well at his near post and deflected the ball to safety with his legs.
Two minutes later and it was his opposite number producing heroics.
After QPR had appeals for handball in the box waved away, a long clearance was picked up by Earnshaw just inside the box.
He flicked the ball over the head of Damien Stewart before unleashing a volley which his Welsh international team mate blocked at full stretch.
But on 54 minutes Croft wasted an amazing opportunity to equalise with one of the misses of the season.
Huckerby's low ball into the box was perfect for the former Manchester City man, and after nicking the ball around Jones he seemed to have a simple tap-in.
But he inexplicably shanked his left-foot toe-poke wide of the near post when a goal seemed a certainty.
It was certainly a moment Croft would want to forget - harsh considering he had been one of Norwich's brightest performers so far in the match.
On 58 minutes Smith was booked for a deliberate handball on the edge of the area, blocking a shot by Carl Robinson.
From the free-kick, Earnshaw curled a shot around the wall but just wide of Jones' left post.
On 62 minutes Jurgen Colin had to be alert to clear off his own goal line. Gallacher again was unconvincing coming off his line, weakly punching the ball straight to Stewart.
His header was goal-bound, but Colin had kept his position from an earlier corner and nodded the ball to safety.
On 67 minutes Hunter made his first change, switching to 4-4-2 and replacing Robinson with Dion Dublin.
And four minutes later the change paid dividends - with the former Coventry star bagging his first goal for City.
The chance came after Earnshaw broke the offside trap, darting into space down the right.
He played the ball infield to Croft, who found Hughes overlapping. And his cut-back was inch perfect for Dublin, who steamed in to smash Norwich level from 10-yards out.
It was to be Hughes' last major contribution, with the midfielder hobbling off on 74 minutes to be replaced by Youssef Safri.
City now had their backs up and on 78 minutes Huckerby embarked on a typical 70 yard run, finishing with a low shot straight into Jones' arms.
But on 84 minutes CIty were handed the perfect chance to regain the lead when they were awarded a penalty.
Huckerby had skipped past Rehman on the byline and looked set to pull the ball back to Earnshaw for a simple tap-in.
But Rehman simply dragged down Huckerby as he looked to make the pass, giving the referee no option but to point to the spot.
And up stepped Earnshaw to place the ball beyond the grasp of Jones to claim his ninth goal in 11 games.
With three minutes left City made their final change, replacing Croft with Paul McVeigh.
But with five minutes injury time signalled QPR were handed a lifeline - and they grasped it with both hands.
The angle looked to be tight as Rowlands collected the ball near the byline. But his near post shot somehow evaded the grasp of Gallacher and bobbled over the line to provide a sting in the tale for City.
Full time: QPR 3-3 Norwich City
Norwich
NORWICH COMMENT
HUNTER DISAPPOINTED WITH DRAW
CITY caretaker boss Martin Hunter's first and last game in charge of Norwich City was an eventful one as he watched his players play out an eventful 3-3 draw.
Only a last-gasp equaliser from Martin Rowlands denied City their first league win away from home this season after goals from Darren Huckerby, Dion Dublin and Robert Earnshaw had fired City into a 3-2 lead.
But Rowlands provided a sting in the tale for the travelling faithful, and Hunter - who will be relieved from his managerial duties by Peter Grant on Monday - said they should have been celebrating three points.
"There was plenty of passion but we are not pleased with the final result," he said.
"Some parts of the game, particularly the first 20 minutes were very good. We were back to what we know we can do. But we need to do it for longer periods of time. However, it's a step in the right direction."
And Hunter said, for him, there were two crucial moments which influenced the game.
"For me, there were two critical moments," he said. "The two saves from Paul Jones - the one from Earnie's header in the first half and the one from point blank range in the second.
"Overall, I'm pleased. But there's obviously a lot of work to be do.
Norwich
BBC - QPR 3-3 Norwich
Martin Rowlands struck in injury time to earn a point for QPR in a six-goal thriller at Loftus Road.
Darren Huckerby's early strike put Norwich ahead before on-loan Chelsea midfielder Jimmy Smith and Rowlands netted to give Rangers hope.
Substitute Dion Dublin's 71st-minute effort squared the game again before Robert Earnshaw put Norwich ahead again with a late penalty.
But Rowlands then netted again from an acute angle to snatch a late QPR point.
BBC
Sporting Life QPR 3 Norwich 3
By Tom Collomosse, PA Sport
Martin Rowlands struck in injury time to earn a point for QPR and ensure a thrilling game ended all square.
The winger's double - he also gave Rangers a 2-1 lead with a late strike in the first half - denied Martin Hunter a win in what is likely to be his only game as Norwich caretaker-manager.
Norwich are almost certain to appoint Peter Grant as Nigel Worthington's full-time successor on Monday, but it was caretaker-boss Hunter who took charge today - and he was so close to claiming a victory.
Darren Huckerby's early strike had put Norwich in front before goals from on-loan Chelsea midfielder Jimmy Smith and Rowlands turned the match in QPR's favour.
But substitute Dion Dublin's 71st-minute effort squared the game again, and Robert Earnshaw put Norwich ahead again with a late penalty before Rowlands' stoppage-time intervention.
Norwich took the lead after only three minutes - with a helping hand from the Rangers defence.
Distracted by the presence of Robert Earnshaw, Zesh Rehman failed to deal with Carl Robinson's through-ball, allowing Huckerby to collect it and slide the ball under Paul Jones.
The tide turned when Lee Cook, Rangers' most inventive player, played a superbly disguised pass from the left, allowing Smith time and space to equalise impressively from the edge of the penalty area in the 24th minute.
Then, in stoppage time, Marc Bircham took a short free-kick to Rowlands, who smashed it beyond Paul Gallacher from 20 yards to put Rangers in front.
Rowlands, who was having an excellent match, almost scored his second in the 48th minute, but Gallacher saved with his legs after the Rangers midfielder had tricked his way past Adam Drury and struck an angled shot.
Gallacher was having problems with the high ball and, after he had failed to claim another ball, Jason Shackell was forced to nod Ray Jones' looping header off the line.
Shortly before that, Lee Croft somehow shot wide of an open goal after he had rounded Paul Jones - to the delight of the home fans.
In the 67th minute, Norwich brought on Dublin - and the former England striker equalised four minutes later, his calm finish ending a brilliant four-man move involving Earnshaw, Croft and Andy Hughes.
Norwich looked to have claimed the points in the 83rd minute when Zesh Rehman pulled back Huckerby inside the box, and Earnshaw guided his spot-kick just beyond Paul Jones' dive.
But with the Norwich defence ragged, Rowlands beat Gallacher at his near post with a low drive from an acute angle in stoppage time.
Sporting Life
QPR OFFICIAL SITEMartin Rowlands bagged a last gasp equaliser, as honours finished even in a six-goal thriller at Loftus Road.
Rowlands bagged his second goal of the contest in the second minute of added time, as the R's fought back twice to claim a point against the managerless Canaries.
Robert Earnshaw looked like breaking QPR hearts when he put Norwich 3-2 in front from the penalty spot with just eight minutes remaining, after Dion Dublin had earlier put the visitors on terms with his first Norwich goal.
In truth, a draw was a fair reflection, at the end of a truly absorbing contest in W12.
Despite trailing early on, Rangers led 2-1 at the break courtesy of a stunning strike from debutant Jimmy Smith and a trademark Rowlands free-kick.
Darren Huckerby bagged the opening goal of the game on three minutes, finishing with aplomb from 15-yards.
Undeterred, the R's were on terms midway through the half when Smith capped a promising home debut with a textbook strike from the edge of the box.
Both sides went in search of a second goal in a lively end to the half, yet despite the best efforts of Robert Earnshaw at one end, and Dexter Blackstock at the other, it seemed destined to remain 1-1.
But Rowlands had other ideas, smashing home a fearsome free-kick to put the R's in front on the stroke of half-time.
John Gregory handed Chelsea loanee Smith his first start in a QPR jersey, while Steve Lomas replaced Matthew Rose at right-back.
In his first and in all likelihood last match in Caretaker charge of the Canaries, Martin Hunter was able to recall Club Captain Adam Drury from injury, but there was no place in the starting XI for veteran front-man Dion Dublin.
Norwich and Hunter got off to the dream start inside three minutes, when Huckerby latched onto an innocuous through ball before sliding the ball under the exposed Paul Jones.
Undeterred, Rangers' first shot on target arrived 60 seconds later, but debutant Smith failed to generate enough power to trouble Canaries custodian Paul Gallagher.
Buoyed by the goal, Norwich continued to pose the greater attacking threat, with Huckerby's in-swinging corner forcing Jones to punch clear from under his own bar.
Jones was in the right place at the right time again on 11 minutes, flinging himself full stretch to his right to tip round Earnshaw's goal-bound header.
It was a truly stunning stop from the veteran keeper, as the Welshman instantly repaid the faith shown in him by his manager despite his International woes last weekend.
The R's grew in stature as the half wore on and when Damion Stewart found Cook with a searching cross-field ball on 22 minutes, the R's winger lashed a speculative 25-yard drive wide of Gallagher's right hand post.
The goal the R's improved performance deserved duly arrived on 24 minutes and it was a Chelsea player who got it!
Cook's sublime lay-off fell perfectly into the path of Smith, who delivered a composed finish from the edge of the 18-yard box.
It was a classic strike from the teenage midfielder, with comparisons to his Chelsea team-mate Frank Lampard being made almost instantaneously in the press box.
As an entertaining half drew to a conclusion, livewire Earnshaw curled a free-kick inches over the bar, while Blackstock thrashed a ferocious left foot volley inches over the bar with Gallagher seemingly beaten all ends up.
But there was still time for another twist in the tale after Blackstock was fouled on the edge of the box by Jason Shackell.
Cook rolled the ball into the path of Rowlands, who smashed an unstoppable right footed strike past the despairing dive of Gallagher.
Rangers picked up from where they left off at the start of the second half and after Zesh Rehman fed Rowlands in acres of space on the right wing, the hardworking midfielder called Gallagher into action with a superb save with his feet.
The action was relentless and after Rangers had vocal appeals for a spot-kick waved away when Smith's blockbuster volley appeared to strike Shackell's hand, Norwich broke at pace and Jones denied his Welsh compatriot Earnshaw with another stunning finger-tip save.
Smith had yet another penalty appeal turned down on 52 minutes, when his close tricky completely fooled a Norwich defender, only for referee Mr Marriner to wave away his claims.
Lee Croft squandered arguably the easiest chance he'll ever get as a professional footballer 60 seconds later, somehow scuffing the ball wide from two yards out, with the goal at his mercy.
If Paul Robinson felt bad after his error against Croatia in midweek, Croft was surely waiting for the ground to swallow him up.
Smith's action-packed debut took another twist when he rather harshly received a yellow card for handball, but thankfully for the R's, Earnshaw's resultant free-kick flew well wide of Jones' left hand post.
A fourth goal was in the offing and when Ray Jones out-jumped Gallagher, only a sensational goal-line clearance from Jurgen Colin denied the teenage front-man his third goal in as many matches.
Rangers were playing some superb passing football at times, to the delight of a season's best crowd of 14,793.
Hunter threw caution to the wind midway through the half, sending on Dublin in place of Carl Robinson and reverting to a 4-4-2 formation.
But it was Rangers who continued to throw men forward, with Jones just failing to connect with Blackstock's nod down after more wizardry from Cook.
Yet despite seeing the R's create the better goalscoring opportunities, it was Norwich who bagged the fourth goal of an amazing contest on 71 minutes.
Former Manchester United and Coventry striker Dublin arrived bang on cue to finish a superb passing move from the visitors, to the delight of the 3,000 travelling Canary fans.
Disaster struck for the hosts eight minutes from time though when Rehman was adjudged to have sent Huckerby tumbling to ground inside the box.
Earnshaw stepped up to convert, as all thoughts harped back to the Canaries 3-2 victory at Carrow Road last year.
But Rangers are a resilient outfit under the new gaffer and when the ball broke to Rowlands at an acute angle 10-yards from goal, the midfielder beat Gallagher at his near post to send the home fans into raptures.
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Rehman, Stewart, Lomas (Rose 90), Cook, Bircham, Smith, Rowlands, Blackstock, R Jones (Gallen 76).
Subs: Royce, Ward, Bailey.
Scorers: Smith 24, Rowlands 45 & 90
Bookings: Rehman 32, Smith 56, Lomas 80
Norwich City: Gallagher, Drury, Shackell, Fleming, Huckerby, Croft (McVeigh 86), Earnshaw, Hughes (Safri 73), Etuhu, Colin, Robinson (Dublin 66).
Subs: Camp, Jarvis.
Scorers: Huckerby 3, Dublin 71, Earnshaw 82
Bookings: Shackell 45
Attendance: 14, 793
Referee: A M Marriner
QPR Official
JOHN GREGORY'S PERSPECTIVE - QPR OFFICIAL SITE
John Gregory paid tribute to debutant Jimmy Smith in the wake of the 3-3 draw with Norwich City.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk after seeing his side come from behind twice to grab a share of the spoils in a six-goal thriller, Gregory said: "I'm delighted for Jimmy. To score on your debut is fantastic, but there's so much more to come from him.
"The fans have seen why I brought him here today. He's box-to-box, works exceptionally hard and has great ability in the final third.''
Despite dropping his first points as R's boss, Gregory believes the positives far outweighed the negatives, at the end of what he described as a 'classic' match.
"There's a hell of a lot of positives to take, even though we've only got a point.
"It was a great game for the fans, but no so good for me and Martin Hunter.
"It was a classic - end-to-end, great goals, mistakes. But I'm just delighted that we've come out of it with a point and maintained our unbeaten run.
"I have to give great credit to the players. They put in an enormous amount of effort and energy and deserved the end reward.''
Gregory continued: "We did exceptionally well to come from behind twice, but I felt we gave the ball away all too easily in the 15 or 20 minute spell we dominated at the start of the second half.
"If we'd have taken our chances there and then, I'd be talking about another win here, instead of a point.
"It's by no means a bad point against Norwich. You take one look at their squad and collectively it's worth about £30-40 million which is staggering. There's lot of players there that know what it's about at this level.
Gregory also took time out ot praise goalkeeper Paul Jones, adding: "Jonah's had a tough few days but he showed what he's all about with some of those saves.''
QPR OFFICIAL SITE
NORWICH OFFICIAL SITE
QPR 3-3 NORWICH CITY
AN injury time goal from Martin Rowlands denied City their first away league win of the season.
City had been defending a 3-2 lead in injury time, given to them just seven minutes earlier thanks to Robert Earnshaw's penalty.
But with five minutes of injury time signalled moments earlier, Martin Rowlands managed to squeeze in an equaliser at Gallacher's near post to bring back memories of the game at Southend last month.
All the same, it was a hugely entertaining game for both sets of fans on a day when a new era was ushered in at Carrow Road.
City had taken the lead as early as the fourth minute when Huckerby went through to finish neatly from close range.
But QPR went into the break ahead, first Jimmy Smith smashing home before Martin Rowlands struck a free kick on the stroke of half time.
After the break a switch to 4-4-2 proved inspired, with substitute Dion Dublin levelling things after Andy Hughes' neat pull-back.
And Earnshaw's penalty looked to have won it for City, but it was not to be.
City caretaker boss Martin Hunter took charge of the Canaries for the first and last time at Loftus Road with the Canaries in desperate search of three points to revitalise their stuttering campaign.
With new manager Peter Grant watching from the stands, Hunter reverted to a 4-3-3 formation, with Huckerby, Croft and Earnshaw at the sharp end.
Jason Shackell was recalled in place of the suspended Gary Doherty, with Andy Hughes taking the place of Youssef Safri, who had to be content with a place on the bench after recovering from a calf strain.
Skipper Adam Drury was back in the side after his ankle operation in place of on-loan Everton youngster Patrick Boyle.
It was a sprightly start for City and they took the lead in the fourth minute.
The chance came from a slick passing move involving Drury, Robinson and Etuhu, with the latter firing the ball into the feet of Croft on the edge of the area.
Darren Huckerby
GOAL: Hucks celebrates his strike
His touch fell to Huckerby on the overlap on the edge of the area and he took one touch before firing beneath Paul Jones for his third of the season.
It was a great start for City and the perfect way to signal a new era for the Club.
The goal certainly seemed to lift Norwich, backed by a vociferous away following, which was some 2,800 strong.
Croft in particular was causing all sorts of problems for the Rangers' defence, with his trickery creating plenty of pressure in the opposition half.
And on 12 minutes only a brilliant save by Jones kept the scoreline at 1-0.
Huckerby's mis-hit corner from the right was cleared back to his feet, and he whipped in a great ball with his left foot which found Earnshaw unmarked 12 yards out.
His header looked to be heading for the bottom corner, but the Welsh international dived down to his right brilliantly to push it to safety.
It wasn't all one way traffic though, with the home side looking particularly dangerous from set plays.
On 16 minutes Lee Cook whipped in a great ball from the right, but Gallacher was on his toes well to grab the ball off the head of Blackstock as he homed in.
On 20 minutes City had appeals for a penalty waved away after a swift counter-attack following a Rangers' corner.
Huckerby brought the ball clear down the left before finding Earnshaw 20 yards from goal.
He neatly flicked the ball back into the path of Croft, and while he was certainly brought to the ground by Rehman, the former City loan man clearly took the ball, with the home fans furious with appeals to win a spot kick.
Two minutes later and QPR came within a few yards of grabbing an equaliser.
Lee Cook had already enjoyed limited success against the City defence, and he cut inside Drury before launching a wicked shot, which arched over the angle of post and bar.
But the let off proved short-lived as they levelled things in the 24th minute.
Jimmy Smith was awarded far too much space on the edge of the area, and he wasted no time in picking his spot beyond the despairing dive of Gallacher.
It was now the home side in the ascendancy, and on 28 minutes they wasted a gift-wrapped opportunity to take the lead.
Gallacher came out and punched unconvincingly at a hopeful hoof forward, with the ball falling straight at the feet of Cook just inside the area.
But the winger scuffed his effort horribly, allowing a desperate City defence to hack clear.
On 33 minutes Rehman earned himself the first card of the afternoon for hauling down Earnshaw just outside the D.
The striker dusted himself down to flick the resulting free kick over the wall and onto the roof of Jones' net.
On 40 minutes the home side came within a whisker of taking the lead.
A corner from the right was only cleared to the edge of the box, and Dexter Blackstock struck a fierce right-foot volley which flew inches over.
As the half drew to a close Shackell was given a yellow card after knocking down Blackstock on the edge of the area as he threatened to spring clear.
And it proved a costly free kick to give away as the ball was rolled sideways to Martin Rowland who fired a right-foot shot through the wall and into the back of the net.
It was a gutting way to finish the half for City, who had put in a bright display in the first 45 minutes.
Half time: QPR 2-1 Norwich City
Both teams kicked off the second half unchanged, with City looking to get back on level terms following the sucker punch seconds before the interval.
But it was the home side who created the first clear opening of the second period on 47 minutes.
Rowlands turned Drury inside-out on the left and created a shooting chance for himself inside the box.
Fortunately, Gallacher stood up well at his near post and deflected the ball to safety with his legs.
Two minutes later and it was his opposite number producing heroics.
After QPR had appeals for handball in the box waved away, a long clearance was picked up by Earnshaw just inside the box.
He flicked the ball over the head of Damien Stewart before unleashing a volley which his Welsh international team mate blocked at full stretch.
But on 54 minutes Croft wasted an amazing opportunity to equalise with one of the misses of the season.
Huckerby's low ball into the box was perfect for the former Manchester City man, and after nicking the ball around Jones he seemed to have a simple tap-in.
But he inexplicably shanked his left-foot toe-poke wide of the near post when a goal seemed a certainty.
It was certainly a moment Croft would want to forget - harsh considering he had been one of Norwich's brightest performers so far in the match.
On 58 minutes Smith was booked for a deliberate handball on the edge of the area, blocking a shot by Carl Robinson.
From the free-kick, Earnshaw curled a shot around the wall but just wide of Jones' left post.
On 62 minutes Jurgen Colin had to be alert to clear off his own goal line. Gallacher again was unconvincing coming off his line, weakly punching the ball straight to Stewart.
His header was goal-bound, but Colin had kept his position from an earlier corner and nodded the ball to safety.
On 67 minutes Hunter made his first change, switching to 4-4-2 and replacing Robinson with Dion Dublin.
And four minutes later the change paid dividends - with the former Coventry star bagging his first goal for City.
The chance came after Earnshaw broke the offside trap, darting into space down the right.
He played the ball infield to Croft, who found Hughes overlapping. And his cut-back was inch perfect for Dublin, who steamed in to smash Norwich level from 10-yards out.
It was to be Hughes' last major contribution, with the midfielder hobbling off on 74 minutes to be replaced by Youssef Safri.
City now had their backs up and on 78 minutes Huckerby embarked on a typical 70 yard run, finishing with a low shot straight into Jones' arms.
But on 84 minutes CIty were handed the perfect chance to regain the lead when they were awarded a penalty.
Huckerby had skipped past Rehman on the byline and looked set to pull the ball back to Earnshaw for a simple tap-in.
But Rehman simply dragged down Huckerby as he looked to make the pass, giving the referee no option but to point to the spot.
And up stepped Earnshaw to place the ball beyond the grasp of Jones to claim his ninth goal in 11 games.
With three minutes left City made their final change, replacing Croft with Paul McVeigh.
But with five minutes injury time signalled QPR were handed a lifeline - and they grasped it with both hands.
The angle looked to be tight as Rowlands collected the ball near the byline. But his near post shot somehow evaded the grasp of Gallacher and bobbled over the line to provide a sting in the tale for City.
Full time: QPR 3-3 Norwich City
Norwich
NORWICH COMMENT
HUNTER DISAPPOINTED WITH DRAW
CITY caretaker boss Martin Hunter's first and last game in charge of Norwich City was an eventful one as he watched his players play out an eventful 3-3 draw.
Only a last-gasp equaliser from Martin Rowlands denied City their first league win away from home this season after goals from Darren Huckerby, Dion Dublin and Robert Earnshaw had fired City into a 3-2 lead.
But Rowlands provided a sting in the tale for the travelling faithful, and Hunter - who will be relieved from his managerial duties by Peter Grant on Monday - said they should have been celebrating three points.
"There was plenty of passion but we are not pleased with the final result," he said.
"Some parts of the game, particularly the first 20 minutes were very good. We were back to what we know we can do. But we need to do it for longer periods of time. However, it's a step in the right direction."
And Hunter said, for him, there were two crucial moments which influenced the game.
"For me, there were two critical moments," he said. "The two saves from Paul Jones - the one from Earnie's header in the first half and the one from point blank range in the second.
"Overall, I'm pleased. But there's obviously a lot of work to be do.
Norwich
BBC - QPR 3-3 Norwich
Martin Rowlands struck in injury time to earn a point for QPR in a six-goal thriller at Loftus Road.
Darren Huckerby's early strike put Norwich ahead before on-loan Chelsea midfielder Jimmy Smith and Rowlands netted to give Rangers hope.
Substitute Dion Dublin's 71st-minute effort squared the game again before Robert Earnshaw put Norwich ahead again with a late penalty.
But Rowlands then netted again from an acute angle to snatch a late QPR point.
BBC
Sporting Life QPR 3 Norwich 3
By Tom Collomosse, PA Sport
Martin Rowlands struck in injury time to earn a point for QPR and ensure a thrilling game ended all square.
The winger's double - he also gave Rangers a 2-1 lead with a late strike in the first half - denied Martin Hunter a win in what is likely to be his only game as Norwich caretaker-manager.
Norwich are almost certain to appoint Peter Grant as Nigel Worthington's full-time successor on Monday, but it was caretaker-boss Hunter who took charge today - and he was so close to claiming a victory.
Darren Huckerby's early strike had put Norwich in front before goals from on-loan Chelsea midfielder Jimmy Smith and Rowlands turned the match in QPR's favour.
But substitute Dion Dublin's 71st-minute effort squared the game again, and Robert Earnshaw put Norwich ahead again with a late penalty before Rowlands' stoppage-time intervention.
Norwich took the lead after only three minutes - with a helping hand from the Rangers defence.
Distracted by the presence of Robert Earnshaw, Zesh Rehman failed to deal with Carl Robinson's through-ball, allowing Huckerby to collect it and slide the ball under Paul Jones.
The tide turned when Lee Cook, Rangers' most inventive player, played a superbly disguised pass from the left, allowing Smith time and space to equalise impressively from the edge of the penalty area in the 24th minute.
Then, in stoppage time, Marc Bircham took a short free-kick to Rowlands, who smashed it beyond Paul Gallacher from 20 yards to put Rangers in front.
Rowlands, who was having an excellent match, almost scored his second in the 48th minute, but Gallacher saved with his legs after the Rangers midfielder had tricked his way past Adam Drury and struck an angled shot.
Gallacher was having problems with the high ball and, after he had failed to claim another ball, Jason Shackell was forced to nod Ray Jones' looping header off the line.
Shortly before that, Lee Croft somehow shot wide of an open goal after he had rounded Paul Jones - to the delight of the home fans.
In the 67th minute, Norwich brought on Dublin - and the former England striker equalised four minutes later, his calm finish ending a brilliant four-man move involving Earnshaw, Croft and Andy Hughes.
Norwich looked to have claimed the points in the 83rd minute when Zesh Rehman pulled back Huckerby inside the box, and Earnshaw guided his spot-kick just beyond Paul Jones' dive.
But with the Norwich defence ragged, Rowlands beat Gallacher at his near post with a low drive from an acute angle in stoppage time.
Sporting Life
Birthdays Today: Zesh Rehman & Clarke Carlisle
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Zesh Rehman - Turns 23. October 14, 1983.
Signed from Fulham in August
Rehman
Clarke Carlisle Turns 27 - October 14, 1979
Signed from Blackpool by Gerry Francis in the Summer of 1980. Chose to join Leeds on a free transfer in July 2004. In his first six months after joining QPR, looked set for great things and was capped by the England U-21 team. Sadly was badly injured.
Carlisle
Zesh Rehman - Turns 23. October 14, 1983.
Signed from Fulham in August
Rehman
Clarke Carlisle Turns 27 - October 14, 1979
Signed from Blackpool by Gerry Francis in the Summer of 1980. Chose to join Leeds on a free transfer in July 2004. In his first six months after joining QPR, looked set for great things and was capped by the England U-21 team. Sadly was badly injured.
Carlisle
Friday, October 13, 2006
Fan Forum - Paladini on Finances & AKUTR'S: Would resign if AKUTR's Allegations True
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FAN FORUM UPDATE:
FAN FORUM CAN NOW BE HEARD AT:
Part I:
Part II:
QPR OFFICIAL SITE ON FAN FORUM - October 13, 2006 WHAT THEY SAID
There was talk of finances, transfers and even tears at Thursday evening's Fans Forum.
Hosted by BBC London's Tom Watt, Chairman Gianni Paladini and gaffer John Gregory answered a series of questions in front of an audience of 100 QPR fans.
Here's a selection of what they said...
JG on his group of players: I really couldn't have asked anything more from them. They've worn the shirt with pride and they've done themselves and the Club very proud indeed so far. Without wanting to get carried away, I'd say they've been first class.
GP on the John Gregory appointment: We were in a desperate situation after the defeat to Port Vale. I was looking for a reaction from the players at Vale Park but there was nothing, so we needed to make a change. I've known John for years and I'm convinced it's a fantastic appointment for the Club and for him. The two results since he arrived have been fantastic and the morale within the whole Club has lifted.
GP on the gaffers tears: I walked into his office an hour or so after the Hull victory and he was sitting in his office in pitch dark with a bottle of beer. There were tears rolling down his face and that's when I realised just how much this Club meant to him.
JG on his tears: That afternoon was a two finger salute to the rest of the footballing world bar QPR. It was me saying 'go and do one the lot of you.' It was a huge day for me and things have gone from strength to strength ever since.
JG on the future: I honestly believe that the 24 Club's in this division are fighting a relegation battle. I spent the day with Dave Jones (Cardiff manager) on Wednesday and even though they're riding high at the top of the table, he's still focused on getting to the magical 52 point barrier. No Club can afford to go down - the financial implications are just too great. There's no reason why can't dream of a return to the Premiership, but it's just a question of time. With the right kind of infrastructure we can achieve our goals.
GP on finances: Since this board took over here last September we've paid £14m of bills, creditors and loans to the club. The directors, they will take no interest back on this until the club can afford it. If things go badly then we lose our money. When we first took over last September we paid £4.9m to creditors straight away - we county courts, winding up orders and creditors that I didn't know about left right and centre. Without the directors we'd have gone into administration right then. This summer we've got some money from Danny Shittu and another £600k coming from that in August next year. We got £750k from Danny to spend on £500k on Blackstock, £200k on Rehman, Stewart and Nicky Ward. Then we paid £250k to Charlton as part of their, you know, and 5% to the Football League and the rest went straight to the tax man. The problem is, if you say to people we desperately need this money they won't give you a million, they won't even give you half a million. We're £1.2m down on season tickets which hasn't helped cash-flow, but I'm not worried. If we can be successful under John people will come back and the cash-flow will increase.
JG three weeks in: The last three weeks have been a dream. I've lad to pinch myself at times. All the staff are pulling together in the right direction, yet despite two wins on the spin, we need to keep our feet on the ground.
JG on transfers: I've looked at the squad and we've got 35 players, which is far, far too many. It's not there fault but we need to make some drastic changes. The playing staff needs to be reduced as soon as is possible and we need to improve the strength in depth in terms of our overall quality. Maybe if we can get one or two out on loan - to join the three already of course - then we can do a few deals in January. There are 16 or 17 lads here that are more than good enough to not only keep us in this league but to push on and finish in the top half of it. Keeping them fit isn't easy of course - we've got eight games in 30 days coming up. We may have a little money to spend in the transfer window and we are targeting Premiership clubs in the vicinity for loans
GP on AKUTR'S: I didn't take this man to court. People think I take people to court because the coffee is too cold. There was nothing in the Evening Standard about our win at Southampton, not one line, but there was a big report on the police. We took action against them last season and won and they don't like us because we beat them. The magazine, I never said I would take them to court, I wanted a chance to respond to serious things that were said about me in that magazine, he never had the decency to get in touch with me for a discussion and my side, I'm talking about the journalist here not the man who edits the magazine. If you don't do anything about this, you're guilty. The allegations he made against me are wrong. If they are true then I shouldn't be the chairman. If they are right I'd resign tomorrow.
QPR Official Site
See Also: QPR Rivals
Dave's Unofficial Queens Park Rangers
FAN FORUM UPDATE:
FAN FORUM CAN NOW BE HEARD AT:
Part I:
Part II:
QPR OFFICIAL SITE ON FAN FORUM - October 13, 2006 WHAT THEY SAID
There was talk of finances, transfers and even tears at Thursday evening's Fans Forum.
Hosted by BBC London's Tom Watt, Chairman Gianni Paladini and gaffer John Gregory answered a series of questions in front of an audience of 100 QPR fans.
Here's a selection of what they said...
JG on his group of players: I really couldn't have asked anything more from them. They've worn the shirt with pride and they've done themselves and the Club very proud indeed so far. Without wanting to get carried away, I'd say they've been first class.
GP on the John Gregory appointment: We were in a desperate situation after the defeat to Port Vale. I was looking for a reaction from the players at Vale Park but there was nothing, so we needed to make a change. I've known John for years and I'm convinced it's a fantastic appointment for the Club and for him. The two results since he arrived have been fantastic and the morale within the whole Club has lifted.
GP on the gaffers tears: I walked into his office an hour or so after the Hull victory and he was sitting in his office in pitch dark with a bottle of beer. There were tears rolling down his face and that's when I realised just how much this Club meant to him.
JG on his tears: That afternoon was a two finger salute to the rest of the footballing world bar QPR. It was me saying 'go and do one the lot of you.' It was a huge day for me and things have gone from strength to strength ever since.
JG on the future: I honestly believe that the 24 Club's in this division are fighting a relegation battle. I spent the day with Dave Jones (Cardiff manager) on Wednesday and even though they're riding high at the top of the table, he's still focused on getting to the magical 52 point barrier. No Club can afford to go down - the financial implications are just too great. There's no reason why can't dream of a return to the Premiership, but it's just a question of time. With the right kind of infrastructure we can achieve our goals.
GP on finances: Since this board took over here last September we've paid £14m of bills, creditors and loans to the club. The directors, they will take no interest back on this until the club can afford it. If things go badly then we lose our money. When we first took over last September we paid £4.9m to creditors straight away - we county courts, winding up orders and creditors that I didn't know about left right and centre. Without the directors we'd have gone into administration right then. This summer we've got some money from Danny Shittu and another £600k coming from that in August next year. We got £750k from Danny to spend on £500k on Blackstock, £200k on Rehman, Stewart and Nicky Ward. Then we paid £250k to Charlton as part of their, you know, and 5% to the Football League and the rest went straight to the tax man. The problem is, if you say to people we desperately need this money they won't give you a million, they won't even give you half a million. We're £1.2m down on season tickets which hasn't helped cash-flow, but I'm not worried. If we can be successful under John people will come back and the cash-flow will increase.
JG three weeks in: The last three weeks have been a dream. I've lad to pinch myself at times. All the staff are pulling together in the right direction, yet despite two wins on the spin, we need to keep our feet on the ground.
JG on transfers: I've looked at the squad and we've got 35 players, which is far, far too many. It's not there fault but we need to make some drastic changes. The playing staff needs to be reduced as soon as is possible and we need to improve the strength in depth in terms of our overall quality. Maybe if we can get one or two out on loan - to join the three already of course - then we can do a few deals in January. There are 16 or 17 lads here that are more than good enough to not only keep us in this league but to push on and finish in the top half of it. Keeping them fit isn't easy of course - we've got eight games in 30 days coming up. We may have a little money to spend in the transfer window and we are targeting Premiership clubs in the vicinity for loans
GP on AKUTR'S: I didn't take this man to court. People think I take people to court because the coffee is too cold. There was nothing in the Evening Standard about our win at Southampton, not one line, but there was a big report on the police. We took action against them last season and won and they don't like us because we beat them. The magazine, I never said I would take them to court, I wanted a chance to respond to serious things that were said about me in that magazine, he never had the decency to get in touch with me for a discussion and my side, I'm talking about the journalist here not the man who edits the magazine. If you don't do anything about this, you're guilty. The allegations he made against me are wrong. If they are true then I shouldn't be the chairman. If they are right I'd resign tomorrow.
QPR Official Site
See Also: QPR Rivals
Dave's Unofficial Queens Park Rangers
QPR Fan Forum Held with Gianni Paladini & John Gregory
-
QPR held a Fan Forum last night with Chairman, Gianni Paladini and manager, John Gregory.
See: QPR Rivals Report
Dave's Unofficial Queens Park Rangers Website
QPR OFFICIAL SITE re Fan Forum - Friday October 13, 2006
Later today ALL QPR fans will be able to watch highlights from last night's Fans Forum for free.
Here on qpr.co.uk we will bring you a ten minute highlight package before providing full audio coverage on Monday.
Due to the length of the Fans Forum, it is extremely difficult to provide full coverage via the website due to the size of the file.
However, as we speak, our friends at BBC London are busy downloading the entire audio from last night onto CD so that we can provide you with full coverage on Monday once the big game against Norwich has been put to bed.
Once again, QPR would like to thank BBC London for all their help in organising last night and also all of the supporters who turned out to make it a successful night
QPR OFFICIAL
QPR held a Fan Forum last night with Chairman, Gianni Paladini and manager, John Gregory.
See: QPR Rivals Report
Dave's Unofficial Queens Park Rangers Website
QPR OFFICIAL SITE re Fan Forum - Friday October 13, 2006
Later today ALL QPR fans will be able to watch highlights from last night's Fans Forum for free.
Here on qpr.co.uk we will bring you a ten minute highlight package before providing full audio coverage on Monday.
Due to the length of the Fans Forum, it is extremely difficult to provide full coverage via the website due to the size of the file.
However, as we speak, our friends at BBC London are busy downloading the entire audio from last night onto CD so that we can provide you with full coverage on Monday once the big game against Norwich has been put to bed.
Once again, QPR would like to thank BBC London for all their help in organising last night and also all of the supporters who turned out to make it a successful night
QPR OFFICIAL
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Ex-QPR Birthdays: Paul Goddard, Alan McDonald, Chris Plummer & Don Howe
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Paul Goddard Turns 47: Born October 12, 1959.
In 1979/1980, QPR had a teenage striking duo of Paul Goddard and Clive Allen.In the Summer of 1980, this duo. Goddard was sold to West Ham by Tommy Docherty/Jim Gregory in August 1980 for around million pounds (and Clive Allen, of course joined Arsenal for a million +). Both went on to play for ENgland Goddard
Alan McDonald - October 12, 1963, Turns 43
For over a decade, McDonald was QPR and Ireland's Center half. QPR's most-capped international. Recently was assistant manager of QPR under Gary Waddock. McDonald
Chris Plummer - October 12, 1976 - Turns 30.
Capped by England U-21 before making his QPR debut in the Summer after QPR were relegated. Often injured, so his career didn't take off as hoped. Plummer
Don Howe - October 12, 1935 - Turns 71
Great coach at Arsenal Took over as manager of QPR after Trevor Francis left. Was in charge of QPR for a year and a half before being replaced by Gerry Francis. Signed Wilkins and Wegerle. Gave Ferdinand his chance. Guided QPR to their amazing 3-1 win at Anfield.
Howe
Paul Goddard Turns 47: Born October 12, 1959.
In 1979/1980, QPR had a teenage striking duo of Paul Goddard and Clive Allen.In the Summer of 1980, this duo. Goddard was sold to West Ham by Tommy Docherty/Jim Gregory in August 1980 for around million pounds (and Clive Allen, of course joined Arsenal for a million +). Both went on to play for ENgland Goddard
Alan McDonald - October 12, 1963, Turns 43
For over a decade, McDonald was QPR and Ireland's Center half. QPR's most-capped international. Recently was assistant manager of QPR under Gary Waddock. McDonald
Chris Plummer - October 12, 1976 - Turns 30.
Capped by England U-21 before making his QPR debut in the Summer after QPR were relegated. Often injured, so his career didn't take off as hoped. Plummer
Don Howe - October 12, 1935 - Turns 71
Great coach at Arsenal Took over as manager of QPR after Trevor Francis left. Was in charge of QPR for a year and a half before being replaced by Gerry Francis. Signed Wilkins and Wegerle. Gave Ferdinand his chance. Guided QPR to their amazing 3-1 win at Anfield.
Howe
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Ainsworth: Won't Be Fit For Norwich on Staff Changes & Furlong Just Missed Out on Playing Reserves
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Ainsworth's "Step on the Gaz" Kilburn Times - 11 October 2006
Unfortunately, my hamstring injury is still causing me a few problems so I won't be available for this weekend's tie with Norwich.
I had a scan last week and the injury has cleared up but there's still some slight inflammation on the attachment of the muscle which needs to settle down.
I can only really do one day on and one day off in training at the moment but I should be ready to step that up soon.
I was looking forward to playing for the reserves against Crystal Palace last night but myself and Paul Furlong have both been pulled out just to make sure we're totally right.
It's frustrating at the moment as I want to be playing but you have to be careful with hamstring injuries so we've put the reins on my comeback for the moment.
There have been quite a few backroom changes at the club recently.
It's always sad to see people leave the club and they were good guys, but the staff we've bought in seem like great additions.
I've done a bit of work with Joe Dunbar and he's bringing some really good ideas in. He's determined to get the best out of the players and is there to make sure we work to our maximum.
The training has already been modified a bit and the lads are working a lot harder than they have done...
Kilburn Times
Ainsworth's "Step on the Gaz" Kilburn Times - 11 October 2006
Unfortunately, my hamstring injury is still causing me a few problems so I won't be available for this weekend's tie with Norwich.
I had a scan last week and the injury has cleared up but there's still some slight inflammation on the attachment of the muscle which needs to settle down.
I can only really do one day on and one day off in training at the moment but I should be ready to step that up soon.
I was looking forward to playing for the reserves against Crystal Palace last night but myself and Paul Furlong have both been pulled out just to make sure we're totally right.
It's frustrating at the moment as I want to be playing but you have to be careful with hamstring injuries so we've put the reins on my comeback for the moment.
There have been quite a few backroom changes at the club recently.
It's always sad to see people leave the club and they were good guys, but the staff we've bought in seem like great additions.
I've done a bit of work with Joe Dunbar and he's bringing some really good ideas in. He's determined to get the best out of the players and is there to make sure we work to our maximum.
The training has already been modified a bit and the lads are working a lot harder than they have done...
Kilburn Times
QPR Reserves Defeated by Crystal Palace Reserves
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Brief QPR Official Report
Kevin Gallen was on target, but the R's succumbed to a 3-1 defeat against Crystal Palace Reserves on Tuesday evening.
Trailing to an impressive Eagles outfit at Bromley FC, Gallen put Rangers on terms with a ferocious dead ball strike, but in truth the R's were second best throughout an entertaining Pontins Holidays Combination League fixture.
Full report and reaction to follow..
QPR
More Extensive Crystal Palace Match Report
An own goal plus goals from Ryan Hall and Lewis Grabban gave Kit Symons' young side all three points against Queens Park Rangers at Bromley.
Palace took the lead in the 22nd minute as QPR left-back Matthew Hislop put the ball through his own net and despite a Kevin Gallen equaliser Palace scored twice more in a thoroughly deserved victory.
In a lively encounter Palace had the first opportunity through 15-year-old Victor Moses but the England Under 17 international fired over in the first minute. The Hoops hit straight back though, and centre-back Jonathan Munday headed just wide following a corner form the left-hand side.
The away side were causing some anxious moments in the Palace defence from set-pieces but it was Charlie Sheringham who nearly opened the scoring for the home side in the 18th minute but he diverted a header over from Marco Reich's cross.
Then came Hislop's own goal but if there was any justice in the world the goal should have been awarded to youngster Moses. The teenager beat the QPR right-back all ends up before accelerating down the left and curling a brilliantly placed shot past goalkeeper Jake Cole and onto the far post where Hislop was unfortunate to see the ball fly into the net off his thigh.
It didn't take QPR long to equalise as Gallen struck a powerful free-kick past David Wilkinson in the Palace goal. Ten minutes later though, Palace had a free-kick of their own in a similar position at the other end and Hall emphatically thumped the ball past Cole into the QPR net.
In the second-half Palace had further chances to score through Moses, Grabban and Reich on the break but on each occasion wayward shooting or goalkeeper Jake Cole intervened.
Palace eventually grabbed a third in the 77th minute when Grabban followed up Hall's drive, but not before QPR's Romone Rose had clipped the top of the Palace bar with a long-range strike.
Aussie Nick Ward forced Wilkinson to save with his legs late on but Palace never looked in any danger as Michael Kamara and Moses Swaibu marshalled the backline superbly.
Palace: Wilkinson; Starkey, Kamara, Swaibu, Carolan; Moses (Dayton 71), Spence (c), Reich, Hall (Hughes 85); Sheringham, Grabban.
Subs not used: Pearson, Kudjodji, Fish.
Goals: Hislop og (22), Hall (42), Grabban (77).
QPR: Cole; Tchakounte, Milanese, Munday (c), Hislop; Oliseh, Ward, Lomas, Watanabe (Goode 64); Gallen, Rose.
Subs not used: Goodchild, O'Brien, Yelland, Baidoo.
Goal: Gallen (30).
Crystal Palace
Brief QPR Official Report
Kevin Gallen was on target, but the R's succumbed to a 3-1 defeat against Crystal Palace Reserves on Tuesday evening.
Trailing to an impressive Eagles outfit at Bromley FC, Gallen put Rangers on terms with a ferocious dead ball strike, but in truth the R's were second best throughout an entertaining Pontins Holidays Combination League fixture.
Full report and reaction to follow..
QPR
More Extensive Crystal Palace Match Report
An own goal plus goals from Ryan Hall and Lewis Grabban gave Kit Symons' young side all three points against Queens Park Rangers at Bromley.
Palace took the lead in the 22nd minute as QPR left-back Matthew Hislop put the ball through his own net and despite a Kevin Gallen equaliser Palace scored twice more in a thoroughly deserved victory.
In a lively encounter Palace had the first opportunity through 15-year-old Victor Moses but the England Under 17 international fired over in the first minute. The Hoops hit straight back though, and centre-back Jonathan Munday headed just wide following a corner form the left-hand side.
The away side were causing some anxious moments in the Palace defence from set-pieces but it was Charlie Sheringham who nearly opened the scoring for the home side in the 18th minute but he diverted a header over from Marco Reich's cross.
Then came Hislop's own goal but if there was any justice in the world the goal should have been awarded to youngster Moses. The teenager beat the QPR right-back all ends up before accelerating down the left and curling a brilliantly placed shot past goalkeeper Jake Cole and onto the far post where Hislop was unfortunate to see the ball fly into the net off his thigh.
It didn't take QPR long to equalise as Gallen struck a powerful free-kick past David Wilkinson in the Palace goal. Ten minutes later though, Palace had a free-kick of their own in a similar position at the other end and Hall emphatically thumped the ball past Cole into the QPR net.
In the second-half Palace had further chances to score through Moses, Grabban and Reich on the break but on each occasion wayward shooting or goalkeeper Jake Cole intervened.
Palace eventually grabbed a third in the 77th minute when Grabban followed up Hall's drive, but not before QPR's Romone Rose had clipped the top of the Palace bar with a long-range strike.
Aussie Nick Ward forced Wilkinson to save with his legs late on but Palace never looked in any danger as Michael Kamara and Moses Swaibu marshalled the backline superbly.
Palace: Wilkinson; Starkey, Kamara, Swaibu, Carolan; Moses (Dayton 71), Spence (c), Reich, Hall (Hughes 85); Sheringham, Grabban.
Subs not used: Pearson, Kudjodji, Fish.
Goals: Hislop og (22), Hall (42), Grabban (77).
QPR: Cole; Tchakounte, Milanese, Munday (c), Hislop; Oliseh, Ward, Lomas, Watanabe (Goode 64); Gallen, Rose.
Subs not used: Goodchild, O'Brien, Yelland, Baidoo.
Goal: Gallen (30).
Crystal Palace
Birthdays: Rodney Marsh Turns 62...Danny Maddix is 39...Vic Mobley is 61
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Ex-QPR Birthdays Today
Rodney Marsh - Born October 11, 1942 is 62. No more needs to be said!
[A Thousand profiles could be found. Just one and two
Vic Mobley - Born October 11, 1943 is 61
Signed from Sheffield Wednesdsay by Les Allen, in October 1969 for 55,000 pounds. Unfortunately Mobley was shortly after injured (or was "pre-injured" when QPR signed him), and ony played 30+ games for QPR.
Danny Maddix - October 11, 1967
Defender, signed from Spurs on a Free Transfer by Jim Smith in July 1987. Given a free transfer in July 2001 after 250+ games - Record
Ex-QPR Birthdays Today
Rodney Marsh - Born October 11, 1942 is 62. No more needs to be said!
[A Thousand profiles could be found. Just one and two
Vic Mobley - Born October 11, 1943 is 61
Signed from Sheffield Wednesdsay by Les Allen, in October 1969 for 55,000 pounds. Unfortunately Mobley was shortly after injured (or was "pre-injured" when QPR signed him), and ony played 30+ games for QPR.
Danny Maddix - October 11, 1967
Defender, signed from Spurs on a Free Transfer by Jim Smith in July 1987. Given a free transfer in July 2001 after 250+ games - Record
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
THE Trial Report - By Tracy Stent
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Tracy Stent spent several months producing this very, very extensive report of "THE" Trial.
The report has been posted via the Rivals Site. It can be read at TRIAL REPORT
Tracy Stent spent several months producing this very, very extensive report of "THE" Trial.
The report has been posted via the Rivals Site. It can be read at TRIAL REPORT
On 10/10, QPR's #10 Scored 5 (Against Oxford)
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October 10, 1967: QPR's backup striker for Rodney Marsh, Alan Wilks stepped in for "The Master" and scored a record five goals (a record for QPR - and a then-League Cup Record) in QPR's 5-1 win vs Oxford at Loftus Road before a crowd of just under 17,000. (QPR at the time, were of course, the League Cup Holders)
QPR's Team that night:
Springett:
Clement Hunt Keetch Harris
Morgan Leach Keen Morgan
Allen Wilks
October 10, 1967: QPR's backup striker for Rodney Marsh, Alan Wilks stepped in for "The Master" and scored a record five goals (a record for QPR - and a then-League Cup Record) in QPR's 5-1 win vs Oxford at Loftus Road before a crowd of just under 17,000. (QPR at the time, were of course, the League Cup Holders)
QPR's Team that night:
Springett:
Clement Hunt Keetch Harris
Morgan Leach Keen Morgan
Allen Wilks
Ex-QPR & Almost-QPR Again, Jim Smith Profiled
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From The Telegraph "....[T]he allure of becoming Oxford manager was shown vividly by his response to an offer of the equivalent job at Queen's Park Rangers in March. "I said 'yes' at half past five in the evening, and 'no' at half past eight the next morning," he says.
Telegraph -10/10/2006 Oxford go back to the future
By Oliver Brown
Striding through the corridors of the Kassam Stadium, Jim Smith creates a powerful impression of pride and purpose. To confirm this, the Oxford United manager, greeted uniformly as 'gaffer', enters an office that would not embarrass a senior executive – expansive and elegantly furnished, by Conference standards at least, it serves as his engine room for driving the club back into business.
These days, an executive setting is not quite so out of keeping for Smith. He turns 66 this month, but has taken on the job not just of frontline manager but director, too, assisting his friend and chairman Nick Merry in every aspect of Oxford's recovery. The ravages of relegation have yet to be felt too acutely here, but the situation for any club that falls out of the League is precarious.
Stability is only likely to last for as long as Oxford's results hold up, which gives a good reason for Smith to savour this season's record of 14 games unbeaten up to tonight's game against Kidderminster. Recognising though, that the Conference is hardly the club's natural level, he admits that he would be profoundly disappointed if his team were any worse off.
When he returned to Oxford in March for a second spell as manager, Smith's stock was never higher. Twenty-one years after he had left in high dudgeon at then chairman Robert Maxwell's refusal to improve his contract, there was a chance to haul this club, so prominent in his affections, back from the precipice. Only it did not quite turn out that way.
On a drizzly May afternoon, with fans exiting in anguish from every corner of the Kassam, Oxford's League status ceased to be. Smith, still barely adjusted to the culture shock of League Two, faced an even starker reality. "I felt pretty low, but very determined in myself to stay and take the club back up," he says.
"I didn't think we would go down and we shouldn't have. I blame myself a little bit, because I think I put too much pressure on the team. One of the biggest problems was that we had no new players, and I was appalled at the standard. I expected that we could just turn them into Premier League players."
Much as Smith never shirks responsibility, he is equally not shy of a head-on attack on the club's administration under its previous chairman, the hotelier Firoz Kassam. The seeds of Oxford's decline were, it is widely believed, sown well before the change of manager. "This wasn't being run as a football club, it was being run as a business by non-football people," Smith says. "We had to bring the focus back to what this is."
As a football person to the core, he had no trouble on that front. But the diligence with which Smith has sought to revive the club does not bridge the more fundamental questions: Why Oxford, and why now? He is of retirement age, with 37 years at the sharp end of management behind him is there not, among the worthier sentiments that Oxford engenders, a sense of 'do I really need this?'
"Yeah, quite often!" he laughs, although you do not doubt for a moment that he is where he wants to be. A mainspring of this extraordinary loyalty is his idea of unfinished business, borne out of a frustration that his clash with Maxwell left him unable to lead Oxford in the First Division, having taken them there in the first place.
"I've had a lot of good times in football, but the best were at Oxford," he reflects. "We had a great team, and my biggest regret was leaving. I was probably a bit hasty, in all honesty."
Smith's second chance might be four tiers removed from the first, but what makes his motivation complete is the joy he derives from leading again. For three years he had acted as Harry Redknapp' loyal assistant at Portsmouth and Southampton, and he had had enough. In this context, the allure of becoming Oxford manager was shown vividly by his response to an offer of the equivalent job at Queen's Park Rangers in March. "I said 'yes' at half past five in the evening, and 'no' at half past eight the next morning," he says.
"I wouldn't have come back had it not been a bit special, and this is special."
Telegraph
From The Telegraph "....[T]he allure of becoming Oxford manager was shown vividly by his response to an offer of the equivalent job at Queen's Park Rangers in March. "I said 'yes' at half past five in the evening, and 'no' at half past eight the next morning," he says.
Telegraph -10/10/2006 Oxford go back to the future
By Oliver Brown
Striding through the corridors of the Kassam Stadium, Jim Smith creates a powerful impression of pride and purpose. To confirm this, the Oxford United manager, greeted uniformly as 'gaffer', enters an office that would not embarrass a senior executive – expansive and elegantly furnished, by Conference standards at least, it serves as his engine room for driving the club back into business.
These days, an executive setting is not quite so out of keeping for Smith. He turns 66 this month, but has taken on the job not just of frontline manager but director, too, assisting his friend and chairman Nick Merry in every aspect of Oxford's recovery. The ravages of relegation have yet to be felt too acutely here, but the situation for any club that falls out of the League is precarious.
Stability is only likely to last for as long as Oxford's results hold up, which gives a good reason for Smith to savour this season's record of 14 games unbeaten up to tonight's game against Kidderminster. Recognising though, that the Conference is hardly the club's natural level, he admits that he would be profoundly disappointed if his team were any worse off.
When he returned to Oxford in March for a second spell as manager, Smith's stock was never higher. Twenty-one years after he had left in high dudgeon at then chairman Robert Maxwell's refusal to improve his contract, there was a chance to haul this club, so prominent in his affections, back from the precipice. Only it did not quite turn out that way.
On a drizzly May afternoon, with fans exiting in anguish from every corner of the Kassam, Oxford's League status ceased to be. Smith, still barely adjusted to the culture shock of League Two, faced an even starker reality. "I felt pretty low, but very determined in myself to stay and take the club back up," he says.
"I didn't think we would go down and we shouldn't have. I blame myself a little bit, because I think I put too much pressure on the team. One of the biggest problems was that we had no new players, and I was appalled at the standard. I expected that we could just turn them into Premier League players."
Much as Smith never shirks responsibility, he is equally not shy of a head-on attack on the club's administration under its previous chairman, the hotelier Firoz Kassam. The seeds of Oxford's decline were, it is widely believed, sown well before the change of manager. "This wasn't being run as a football club, it was being run as a business by non-football people," Smith says. "We had to bring the focus back to what this is."
As a football person to the core, he had no trouble on that front. But the diligence with which Smith has sought to revive the club does not bridge the more fundamental questions: Why Oxford, and why now? He is of retirement age, with 37 years at the sharp end of management behind him is there not, among the worthier sentiments that Oxford engenders, a sense of 'do I really need this?'
"Yeah, quite often!" he laughs, although you do not doubt for a moment that he is where he wants to be. A mainspring of this extraordinary loyalty is his idea of unfinished business, borne out of a frustration that his clash with Maxwell left him unable to lead Oxford in the First Division, having taken them there in the first place.
"I've had a lot of good times in football, but the best were at Oxford," he reflects. "We had a great team, and my biggest regret was leaving. I was probably a bit hasty, in all honesty."
Smith's second chance might be four tiers removed from the first, but what makes his motivation complete is the joy he derives from leading again. For three years he had acted as Harry Redknapp' loyal assistant at Portsmouth and Southampton, and he had had enough. In this context, the allure of becoming Oxford manager was shown vividly by his response to an offer of the equivalent job at Queen's Park Rangers in March. "I said 'yes' at half past five in the evening, and 'no' at half past eight the next morning," he says.
"I wouldn't have come back had it not been a bit special, and this is special."
Telegraph
Monday, October 09, 2006
QPR Supposedly Owe The Police 100,000 Pounds
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According to today's Evening Standard, as reposted on several QPR fan Sites (Official site, Rivals and LSA):
"Evening Standard
QPR owe £102,176 in unpaid police bills.
QPR could face a winding up order in the High Court for failing to pay their policing bill.The club owe more than £100,000 to the Metropolitan Police,according to official documents seen by the Evening Standard.The trail of unpaid invoices,totalling 28 separate bills,goes back to the beginning of last season.The Metropolitan Police Authority last week served the club with a final demand for £102,176 giving it three weeks to pay.
In an official statutory demand, solicitor sacting for the police warn the club "This is an important document.This demand must be dealt with within 21 days after its service upon the company or a winding-up order could be made in respect of the company".The demand has been issued against QPR Holdings Ltd,formerly QPR Holdings plc,the limited company which now owns the club.The unpaid invoices 'in respect of the 'special services of police at Loftus Rd Stadium' began with a demand for £5,778.18 dating back to 18 August 2005,while the most recent unpaid bill is for £1,332.51 dated 31 August 2006.The club paid £10,000 on 16 June- the only sum the Met appears to have received in more than a year.The unpaid bills will fuel fears Rangers, who are struggling in 16th place in the Championship are still having financial problems following administration in 2001.A spokesman for the club said today :"The bill will be paid in the next week or so".The spokesman refused to comment further....
According to today's Evening Standard, as reposted on several QPR fan Sites (Official site, Rivals and LSA):
"Evening Standard
QPR owe £102,176 in unpaid police bills.
QPR could face a winding up order in the High Court for failing to pay their policing bill.The club owe more than £100,000 to the Metropolitan Police,according to official documents seen by the Evening Standard.The trail of unpaid invoices,totalling 28 separate bills,goes back to the beginning of last season.The Metropolitan Police Authority last week served the club with a final demand for £102,176 giving it three weeks to pay.
In an official statutory demand, solicitor sacting for the police warn the club "This is an important document.This demand must be dealt with within 21 days after its service upon the company or a winding-up order could be made in respect of the company".The demand has been issued against QPR Holdings Ltd,formerly QPR Holdings plc,the limited company which now owns the club.The unpaid invoices 'in respect of the 'special services of police at Loftus Rd Stadium' began with a demand for £5,778.18 dating back to 18 August 2005,while the most recent unpaid bill is for £1,332.51 dated 31 August 2006.The club paid £10,000 on 16 June- the only sum the Met appears to have received in more than a year.The unpaid bills will fuel fears Rangers, who are struggling in 16th place in the Championship are still having financial problems following administration in 2001.A spokesman for the club said today :"The bill will be paid in the next week or so".The spokesman refused to comment further....
QPR & Ex-QPR in Action Over the Weekend
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In Internationals, Damion Stewart was part of the Jamaica team that defeated Canda 2-1. Jamaica
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Both before and after playing his 50th game for Wales against Slovakia, Paul Jones received a lot of attention. Before the game it was for how he had his hair cut to commemorate his 50th cap; after, it was his terrible mistakes he made during the game.
In the words of the Guardian "
Paul Jones was surely tempting fate when he made a visit to the hairdresser before this 5-1 drubbing. He had the No50 and a dragon shaved into the back of his head to mark reaching a half-century of international appearances. Yet, after what the manager, John Toshack, agreed was a "nightmare" afternoon for his goalkeeper, it is possible that Jones has played his last match for Wales.
It was hard not to feel sympathy but the brutal truth is that his reactions and spring appear dented by the passage of time. He turns 40 next year and, on Saturday, it showed. Defensive shortcomings caused the first and fifth goals, but Jones's misplaced clearance allowed Marek Mintal to put Slovakia 2-0 ahead and he was then beaten from long range by Mintal and Miroslav Karhan.
Over careers any goalkeeper makes mistakes," said Jones. "When any other keeper gets in, they will make mistakes. I am going out there to give 100% until I am told I am not in the team...."
"...Jones was diplomatic. "They are as frustrated as I am," he said. Craig Bellamy, who was chosen above Jones to captain Wales in the absence of Ryan Giggs, offered support. "I can make one or two mistakes out there and I'll be very unfortunate if they lead to a goal. If you make a mistake as a goalkeeper, inevitably it's going to cost you a goal." Toshack has the options of Blackburn's Jason Brown or Ipswich's Lewis Price as replacements and he admitted he did not know whether he would pick Jones again...."
Wales
In the League,
Ex-QPR midfielder, Justin Cochrane won the 'Man Of the Match Award" playing for Rotherham. On the other side, was on loan QPR forward, Stefan Moore who was booked and substituted.
- Cochrane fires Rotherham revival - Port Vale 1 - 3 Rotherham
Ian Edwards at Vale Park Monday October 9, 2006 The Guardian
"...There was a freedom and inventiveness in their play that generated goals from Justin Cochrane, Will Hoskins and Dave Hibbert.
Cochrane was an unstoppable force throughout and generated sufficient loop from a stooping header to evade Mark Goodlad. It was the first of two goals in six second-half minutes and, having thrown away a two-goal lead against Millwall the previous weekend, Rotherham were in no mood to repeat such benevolence.
Man of the match Justin Cochrane (Rotherham United)" Guardian
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Meanwhile at Brighton, managed by ex-QPR Dean Wilkins a 0-3 home defeat to Blackpool who had Ian Evatt playing (but no Marcus Bean even on the bench) "Disgruntled Brighton fans turn on Wilkins
"...The Brighton manager, Dean Wilkins, can count himself fortunate that he has already been promised the job of replacing Mark McGhee until the end of the season.
Judging by the boos that rung around the Withdean Stadium after Keith Southern's goal and two from substitute Scott Vernon had condemned the Seagulls to a fifth successive defeat, some of the club's supporters are already beginning to question the appointment.
Wilkins has won only two of eight games in charge...
While Wilkins was left surveying the wreckage, opposite number Simon Grayson could not hide his elation. Grayson said: "We have set our standards with two good wins in and a row and there is no reason, if we play like that, we cannot compete at the right end of the table." Telegraph
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Elsewhere, Leroy Rosenior's Brentford drew with Bristol City. In the non-league, John Hollins's and Tony Scully'sCrawley won and Hollins was happy. Meanwhile, ex-Welsh international goalie Tony Roberts played in Dagenham's 5-0 win (with Bruce on the bench).
In Internationals, Damion Stewart was part of the Jamaica team that defeated Canda 2-1. Jamaica
-
Both before and after playing his 50th game for Wales against Slovakia, Paul Jones received a lot of attention. Before the game it was for how he had his hair cut to commemorate his 50th cap; after, it was his terrible mistakes he made during the game.
In the words of the Guardian "
Paul Jones was surely tempting fate when he made a visit to the hairdresser before this 5-1 drubbing. He had the No50 and a dragon shaved into the back of his head to mark reaching a half-century of international appearances. Yet, after what the manager, John Toshack, agreed was a "nightmare" afternoon for his goalkeeper, it is possible that Jones has played his last match for Wales.
It was hard not to feel sympathy but the brutal truth is that his reactions and spring appear dented by the passage of time. He turns 40 next year and, on Saturday, it showed. Defensive shortcomings caused the first and fifth goals, but Jones's misplaced clearance allowed Marek Mintal to put Slovakia 2-0 ahead and he was then beaten from long range by Mintal and Miroslav Karhan.
Over careers any goalkeeper makes mistakes," said Jones. "When any other keeper gets in, they will make mistakes. I am going out there to give 100% until I am told I am not in the team...."
"...Jones was diplomatic. "They are as frustrated as I am," he said. Craig Bellamy, who was chosen above Jones to captain Wales in the absence of Ryan Giggs, offered support. "I can make one or two mistakes out there and I'll be very unfortunate if they lead to a goal. If you make a mistake as a goalkeeper, inevitably it's going to cost you a goal." Toshack has the options of Blackburn's Jason Brown or Ipswich's Lewis Price as replacements and he admitted he did not know whether he would pick Jones again...."
Wales
In the League,
Ex-QPR midfielder, Justin Cochrane won the 'Man Of the Match Award" playing for Rotherham. On the other side, was on loan QPR forward, Stefan Moore who was booked and substituted.
- Cochrane fires Rotherham revival - Port Vale 1 - 3 Rotherham
Ian Edwards at Vale Park Monday October 9, 2006 The Guardian
"...There was a freedom and inventiveness in their play that generated goals from Justin Cochrane, Will Hoskins and Dave Hibbert.
Cochrane was an unstoppable force throughout and generated sufficient loop from a stooping header to evade Mark Goodlad. It was the first of two goals in six second-half minutes and, having thrown away a two-goal lead against Millwall the previous weekend, Rotherham were in no mood to repeat such benevolence.
Man of the match Justin Cochrane (Rotherham United)" Guardian
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Meanwhile at Brighton, managed by ex-QPR Dean Wilkins a 0-3 home defeat to Blackpool who had Ian Evatt playing (but no Marcus Bean even on the bench) "Disgruntled Brighton fans turn on Wilkins
"...The Brighton manager, Dean Wilkins, can count himself fortunate that he has already been promised the job of replacing Mark McGhee until the end of the season.
Judging by the boos that rung around the Withdean Stadium after Keith Southern's goal and two from substitute Scott Vernon had condemned the Seagulls to a fifth successive defeat, some of the club's supporters are already beginning to question the appointment.
Wilkins has won only two of eight games in charge...
While Wilkins was left surveying the wreckage, opposite number Simon Grayson could not hide his elation. Grayson said: "We have set our standards with two good wins in and a row and there is no reason, if we play like that, we cannot compete at the right end of the table." Telegraph
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Elsewhere, Leroy Rosenior's Brentford drew with Bristol City. In the non-league, John Hollins's and Tony Scully'sCrawley won and Hollins was happy. Meanwhile, ex-Welsh international goalie Tony Roberts played in Dagenham's 5-0 win (with Bruce on the bench).
QPR Hero, Ian Gillard Turns 56
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Ian Gillard, Born October 9, 1950
Fullback Gillard made his debut in QPR's 1968/69 Relegation season. (Tommy DOchery gave him his debut at home to Nottingham Forest in November 1968.) It took Gillard several seasons before he made the #3 Shirt his own - Initially competing with Ian Watson and Tony Hazell for that position. For several years, QPR was blessed to have as its full backs: Dave Clement and Ian Gillard. However few people seeing him in his early years thought "future England International." But he improved and improved.
Gillard also played three times times for England in 1975, making his England debut at Wembley vs West Germany in March 1975
Gillard played 400+ Games for QPR. Gillard's last game was in the FA Cup Replay against Spurs before joining Aldershot as player coach.
Ian Gillard Record
See also: Dave's Queens Park Rangers Profile of Gillard
Ian Gillard, Born October 9, 1950
Fullback Gillard made his debut in QPR's 1968/69 Relegation season. (Tommy DOchery gave him his debut at home to Nottingham Forest in November 1968.) It took Gillard several seasons before he made the #3 Shirt his own - Initially competing with Ian Watson and Tony Hazell for that position. For several years, QPR was blessed to have as its full backs: Dave Clement and Ian Gillard. However few people seeing him in his early years thought "future England International." But he improved and improved.
Gillard also played three times times for England in 1975, making his England debut at Wembley vs West Germany in March 1975
Gillard played 400+ Games for QPR. Gillard's last game was in the FA Cup Replay against Spurs before joining Aldershot as player coach.
Ian Gillard Record
See also: Dave's Queens Park Rangers Profile of Gillard
Sunday, October 08, 2006
38 Years Ago Today: QPR's First-Ever Win in the (old) First Division
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October 8, 1968: Thirty-Eight years ago today: QPR - after playing 12 games and two months, in the old first division without a win (7 losses and 5 draws including a humiliating 0-4 home defeat against Chelsea) -finally won a game in the old-first Division.
In a midweek game at Loftus Road (at a time, when QPR always played their midweek games on Tuesdays), QPR beat Ipswich 2-1. Bridges and Roger Morgan scoring for QPR.
QPR's team against Ipswich:
Mike Kelly:
Harris Hazell Keetch Watson
Keen Morgan Allen
Leach Bridges Wilks
[Three days later,QPR defeated Sheffield Wednesday 3-2 at Loftus Road, with Wilks, Bridges and Leach scoring, and QPR seemed to be surging.(Unfortuantely QPR lost their next 3 games 3-2 at Newcastle 3-2 at home to Man United and 3-4 at West Ham...and in fact won only two other games the rest of the season as they were relegated with a then record-lowest number of points in the First Division: 18 points!)
October 8, 1968: Thirty-Eight years ago today: QPR - after playing 12 games and two months, in the old first division without a win (7 losses and 5 draws including a humiliating 0-4 home defeat against Chelsea) -finally won a game in the old-first Division.
In a midweek game at Loftus Road (at a time, when QPR always played their midweek games on Tuesdays), QPR beat Ipswich 2-1. Bridges and Roger Morgan scoring for QPR.
QPR's team against Ipswich:
Mike Kelly:
Harris Hazell Keetch Watson
Keen Morgan Allen
Leach Bridges Wilks
[Three days later,QPR defeated Sheffield Wednesday 3-2 at Loftus Road, with Wilks, Bridges and Leach scoring, and QPR seemed to be surging.(Unfortuantely QPR lost their next 3 games 3-2 at Newcastle 3-2 at home to Man United and 3-4 at West Ham...and in fact won only two other games the rest of the season as they were relegated with a then record-lowest number of points in the First Division: 18 points!)
Saturday, October 07, 2006
QPR & Dagenham's Tony Roberts Talks to the BBC about Dagenham
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BBC - Roberts tips Daggers to come good
By Pete Oliver
Long-serving Dagenham and Redbridge goalkeeper Tony Roberts is hoping it will be third time lucky following the his side's superb start to the season.
Roberts has twice before suffered promotion heartache during his stay at Victoria Road.
And while the Conference season is only a quarter of a way through, to many it would appear poetic justice if Dagenham could sustain their promotion push and reach the Football League for the first time.
Roberts told BBC Sport: "I have been here for five years and this club deserves league football.
"We have lost in the play-offs and missed out to Boston.
"This team is good enough. We have some good players who could play at a higher level and they deserve to be professionals in the League."
While losing in the inaugural play-off final to Doncaster in 2003 was hard to take, being denied promotion 12 months earlier on goal difference to Boston United left a bitter taste.
Boston clinched the Conference title on goal difference but were then docked four points at the start of the following season for breaching financial regulations during their championship year.
The fall-out from that episode is still being dealt with in the courts, while Roberts and a new-look Daggers team are focusing on their bid to stay in the promotion frame.
"Some of our fans are saying we are only eight or 10 points away from not going down but we want to be up there at the end of the season," said Roberts.
"Last year we could have finished a lot higher, and the aim is to finish as high as we can this time.
"But I have got it into my head that we can be there or thereabouts round the play-offs, and if we can keep on the tail of Oxford who knows."
With just two defeats so far, Dagenham are in second place behind unbeaten leaders Oxford.
They are also one place ahead of a Weymouth side managed by ex-Daggers boss Garry Hill.
After taking Dagenham so close to promotion and to a number of FA Cup heroics, Hill left Victoria Road in February 2004.
Most of his team followed him as the Daggers squad broke up to be re-built by new manager John Still, who returned to the club for a third spell in charge.
Working on a reduced budget, Still worked from the roots up as he brought in a new batch of young players to mould around a handful of senior professionals like Roberts.
The results have been impressive, with Still¿s squad the leading scorers in the Conference and eager to stay the pace.
"Paul Benson has come up from three leagues below and he's in there scoring goals," added Roberts. "It's credit to John for finding them and turning them into good players.
"It's John's third season now and the majority of the squad have settled down.
"They are a bit more experienced than they were two years ago. They have got to grips with the Conference and know what John wants from them.
"It's going well for us. Last year we were losing games late on but at the moment things are going for us and we are clocking up the wins.
"We have just got to keep doing what we are doing and hopefully get the rewards. We have had a couple of bad games and still won, which is a bonus.
"But the majority of the time we have been playing well, and it's a matter of keeping ours heads down and just worrying about ourselves."
With two full international caps and more than 100 League appearances with QPR to his name, Welshman Roberts is very much the senior professional in Still¿s set-up.
The experience of 232 Conference games will also be invaluable if the Daggers do remain in the promotion shake-up come next spring.
Roberts, who combines his playing duties with coaching the goalkeepers at Loftus Road, enjoys his role and is keen to keep performing for himself and his team-mates in what could be a memorable season.
"I am 37 now and I've seen most of it before," he said. "I just sit calmly in the dressing-room and concentrate on what I am doing.
"But if anyone needs calming down or geeing up and I spot it I am there to do it.
"I'm doing my job. The ball is hitting me and I'm doing all right. I still love what I¿m doing and I will go on for as long as I can and as long as John keeps picking me."
BBC
BBC - Roberts tips Daggers to come good
By Pete Oliver
Long-serving Dagenham and Redbridge goalkeeper Tony Roberts is hoping it will be third time lucky following the his side's superb start to the season.
Roberts has twice before suffered promotion heartache during his stay at Victoria Road.
And while the Conference season is only a quarter of a way through, to many it would appear poetic justice if Dagenham could sustain their promotion push and reach the Football League for the first time.
Roberts told BBC Sport: "I have been here for five years and this club deserves league football.
"We have lost in the play-offs and missed out to Boston.
"This team is good enough. We have some good players who could play at a higher level and they deserve to be professionals in the League."
While losing in the inaugural play-off final to Doncaster in 2003 was hard to take, being denied promotion 12 months earlier on goal difference to Boston United left a bitter taste.
Boston clinched the Conference title on goal difference but were then docked four points at the start of the following season for breaching financial regulations during their championship year.
The fall-out from that episode is still being dealt with in the courts, while Roberts and a new-look Daggers team are focusing on their bid to stay in the promotion frame.
"Some of our fans are saying we are only eight or 10 points away from not going down but we want to be up there at the end of the season," said Roberts.
"Last year we could have finished a lot higher, and the aim is to finish as high as we can this time.
"But I have got it into my head that we can be there or thereabouts round the play-offs, and if we can keep on the tail of Oxford who knows."
With just two defeats so far, Dagenham are in second place behind unbeaten leaders Oxford.
They are also one place ahead of a Weymouth side managed by ex-Daggers boss Garry Hill.
After taking Dagenham so close to promotion and to a number of FA Cup heroics, Hill left Victoria Road in February 2004.
Most of his team followed him as the Daggers squad broke up to be re-built by new manager John Still, who returned to the club for a third spell in charge.
Working on a reduced budget, Still worked from the roots up as he brought in a new batch of young players to mould around a handful of senior professionals like Roberts.
The results have been impressive, with Still¿s squad the leading scorers in the Conference and eager to stay the pace.
"Paul Benson has come up from three leagues below and he's in there scoring goals," added Roberts. "It's credit to John for finding them and turning them into good players.
"It's John's third season now and the majority of the squad have settled down.
"They are a bit more experienced than they were two years ago. They have got to grips with the Conference and know what John wants from them.
"It's going well for us. Last year we were losing games late on but at the moment things are going for us and we are clocking up the wins.
"We have just got to keep doing what we are doing and hopefully get the rewards. We have had a couple of bad games and still won, which is a bonus.
"But the majority of the time we have been playing well, and it's a matter of keeping ours heads down and just worrying about ourselves."
With two full international caps and more than 100 League appearances with QPR to his name, Welshman Roberts is very much the senior professional in Still¿s set-up.
The experience of 232 Conference games will also be invaluable if the Daggers do remain in the promotion shake-up come next spring.
Roberts, who combines his playing duties with coaching the goalkeepers at Loftus Road, enjoys his role and is keen to keep performing for himself and his team-mates in what could be a memorable season.
"I am 37 now and I've seen most of it before," he said. "I just sit calmly in the dressing-room and concentrate on what I am doing.
"But if anyone needs calming down or geeing up and I spot it I am there to do it.
"I'm doing my job. The ball is hitting me and I'm doing all right. I still love what I¿m doing and I will go on for as long as I can and as long as John keeps picking me."
BBC
QPR's New Open Door Policy: Gregory Invites Fans to Watch Training
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QPR Official Site - OPEN INVITATION
John Gregory has made Harlington an open house and is encouraging Rangers fans to come along and watch training.
From now on, supporters will be allowed to turn up to see the Superhoops going through their daily routine.
Gregory said: "I'd be delighted to see as many fans as possible here. I don't have a problem with them being there watching their heroes and during school holidays bring the kids along as well.
"Providing supporters stick to the training ground regulations and behave themselves then I see no reason as to why this can't continue."
Fans are asked to gather in front of the pitch on the left as you enter Harlington and not congregate on the balcony of the pavilion.
Harlington is located on Sipson Lane, Harlington, Middlesex, UB3 5AQ
Directions are shown below. Map
QPR
QPR Official Site - OPEN INVITATION
John Gregory has made Harlington an open house and is encouraging Rangers fans to come along and watch training.
From now on, supporters will be allowed to turn up to see the Superhoops going through their daily routine.
Gregory said: "I'd be delighted to see as many fans as possible here. I don't have a problem with them being there watching their heroes and during school holidays bring the kids along as well.
"Providing supporters stick to the training ground regulations and behave themselves then I see no reason as to why this can't continue."
Fans are asked to gather in front of the pitch on the left as you enter Harlington and not congregate on the balcony of the pavilion.
Harlington is located on Sipson Lane, Harlington, Middlesex, UB3 5AQ
Directions are shown below. Map
QPR
Friday, October 06, 2006
No Les Ferdinand to Bournemouth
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After reports that former QPR forward, Les Ferdinand was interested in the Bournemouth managerial job and had interviewed with them, AFC Bournemouth today issued the following statement:
Bournemouth Official Site - Manager Update
The club have yet to offer anyone the position of manager, but have this morning released the following statement regarding Les Ferdinand.
Following informal discussions with AFC Bournemouth Les Ferdinand has decided he does not wish to take the process any further.
Chairman, Abdul Jaffer has said: "The Club and Les have had informal discussions and Les has decided at this time he does not wish to take this any further."In line with previous releases the selection process for the new manager is still ongoing and no offers have been made to date. Abdul hopes to have a short list of candidates ready over the weekend in order to bring the process to a successful conclusion ideally during the middle of next week.
Abdul will be making a further statement and inviting questions from the press following tonight's match against Northampton Town (kick off 7.45pm)
Bournemouth Official
After reports that former QPR forward, Les Ferdinand was interested in the Bournemouth managerial job and had interviewed with them, AFC Bournemouth today issued the following statement:
Bournemouth Official Site - Manager Update
The club have yet to offer anyone the position of manager, but have this morning released the following statement regarding Les Ferdinand.
Following informal discussions with AFC Bournemouth Les Ferdinand has decided he does not wish to take the process any further.
Chairman, Abdul Jaffer has said: "The Club and Les have had informal discussions and Les has decided at this time he does not wish to take this any further."In line with previous releases the selection process for the new manager is still ongoing and no offers have been made to date. Abdul hopes to have a short list of candidates ready over the weekend in order to bring the process to a successful conclusion ideally during the middle of next week.
Abdul will be making a further statement and inviting questions from the press following tonight's match against Northampton Town (kick off 7.45pm)
Bournemouth Official
An Expression of Sympthathy to Battletank's .ORG QPR Site, Hacked
Some schmuck hacked into Battletank's QPR.Org website currently incapacitating it and probably deleting content, etc. So, just an expression of sympathy and support for Ben/Battletank whose QPR.org site is for many, "THE Official" unofficial QPR Fan website.
UPDATE: Battletank has established a TEMPORARY QPR.ORG SITE
UPDATE: Battletank has established a TEMPORARY QPR.ORG SITE
Ex-QPR Birthdays: Alan WIlks Turned 60...Steve Slade Turns 31
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A name from the golden past: Alan Wilks - Born October 5, 1946.
Wilks was known as Rodney Marsh's "understudy" which was a big burden to bear. Signed from Chelsea on a free in May 1965. Joined Gillingham in July 1971. Played his most QPR games in 1967/68 and 1968/69. His most famous QPR game was his scoring 5 goals (a QPR record) in QPR's League Cup game vs Oxford Unted, October 10 1967/68 (QPR won 5-1). Wilks played in QPR's first ever game in the First Division (home to LEicester). That season, played 17+3 games, scoring 5 goals.
Steve Slade born October 6, 1975.
The England Under 21 forward was signed from Spurs by Ray Wilkins after QPR's relegation in 1976. Unfortunately, his career at QPR never took off.
A name from the golden past: Alan Wilks - Born October 5, 1946.
Wilks was known as Rodney Marsh's "understudy" which was a big burden to bear. Signed from Chelsea on a free in May 1965. Joined Gillingham in July 1971. Played his most QPR games in 1967/68 and 1968/69. His most famous QPR game was his scoring 5 goals (a QPR record) in QPR's League Cup game vs Oxford Unted, October 10 1967/68 (QPR won 5-1). Wilks played in QPR's first ever game in the First Division (home to LEicester). That season, played 17+3 games, scoring 5 goals.
Steve Slade born October 6, 1975.
The England Under 21 forward was signed from Spurs by Ray Wilkins after QPR's relegation in 1976. Unfortunately, his career at QPR never took off.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
John Gregory Lays Out His Plans
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BBC - Gregory planning overhaul at QPR
By Andrew McKenzie
QPR's new manager John Gregory has vowed to make major changes to the playing staff at the Championship club.
He took over as boss at Loftus Road in September and one of his first tasks will be to trim the first-team squad.
"The squad is massive, it is too big for a club of this size. We can't carry 35 players, it's ridiculous and has got out of hand," he told BBC Sport.
"There will continue to be lots and lots of changes between now and the end of the season."
He added: "I have got about 35 players and they've all got to be paid and fed and clothed and, from time to time, some are staying in a hotel.
"I inherited a huge coaching staff and unfortunately on my second day we had to make some changes and I had to let some people go because we were vastly overstaffed and it was costing us a hell of a lot of money.
"The most important thing is we try to pick up as many points as we can and not worry too much about the off-the-field problems we have.
"But I'm having to address that side of it as well as trying to win matches on a Saturday
One player who will be not going anywhere is Marc Bircham, who has been taken off the transfer list at his own request following Gregory's arrival.
"It's great news for everybody," added Gregory. "He came to see me and wanted to be taken off it, which we've done.
"He's very much an integral part of the squad. He's my captain on the pitch, he has been outstanding for us in the last two matches, he's a great trainer and great lad to have around.
"He's a QPR freak, which helps when you are playing for the club you love, and he wears his heart on his sleeve every week - I just love having him around."
Gregory, who has a deal until the end of the season, added: "He's now playing for a new contract - the same as me, the same as Stevie Lomas and Marcus Bignot.
"Hopefully, all of us will get a new deal if we continue to impress."
Gregory failed in his bid to sign Lee Hendrie from former club Aston Villa on loan as QPR could not afford his wages, with the player moving to Stoke instead.
But, despite their financial struggles, Gregory is still hopeful of improving his squad.
He added: "We can only really loan players and we are up to our limit but if there is somebody who can help us I'm sure the board will do what they can to make it happen. We are looking for bargains here and there.
"We were very interested in Lee but it was going to be far too expensive for us. In the past we've gone ahead and done it but now if we can't afford to do it then we won't.
"We have to address the problems of the past of overspending. I think Lee was keen to come to QPR, but as it turns out, we have taken Jimmy Smith from Chelsea, who cost us a fraction of what Lee would have cost.
"So I'm delighted at getting Jimmy. He is never going to replace Frank Lampard or Claude Makelele or Michael Ballack or Michael Essien so it's probably more beneficial to him to come and play in our first team.
"He will be great for us. He came on for half-an-hour at the weekend and looked like he enjoyed himself and we certainly enjoyed having him.
"He's a smashing kid and he has a lot of potential and can do a very good job for us over the next month.
"Hopefully I can look to extend the loan to the end of the season. Whether it becomes permanent is down to Chelsea.
"Obviously they don't have to worry about the money but they might find it's in Jimmy's best interests to let him go and get a career elsewhere and might let him go for nothing - but we will have to wait and see."
BBC
BBC - Gregory in dreamland at QPR By Andrew McKenzie
John Gregory ended three years in the management wilderness when he agreed to take over as boss of Championship strugglers QPR last month.
Two games later and Gregory has got the club buzzing again, dragging them off the foot of the table on the back of two straight victories.
He upset the national press by refusing to do interviews after QPR beat Southampton at the weekend but BBC Sport has since spoken to the former Aston Villa and Derby manager about life at Loftus Road.
THREE YEARS AWAY FROM MANAGEMENT
It wasn't deliberate by any stretch of the imagination.
I went for one or two jobs that I wasn't successful in getting and I turned down a couple abroad - one in Ireland and one in Israel - as it would have meant being away from London.
I was doing lots of stuff for TV and radio and was pretty well stacked up at the start of this season.
But I was not doing what I wanted to do and I had my doubts whether I would go back to work.
HOW THE QPR MOVE CAME ABOUT
I got a phone call on the Sunday and had a meeting with the chairman on the Monday - we sorted out the finer details, which took about 15 minutes.
I came to work on Wednesday, had my first training session on Thursday and we played Hull on the Saturday - it was pretty straightforward really.
I never had a meeting with the players, I just went to the training ground and got on with it.
LOFTUS ROAD IN 2006
I was a little bit taken aback that the office at Loftus Road was basically how I remember it as a player 20 years ago. It has not really changed at all so that was a bit of an eye-opener.
The wallpaper is not very nice, the desk is the same and the chair has seen better days but there are far more important things to be done first and we can't afford to get the decorators in anyway.
WHAT HE HAS MISSED ABOUT MANAGEMENT
I thoroughly enjoy the coaching side and the atmosphere. You miss the training ground and everything that goes on there.
Coming in, the whole place has been pretty shambolic so getting everything organised and running smoothly and efficiently is something I enjoy.
I like attention to details and that's one of things I've tried to do - so everyone knows exactly what is going on all of the time. It is habit-forming, which you take on to the pitch on a weekend.
WHAT HE HAS DONE TO GET QPR GOING AGAIN
We won two football matches - that gets people buzzing straight away.
We have had a positive attitude on the training ground and I've thrown a bit back at the players and given them the opportunity to make some decisions.
On Friday we trained in the afternoon at Portsmouth. I rang their manager Harry Redknapp and we used Pompey's training ground, which I was grateful for.
I asked the captain Marc Bircham to get the general consensus and everyone wanted to train on Friday afternoon so that's what we did.
If they feel it's more beneficial to train on a Friday afternoon we will support them all the way.
Generally, we have got a few rules - turn up on time, work bloody hard when you get here and look after yourself when you leave.
Then we will see you tomorrow.
NOT SPEAKING TO THE PRESS ON SATURDAY
I didn't have any complaints from anyone at QPR, which is all that matters. I spoke to our people but didn't want to talk to the tabloid journalists - there was no point.
On that particular day I thought the result spoke for itself. Why do I need to add to it? We actually got far more coverage on Sunday and Monday than if I had said anything.
HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH THE CHAIRMAN
When I went to Aston Villa in 1994, Gianni Paladini was a football agent and based in Birmingham so I've got to know him over the years.
I know what he's about and his heart is 100% in this role - he only wants success for the club and he's prepared to work as hard as he can to get it.
He knows how I operate and he was very willing to get me in to try and do the same sort of job I did at Villa and Wycombe.
He has a football head on, even though sometimes he acts like a supporter and gets carried away - like he has over the last two weeks with two wins - but only in a good way.
AMBITIONS
The chairman is looking at survival this year, then who knows what might happen.
We can all dream. Wigan chairman Dave Whelan had a dream for his club to be playing in the Premiership when they were playing at Springfield Park in the Fourth Division.
It was a dream but it was a dream he realised and when you look at that kind of situation then there's no reason why the rest of us can't dream.
For some of us it will remain a dream but for others it will come true.
We can sit here thinking that maybe we can get there but there is a lot of work to do between now and then.
Watford have done it and I'd like to think we're a bigger club than Watford, with our fanbase there's no reason why we can't dream about doing it as well one day.
When I was a player here we got to the Cup final in 1982, in 1983 we won the Second Division and in 1984 we finished fifth in the top flight and qualified for the Uefa Cup.
I'd settle for that - and why not? Why shouldn't you think that way? There's a lot of work to be done but I'm thoroughly enjoying every day so far.
BBC
Gregory Wants Lomas and Bignot to Stay
BBC -QPR manager rates Bignot & Lomas
QPR boss John Gregory says defender Marcus Bignot and midfielder Steve Lomas are part of his plans but have not been removed from transfer list.
"Marcus is in the team, and Steve has been on the bench and has been involved in both my matches in charge," Gregory told the club's official website.
"Both Marcus and Steve are very much part of my plans.
"They are certainly not two players whom I am trying to offload, and they are not available for transfer."
BBC
BBC - Gregory planning overhaul at QPR
By Andrew McKenzie
QPR's new manager John Gregory has vowed to make major changes to the playing staff at the Championship club.
He took over as boss at Loftus Road in September and one of his first tasks will be to trim the first-team squad.
"The squad is massive, it is too big for a club of this size. We can't carry 35 players, it's ridiculous and has got out of hand," he told BBC Sport.
"There will continue to be lots and lots of changes between now and the end of the season."
He added: "I have got about 35 players and they've all got to be paid and fed and clothed and, from time to time, some are staying in a hotel.
"I inherited a huge coaching staff and unfortunately on my second day we had to make some changes and I had to let some people go because we were vastly overstaffed and it was costing us a hell of a lot of money.
"The most important thing is we try to pick up as many points as we can and not worry too much about the off-the-field problems we have.
"But I'm having to address that side of it as well as trying to win matches on a Saturday
One player who will be not going anywhere is Marc Bircham, who has been taken off the transfer list at his own request following Gregory's arrival.
"It's great news for everybody," added Gregory. "He came to see me and wanted to be taken off it, which we've done.
"He's very much an integral part of the squad. He's my captain on the pitch, he has been outstanding for us in the last two matches, he's a great trainer and great lad to have around.
"He's a QPR freak, which helps when you are playing for the club you love, and he wears his heart on his sleeve every week - I just love having him around."
Gregory, who has a deal until the end of the season, added: "He's now playing for a new contract - the same as me, the same as Stevie Lomas and Marcus Bignot.
"Hopefully, all of us will get a new deal if we continue to impress."
Gregory failed in his bid to sign Lee Hendrie from former club Aston Villa on loan as QPR could not afford his wages, with the player moving to Stoke instead.
But, despite their financial struggles, Gregory is still hopeful of improving his squad.
He added: "We can only really loan players and we are up to our limit but if there is somebody who can help us I'm sure the board will do what they can to make it happen. We are looking for bargains here and there.
"We were very interested in Lee but it was going to be far too expensive for us. In the past we've gone ahead and done it but now if we can't afford to do it then we won't.
"We have to address the problems of the past of overspending. I think Lee was keen to come to QPR, but as it turns out, we have taken Jimmy Smith from Chelsea, who cost us a fraction of what Lee would have cost.
"So I'm delighted at getting Jimmy. He is never going to replace Frank Lampard or Claude Makelele or Michael Ballack or Michael Essien so it's probably more beneficial to him to come and play in our first team.
"He will be great for us. He came on for half-an-hour at the weekend and looked like he enjoyed himself and we certainly enjoyed having him.
"He's a smashing kid and he has a lot of potential and can do a very good job for us over the next month.
"Hopefully I can look to extend the loan to the end of the season. Whether it becomes permanent is down to Chelsea.
"Obviously they don't have to worry about the money but they might find it's in Jimmy's best interests to let him go and get a career elsewhere and might let him go for nothing - but we will have to wait and see."
BBC
BBC - Gregory in dreamland at QPR By Andrew McKenzie
John Gregory ended three years in the management wilderness when he agreed to take over as boss of Championship strugglers QPR last month.
Two games later and Gregory has got the club buzzing again, dragging them off the foot of the table on the back of two straight victories.
He upset the national press by refusing to do interviews after QPR beat Southampton at the weekend but BBC Sport has since spoken to the former Aston Villa and Derby manager about life at Loftus Road.
THREE YEARS AWAY FROM MANAGEMENT
It wasn't deliberate by any stretch of the imagination.
I went for one or two jobs that I wasn't successful in getting and I turned down a couple abroad - one in Ireland and one in Israel - as it would have meant being away from London.
I was doing lots of stuff for TV and radio and was pretty well stacked up at the start of this season.
But I was not doing what I wanted to do and I had my doubts whether I would go back to work.
HOW THE QPR MOVE CAME ABOUT
I got a phone call on the Sunday and had a meeting with the chairman on the Monday - we sorted out the finer details, which took about 15 minutes.
I came to work on Wednesday, had my first training session on Thursday and we played Hull on the Saturday - it was pretty straightforward really.
I never had a meeting with the players, I just went to the training ground and got on with it.
LOFTUS ROAD IN 2006
I was a little bit taken aback that the office at Loftus Road was basically how I remember it as a player 20 years ago. It has not really changed at all so that was a bit of an eye-opener.
The wallpaper is not very nice, the desk is the same and the chair has seen better days but there are far more important things to be done first and we can't afford to get the decorators in anyway.
WHAT HE HAS MISSED ABOUT MANAGEMENT
I thoroughly enjoy the coaching side and the atmosphere. You miss the training ground and everything that goes on there.
Coming in, the whole place has been pretty shambolic so getting everything organised and running smoothly and efficiently is something I enjoy.
I like attention to details and that's one of things I've tried to do - so everyone knows exactly what is going on all of the time. It is habit-forming, which you take on to the pitch on a weekend.
WHAT HE HAS DONE TO GET QPR GOING AGAIN
We won two football matches - that gets people buzzing straight away.
We have had a positive attitude on the training ground and I've thrown a bit back at the players and given them the opportunity to make some decisions.
On Friday we trained in the afternoon at Portsmouth. I rang their manager Harry Redknapp and we used Pompey's training ground, which I was grateful for.
I asked the captain Marc Bircham to get the general consensus and everyone wanted to train on Friday afternoon so that's what we did.
If they feel it's more beneficial to train on a Friday afternoon we will support them all the way.
Generally, we have got a few rules - turn up on time, work bloody hard when you get here and look after yourself when you leave.
Then we will see you tomorrow.
NOT SPEAKING TO THE PRESS ON SATURDAY
I didn't have any complaints from anyone at QPR, which is all that matters. I spoke to our people but didn't want to talk to the tabloid journalists - there was no point.
On that particular day I thought the result spoke for itself. Why do I need to add to it? We actually got far more coverage on Sunday and Monday than if I had said anything.
HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH THE CHAIRMAN
When I went to Aston Villa in 1994, Gianni Paladini was a football agent and based in Birmingham so I've got to know him over the years.
I know what he's about and his heart is 100% in this role - he only wants success for the club and he's prepared to work as hard as he can to get it.
He knows how I operate and he was very willing to get me in to try and do the same sort of job I did at Villa and Wycombe.
He has a football head on, even though sometimes he acts like a supporter and gets carried away - like he has over the last two weeks with two wins - but only in a good way.
AMBITIONS
The chairman is looking at survival this year, then who knows what might happen.
We can all dream. Wigan chairman Dave Whelan had a dream for his club to be playing in the Premiership when they were playing at Springfield Park in the Fourth Division.
It was a dream but it was a dream he realised and when you look at that kind of situation then there's no reason why the rest of us can't dream.
For some of us it will remain a dream but for others it will come true.
We can sit here thinking that maybe we can get there but there is a lot of work to do between now and then.
Watford have done it and I'd like to think we're a bigger club than Watford, with our fanbase there's no reason why we can't dream about doing it as well one day.
When I was a player here we got to the Cup final in 1982, in 1983 we won the Second Division and in 1984 we finished fifth in the top flight and qualified for the Uefa Cup.
I'd settle for that - and why not? Why shouldn't you think that way? There's a lot of work to be done but I'm thoroughly enjoying every day so far.
BBC
Gregory Wants Lomas and Bignot to Stay
BBC -QPR manager rates Bignot & Lomas
QPR boss John Gregory says defender Marcus Bignot and midfielder Steve Lomas are part of his plans but have not been removed from transfer list.
"Marcus is in the team, and Steve has been on the bench and has been involved in both my matches in charge," Gregory told the club's official website.
"Both Marcus and Steve are very much part of my plans.
"They are certainly not two players whom I am trying to offload, and they are not available for transfer."
BBC
QPR Legend, Dave Thomas Turn 56
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Dave Thomas - Born October 5, 1950
Gordon Jago signed 21-year old/England U-21 International, Dave Thomas in October 1972 from Burnley for what was then a record fee for a Second Division Club: 165,000 pounds (and a time when the biggest transfer fee paid by an English club was around 250,000 pounds!) (Thomas had been described as the best young player in Europe and seemed a bargain signing. Known for not wearing shin pads/socks down to the ankles)
Thomas was signed to replace QPR midfielder, Martyn Busby who very sadly broke his leg in a game at Fulham. Originally played in midfield, was switched to the wing and was a key player for QPR in their "Championship" season in 1975-1976. Thomas also played 8 times for England. Was crazily transferred to Everton in August 1977.
Thomas
Nice Profile of Thomas at Queens Park Rangers FC. Com
Dave Thomas - Born October 5, 1950
Gordon Jago signed 21-year old/England U-21 International, Dave Thomas in October 1972 from Burnley for what was then a record fee for a Second Division Club: 165,000 pounds (and a time when the biggest transfer fee paid by an English club was around 250,000 pounds!) (Thomas had been described as the best young player in Europe and seemed a bargain signing. Known for not wearing shin pads/socks down to the ankles)
Thomas was signed to replace QPR midfielder, Martyn Busby who very sadly broke his leg in a game at Fulham. Originally played in midfield, was switched to the wing and was a key player for QPR in their "Championship" season in 1975-1976. Thomas also played 8 times for England. Was crazily transferred to Everton in August 1977.
Thomas
Nice Profile of Thomas at Queens Park Rangers FC. Com
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Four "Backroom" Departures From QPR
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Update: Four Departures and two arrivals
QPR Official Site - All Change"
In the wake of John Gregory's arrival as QPR manager, the Club have parted company with four of their backroom team.
Reserve Team Manager Justin Skinner, Head of Recruitment John O'Brien, Assistant Physiotherapist Bobby Bacic and Team Masseur Graham Staddon have all left the Club, with two new staff members set to be announced in the next 24 hours.
The Club wishes to thank the quartet for their services to QPR, while also wishing them all the best for the future.
QPR Official Site
Official Site - NEW ADDITIONS
Queens Park Rangers Football Club are delighted to welcome Richard Hill and Joe Dunbar to the Club.
Hill joins John Gregory's backroom staff as a coach, while Dunbar is employed as a Sports Performance Coach.
The pair will work closely alongside the new gaffer, who was understandably pleased with their appointments: "Joe was Lennox Lewis' personal trainer. When Lennox was getting ready for a fight, he had a ten week period where Joe was the guy who had to get him up to speed.
"Since Lennox has retired, Joe has had a bit more time on his hands and has been working for me here at the Club on a semi-part-time basis.
"Hilly worked with me at Wycombe between 1996 and 1998. When I went to Aston Villa he went to Gillingham, so he knows this division very well and knows how to survive in it. He will be working alongside me.''
Stay tuned to www.qpr.co.uk for further news and interviews regarding the appointments.
Official Site
Update: Four Departures and two arrivals
QPR Official Site - All Change"
In the wake of John Gregory's arrival as QPR manager, the Club have parted company with four of their backroom team.
Reserve Team Manager Justin Skinner, Head of Recruitment John O'Brien, Assistant Physiotherapist Bobby Bacic and Team Masseur Graham Staddon have all left the Club, with two new staff members set to be announced in the next 24 hours.
The Club wishes to thank the quartet for their services to QPR, while also wishing them all the best for the future.
QPR Official Site
Official Site - NEW ADDITIONS
Queens Park Rangers Football Club are delighted to welcome Richard Hill and Joe Dunbar to the Club.
Hill joins John Gregory's backroom staff as a coach, while Dunbar is employed as a Sports Performance Coach.
The pair will work closely alongside the new gaffer, who was understandably pleased with their appointments: "Joe was Lennox Lewis' personal trainer. When Lennox was getting ready for a fight, he had a ten week period where Joe was the guy who had to get him up to speed.
"Since Lennox has retired, Joe has had a bit more time on his hands and has been working for me here at the Club on a semi-part-time basis.
"Hilly worked with me at Wycombe between 1996 and 1998. When I went to Aston Villa he went to Gillingham, so he knows this division very well and knows how to survive in it. He will be working alongside me.''
Stay tuned to www.qpr.co.uk for further news and interviews regarding the appointments.
Official Site
Coming this Week: (QPR1st's) Tracy Stent's "Trial Report"...and Richard Hill to Assist John Gregory (Kilburn Times/Tom Harvey)
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NB: From QPR1st:
"Court case notes -Tracy's account and court notes should hopefully be published on the Trust website by the end of this week, barring any last minute hitches, so please keep your eye open for this."
QPR1st
Tom Harvey, Kilburn Times, October 4 re Tracy Stent/Trial Record
"...Elsewhere, an extensive record of the 'QPR trial' that took place during the summer is to be published later this week.
Tracy Stent, of the supporters' group QPR 1st, attended every day of the month-long case at Blackfriars Crown Court and has compiled a verbatim account of the proceedings, running to approximately 150 pages.
The trial, relating to a matchday incident at Loftus Road in August 2005, saw eight men, including a former Rangers director, cleared of blackmail and firearms charges.
Kilburn Times
Tom Harvey, Kilburn Times, October 4 re John Gregory Assistant, Richard Hill
"...John Gregory's management team at QPR is beginning to take shape with former Stevenage Borough boss Richard Hill set to be named as his assistant.
Hill, who spent two years at Stevenage after being appointed manager in 1998, knows Gregory well from their time together at Aston Villa.
Hill enjoyed a spell as a coach during Gregory's reign at Villa Park, before moving on to Stevenage.
After his exit from the Hertfordshire side, Hill worked as assistant boss to Andy Hessenthaler at Gillingham, before taking a similar role under Brian Little at Tranmere and then becoming number two at Northampton Town until 2003.
Hill's arrival is expected to be followed by further management changes at Loftus Road, with four staff set to leave in the next few days.
Kilburn Times
NB: From QPR1st:
"Court case notes -Tracy's account and court notes should hopefully be published on the Trust website by the end of this week, barring any last minute hitches, so please keep your eye open for this."
QPR1st
Tom Harvey, Kilburn Times, October 4 re Tracy Stent/Trial Record
"...Elsewhere, an extensive record of the 'QPR trial' that took place during the summer is to be published later this week.
Tracy Stent, of the supporters' group QPR 1st, attended every day of the month-long case at Blackfriars Crown Court and has compiled a verbatim account of the proceedings, running to approximately 150 pages.
The trial, relating to a matchday incident at Loftus Road in August 2005, saw eight men, including a former Rangers director, cleared of blackmail and firearms charges.
Kilburn Times
Tom Harvey, Kilburn Times, October 4 re John Gregory Assistant, Richard Hill
"...John Gregory's management team at QPR is beginning to take shape with former Stevenage Borough boss Richard Hill set to be named as his assistant.
Hill, who spent two years at Stevenage after being appointed manager in 1998, knows Gregory well from their time together at Aston Villa.
Hill enjoyed a spell as a coach during Gregory's reign at Villa Park, before moving on to Stevenage.
After his exit from the Hertfordshire side, Hill worked as assistant boss to Andy Hessenthaler at Gillingham, before taking a similar role under Brian Little at Tranmere and then becoming number two at Northampton Town until 2003.
Hill's arrival is expected to be followed by further management changes at Loftus Road, with four staff set to leave in the next few days.
Kilburn Times
Birthday: Ex-QPR Terry Mancini Turns 64
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Terry Mancini - Born October 4, 1942 - Turns 64
QPR manager Gordon Jago signed Orient's 29 year-old captain and Center-half, Terry Mancini in November 1971 to bolster QPR promotion hopes. (It didn't work, and initially, Mancini was not a great success and was initially replaced by QPR's own 'home grown" Ian Evans.
But Mancini "worked his way up" and QPR were promoted the following season and became a firm fan favourite. And to the amazement of many, he was a major success in QPR's first season back in the First Division and was even capped by the Republic of Ireland.
Mancini was sold to struggling Arsenal in October 1974, shortly before Gordon Jago himself left QPR. Mancini had been replaced by David Webb in the QPR Defense.
Mancini
Terry Mancini - Born October 4, 1942 - Turns 64
QPR manager Gordon Jago signed Orient's 29 year-old captain and Center-half, Terry Mancini in November 1971 to bolster QPR promotion hopes. (It didn't work, and initially, Mancini was not a great success and was initially replaced by QPR's own 'home grown" Ian Evans.
But Mancini "worked his way up" and QPR were promoted the following season and became a firm fan favourite. And to the amazement of many, he was a major success in QPR's first season back in the First Division and was even capped by the Republic of Ireland.
Mancini was sold to struggling Arsenal in October 1974, shortly before Gordon Jago himself left QPR. Mancini had been replaced by David Webb in the QPR Defense.
Mancini
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Lee Cook named in Coca-Cola Championship "Team of the Week"
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Goalkeeper Lee Grant Derby
Defender Bobby Hassell Barnsley
Defender Leon Cort Crystal Palace
Defender Darren Moore Derby
Defender Andy Griffin Stoke
Midfielder Dean Whitehead Sunderland
Midfielder Lilian Nalis Argyle
Midfielder Brian Howard Barnsley
Midfielder Lee Cook QPR
Striker Arturo Lupoli Derby
Striker Gary McSheffrey Birmingham
Coca-Cola Championship Team of the Week
Goalkeeper Lee Grant Derby
Defender Bobby Hassell Barnsley
Defender Leon Cort Crystal Palace
Defender Darren Moore Derby
Defender Andy Griffin Stoke
Midfielder Dean Whitehead Sunderland
Midfielder Lilian Nalis Argyle
Midfielder Brian Howard Barnsley
Midfielder Lee Cook QPR
Striker Arturo Lupoli Derby
Striker Gary McSheffrey Birmingham
Coca-Cola Championship Team of the Week
Birthday: Ex-QPR, Steve Wicks Turns 50!
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Steve Wicks Turns 50: Born October 3rd 1956
Beginning at Chelsea; then joined Derby. Wicks was signed by Tommy Docherty from Derby in September 1979. Wicks played two seasons for QPR before Terry Venables sold Wicks to Crystal Palace in a part exchange for Clive Allen. (QPR got Allen + Cash) in June 191
Six months later, on transfer deadline day, in March 1982, Wicks was brought back to QPR (for a lot than QPR paid!) Unfortunately Wicks was cup-tied and so couldn't play against Spurs. Wicks remained at QPR till July 1986 when he rejoined Chelsea after QPR's calamitous "League Cup" Final against Oxford.
Wicks didn't win a full cap, but came close. Another in a long line of ex-Chelsea players who shone at QPR and about whom, QPR fans have very warm feelings!
Wicks Record
Steve Wicks Turns 50: Born October 3rd 1956
Beginning at Chelsea; then joined Derby. Wicks was signed by Tommy Docherty from Derby in September 1979. Wicks played two seasons for QPR before Terry Venables sold Wicks to Crystal Palace in a part exchange for Clive Allen. (QPR got Allen + Cash) in June 191
Six months later, on transfer deadline day, in March 1982, Wicks was brought back to QPR (for a lot than QPR paid!) Unfortunately Wicks was cup-tied and so couldn't play against Spurs. Wicks remained at QPR till July 1986 when he rejoined Chelsea after QPR's calamitous "League Cup" Final against Oxford.
Wicks didn't win a full cap, but came close. Another in a long line of ex-Chelsea players who shone at QPR and about whom, QPR fans have very warm feelings!
Wicks Record
Monday, October 02, 2006
Ex-QPR News: Jim Smith Wins Manager of the Month (Again)...Kenny Jackett Under Some Pressure...Ex-loanee Dyer Hits Injury time Equalizer
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BBC -Smith named manager of the month
Smith has collected the monthly accolade for September
Oxford boss Jim Smith is the Nationwide Conference manager of the month for September after taking his side eight points clear at the top of the table.
He shared the award in August but is outright winner after U's were unbeaten and won six of their seven games. ...
BBC
IC Wales - Jackett Under some PRessure
Defensive frailties put Jackett on the spotOct 2 2006
WALK into the reception at Nottingham Forest and the bronze bust of Brian Clough gazing up at you provides an instant reminder of the club's proud European Cup-winning history.
Fairly or unfairly, Cloughie's unparalleled achievements as Forest manager have invariably been used as a yardstick to measure the success of those who have followed him into the City Ground hot-seat.
In Kenny Jackett's case, it is not so much a demand to live up to the past placing him under intense scrutiny as a struggle to meet expectations for the future.
Which explains why he was asked if he feared for his job as Swansea manager after his Championship hopefuls were humbled by a Forest side who seem destined to recapture their long-held place in the upper echelons of English football.
Defensive frailties put Jackett on the spotOct 2 2006
For 53 marvellous minutes, it looked like the post-match questions would be no more taxing than "who most deserves the man of the match award?" as the Swans were dominating this absorbing League One test and heading for result of the season so far.
But then another - yes, another - defensive horror show unfolded to account for Swansea's second successive 3-1 away defeat and Jackett, his side now eight points adrift of pace-setters Forest having leaked 15 goals in 12 matches, was back on the rack.
Asked by one journalist if he felt his job at the Liberty Stadium was under threat, Jackett said, "You'd have to ask other people about that. I don't employ the manager at Swansea City. I am currently the manager and I'm in a position where I need to influence performances and results.
"I feel I still have the backing of everyone at the club, though obviously it's your job (the media) to assess that.
"I can't speak for other people. I can speak for the side and I know I have some problems to address. I wouldn't be naive enough to say I don't have any problems.
"Defensive frailties was the only weakness we showed in this game. Football is a simple game and you need to get the basics right."
Even Jackett would probably admit he's starting to sound like a stuck record. Week after week, it seems, he finds himself stressing the need to get back to basics on the training ground.
Yet how much longer will he be given to get it right defensively? Fifth-placed Tranmere arrive at the Liberty on Friday and another capitulation like the one they displayed in Nottingham will surely not be tolerated by the boardroom string-pullers.
That familiar sinking feeling must have consumed Jackett when Swansea contrived to surrender a 1-0 lead established on the back of a fabulous first-half performance.
Rory Fallon's second goal in as many games, a glancing header from Andy Robinson's corner, had been the least they deserved after dominating possession and playing some of their best football of the campaign.
Fact was, however, that Colin Calderwood's team stepped up a level after the interval and Swansea simply could not match them as the damage was done in a mind-blowing 13-minute spell.
A worrying thing for a team aspiring to compete with Forest for the League One title.
Feeling they have been unfairly vilified in recent weeks, Swansea's defenders have been keen to promote the "attack as a team, defend as a team" mantra, yet even Jackett was struggling to avoid attaching blame to the back four for at least two of Forest's goals.
Right-back Alan Tate would have to concede he was caught glaringly out of position for the equaliser as Kris Commons found James Perch loitering in an ocean of space down the left and the Forest left-back finished clinically with a devastating drive beyond the fingertips of Andy Oakes.
Two minutes later the excellent Commons finished superbly after no-one tracked his progress down the inside-left channel, and Forest supporters were delirious on 67 minutes when Junior Agogo sprang the offside trap, carved through Swansea's defence and deliciously dinked the ball past Oakes. And the Swans were done for, unable to raise themselves off the canvas.
"The first and third goals were gifts," Jackett cursed. "For the first, Forest's left-back was something like nine yards out and just passed it into the net. Leon (Britton) and Alan got caught sleeping down the right-hand side, which is unlike them. They've been very solid.
"With the second one, Alan perhaps could have got tighter to Commons, though maybe that's easier said than done. And the third was just a straight run from Junior, who got between the two central defenders.
"Forest's goals weren't even born out of 10-15 minutes of pressure. They were isolated incidents which we defended very poorly and put a clinical side into pole position in the game.
"We did very well in the first period and had the majority of the ball for long periods.
"But, whatever you say about the rest of the performance, it becomes very difficult when you give goals away as we did. Forest took their opportunities, but we have to be a lot tighter."
The fear is that Swansea's defence - deprived of long-term injury victim Garry Monk and with Dennis Lawrence set to miss Tranmere's visit as he heads off on Trinidad and Tobago duty - simply isn't providing a bedrock for automatic promotion.
There might be some talented individuals, but as a unit the rearguard just doesn't appear to have that required watertight quality.
The Swans have now lost five of their opening 12 matches - three defeats in the last four - and shipped 15 goals in the process. Jackett knows those statistics need improving fast.
"Defeats hurt and sting if you're the manager and it's not nice to know we've lost five out of 12," Jackett said.
"The basic difference between Forest and ourselves is they've conceded six goals, we've conceded 15. That's why they're top and we're mid-table.
"Whether it's as a back four or as a side, we have to improve if we want to be successful this season. We definitely need to do some extra work on the training ground over the next week."
And, as with Crewe's visit last week, Jackett knows there will be no margin for error against Tranmere. Groundhog day approaches.
Wales
MK Dons Official Site Barnett 3 MK Dons 3
"...A last gasp equaliser from Lloyd Dyer gave the MK Dons a share of the points, having been two goals down on the hour mark..."
MK Dons
BBC -Smith named manager of the month
Smith has collected the monthly accolade for September
Oxford boss Jim Smith is the Nationwide Conference manager of the month for September after taking his side eight points clear at the top of the table.
He shared the award in August but is outright winner after U's were unbeaten and won six of their seven games. ...
BBC
IC Wales - Jackett Under some PRessure
Defensive frailties put Jackett on the spotOct 2 2006
WALK into the reception at Nottingham Forest and the bronze bust of Brian Clough gazing up at you provides an instant reminder of the club's proud European Cup-winning history.
Fairly or unfairly, Cloughie's unparalleled achievements as Forest manager have invariably been used as a yardstick to measure the success of those who have followed him into the City Ground hot-seat.
In Kenny Jackett's case, it is not so much a demand to live up to the past placing him under intense scrutiny as a struggle to meet expectations for the future.
Which explains why he was asked if he feared for his job as Swansea manager after his Championship hopefuls were humbled by a Forest side who seem destined to recapture their long-held place in the upper echelons of English football.
Defensive frailties put Jackett on the spotOct 2 2006
For 53 marvellous minutes, it looked like the post-match questions would be no more taxing than "who most deserves the man of the match award?" as the Swans were dominating this absorbing League One test and heading for result of the season so far.
But then another - yes, another - defensive horror show unfolded to account for Swansea's second successive 3-1 away defeat and Jackett, his side now eight points adrift of pace-setters Forest having leaked 15 goals in 12 matches, was back on the rack.
Asked by one journalist if he felt his job at the Liberty Stadium was under threat, Jackett said, "You'd have to ask other people about that. I don't employ the manager at Swansea City. I am currently the manager and I'm in a position where I need to influence performances and results.
"I feel I still have the backing of everyone at the club, though obviously it's your job (the media) to assess that.
"I can't speak for other people. I can speak for the side and I know I have some problems to address. I wouldn't be naive enough to say I don't have any problems.
"Defensive frailties was the only weakness we showed in this game. Football is a simple game and you need to get the basics right."
Even Jackett would probably admit he's starting to sound like a stuck record. Week after week, it seems, he finds himself stressing the need to get back to basics on the training ground.
Yet how much longer will he be given to get it right defensively? Fifth-placed Tranmere arrive at the Liberty on Friday and another capitulation like the one they displayed in Nottingham will surely not be tolerated by the boardroom string-pullers.
That familiar sinking feeling must have consumed Jackett when Swansea contrived to surrender a 1-0 lead established on the back of a fabulous first-half performance.
Rory Fallon's second goal in as many games, a glancing header from Andy Robinson's corner, had been the least they deserved after dominating possession and playing some of their best football of the campaign.
Fact was, however, that Colin Calderwood's team stepped up a level after the interval and Swansea simply could not match them as the damage was done in a mind-blowing 13-minute spell.
A worrying thing for a team aspiring to compete with Forest for the League One title.
Feeling they have been unfairly vilified in recent weeks, Swansea's defenders have been keen to promote the "attack as a team, defend as a team" mantra, yet even Jackett was struggling to avoid attaching blame to the back four for at least two of Forest's goals.
Right-back Alan Tate would have to concede he was caught glaringly out of position for the equaliser as Kris Commons found James Perch loitering in an ocean of space down the left and the Forest left-back finished clinically with a devastating drive beyond the fingertips of Andy Oakes.
Two minutes later the excellent Commons finished superbly after no-one tracked his progress down the inside-left channel, and Forest supporters were delirious on 67 minutes when Junior Agogo sprang the offside trap, carved through Swansea's defence and deliciously dinked the ball past Oakes. And the Swans were done for, unable to raise themselves off the canvas.
"The first and third goals were gifts," Jackett cursed. "For the first, Forest's left-back was something like nine yards out and just passed it into the net. Leon (Britton) and Alan got caught sleeping down the right-hand side, which is unlike them. They've been very solid.
"With the second one, Alan perhaps could have got tighter to Commons, though maybe that's easier said than done. And the third was just a straight run from Junior, who got between the two central defenders.
"Forest's goals weren't even born out of 10-15 minutes of pressure. They were isolated incidents which we defended very poorly and put a clinical side into pole position in the game.
"We did very well in the first period and had the majority of the ball for long periods.
"But, whatever you say about the rest of the performance, it becomes very difficult when you give goals away as we did. Forest took their opportunities, but we have to be a lot tighter."
The fear is that Swansea's defence - deprived of long-term injury victim Garry Monk and with Dennis Lawrence set to miss Tranmere's visit as he heads off on Trinidad and Tobago duty - simply isn't providing a bedrock for automatic promotion.
There might be some talented individuals, but as a unit the rearguard just doesn't appear to have that required watertight quality.
The Swans have now lost five of their opening 12 matches - three defeats in the last four - and shipped 15 goals in the process. Jackett knows those statistics need improving fast.
"Defeats hurt and sting if you're the manager and it's not nice to know we've lost five out of 12," Jackett said.
"The basic difference between Forest and ourselves is they've conceded six goals, we've conceded 15. That's why they're top and we're mid-table.
"Whether it's as a back four or as a side, we have to improve if we want to be successful this season. We definitely need to do some extra work on the training ground over the next week."
And, as with Crewe's visit last week, Jackett knows there will be no margin for error against Tranmere. Groundhog day approaches.
Wales
MK Dons Official Site Barnett 3 MK Dons 3
"...A last gasp equaliser from Lloyd Dyer gave the MK Dons a share of the points, having been two goals down on the hour mark..."
MK Dons
John Gregory on Players & Fans; his Managerial Return and re talking to the Press & fans
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QPR OFFICIAL SITE - SPEAKING OUT
John Gregory would like QPR fans to know that he is delighted with his start to management at Loftus Road.
After picking up maximum points in his first two games, Gregory has lifted QPR from bottom of the table to 16th in just over a week.
Victory against Hull and then Southampton saw Dexter Blackstock and Ray Jones on the scoresheet on both occasions and Gregory is delighted how the entire team have adapted to life under the new regime.
"I'm delighted with the attitude that the players have shown, not just on the pitch, but at the training ground as well. Their commitment levels have been first class and they have given me 100 per-cent in everything they do.
"The attitude they have shown towards training, working hard and soaking up new knowledge has been first class. It has honestly been like a totally seamless transition.
"Dexter and Ray have both been superb in the last two games. It's always difficult to single out people for praise, but sometimes it's impossible to ignore someone's contribution.
"I've been delighted with the team as a whole. Our defence has looked solid and our midfield covered so much ground on Saturday it was unbelievable.
"We've had to make early changes in both games, but the character shown by the lads who came off the bench enabled us to continue without disrupting the flow of the team."
After three years out of management, Gregory is now back to his best and feels as though he has never been away.
"Returning to management after a brief spell away from it all hasn't been a problem. Sometimes it feels like I haven't been away, but of course I can't deny that I have. "I've had a lot of time to think and thanks to that; I've been able to approach things differently than what I may have done four or five years ago."
Gregory was also keen to put across a message for QPR fans who may have felt dismayed that they weren't able to read the gaffer's thoughts following the impressive win at St Mary's at the weekend.
"I didn't want to speak with the press on Saturday because I felt that the players spoke for the entire club with the football that they played and the way in which they approached the game.
"I will always want to speak to the fans via the club's website, programme and on Clubcall - that will never become a problem.
"I will always be available to speak with the fans and I look forward to meeting some of them at the forthcoming Fans' Forum.
"They have all been amazing and I was gob smacked on Saturday, firstly with the amazing turnout and secondly the level of noise that emanated from our end, even when we were a goal down.
"They played their part in what was a fantastic day all round."
Official SIte
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - SPEAKING OUT
John Gregory would like QPR fans to know that he is delighted with his start to management at Loftus Road.
After picking up maximum points in his first two games, Gregory has lifted QPR from bottom of the table to 16th in just over a week.
Victory against Hull and then Southampton saw Dexter Blackstock and Ray Jones on the scoresheet on both occasions and Gregory is delighted how the entire team have adapted to life under the new regime.
"I'm delighted with the attitude that the players have shown, not just on the pitch, but at the training ground as well. Their commitment levels have been first class and they have given me 100 per-cent in everything they do.
"The attitude they have shown towards training, working hard and soaking up new knowledge has been first class. It has honestly been like a totally seamless transition.
"Dexter and Ray have both been superb in the last two games. It's always difficult to single out people for praise, but sometimes it's impossible to ignore someone's contribution.
"I've been delighted with the team as a whole. Our defence has looked solid and our midfield covered so much ground on Saturday it was unbelievable.
"We've had to make early changes in both games, but the character shown by the lads who came off the bench enabled us to continue without disrupting the flow of the team."
After three years out of management, Gregory is now back to his best and feels as though he has never been away.
"Returning to management after a brief spell away from it all hasn't been a problem. Sometimes it feels like I haven't been away, but of course I can't deny that I have. "I've had a lot of time to think and thanks to that; I've been able to approach things differently than what I may have done four or five years ago."
Gregory was also keen to put across a message for QPR fans who may have felt dismayed that they weren't able to read the gaffer's thoughts following the impressive win at St Mary's at the weekend.
"I didn't want to speak with the press on Saturday because I felt that the players spoke for the entire club with the football that they played and the way in which they approached the game.
"I will always want to speak to the fans via the club's website, programme and on Clubcall - that will never become a problem.
"I will always be available to speak with the fans and I look forward to meeting some of them at the forthcoming Fans' Forum.
"They have all been amazing and I was gob smacked on Saturday, firstly with the amazing turnout and secondly the level of noise that emanated from our end, even when we were a goal down.
"They played their part in what was a fantastic day all round."
Official SIte
QPR's Win at Southampton - Further Reports
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David Ornstein, The Guardian - October 2nd 2006
Gregory puts substance before style to spoil Saints revival
Before this game John Gregory urged his players to be "prepared to kick their granny" in pursuit of victory and after seeing Queens Park Rangers maintain their 100% record under his guidance, he must be delighted with their response.
Gregory has been in charge at Loftus Road for less than a fortnight but is already making his mark on a side that had not won in the league since August 12. After two triumphs in two outings the "huge challenge" he spoke of when taking the job appears to be shrinking by the match.
The striking partnership of Dexter Blackstock and Ray Jones, who have both scored in each of those two wins, looks to be blossoming. And the inspirational form of Marc Bircham in midfield is reminiscent of Gregory in his pomp. The captain yesterday withdrew his transfer request, saying Gregory's impact has been "amazing" and had brought "the buzz" back.
Gregory enjoyed some of his finest days as a player at at Loftus Road but if his Rangers managerial career proves to be anywhere near as successful as his opening two games - this was QPR's first away victory in six months - there will be happy times ahead."Style may go out the window as we look to pick up some points," he had said. "I like my teams to play great attacking football, but if you're the most attractive team to ever get relegated, that will be no good to anyone. I love to be around people who are prepared to kick their granny if it means they're going to win; that's what I'm looking for." And that's exactly what he got. Despite falling behind to a Jermaine Wright volley within 120 seconds Rangers showed a new-found determination.
With Southampton pursuing a fifth straight win for the first time in 25 years, which would have put them second, QPR showed a defensive solidity that would be the envy of many a Championship side.
After weathering an early storm QPR scored from their first clear-cut opportunity. Lee Cook's cross from the left picked out Blackstock, the former Southampton striker, whose diving header left Kelvin Davis helpless. "How many times has that happened - a player coming to his previous club and scoring?" Southampton's manager George Burley said.
If Davis was powerless to prevent the first goal he was entirely accountable for the second. As he tried to usher Zesh Rehman's through-ball out for a goal-kick when Ray Jones robbed him and slipped into an open goal. It was inexplicable.
The win made Gregory and his players' refusal to speak to the media afterwards all the more bizarre but if QPR continue to pick up points and play like this, their league position will soon speak for itself.
Man of the match: Damion Stewart (QPR)
Corners: Southampton 11 QPR 2
Goal Attempts: Southampton 10 QPR 7
On Target: Southampton 7 QPR 3
Guardian
INDEPENDENT, Conrad Leach - October 2, 2006
Southampton 1 QPR 2: Gregory celebrates in silence after goalkeeper's error seals win
John Gregory wants "people who are prepared to kick their granny if it means they are going to win". The QPR players were not forced to go to such lengths on Saturday, when Southampton were pretty amenable on their home turf.
Despite taking the lead early on, the Saints handed the initiative back to the visitors, who were enjoying their second game under their new manager, having beaten Hull last week.
Not that Gregory was inclined to share his thoughts on an impressive win against a side that started the day third in the table and going for five consecutive wins for the first time in 25 years. Inexplicably, he also instructed his players to remain tight-lipped after their first away win since March.
They got off to the worst imaginable start, as Rudi Skacel's cross fell for Jermaine Wright and his tame-looking volley deceived Paul Jones, though worse goalkeeping was to follow from the Welshman's opposite number.
Before that, QPR regained some composure and a claim on the game's outcome when Lee Cook found Dexter Blackstock with a cross and the former Saints striker guided his header past Kelvin Davis.
Blackstock, who joined QPR at the end of August for £500,000, made his feelings clear towards the club that gave him his professional debut by not celebrating that strike. The ban on talking did not apply before the game, though, and in the programme he expressed his thanks to Southampton.
"Although I started my career at Oxford, South-ampton were the club that really helped me make my mark," he wrote. "I don't think there could have been a better place for me to learn the game."
Whether Davis has learnt from his mistakes recently is not so obvious. In August the former Sunderland goalkeeper gifted Preston a point. Now, as if turning 30 is not bad enough, he marked the day after his landmark birthday with a horrendous error. He failed to beat Ray Jones while outside his penalty box and in the ensuing challenge ended up in a crumpled heap. The 18-year-old striker profited, his sharp, smart finish from a tight angle rolling the ball into the empty net.
Southampton's manager, George Burley, defended his man afterwards but will presumably find it hard to tolerate many more such mistakes if more ground is going to be lost on Cardiff and Birmingham. Whether he will get Davis to kick any grannies is uncertain.
Goals: Wright (2) 1-0; Blackstock (34) 1-1; R Jones (40) 1-2.
Southampton (4-4-2): Davis; Makin, Baird, Pele (Jones, 70), Bale; Wright (Dyer, 56), Licka, Viafara, Skacel; Rasiak, Wright-Phillips (Surman, 78). Substitutes not used: Miller (gk), Ostlund.
Queens Park Rangers (4-4-2): P Jones; Bignot, Rehman, Stewart, Rose (Kanyuka, 22); Rowlands, Bircham (Lomas, 63), Bailey (Smith, 63), Cook; Blackstock, R Jones. Substitutes not used: Royce (gk), Gallen.
Referee: A D'Urso (Essex).
Booked: Southampton Licka.
Man of the match: Blackstock.
Attendance: 25,185.
Independent
Telegraph
Southampton (1) 1 Queens Park Rangers (2) 2
Whatever John Gregory's reasons for keeping the assembled press waiting for an hour after this match before eventually refusing all interviews, his first priority is to his fans, who returned to London buoyed by a second successive win under their new manager.
Perhaps Gregory's time as a television pundit has given him a new perspective on how best to achieve results. Perhaps he is trying to create a siege mentality. Whatever his thinking, it is working.
Southampton should have had this game sewn up by half-time, but somehow George Burley's men squandered the early lead afforded them by Jermaine Wright's tame right-foot volley.
First Dexter Blackstock did what most spurned strikers do against their former clubs…score. He headed past Kelvin Davis. The latter then attempted to shepherd a ball out of play only to be dispossessed by Ray Jones, 18, who duly slotted home from an impossible angle.
"What happened with Kelvin was a one-off," said Burley, choosing to ignore a similarly costly blunder against Preston last month. "We can't believe we lost that game. At 1-0 we were looking to score three or four."
Instead, Southampton failed to match a 25-year-old record of five straight wins in all competitions, while a newly resilient QPR saw out the second half in relative comfort.
Telegraph
The Sun, October 2, 2006 - VIKKI ORVICE
WHEN QPR come to town, keep your granny indoors.
John Gregory, notching up his second successive victory since taking over Rangers, admitted: “It’s all about winning at this stage.
“I love to be around people who are prepared to kick their granny if it means they are going to win.
“That’s what I’m looking for. Style may go out of the window as we look to pick up points.”
Quite what his team make of this remains to be seen.
Or heard.
Gregory banned them from speaking, then refused to give post-match interviews himself.
At this point there were a few around who would have loved to have given him a kicking.
Maybe he was in a hurry to get home and watch his collection of Bruce Springsteen DVDs.
He did not even give a reason, which, apart from being downright rude, is strange from a man who, having left Aston Villa and Derby under a cloud, was virtually unemployed for three-and-a-half years and needs all the good publicity he can get.
And hardly a forward-thinking move from a cash-strapped at St Mary’s club which is struggling to get fans through the turnstiles.
If this is the reaction when they win, I would hate to be around when they start losing.
Rangers played with style, bringing Saints’ run of four wins in a row to an end after the home side had taken the lead inside two minutes.
Rudi Skacel crossed from the right to Jermaine Wright level with the penalty box, and he struck the ball past former Saints keeper Paul Jones.
Rangers, who fielded an unchanged side from the one that beat Hull City last week, were soon on the attack, Martin Rowlands shooting straight to Kelvin Davis after 15 minutes.
Then, after the half-hour, Lee Cook set up Dexter Blackstock, who levelled, proving the immutable law of the ex after his £250,000 move from St Mary’s.
Five minutes later Davis raced out to the left edge of the area but then hesitated over whether to clear the ball or let it run out for a goal-kick.
Ray Jones stepped in, stole the ball off Davis and struck it from an acute angle into an open net.
It was not Davis’ first blunder of the season.
The Sun
David Ornstein, The Guardian - October 2nd 2006
Gregory puts substance before style to spoil Saints revival
Before this game John Gregory urged his players to be "prepared to kick their granny" in pursuit of victory and after seeing Queens Park Rangers maintain their 100% record under his guidance, he must be delighted with their response.
Gregory has been in charge at Loftus Road for less than a fortnight but is already making his mark on a side that had not won in the league since August 12. After two triumphs in two outings the "huge challenge" he spoke of when taking the job appears to be shrinking by the match.
The striking partnership of Dexter Blackstock and Ray Jones, who have both scored in each of those two wins, looks to be blossoming. And the inspirational form of Marc Bircham in midfield is reminiscent of Gregory in his pomp. The captain yesterday withdrew his transfer request, saying Gregory's impact has been "amazing" and had brought "the buzz" back.
Gregory enjoyed some of his finest days as a player at at Loftus Road but if his Rangers managerial career proves to be anywhere near as successful as his opening two games - this was QPR's first away victory in six months - there will be happy times ahead."Style may go out the window as we look to pick up some points," he had said. "I like my teams to play great attacking football, but if you're the most attractive team to ever get relegated, that will be no good to anyone. I love to be around people who are prepared to kick their granny if it means they're going to win; that's what I'm looking for." And that's exactly what he got. Despite falling behind to a Jermaine Wright volley within 120 seconds Rangers showed a new-found determination.
With Southampton pursuing a fifth straight win for the first time in 25 years, which would have put them second, QPR showed a defensive solidity that would be the envy of many a Championship side.
After weathering an early storm QPR scored from their first clear-cut opportunity. Lee Cook's cross from the left picked out Blackstock, the former Southampton striker, whose diving header left Kelvin Davis helpless. "How many times has that happened - a player coming to his previous club and scoring?" Southampton's manager George Burley said.
If Davis was powerless to prevent the first goal he was entirely accountable for the second. As he tried to usher Zesh Rehman's through-ball out for a goal-kick when Ray Jones robbed him and slipped into an open goal. It was inexplicable.
The win made Gregory and his players' refusal to speak to the media afterwards all the more bizarre but if QPR continue to pick up points and play like this, their league position will soon speak for itself.
Man of the match: Damion Stewart (QPR)
Corners: Southampton 11 QPR 2
Goal Attempts: Southampton 10 QPR 7
On Target: Southampton 7 QPR 3
Guardian
INDEPENDENT, Conrad Leach - October 2, 2006
Southampton 1 QPR 2: Gregory celebrates in silence after goalkeeper's error seals win
John Gregory wants "people who are prepared to kick their granny if it means they are going to win". The QPR players were not forced to go to such lengths on Saturday, when Southampton were pretty amenable on their home turf.
Despite taking the lead early on, the Saints handed the initiative back to the visitors, who were enjoying their second game under their new manager, having beaten Hull last week.
Not that Gregory was inclined to share his thoughts on an impressive win against a side that started the day third in the table and going for five consecutive wins for the first time in 25 years. Inexplicably, he also instructed his players to remain tight-lipped after their first away win since March.
They got off to the worst imaginable start, as Rudi Skacel's cross fell for Jermaine Wright and his tame-looking volley deceived Paul Jones, though worse goalkeeping was to follow from the Welshman's opposite number.
Before that, QPR regained some composure and a claim on the game's outcome when Lee Cook found Dexter Blackstock with a cross and the former Saints striker guided his header past Kelvin Davis.
Blackstock, who joined QPR at the end of August for £500,000, made his feelings clear towards the club that gave him his professional debut by not celebrating that strike. The ban on talking did not apply before the game, though, and in the programme he expressed his thanks to Southampton.
"Although I started my career at Oxford, South-ampton were the club that really helped me make my mark," he wrote. "I don't think there could have been a better place for me to learn the game."
Whether Davis has learnt from his mistakes recently is not so obvious. In August the former Sunderland goalkeeper gifted Preston a point. Now, as if turning 30 is not bad enough, he marked the day after his landmark birthday with a horrendous error. He failed to beat Ray Jones while outside his penalty box and in the ensuing challenge ended up in a crumpled heap. The 18-year-old striker profited, his sharp, smart finish from a tight angle rolling the ball into the empty net.
Southampton's manager, George Burley, defended his man afterwards but will presumably find it hard to tolerate many more such mistakes if more ground is going to be lost on Cardiff and Birmingham. Whether he will get Davis to kick any grannies is uncertain.
Goals: Wright (2) 1-0; Blackstock (34) 1-1; R Jones (40) 1-2.
Southampton (4-4-2): Davis; Makin, Baird, Pele (Jones, 70), Bale; Wright (Dyer, 56), Licka, Viafara, Skacel; Rasiak, Wright-Phillips (Surman, 78). Substitutes not used: Miller (gk), Ostlund.
Queens Park Rangers (4-4-2): P Jones; Bignot, Rehman, Stewart, Rose (Kanyuka, 22); Rowlands, Bircham (Lomas, 63), Bailey (Smith, 63), Cook; Blackstock, R Jones. Substitutes not used: Royce (gk), Gallen.
Referee: A D'Urso (Essex).
Booked: Southampton Licka.
Man of the match: Blackstock.
Attendance: 25,185.
Independent
Telegraph
Southampton (1) 1 Queens Park Rangers (2) 2
Whatever John Gregory's reasons for keeping the assembled press waiting for an hour after this match before eventually refusing all interviews, his first priority is to his fans, who returned to London buoyed by a second successive win under their new manager.
Perhaps Gregory's time as a television pundit has given him a new perspective on how best to achieve results. Perhaps he is trying to create a siege mentality. Whatever his thinking, it is working.
Southampton should have had this game sewn up by half-time, but somehow George Burley's men squandered the early lead afforded them by Jermaine Wright's tame right-foot volley.
First Dexter Blackstock did what most spurned strikers do against their former clubs…score. He headed past Kelvin Davis. The latter then attempted to shepherd a ball out of play only to be dispossessed by Ray Jones, 18, who duly slotted home from an impossible angle.
"What happened with Kelvin was a one-off," said Burley, choosing to ignore a similarly costly blunder against Preston last month. "We can't believe we lost that game. At 1-0 we were looking to score three or four."
Instead, Southampton failed to match a 25-year-old record of five straight wins in all competitions, while a newly resilient QPR saw out the second half in relative comfort.
Telegraph
The Sun, October 2, 2006 - VIKKI ORVICE
WHEN QPR come to town, keep your granny indoors.
John Gregory, notching up his second successive victory since taking over Rangers, admitted: “It’s all about winning at this stage.
“I love to be around people who are prepared to kick their granny if it means they are going to win.
“That’s what I’m looking for. Style may go out of the window as we look to pick up points.”
Quite what his team make of this remains to be seen.
Or heard.
Gregory banned them from speaking, then refused to give post-match interviews himself.
At this point there were a few around who would have loved to have given him a kicking.
Maybe he was in a hurry to get home and watch his collection of Bruce Springsteen DVDs.
He did not even give a reason, which, apart from being downright rude, is strange from a man who, having left Aston Villa and Derby under a cloud, was virtually unemployed for three-and-a-half years and needs all the good publicity he can get.
And hardly a forward-thinking move from a cash-strapped at St Mary’s club which is struggling to get fans through the turnstiles.
If this is the reaction when they win, I would hate to be around when they start losing.
Rangers played with style, bringing Saints’ run of four wins in a row to an end after the home side had taken the lead inside two minutes.
Rudi Skacel crossed from the right to Jermaine Wright level with the penalty box, and he struck the ball past former Saints keeper Paul Jones.
Rangers, who fielded an unchanged side from the one that beat Hull City last week, were soon on the attack, Martin Rowlands shooting straight to Kelvin Davis after 15 minutes.
Then, after the half-hour, Lee Cook set up Dexter Blackstock, who levelled, proving the immutable law of the ex after his £250,000 move from St Mary’s.
Five minutes later Davis raced out to the left edge of the area but then hesitated over whether to clear the ball or let it run out for a goal-kick.
Ray Jones stepped in, stole the ball off Davis and struck it from an acute angle into an open net.
It was not Davis’ first blunder of the season.
The Sun
Birthday: Ex-QPR, Don Shanks, Turns 54
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Don Shanks - Born October 2nd, 1952.
Dave Sexton's first signing, when he took over at QPR in 1974: Shanks was signed from Luton in November, 1974. A full back, who also played a few games in midfield. He initially was mostly a reserve, before playing most games in his last four seasons at QPR. In August, 1981, Shanks joined Brighton on a free. (Shanks was also known for being good friends with Stan Bowles!)
Birthday
Don Shanks - Born October 2nd, 1952.
Dave Sexton's first signing, when he took over at QPR in 1974: Shanks was signed from Luton in November, 1974. A full back, who also played a few games in midfield. He initially was mostly a reserve, before playing most games in his last four seasons at QPR. In August, 1981, Shanks joined Brighton on a free. (Shanks was also known for being good friends with Stan Bowles!)
Birthday
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Bicham Comes Off the Transfer List
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QPR Official Site
BIRCH IS BUZZING
Marc Bircham has come off the transfer list at his own request.
The Rangers midfielder was removed from the list after reporting for training at Harlington on Sunday morning.
"I'm obviously really pleased,'' Birch told qpr.co.uk.
"The last few months have been a bit up and down for me, but this is a huge pick-me-up.
"I've always stated that I didn't want to leave the Club. I'm happy with my form but there is still a lot more to come from both myself and the rest of the lads.''
Bircham - who has led the R's to back-to-back wins since John Gregory's arrival as QPR boss - paid tribute to the 'amazing impact' made by the new gaffer.
"The buzz is back at QPR. We've won two on the bounce since the new gaffer has come in and the future suddenly seems a lot brighter.
"Success breeds confidence and the atmosphere in the squad is fantastic. We're determined to put our poor start to the season behind us and yesterday's result speaks volumes for the amazing impact John has made since he came in.
"The lads are all pulling in the right direction and we're all buzzing in training and, as the last two results prove, especially on match days.''
Birch reserved a final thought for the fans: "They were magnificent at St Mary's.
"They packed out the away end and from the moment we equalised they were different class. The reception we got at full-time was unbelievable!''
QPR
QPR Official Site
BIRCH IS BUZZING
Marc Bircham has come off the transfer list at his own request.
The Rangers midfielder was removed from the list after reporting for training at Harlington on Sunday morning.
"I'm obviously really pleased,'' Birch told qpr.co.uk.
"The last few months have been a bit up and down for me, but this is a huge pick-me-up.
"I've always stated that I didn't want to leave the Club. I'm happy with my form but there is still a lot more to come from both myself and the rest of the lads.''
Bircham - who has led the R's to back-to-back wins since John Gregory's arrival as QPR boss - paid tribute to the 'amazing impact' made by the new gaffer.
"The buzz is back at QPR. We've won two on the bounce since the new gaffer has come in and the future suddenly seems a lot brighter.
"Success breeds confidence and the atmosphere in the squad is fantastic. We're determined to put our poor start to the season behind us and yesterday's result speaks volumes for the amazing impact John has made since he came in.
"The lads are all pulling in the right direction and we're all buzzing in training and, as the last two results prove, especially on match days.''
Birch reserved a final thought for the fans: "They were magnificent at St Mary's.
"They packed out the away end and from the moment we equalised they were different class. The reception we got at full-time was unbelievable!''
QPR
Ex-QPR's Ray Wilkins Reportedly Fired by MIllwall
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Ironically, the reported firing comes a day after Ray's less famous brother, Dean Wilkins was appointed manager of Brighton.
UPDATE: BBC October 2, 2006 - Wilkins ends spell with Millwall
Ray Wilkins has left Millwall after a spell as a consultant to the club.
The former Lions assistant manager had returned to the New Den in March to help then boss David Tuttle - and was asked to stay on during the summer.
"At that time, we felt having someone of Ray's experience and knowledge would be a great advantage," chairman Stewart Till told the club website.
"It was always the intention on both sides that once the season was underway, Ray would leave us."
Till also insisted that they would not be rushing to appoint a new manager, a week after parting company with Nigel Spackman....
BBC
Sunday Mirror -1 October 2006 LIONS AXE WILKINS
RAY WILKINS has followed manager Nigel Spackman through the exit door at Millwall.
Former Chelsea, Manchester United and England skipper Wilkins was sacked as the League One club's director of football last night.
Spackman was fired last week following the Lions' poor start to the season.
Now Wilkins, who arrived at the New Den in the summer and influenced Spackman's appointment plus the signing of several new players, has gone too.
Millwall have had seven managers since the departure of Dennis Wise less than 18 months ago.
Millwall chief Rabbatts exclusive: Page 57
Mirror
Ironically, the reported firing comes a day after Ray's less famous brother, Dean Wilkins was appointed manager of Brighton.
UPDATE: BBC October 2, 2006 - Wilkins ends spell with Millwall
Ray Wilkins has left Millwall after a spell as a consultant to the club.
The former Lions assistant manager had returned to the New Den in March to help then boss David Tuttle - and was asked to stay on during the summer.
"At that time, we felt having someone of Ray's experience and knowledge would be a great advantage," chairman Stewart Till told the club website.
"It was always the intention on both sides that once the season was underway, Ray would leave us."
Till also insisted that they would not be rushing to appoint a new manager, a week after parting company with Nigel Spackman....
BBC
Sunday Mirror -1 October 2006 LIONS AXE WILKINS
RAY WILKINS has followed manager Nigel Spackman through the exit door at Millwall.
Former Chelsea, Manchester United and England skipper Wilkins was sacked as the League One club's director of football last night.
Spackman was fired last week following the Lions' poor start to the season.
Now Wilkins, who arrived at the New Den in the summer and influenced Spackman's appointment plus the signing of several new players, has gone too.
Millwall have had seven managers since the departure of Dennis Wise less than 18 months ago.
Millwall chief Rabbatts exclusive: Page 57
Mirror
QPR's Paul Furlong Turns 38!
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QPR's former Coventry, Watford, Chelsea and Birmingham Forward, Paul Furlong Turns 38. Born October 1, 1968.
Gerry Francis signed him on loan in 2000, but he swiftly got injured. A couple years later, in September 2002, Ian Holloway signed him on a free transfer. And for his first three seasons with QPR was a major goalscoring success and one of the reasons for our success.
Details
QPR's former Coventry, Watford, Chelsea and Birmingham Forward, Paul Furlong Turns 38. Born October 1, 1968.
Gerry Francis signed him on loan in 2000, but he swiftly got injured. A couple years later, in September 2002, Ian Holloway signed him on a free transfer. And for his first three seasons with QPR was a major goalscoring success and one of the reasons for our success.
Details
QPR Win at Southampton - Various Match Reports & Comments
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UPDATED LEAGUE TABLE
QPR Official Site - Southampton 1 QPR 2
Rangers turned the formbook upside down to clinch a valuable, yet thoroughly deserved victory at St Mary's.
First half goals from former Saint Dexter Blackstock and fellow front-man Ray Jones made it two wins on the bounce for new R's boss John Gregory.
Victory was no less than QPR deserved, on an afternoon when each and every player shone against a Southampton side occupying a play-off place at the start of the day.
Rangers led 2-1 at the break, with Blackstock and Jones on target after Jermaine Wright's early goal gave Southampton a dream start.
Wright arrived bang on cue to volley home Mario Licka's cross on two minutes, albeit with the aid of a heavy deflection.
It took Rangers a good 15 minutes or so to settle, but in truth, all John Gregory's men had to show for their early efforts was a fierce Martin Rowlands strike which Kelvin Davis tipped to safety.
But Rangers are a resolute bunch under the new management structure, and when Lee Cook found Blackstock six-yards from goal, the former Southampton striker bagged only his third goal in QPR colours.
And the first half comeback was complete four minutes before the break, when teenager Jones fired home after robbing Davis of possession by the corner flag.
The new gaffer named an unchanged side for his first away match in charge of the R's.
Paul Jones and Dexter Blackstock lined up against their former Club, the latter for the first time since joining QPR in the summer, while Marc Bircham retained the captain's armband.
Chelsea loanee Jimmy Smith was named amongst the R's substitutes, as was fit-again Club Captain Kevin Gallen.
Rangers trailed inside 110 seconds, to a deflected Wright goal.
Licka's cross from the left flank fell perfectly for the former Ipswich Town midfielder, who - with the aid of a deflection off Damion Stewart - volleyed the ball past the unsighted Paul Jones.
And but for a fantastically timed tackle by Zesh Rehman five minutes later, Bradley Wright-Phillips could've made it two, after Rangers yet again failed to deal with a Rudi Skacel set-piece.
The R's were second best all over the park in the opening exchanges, as Gregory cut a frustrated figure in the QPR technical area.
And his worse fears were almost compounded on 12 minutes, when a trademark Gareth Bale free-kick from fully 25-yards, forced Paul Jones into a fine save.
Undeterred, Rangers should have scored themselves on 16 minutes through Rowlands.
Lee Cook played provider, teasing his way into the box before laying the ball on a plate for Rowlands, whose powerful near post strike was superbly tipped to safety by Davis.
Matthew Rose was forced from the fray midway through the half, with Pat Kanyuka replacing him.
His arrival prompted a defensive reshuffle, with Marcus Bignot moving to left back, Rehman to right back, and Kanyuka partnering Damion Stewart at the heart of the back four.
Grzegorz Rasiak almost doubled the hosts' advantage on 24 minutes, rising tallest to meet a Gareth Bale cross, which Paul Jones did well to gather at the first attempt.
Jones had to be at his agile best again on the half hour, diving full length to his left to tip round dangerman Licka's deflected free-kick.
Despite continually struggling to get to grips with their high-flying opponents, Rangers were on terms on 35 minutes and what a goal it was too.
Blackstock returned to haunt his former Club with a splendid header, but only after Rowlands and Cook played their part in a terrific, free-flowing move.
The former arrowed an inch-perfect 70-yard ball into the path of Cook, who after two unsuccessful attempts at beating the first man, whipped in an enticing cross, which the former Saints striker finished with aplomb.
The travelling QPR faithful were in dreamland six minutes later when Jones - with Davis attempting to usher the ball out of play by the corner flag - intercepted and curled home a delightful finish from the tightest of angles.
Neither side offered anything in the way of goalscoring attempts in the opening 10 minutes of the second half, prompting Saints boss George Burley to introduce livewire Nathan Dyer.
The Southampton substitute made an immediate impact, volleying an innocuous effort on goal, which Jones did well to tip round.
Gregory responded by introducing debutant Smith and Steve Lomas on 62 minutes, with Bircham and Bailey making way.
But it was Southampton who continued to pose the greater threat in the final third, with Dyer seeing his shot blocked by a combination of Jones and Stewart.
Stewart almost put the game to bed at the other end two minutes later, rising high to meet Cook's corner kick.
The Jamaican international made a terrific contact, but the ball sailed a yard or so wide of Davis' left hand post.
Rangers were beginning to enjoy the lion's share of possession as the match reached its final 15 minutes and when Rehman found Smith in a wide position, the highly-rated youngster sent in a splendid centre, which Blackstock fired over from an acute angle.
Rehman was enjoying the freedom of the right flank from his unorthodox full-back position and after beating two men with ease, the former Fulham man shot high and wide from fully 25-yards.
The toot on referee Mr D'Urso's whistle at full time signalled the start of a QPR party in the away end - and they had every right to celebrate, after more than playing their part in an enthralling away day for the R's.
Southampton: Davis, Makin, Pele, Baird (Jones 70), Bale, Skacel, Licka, Viafara, Wright (Dyer 57), Rasiak, Wright-Phillips (Surman 77).
Subs: Miller, Ostlund.
Scorers: Wright 2
Bookings: Licka 90
Sending Offs:
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Rehman, Stewart, Rose (Kanyuka 21), Rowlands, Bircham (Lomas 62), Bailey (Smith 62), Cook, R Jones, Blackstock.
Subs: Royce, Gallen.
Scorers: Blackstock 35, R Jones 41
Bookings: Rehman 43
Southampton
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SOUTHAMPTON OFFICIAL SITE REPORT
nigo Idiakez and Djamel Belmadi were ruled out by a tight hamstring and a groin problem respectively.
That meant a league debut for Mario Licka in the centre of midfield with Jermaine Wright on the right. Chris Makin switched to right-back with Gareth Bale returning on the left.
Former Saints Dexter Blackstock and Paul Jones lined up against their old club for QPR who left new loan signing Jimmy Smith on the bench.
Saints: Davis, Makin, Baird, Pele (K Jones 69), Bale, Wright (Dyer 56), Licka, Viafara, Skacel, Rasiak, Wright-Phillips (Surman 77). Subs: Ostlund, Miller.
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Rehman, Stewart, Rose (Kanyuka 21), Rowlands, Bircham (Lomas 62), Bailey (Smith 62), Cook, Blackstock, R Jones. Subs: Gallen, Royce.
Referee: Andy D'Urso (Essex) Attendance: 25,185
Saints took just 108 seconds to take the lead as Skacel crossed from the left, pulling back to WRIGHT on the edge of the area.
He met it first time on the drop with what looked a routine shot to save but it presumably took a deflection to fly past the wrongfooted Jones for the midfielder's first goal for the club to the delight of the club's biggest crowd of the season.
Saints almost stretched their lead on 11 minutes when they won a free-kick 25 yards out. Bale got the nod over Skacel and clipped over the wall towards the bottom right corner. But Jones, 40 in April, defied the years to get across well to his left to make a great fingertip save.
But Rangers went close on 16 minutes when Rowlands got free to the right of goal and whipped in a fierce angled shot which Davis did well to beat round the near post.
Licka was surprised to find play waved on as he got free on the right and he overhit the cross from a good position.
The visitors were forced to make a change on 21 minutes when Rose limped off to be replaced by Kanyuka.
Bale's deep cross was met at the far post by Rasiak climbing well but Jones was well positioned to save.
Saints got another central free-kick, this time 30 yards out and this time Skacel hit it. The shot took a deflection off the wall but Jones got across well to his left to tip round the post on 28 minutes.
The resulting corner was met at the near post by Rasiak whose glancing back header flew over the bar.
Out of the blue Rangers equalised on 33 minutes - and almost inevitably it was former Saints striker BLACKSTOCK who got it with a clinical diving header from a Cook cross on the left. As the defence switched off, he was left free to steer his third goal for QPR just inside the right post.
And astonishingly the visitors took the lead seven minutes later thanks to a misjudgement by Davis who tried to let the ball run out of play to his left.
But Ray JONES darted round the back to nick the ball away and from an almost impossible angle at the edge of the area he rolled an inch-perfect shot into the unguarded goal.
Bignot was booked for a foul and Viafara had an 18-yard shot blocked by Stewart. He then had a long-range drive saved by Jones in the first of two minutes stoppage time.
Half-time: Saints 1 QPR 2
Rangers began the second half strongly, applying early pressure while Saints laboured to get going.
A long throw by Makin was flicked on by Viafara but hooked clear by Bignot as the game stagnated into a dour midfield battle with neither side finding any fluency.
That prompted Gorge Burley to send on Dyer for Wright on 56 minutes in a bid to add pace and width to open up the game.
Saints went close two minutes later when Rasiak failed to control cleanly in the box and Wright-Phillips pounced to hook in a shot which Paul Jones tipped away to his left.
Rangers made a double switch on 62 minutes sending on Lomas and Smith for Bircham and Bailey who both took their time leaving the field.
Rowlands clipped a 25-yard left-sided free-kick over the bar and then Viafara had a cross blocked by Lomas at the expense of a corner which was cleared by Stewart.
Saints made a second change in a bid to get back into the game with Kenwyne Jones coming on for Pele with 21 minutes remaining. It almost had an immediate impact as a left-wing free-kick by Skacel came to Jones at the far post but his shot was well saved by Paul Jones.
Viafara dropped into the centre of defence as Saints went 4-3-3 in an attempt to find an equaliser. But Rangers almost stretched their lead when Stewart put a free header wide from a left-wing corner.
Cook had a 28-yard free-kick blocked by the wall. then Blackstock ghosted in unchecked at the far post but prodded over from a right-wing cross which had been allowed to travel right across the face of goal.
Burley played his final card with 13 minutes remaining sending on Surman for Wright-Phillips.
Bale hung up a good cross from the left but Rasiak's looping header was saved and then Licka fired over from 25 yards after optimistic appeals for a penalty when Surman's shot hit Stewart in the face.
Rasiak headed wide from a Skacel corner on the left then Bale worked space for a cross which was turned behind by Bignot for the first of two corners on the left. the second saw Bale turn sharply and curl a right-foot shot which Paul Jones saved.
In the final mi ute Licka was booked for clipping the heels of Cook as he threatened to break through.
Five minutes were added, giving the home fans a lift and they urged the team on as Bignot cleared from Kenwyne Jones in the box.
An overhead kick by Dyer appeared to hit the hand of Stewart at close range and then Skacel just failed to keep the ball in as he nicked it away from Paul Jones.
Full-time: Saints 1 QPR 2
Southampton
SOUTHAMPTON MANAGER POST MATCH COMMENTS
George Burley admitted his Saints side gifted QPR their shock 2-1 victory at St Mary's this afternoon.
Despite taking a second-minute lead with Jermaine Wright's first goal for the club, Saints were unable to secure a fifth successive win for the first time since 1994.
They were undone by a free header from their former striker Dexter Blackstock and a howler from Kelvin Davis just before the break.
The keeper was attempting to let the ball run out of play but Ray Jones nipped in behind to nick the ball and squeeze home a shot from an almost impossible angle.
Despite second-half pressure, Saints were unable to prevent a first home defeat since March.
Burley said: "We started very well and almost totally controlled the first half but we gave them two presents for their goals which was very disappointing.
"They were giftwrapped which was hard to take after starting so well and to go in 2-1 down at half-time was disappointing to say the least.
"We had so much of the play that it was a real bodyblow to go behind. We camped in their half and created some good chances and no-one could foresee us conceding a goal but it was a game where the breaks did not go for us and you are going to get those.
"We huffed and puffed at the start of the second half but in the last 20 minutes we did everything but score.
"I suppose it was inevitable that Dexter would get a goal. It so often happens that a player goes back to his old club and scores and he is always dangerous in the box.
"The winner was a sickener but that is the nature of the goalkeeping position and Kelvin Davis has been outstanding since he came to the club.
"It was a bad mistake and he knows he should have kicked it out of play but he has been first-class for us in the last few weeks.
"That winning run has now come to an end and we now have two weeks to regroup and get ready to go again.
"It was very disappointing, especially in front of our biggest crowd of the season. They gave us tremendous support and, as always, we are very grateful to all those who turned out."
Southampton
OBSEVER
Gregory maintains the Rangers revival
Jamie Jackson at St Mary's - The Observer
AT THE finish this was the right result. Although the match was of chequered quality, Queen's Park Rangers took their chances better and executed more control. That proved decisive and gave QPR their first away win and a maximum six points since John Gregory took over as the manager at Loftus Road at the end of last month. It also ended a run of four consecutive Saints victories, when another would have equalled a mark last set 25 years ago under Lawrie McMenemy.
'We started well, with a very bright first half,' George Burley, the Southampton manager, said. 'We maybe handed QPR the goals which you can't afford to do in this league. But that is what it's like in this division. You win four on the trot, make some silly mistakes, and lose.'
The winner from Ray Jones was certainly a gift, courtesy of the Southampton goalkeeper Kelvin Davis. He attempted to let an innocuous ball run out, but instead Ray Jones nicked possession before finishing smartly from an acute angle. Had Davis apologised to the dressing room? 'Sure,' said Burley, of the man he signed for £1 million from Sunderland in the summer. 'There's nothing really you can say. But I'm sure he will save us again in the future. That's being a goalkeeper.'
As soon as Burley's team had broken from their pre-match huddle, they grabbed the initiative by scoring. Actually, it took just over two minutes, but it felt immediate. Rudi Skacel, a £1.6m summer signing from Hearts, played it into the Rangers area from the left, and Jermaine Wright side-footed it home. It was simple, but only because the visitors had been caught square while they were asleep.
Burley, looking dainty in red shorts, chose to spend the game in the technical area, directing and manoeuvring his players. Gregory was more circumspect. Yet by the end, it had proved the better and more rewarding approach. In a mediocre half of clumsy passing and touch, though, any hint of subtlety had come from Burley's men.
In the ninth minute, Grzegorz Rasiak, who has eight goals this season, passed to his strike partner Bradley Wright-Phillips. He fed Wright who quickly played in Mario Licka. It came to nothing, but at least indicated how football can be played. However, disaster then arrived for the home side and their fans who, following two goals from Rangers in seven minutes, had to listen to 'One-nil and you fucked it up' from their opposite numbers. Before Davis's nightmare came a header from Dexter Blackstock, once of Southampton. It was well directed beyond the keeper, but it arrived against the flow of play. 'To go in 2-1 down was a massive blow,' said Burley.
After 10 minutes of the restart he chose to swap Wright for Nathan Dyer. It was a straight switch, the diminutive winger taking his place on the right, when there possibly appeared a case for Burley to rejig his team's shape by pushing a third man forward. 'We tried that with 20 minutes to go, but it never worked when Kenwyne Jones came on,' Burley explained. 'So we swapped Andrew Surman for Bradley Wright-Phillips.'
Southampton did enjoy a late flurry of corners, with Rasiak appearing the sole player capable of invention for his side. It offered Southampton hope, but came to nothing. It was that kind of afternoon for the home side. Gregory will be pleased with the start to his new job, but the media won't because he refused to come out and speak to any of them and banned all his players from offering their views. For them in particular, that was a shame.
OBSERVER
INDEPENDENT
Southampton 1 QPR 2: Blackstock haunts old friends as Davis dips
By Conrad Leach at St Mary's Stadium
Published: 01 October 2006
The old boys' act came to Southampton's aid at first but it was simply a cruel illusion as it began their undoing on the South Coast. The assistance came from Paul Jones, now in QPR's goal, but who once spent five years in the Saints' colours. However, the equalising goal that lent impetus to the visitors came courtesy of Dexter Blackstock, sold for £500,000 at the end of August after a couple of years on the fringes of the first team. Things then got even worse thanks to a terrible, match-losing mistake by the home goalkeeper Kelvin Davis.
The Saints were going for five consecutive wins for the first time in 25 years but ended up with their first home defeat of the current campaign, derailing their attempts to put more pressure on Cardiff and Birmingham at the top.
This deserved win made it two out of two for QPR's new manager, John Gregory, showing he has settled back into managing after three-and-half years away. Yet, after guiding his team to a 2-0 win against Hull City last week in his first game in charge, this was a different proposition.
Southampton were third from top at the start of the day and within two minutes they took the lead with a simple goal. From the left, a high cross by Rudi Skacel drifted to Jermaine Wright and the midfielder hit his volley from 12 yards beating Paul Jones, who reacted slowly.
But Gregory appears to have instilled his side with some fighting spirit. The London club were level after 34 minutes and six minutes later were ahead. QPR had gone close when Martin Rowlands tested Davis from 15 yards out but when Blackstock met Lee Cook's cross, his header was too well-placed for the goalkeeper. The striker at least showed the affection he retains for the club by not celebrating his strike.
The goal that ultimately gave Gregory's men victory came from a horrible mistake by Davis. He attempted to dribble past Ray Jones but lost the ball and from a tight angle the 18-year-old rolled his shot into the empty net. Something upset Gregory so much he refused to talk later. Meanwhile, a disappointed George Burley said: "Davis has been outstanding. But mistakes for both goals cost us."
INDEPENDENT
Goalkeeping clanger consigns Southampton to first home defeat
Telegraph Andrew Warshaw (Filed: 01/10/2006)
Southampton (1) 1 QPR (2) 2
This should have been the game when high-flying Southampton equalled a 25-year-old record with a fifth straight win in all competitions. Instead, John Gregory, the new Rangers manager, brought his team to the south coast and watched them win away for the first time this season despite falling behind with virtually the first attack of the game.
Full houses have been few and far between since the Saints were relegated from the top flight, but there has been a real buzz again around St Mary's such is the progress made under George Burley. Yesterday his side got off to a dream start with just 90 seconds on the clock. Rudi Skacel, who joined for £1.6 million in July – his fifth club in three years – crossed from the left and Jermaine Wright finished with a sublime side-foot volley.
Gareth Bale, their highly-rated left-back linked to a string of Premiership clubs, almost doubled Southampton's lead with a 25-yard free kick that Paul Jones, now 38, and back at the club where he spent five years, just clawed to safety.
Southampton's football during this period was crisp and positive; another driving run from Bale almost provided Grzegorz Rasiak, the division's top scorer, with his ninth league goal of the season. The former Tottenham man rose above his marker, but directed his header straight at Jones.
It was an ominous start for Gregory just a couple of weeks after succeeding Gary Waddock. Martin Rowlands forced a smart save from Kelvin Davis, but that was all Rangers offered up front – until the 34th minute when they conjured an equaliser totally against the run of play.
A speculative cross into the box caught out the Southampton back-line and Dexter Blackstock powered a diving header beyond Davis for his third goal of the season.
There was no celebration from the former Saints striker, who joined Rangers in August for £250,000, having been on the south coast since he was a trainee.
However, six minutes later, Davis was picking the ball out of his net again after handing Rangers a gift-wrapped second. In what will surely go down as one of the clangers of the season, the Saints keeper opted to let the ball run out play for a goal kick, only for 18-year-old Ray Jones to sneak in and prize it away before shooting from a tight angle into an unguarded net.
Having been comfortably in command, Saints now had to chase the game. Nathan Dyer replaced the goalscorer, Wright, to add more pace to their attack, and Jones immediately turned away a goalbound effort from Bradley Wright-Phillips.
Rangers responded by stiffening their midfield, sending on both 19-year-old Jimmy Smith, signed on loan from Chelsea last week, and the experienced Steve Lomas.
Burley played his final card by replacing a defender with Kenwyne Jones and switching to a three-pronged attack. But the new formation resulted only in giving Rangers more possession and, to their credit, the visitors almost made it count instead of sitting on their lead, much to the delight of 2,000 travelling fans.
Defender Damion Stewart should have put the game beyond reach with a free header, but missed the target.
Southampton staged a late rally, but couldn't prevent their first home defeat of the season. So, not good enough on the day, but was it just a blip on their long road towards promotion? Only time will tell.
Independent
Sunday Mirror - SOUTHAMPTON 1-1 QPR Peter White At St Mary's
JOHN GREGORY has started turning things round for Rangers on the pitch, but he is already badly letting down their loyal fans.
After the new Rangers boss saw his side clinch their first away win in the Championship since last March, he flatly refused to convey his thoughts on the game to the supporters via the media.
Furthermore, Gregory slapped a ban on any of his players talking to the press.
By contrast, Saints manager George Burley was only too happy to discuss the game, even though it resulted in a shock defeat for his side, the first at home this season.
Saints looked to be on their way to victory when Jermaine Wright gave them the lead in the third minute and they had further chances to extend their advantage before being caught out by two sucker punches inside six minutes.
First, after 34 minutes, former Saint Dexter Blackstock dived in to head home Lee Cook's cross from the left.
Then home goalkeeper Kelvin Davis gifted the visitors a second with an horrendous error of judgement.
Davis went to the edge of his box and tried to shepherd the ball out of play, only to allow Ray Jones to rob him and score from the tightest of angles.
Burley admitted: "We started brightly enough and when we were a goal up I thought we would go on to score three or four.
"But then we handed them a
couple of goals and that was a big blow. I'm not blaming Kelvin, because he has been outstanding for us.
"He tried to let the ball run out of play, but their player managed to keep it in and then shot into an empty net.
"But Kelvin is still a very good keeper and I'm sure he will save us plenty of times in the future."
HOW THEY RATED
SOUTHAMPTON
Davis 5, Makin 6, Baird 6, Pele 6 (Jones 5), Bale 7, Wright 6 (Dyer 6), Licka 5, Viafara 7, Skacel 6, Rasiak 5, Wright-Philips 6 (Sermon 6).
MANAGER Burley 6
QPR
Jones 7, Bignot 6, Rehman 7, STEWART 8, Rose (Kanyuka 6), Rowlands 7, Bircham 6 (Lomas 6), Bailey 6 (Smith 6), Cook 6, Jones 7, Blackstock 7.
MANAGER Gregory 8
REFEREE A D'Urso 6
MAN OF THE MATCH
DAMION STEWART
Very solid at the heart of Rangers' rearguard
Sunday Mirror
UPDATED LEAGUE TABLE
QPR Official Site - Southampton 1 QPR 2
Rangers turned the formbook upside down to clinch a valuable, yet thoroughly deserved victory at St Mary's.
First half goals from former Saint Dexter Blackstock and fellow front-man Ray Jones made it two wins on the bounce for new R's boss John Gregory.
Victory was no less than QPR deserved, on an afternoon when each and every player shone against a Southampton side occupying a play-off place at the start of the day.
Rangers led 2-1 at the break, with Blackstock and Jones on target after Jermaine Wright's early goal gave Southampton a dream start.
Wright arrived bang on cue to volley home Mario Licka's cross on two minutes, albeit with the aid of a heavy deflection.
It took Rangers a good 15 minutes or so to settle, but in truth, all John Gregory's men had to show for their early efforts was a fierce Martin Rowlands strike which Kelvin Davis tipped to safety.
But Rangers are a resolute bunch under the new management structure, and when Lee Cook found Blackstock six-yards from goal, the former Southampton striker bagged only his third goal in QPR colours.
And the first half comeback was complete four minutes before the break, when teenager Jones fired home after robbing Davis of possession by the corner flag.
The new gaffer named an unchanged side for his first away match in charge of the R's.
Paul Jones and Dexter Blackstock lined up against their former Club, the latter for the first time since joining QPR in the summer, while Marc Bircham retained the captain's armband.
Chelsea loanee Jimmy Smith was named amongst the R's substitutes, as was fit-again Club Captain Kevin Gallen.
Rangers trailed inside 110 seconds, to a deflected Wright goal.
Licka's cross from the left flank fell perfectly for the former Ipswich Town midfielder, who - with the aid of a deflection off Damion Stewart - volleyed the ball past the unsighted Paul Jones.
And but for a fantastically timed tackle by Zesh Rehman five minutes later, Bradley Wright-Phillips could've made it two, after Rangers yet again failed to deal with a Rudi Skacel set-piece.
The R's were second best all over the park in the opening exchanges, as Gregory cut a frustrated figure in the QPR technical area.
And his worse fears were almost compounded on 12 minutes, when a trademark Gareth Bale free-kick from fully 25-yards, forced Paul Jones into a fine save.
Undeterred, Rangers should have scored themselves on 16 minutes through Rowlands.
Lee Cook played provider, teasing his way into the box before laying the ball on a plate for Rowlands, whose powerful near post strike was superbly tipped to safety by Davis.
Matthew Rose was forced from the fray midway through the half, with Pat Kanyuka replacing him.
His arrival prompted a defensive reshuffle, with Marcus Bignot moving to left back, Rehman to right back, and Kanyuka partnering Damion Stewart at the heart of the back four.
Grzegorz Rasiak almost doubled the hosts' advantage on 24 minutes, rising tallest to meet a Gareth Bale cross, which Paul Jones did well to gather at the first attempt.
Jones had to be at his agile best again on the half hour, diving full length to his left to tip round dangerman Licka's deflected free-kick.
Despite continually struggling to get to grips with their high-flying opponents, Rangers were on terms on 35 minutes and what a goal it was too.
Blackstock returned to haunt his former Club with a splendid header, but only after Rowlands and Cook played their part in a terrific, free-flowing move.
The former arrowed an inch-perfect 70-yard ball into the path of Cook, who after two unsuccessful attempts at beating the first man, whipped in an enticing cross, which the former Saints striker finished with aplomb.
The travelling QPR faithful were in dreamland six minutes later when Jones - with Davis attempting to usher the ball out of play by the corner flag - intercepted and curled home a delightful finish from the tightest of angles.
Neither side offered anything in the way of goalscoring attempts in the opening 10 minutes of the second half, prompting Saints boss George Burley to introduce livewire Nathan Dyer.
The Southampton substitute made an immediate impact, volleying an innocuous effort on goal, which Jones did well to tip round.
Gregory responded by introducing debutant Smith and Steve Lomas on 62 minutes, with Bircham and Bailey making way.
But it was Southampton who continued to pose the greater threat in the final third, with Dyer seeing his shot blocked by a combination of Jones and Stewart.
Stewart almost put the game to bed at the other end two minutes later, rising high to meet Cook's corner kick.
The Jamaican international made a terrific contact, but the ball sailed a yard or so wide of Davis' left hand post.
Rangers were beginning to enjoy the lion's share of possession as the match reached its final 15 minutes and when Rehman found Smith in a wide position, the highly-rated youngster sent in a splendid centre, which Blackstock fired over from an acute angle.
Rehman was enjoying the freedom of the right flank from his unorthodox full-back position and after beating two men with ease, the former Fulham man shot high and wide from fully 25-yards.
The toot on referee Mr D'Urso's whistle at full time signalled the start of a QPR party in the away end - and they had every right to celebrate, after more than playing their part in an enthralling away day for the R's.
Southampton: Davis, Makin, Pele, Baird (Jones 70), Bale, Skacel, Licka, Viafara, Wright (Dyer 57), Rasiak, Wright-Phillips (Surman 77).
Subs: Miller, Ostlund.
Scorers: Wright 2
Bookings: Licka 90
Sending Offs:
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Rehman, Stewart, Rose (Kanyuka 21), Rowlands, Bircham (Lomas 62), Bailey (Smith 62), Cook, R Jones, Blackstock.
Subs: Royce, Gallen.
Scorers: Blackstock 35, R Jones 41
Bookings: Rehman 43
Southampton
-
SOUTHAMPTON OFFICIAL SITE REPORT
nigo Idiakez and Djamel Belmadi were ruled out by a tight hamstring and a groin problem respectively.
That meant a league debut for Mario Licka in the centre of midfield with Jermaine Wright on the right. Chris Makin switched to right-back with Gareth Bale returning on the left.
Former Saints Dexter Blackstock and Paul Jones lined up against their old club for QPR who left new loan signing Jimmy Smith on the bench.
Saints: Davis, Makin, Baird, Pele (K Jones 69), Bale, Wright (Dyer 56), Licka, Viafara, Skacel, Rasiak, Wright-Phillips (Surman 77). Subs: Ostlund, Miller.
QPR: P Jones, Bignot, Rehman, Stewart, Rose (Kanyuka 21), Rowlands, Bircham (Lomas 62), Bailey (Smith 62), Cook, Blackstock, R Jones. Subs: Gallen, Royce.
Referee: Andy D'Urso (Essex) Attendance: 25,185
Saints took just 108 seconds to take the lead as Skacel crossed from the left, pulling back to WRIGHT on the edge of the area.
He met it first time on the drop with what looked a routine shot to save but it presumably took a deflection to fly past the wrongfooted Jones for the midfielder's first goal for the club to the delight of the club's biggest crowd of the season.
Saints almost stretched their lead on 11 minutes when they won a free-kick 25 yards out. Bale got the nod over Skacel and clipped over the wall towards the bottom right corner. But Jones, 40 in April, defied the years to get across well to his left to make a great fingertip save.
But Rangers went close on 16 minutes when Rowlands got free to the right of goal and whipped in a fierce angled shot which Davis did well to beat round the near post.
Licka was surprised to find play waved on as he got free on the right and he overhit the cross from a good position.
The visitors were forced to make a change on 21 minutes when Rose limped off to be replaced by Kanyuka.
Bale's deep cross was met at the far post by Rasiak climbing well but Jones was well positioned to save.
Saints got another central free-kick, this time 30 yards out and this time Skacel hit it. The shot took a deflection off the wall but Jones got across well to his left to tip round the post on 28 minutes.
The resulting corner was met at the near post by Rasiak whose glancing back header flew over the bar.
Out of the blue Rangers equalised on 33 minutes - and almost inevitably it was former Saints striker BLACKSTOCK who got it with a clinical diving header from a Cook cross on the left. As the defence switched off, he was left free to steer his third goal for QPR just inside the right post.
And astonishingly the visitors took the lead seven minutes later thanks to a misjudgement by Davis who tried to let the ball run out of play to his left.
But Ray JONES darted round the back to nick the ball away and from an almost impossible angle at the edge of the area he rolled an inch-perfect shot into the unguarded goal.
Bignot was booked for a foul and Viafara had an 18-yard shot blocked by Stewart. He then had a long-range drive saved by Jones in the first of two minutes stoppage time.
Half-time: Saints 1 QPR 2
Rangers began the second half strongly, applying early pressure while Saints laboured to get going.
A long throw by Makin was flicked on by Viafara but hooked clear by Bignot as the game stagnated into a dour midfield battle with neither side finding any fluency.
That prompted Gorge Burley to send on Dyer for Wright on 56 minutes in a bid to add pace and width to open up the game.
Saints went close two minutes later when Rasiak failed to control cleanly in the box and Wright-Phillips pounced to hook in a shot which Paul Jones tipped away to his left.
Rangers made a double switch on 62 minutes sending on Lomas and Smith for Bircham and Bailey who both took their time leaving the field.
Rowlands clipped a 25-yard left-sided free-kick over the bar and then Viafara had a cross blocked by Lomas at the expense of a corner which was cleared by Stewart.
Saints made a second change in a bid to get back into the game with Kenwyne Jones coming on for Pele with 21 minutes remaining. It almost had an immediate impact as a left-wing free-kick by Skacel came to Jones at the far post but his shot was well saved by Paul Jones.
Viafara dropped into the centre of defence as Saints went 4-3-3 in an attempt to find an equaliser. But Rangers almost stretched their lead when Stewart put a free header wide from a left-wing corner.
Cook had a 28-yard free-kick blocked by the wall. then Blackstock ghosted in unchecked at the far post but prodded over from a right-wing cross which had been allowed to travel right across the face of goal.
Burley played his final card with 13 minutes remaining sending on Surman for Wright-Phillips.
Bale hung up a good cross from the left but Rasiak's looping header was saved and then Licka fired over from 25 yards after optimistic appeals for a penalty when Surman's shot hit Stewart in the face.
Rasiak headed wide from a Skacel corner on the left then Bale worked space for a cross which was turned behind by Bignot for the first of two corners on the left. the second saw Bale turn sharply and curl a right-foot shot which Paul Jones saved.
In the final mi ute Licka was booked for clipping the heels of Cook as he threatened to break through.
Five minutes were added, giving the home fans a lift and they urged the team on as Bignot cleared from Kenwyne Jones in the box.
An overhead kick by Dyer appeared to hit the hand of Stewart at close range and then Skacel just failed to keep the ball in as he nicked it away from Paul Jones.
Full-time: Saints 1 QPR 2
Southampton
SOUTHAMPTON MANAGER POST MATCH COMMENTS
George Burley admitted his Saints side gifted QPR their shock 2-1 victory at St Mary's this afternoon.
Despite taking a second-minute lead with Jermaine Wright's first goal for the club, Saints were unable to secure a fifth successive win for the first time since 1994.
They were undone by a free header from their former striker Dexter Blackstock and a howler from Kelvin Davis just before the break.
The keeper was attempting to let the ball run out of play but Ray Jones nipped in behind to nick the ball and squeeze home a shot from an almost impossible angle.
Despite second-half pressure, Saints were unable to prevent a first home defeat since March.
Burley said: "We started very well and almost totally controlled the first half but we gave them two presents for their goals which was very disappointing.
"They were giftwrapped which was hard to take after starting so well and to go in 2-1 down at half-time was disappointing to say the least.
"We had so much of the play that it was a real bodyblow to go behind. We camped in their half and created some good chances and no-one could foresee us conceding a goal but it was a game where the breaks did not go for us and you are going to get those.
"We huffed and puffed at the start of the second half but in the last 20 minutes we did everything but score.
"I suppose it was inevitable that Dexter would get a goal. It so often happens that a player goes back to his old club and scores and he is always dangerous in the box.
"The winner was a sickener but that is the nature of the goalkeeping position and Kelvin Davis has been outstanding since he came to the club.
"It was a bad mistake and he knows he should have kicked it out of play but he has been first-class for us in the last few weeks.
"That winning run has now come to an end and we now have two weeks to regroup and get ready to go again.
"It was very disappointing, especially in front of our biggest crowd of the season. They gave us tremendous support and, as always, we are very grateful to all those who turned out."
Southampton
OBSEVER
Gregory maintains the Rangers revival
Jamie Jackson at St Mary's - The Observer
AT THE finish this was the right result. Although the match was of chequered quality, Queen's Park Rangers took their chances better and executed more control. That proved decisive and gave QPR their first away win and a maximum six points since John Gregory took over as the manager at Loftus Road at the end of last month. It also ended a run of four consecutive Saints victories, when another would have equalled a mark last set 25 years ago under Lawrie McMenemy.
'We started well, with a very bright first half,' George Burley, the Southampton manager, said. 'We maybe handed QPR the goals which you can't afford to do in this league. But that is what it's like in this division. You win four on the trot, make some silly mistakes, and lose.'
The winner from Ray Jones was certainly a gift, courtesy of the Southampton goalkeeper Kelvin Davis. He attempted to let an innocuous ball run out, but instead Ray Jones nicked possession before finishing smartly from an acute angle. Had Davis apologised to the dressing room? 'Sure,' said Burley, of the man he signed for £1 million from Sunderland in the summer. 'There's nothing really you can say. But I'm sure he will save us again in the future. That's being a goalkeeper.'
As soon as Burley's team had broken from their pre-match huddle, they grabbed the initiative by scoring. Actually, it took just over two minutes, but it felt immediate. Rudi Skacel, a £1.6m summer signing from Hearts, played it into the Rangers area from the left, and Jermaine Wright side-footed it home. It was simple, but only because the visitors had been caught square while they were asleep.
Burley, looking dainty in red shorts, chose to spend the game in the technical area, directing and manoeuvring his players. Gregory was more circumspect. Yet by the end, it had proved the better and more rewarding approach. In a mediocre half of clumsy passing and touch, though, any hint of subtlety had come from Burley's men.
In the ninth minute, Grzegorz Rasiak, who has eight goals this season, passed to his strike partner Bradley Wright-Phillips. He fed Wright who quickly played in Mario Licka. It came to nothing, but at least indicated how football can be played. However, disaster then arrived for the home side and their fans who, following two goals from Rangers in seven minutes, had to listen to 'One-nil and you fucked it up' from their opposite numbers. Before Davis's nightmare came a header from Dexter Blackstock, once of Southampton. It was well directed beyond the keeper, but it arrived against the flow of play. 'To go in 2-1 down was a massive blow,' said Burley.
After 10 minutes of the restart he chose to swap Wright for Nathan Dyer. It was a straight switch, the diminutive winger taking his place on the right, when there possibly appeared a case for Burley to rejig his team's shape by pushing a third man forward. 'We tried that with 20 minutes to go, but it never worked when Kenwyne Jones came on,' Burley explained. 'So we swapped Andrew Surman for Bradley Wright-Phillips.'
Southampton did enjoy a late flurry of corners, with Rasiak appearing the sole player capable of invention for his side. It offered Southampton hope, but came to nothing. It was that kind of afternoon for the home side. Gregory will be pleased with the start to his new job, but the media won't because he refused to come out and speak to any of them and banned all his players from offering their views. For them in particular, that was a shame.
OBSERVER
INDEPENDENT
Southampton 1 QPR 2: Blackstock haunts old friends as Davis dips
By Conrad Leach at St Mary's Stadium
Published: 01 October 2006
The old boys' act came to Southampton's aid at first but it was simply a cruel illusion as it began their undoing on the South Coast. The assistance came from Paul Jones, now in QPR's goal, but who once spent five years in the Saints' colours. However, the equalising goal that lent impetus to the visitors came courtesy of Dexter Blackstock, sold for £500,000 at the end of August after a couple of years on the fringes of the first team. Things then got even worse thanks to a terrible, match-losing mistake by the home goalkeeper Kelvin Davis.
The Saints were going for five consecutive wins for the first time in 25 years but ended up with their first home defeat of the current campaign, derailing their attempts to put more pressure on Cardiff and Birmingham at the top.
This deserved win made it two out of two for QPR's new manager, John Gregory, showing he has settled back into managing after three-and-half years away. Yet, after guiding his team to a 2-0 win against Hull City last week in his first game in charge, this was a different proposition.
Southampton were third from top at the start of the day and within two minutes they took the lead with a simple goal. From the left, a high cross by Rudi Skacel drifted to Jermaine Wright and the midfielder hit his volley from 12 yards beating Paul Jones, who reacted slowly.
But Gregory appears to have instilled his side with some fighting spirit. The London club were level after 34 minutes and six minutes later were ahead. QPR had gone close when Martin Rowlands tested Davis from 15 yards out but when Blackstock met Lee Cook's cross, his header was too well-placed for the goalkeeper. The striker at least showed the affection he retains for the club by not celebrating his strike.
The goal that ultimately gave Gregory's men victory came from a horrible mistake by Davis. He attempted to dribble past Ray Jones but lost the ball and from a tight angle the 18-year-old rolled his shot into the empty net. Something upset Gregory so much he refused to talk later. Meanwhile, a disappointed George Burley said: "Davis has been outstanding. But mistakes for both goals cost us."
INDEPENDENT
Goalkeeping clanger consigns Southampton to first home defeat
Telegraph Andrew Warshaw (Filed: 01/10/2006)
Southampton (1) 1 QPR (2) 2
This should have been the game when high-flying Southampton equalled a 25-year-old record with a fifth straight win in all competitions. Instead, John Gregory, the new Rangers manager, brought his team to the south coast and watched them win away for the first time this season despite falling behind with virtually the first attack of the game.
Full houses have been few and far between since the Saints were relegated from the top flight, but there has been a real buzz again around St Mary's such is the progress made under George Burley. Yesterday his side got off to a dream start with just 90 seconds on the clock. Rudi Skacel, who joined for £1.6 million in July – his fifth club in three years – crossed from the left and Jermaine Wright finished with a sublime side-foot volley.
Gareth Bale, their highly-rated left-back linked to a string of Premiership clubs, almost doubled Southampton's lead with a 25-yard free kick that Paul Jones, now 38, and back at the club where he spent five years, just clawed to safety.
Southampton's football during this period was crisp and positive; another driving run from Bale almost provided Grzegorz Rasiak, the division's top scorer, with his ninth league goal of the season. The former Tottenham man rose above his marker, but directed his header straight at Jones.
It was an ominous start for Gregory just a couple of weeks after succeeding Gary Waddock. Martin Rowlands forced a smart save from Kelvin Davis, but that was all Rangers offered up front – until the 34th minute when they conjured an equaliser totally against the run of play.
A speculative cross into the box caught out the Southampton back-line and Dexter Blackstock powered a diving header beyond Davis for his third goal of the season.
There was no celebration from the former Saints striker, who joined Rangers in August for £250,000, having been on the south coast since he was a trainee.
However, six minutes later, Davis was picking the ball out of his net again after handing Rangers a gift-wrapped second. In what will surely go down as one of the clangers of the season, the Saints keeper opted to let the ball run out play for a goal kick, only for 18-year-old Ray Jones to sneak in and prize it away before shooting from a tight angle into an unguarded net.
Having been comfortably in command, Saints now had to chase the game. Nathan Dyer replaced the goalscorer, Wright, to add more pace to their attack, and Jones immediately turned away a goalbound effort from Bradley Wright-Phillips.
Rangers responded by stiffening their midfield, sending on both 19-year-old Jimmy Smith, signed on loan from Chelsea last week, and the experienced Steve Lomas.
Burley played his final card by replacing a defender with Kenwyne Jones and switching to a three-pronged attack. But the new formation resulted only in giving Rangers more possession and, to their credit, the visitors almost made it count instead of sitting on their lead, much to the delight of 2,000 travelling fans.
Defender Damion Stewart should have put the game beyond reach with a free header, but missed the target.
Southampton staged a late rally, but couldn't prevent their first home defeat of the season. So, not good enough on the day, but was it just a blip on their long road towards promotion? Only time will tell.
Independent
Sunday Mirror - SOUTHAMPTON 1-1 QPR Peter White At St Mary's
JOHN GREGORY has started turning things round for Rangers on the pitch, but he is already badly letting down their loyal fans.
After the new Rangers boss saw his side clinch their first away win in the Championship since last March, he flatly refused to convey his thoughts on the game to the supporters via the media.
Furthermore, Gregory slapped a ban on any of his players talking to the press.
By contrast, Saints manager George Burley was only too happy to discuss the game, even though it resulted in a shock defeat for his side, the first at home this season.
Saints looked to be on their way to victory when Jermaine Wright gave them the lead in the third minute and they had further chances to extend their advantage before being caught out by two sucker punches inside six minutes.
First, after 34 minutes, former Saint Dexter Blackstock dived in to head home Lee Cook's cross from the left.
Then home goalkeeper Kelvin Davis gifted the visitors a second with an horrendous error of judgement.
Davis went to the edge of his box and tried to shepherd the ball out of play, only to allow Ray Jones to rob him and score from the tightest of angles.
Burley admitted: "We started brightly enough and when we were a goal up I thought we would go on to score three or four.
"But then we handed them a
couple of goals and that was a big blow. I'm not blaming Kelvin, because he has been outstanding for us.
"He tried to let the ball run out of play, but their player managed to keep it in and then shot into an empty net.
"But Kelvin is still a very good keeper and I'm sure he will save us plenty of times in the future."
HOW THEY RATED
SOUTHAMPTON
Davis 5, Makin 6, Baird 6, Pele 6 (Jones 5), Bale 7, Wright 6 (Dyer 6), Licka 5, Viafara 7, Skacel 6, Rasiak 5, Wright-Philips 6 (Sermon 6).
MANAGER Burley 6
QPR
Jones 7, Bignot 6, Rehman 7, STEWART 8, Rose (Kanyuka 6), Rowlands 7, Bircham 6 (Lomas 6), Bailey 6 (Smith 6), Cook 6, Jones 7, Blackstock 7.
MANAGER Gregory 8
REFEREE A D'Urso 6
MAN OF THE MATCH
DAMION STEWART
Very solid at the heart of Rangers' rearguard
Sunday Mirror
