QPR REPORT

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QPR 1 Blackpool 1 FT - Blackstock 79 Taylor-Fletcher 18 Attend: 12,500 Half-time: 0-1 ...QPR drop to 8th with 1 points out of the last possible 9. Updated Table - Preliminary Match Report


SKY - Dowie hits back at critics
QPR boss defends tactics, while Grayson is pleased
QPR manager Iain Dowie has hit back at critics of his tactics in the wake of a 1-1 draw with Blackpool at Loftus Road.
The Hoops, who received pre-season backing as promotion candidates, were grateful for a point as Dexter Blackstock cancelled out Gary Taylor-Fletcher's sensational opener.
QPR have dropped to eighth in the Championship table on the back of the result and some have questioned Dowie's cautious formations this season.
But Dowie believes his side should have defeated Simon Grayson's Blackpool outfit and insists his tactics are working well.
"There's an obsession in this country with systems, but it's about the players out there," said Dowie.
Decent start
"We just didn't get going enough. We could have been 2-0 up at half-time and then there would have been no talk about systems.
"We've scored four at home twice this season using the system we started with tonight, and Emmanuel Ledesma got a hat-trick playing in it a couple of weeks ago.
"We've made a decent start to the season with that formation, reached the last 16 of the Carling Cup and are eighth in the table - one win away from fourth place."
Meanwhile, Blackpool boss Simon Grayson was full of praise for his team after a gritty performance.
Under pressure
He said: "We were under pressure from set-pieces in the second half but the players dug in and defended for their lives at times.
"We'd have taken a point at the start of the game but when you get to where we were and concede a goal, it's always tough and the players are disappointed.
"That shows how far those players have come. Everyone wrote us off at the start of the season but all we can do is keep working hard, and we've got some quality too.
"We've surprised quite a few people and hopefully that will continue. There's a determination to prove people wrong, because no-one likes to have the tag of relegation favourites before a ball's even been kicked.
"I can't fault the players because they've played well again. We have to be delighted with this point." Sky


SPORTING LIFE - DOWIE SLAMS SYSTEM-ATIC ABUSE
QPR manager Iain Dowie defended his choice of formation following his side's 1-1 draw at home to Blackpool on Tuesday.
Gary Taylor-Fletcher put the Seasiders ahead before Dexter Blackstock's 78th-minute equaliser - his sixth goal of the season - rescued a point for below-par Rangers.
Dowie started with his favoured 4-2-3-1 system before switching to 4-4-2 at half-time.
But he insisted: "There's an obsession in this country with systems, but it's about the players out there.
"We just didn't get going enough. We could have been 2-0 up at half-time and then there would have been no talk about systems.
"We've scored four at home twice this season using the system we started with tonight, and Emmanuel Ledesma got a hat-trick playing in it a couple of weeks ago.
"We've made a decent start to the season with that formation, reached the last 16 of the Carling Cup and are eighth in the table - one win away from fourth place.
"It's a system Spain used in Euro 2008. There's an obsession in this country with 4-4-2, which has hardly brought England great success down the years.
"I changed it at half-time because Blackpool had scored and were able to sit back and mark man for man, so I wanted to give them another problem up front."
Blackpool went ahead after 17 minutes, when Taylor-Fletcher collected defender Damion Stewart's weak clearing header and fired into the top corner of the net from 25 yards.
Dowie made a double substitution at the interval, sending on Mikele Leigertwood and striker Patrick Agyemang.
But it was Dowie's third substitute, Akos Buzsaky, who helped to haul Rangers level.
The fit-again Hungarian, brought on with 18 minutes to go, curled a 30-yard free-kick against the bar and Blackstock was able to head home the rebound.
"I thought it was a very good display," Dowie added.
"We caused them a massive amount of problems from set-pieces, especially in the second half.
"It was an unsatisfactory result but I can't be unhappy with the way we played. Should we have gone on and scored a winner? Probably. But I can't fault the desire."
Blackpool manager Simon Grayson was full of praise for his team after a gritty performance.
Grayson said: "We were under pressure from set-pieces in the second half but the players dug in and defended for their lives at times.
"We'd have taken a point at the start of the game but when you get to where we were and concede a goal, it's always tough and the players are disappointed.
"That shows how far those players have come. Everyone wrote us off at the start of the season but all we can do is keep working hard, and we've got some quality too.
"We've surprised quite a few people and hopefully that will continue. There's a determination to prove people wrong, because no-one likes to have the tag of relegation favourites before a ball's even been kicked.
"I can't fault the players because they've played well again. We have to be delighted with this point." Sporting Life


IAIN DOWIE'S POST-MATCH COMMENTS - QPR OFFICIAL SITE DOWIE: WE DESERVED MORE
Iain Dowie was adamant Rangers deserved more than the point they gained thanks to Dexter Blackstock's late equaliser against Blackpool.
Trailing to Gary Taylor-Fletcher's stunning first half effort, the R's responded with an Alamo like display in the second half, only to fail to bag the all-important second goal late on.
"We showed great drive and great desire to come back into the game after they scored from their only chance of the entire 90 minutes," Dowie told www.qpr.co.uk.
"Blackpool are a good side, make no mistake. Of course we are disappointed with a point, but they are the fourth best side away from home in the division and they've already won at Birmingham this season.
"In the second half our display was full of energy and hunger and a point was the minimum we deserved from the match."
With the R's trailing at half-time, Dowie rang the changes at the break, introducing Mikele Leigertwood and Patrick Agyemang at the expense of the tiring Daniel Parejo and Emmanuel Ledesma - and switching to a 4-4-2 in the process.
"We had to freshen it up at half-time. I felt we needed another focus point and Patrick and Mikele gave us that.
"I felt we created numerous chances. I'm not sure what the goal was disallowed for and I thought we should have had a penalty late in the day.
"I'm not sure why, but when the keeper spills one and it squirts out, the referee gives a foul.
"There were certainly a few odd decisions late on, but sometimes they go for you and other times they don't.
"I'm looking forward to seeing the stats afterwards, because we were by far superior in all departments." QPR


QPR Official Site - QPR vs Blackpool
Dexter Blackstock spared QPR blushes as his header cancelled out Gary Taylor-Fletcher's opener as Rangers drew at Loftus Road with a spirited Blackpool.
Despite a host of chances for the home side, Iain Dowie's men could not find a winner against a determined Tangerine outfit.
Taylor-Fletcher's long range volley opened the scoring but, after an Akos Buzsaky free-kick struck the wood-work, Blackstock was on hand to head into a gaping net.
Rangers made two changes for the visit of the Tangerines, as Lee Cook came in for Akos Buzsaky who dropped to the bench, and Peter Ramage regained the right back berth ahead of Matt Connolly.
Simon Grayson handed starts to on-loan striker Steve Kabba, alongside Ben Burgess in attack, David Vaughan on the left and former Rangers defender Ian Evatt at the heart of the defence.
The R's raced out of the blocks and could've gone ahead inside the first minute. Daniel Parejo seized on a loose ball and fed Rowlands who found Cook out on the left. His floated cross was poorly cleared to Blackstock but, with the ball at an awkward height, the striker failed to make a decent connection.
Rangers were at it again moments later, as build up play involving Peter Ramage, Ledesma and Blackstock found Cook on the edge of the area, but his shot flew wide.
Cook and Blackstock had started brightly and the two combined minutes later as Cook's cross was chested down by Blackstock into the path of Rowlands who had burst into the box. The midfield marvel, however, could only glance the ball wide.
Suddenly Blackpool scored through Taylor-Fletcher. Against the run of play, the ball found its way to the Pool winger who teed himself up and guided a shot straight into Radek Cerny's top right hand corner.
Loftus Road was stunned and Rangers instantly sought a leveller but Ledesma could not strike his 20-yard effort with enough power to worry Paul Rachubka in the visitor's goal.
Back came Blackpool and Keith Southern attempted to copy Taylor-Fletcher with a long range effort that was always going wide.
Rangers struck back as Cook's cross was nearly turned in by Blackstock, only for Rob Edwards to nick it away for a corner.
From the resultant set-piece, Gavin Mahon's half-volley was bravely blocked by a determined orange wall.
Rowlands was next to try his luck as, after being fed by Parejo 25-yards out, he strode forward an unleashed a drive that fizzed wide.
With minutes remaining of the first half, Blackstock should've scored. Ledesma's cross found him in acres of space but instead of trying to head in, he attempted to control and shoot on the turn. Unfortunately for him, and the increasingly frustrated R's fans, the ball bobbled up and away from danger.
As the teams emerged it was evident to see that Dowie had reshuffled his pack. Patrick Agyemang and Mikele Leigertwood replaced Ledesma and Parejo.
And the change almost reaped instant rewards as the latter sent a pin-point pass out to Cook, who controlled it early to beat Shaun Barker and ran through on goal before pulling the trigger. His shot was well struck, on target, and needed a fully stretched Rachubka to turn it round the post.
Cook was at it again moments later as he linked with Agyemang before firing over a cross that Blackstock rose to head weakly at Rachubka.
Cook was at the heart of everything Rangers were trying to do, looking a constant menace. Seconds later, he teed up Leigertwood from 25-yards out, but once again the shot was off target.
The diminutive winger went searching for a goal himself as he sent a half-volley looping over a packed Blackpool box that only just cleared the bar.
Despite a period of sustained pressure, Rangers were just not testing visiting keeper Rachubka. A Rowlands corner was glanced wide by Blackstock in the latest attempt at an equaliser.
With the last roll of the dice, Dowie introduced crowd favourite Buzsaky to try and work his magic in midfield.
And the dice came up in the R's favour as Rangers won a free-kick 25-yards out. Buzsaky stepped up to curl an effort that beat Rachubka but smacked back off the crossbar. Desperation turned to ecstasy. however. as Blackstock was on hand to nod the rebound into an empty net to send R's fans in to raptures.
Rangers poured forward searching for a winner and a brilliant Cook cross was headed down by Blackstock right into Rachubka's grateful arms.
Despite throwing everything at the visitors, the game ended a stalemate as Blackpool held on to take a point back up to Lancashire. QPR



BBC - QPR 1-1 Blackpool
Dexter Blackstock struck late on with his sixth of the season to earn QPR a deserved point against Blackpool.

Gary Taylor-Fletcher's stunning 25-yard strike into the top corner earned the visitors a slender half-time lead.

QPR pushed for an equaliser, with Dexter and Lee Cook both going close and Daniel Parejo claiming a penalty.

But substitute Akos Buzsaky saw a free-kick crash back off the crossbar and Blackstock was in the right place to head home the rebound.
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Mahon (Buzsaky 73), Hall, Parejo (Leigertwood 46), Blackstock, Rowlands, Ramage, Cook, Ledesma (Agyemang 46).Subs Not Used: Camp, Gorkss.
Booked: Leigertwood.
Goals: Blackstock 79.
Blackpool: Rachubka, Southern, Evatt, Vaughan (Broomes 84), Taylor-Fletcher, Jorgensen (Fox 90), Kabba, Camara, Edwards, Barker, Burgess.Subs Not Used: Coid, Hammill, Gow.
Goals: Taylor-Fletcher 18. Att: 12,500.
Ref: Grant Hegley (Hertfordshire). BBC


Blackpool Rivals Match Report
Some records seem there not to be broken (unlike Preston's unbeaten Tuesday night record .. haha!) and the one which has been in place at Loftus Road since 1972 looks like it will never go!

QPR had the better of the early exchanges with a couple of opportunities in the first 5 minutes, the best chance falling to top scorer Dexter Blackstock. 'Pool did have a couple of early corners but with the Seasiders playing deep, they did end up soaking up some of the early pressure. Blackstock did well to get past Camara but Martin Rowlands failed to beat Rachubka when he should have done better. However, against the run of play, from 30 yards out Gary Taylor-Fletcher struck the ball brilliantly with the outside of his right foot and beat Cerny in the Rangers goal to put the Seasiders 1-0 ahead.

Keith Southern had a long range shot on goal 10 minutes later which went wide during which time Rangers struggled to get back in to the game. Dexter Blackstock should have done better moments later but was beaten by the returning Ian Evatt. From the resulting corner, Rob Edwards cleared the ball before QPR fans shouted from a penalty as Shaun Barker went in for a tackle to take the pressure off the Seasiders goal.

Blackpool were enjoying much more possession than in those opening 10 minutes and again had a couple of chances to add to the lead with two corners within a minute but failed to beat the home side's defence. Martin Rowlands had a decent chance when Cook sent the ball across the goal but he put the ball wide of Rachubka's goal. Dexter Blackstock had another great chance as he was unmarked but tried to take an extra touch and put the ball straight in to Chub's arms. With half time approaching, the Seasiders rode their luck somewhat with QPR failing to take a number of chances in that first 45 minutes and the home side went off to a chorus of boos.

QPR came out strong and with Patrick Agyemang one of two substitutions, he put the first corner of the second half over the bar after some poor marking by the 'Pool defence. Chubs pulled off a fine save from Lee Cook moments later as Rangers piled on the pressure with two consecutive corners and from the second Dexter Blackstock headed the ball in the back of the net, but for the first time in a long while a referee ruled out an opposition goal and it remained 1-0. QPR won a free kick after an hour but Martin Rowlands saw his free kick go over the bar.

'Pool took some of the pressure off and won a corner which David Vaughan delivered and from an Ian Evatt header, Keith Southern saw his shot saved by Cerny. At the other end, the Seasiders were defending deep as they looked for their third away win of the season. With Blackpool looking to score two goals in a game for the first time this season, Ben Burgess had a chance from a Taylor-Fletcher cross but put the ball over the bar. All the pressure finally paid off after 75 minutes when QPR from a free kick hit the bar and Blackstock was the first to react and scored the equaliser.

Marlon Broomes came on to make his debut for the Seasiders in place of David Vaughan as Larry changed it to a 5-3-2 but 'Pool were still getting forward in to the heart of the QPR defence in the final minutes. The Seasiders still had some scares with the Patrick Agyemang coming close on 88 minutes but was denied by Rachubka. In injury time 'Pool had three corners and a free kick to defend but held on to earn a priceless point on the road. - Blackpool Rivals

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QPR vs BlackpoolTonight: Cook returns...Buzsaky back on the bench.

QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Mahon, Hall, Parejo, Blackstock, Rowlands, Ramage, Cook, Ledesma. Subs: Camp, Leigertwood, Buzsaky, Agyemang, Gorkss.
Blackpool: Rachubka, Southern, Evatt, Vaughan, Taylor-Fletcher. Jorgensen, Kabba, Camara, Edwards, Barker, Burgess. Subs: Coid, Broomes, Hammill, Fox, Gow, - Full Teams

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Francesco Guidolin who turned down QPR (before QPR turned to Luigi De Canio) has been appointed manager of Parma

Official: Parma Sack Cagni, Appoint Guidolin
Parma have sacked coach Luigi Cagni, and brought in Francesco Guidolin as his replacement.
The Gialloblu were relegated from Serie A last season after almost two decades in the top flight, and veteran tactician Gigi Cagni was handed the task of an immediate promotion from Serie B.
However, Parma have not had the best of starts to the season with one win, three draws and two defeats, and now Cagni has paid the price and been sacked.
“We would like to thank Cagni and his staff for their efforts and their professionalism, but we have parted company,” a statement from Parma reads.
In his place the Gialloblu have called upon the services of experienced coach Francesco Guidolin.
The 52-year-old has been out of work since himself being sacked by Palermo in March, and he has been keen to get back into the management game. The former Genoa, Bologna and Monaco boss will be presented to the media this afternoon. Anthony Sormani - Goal.com


Meanwhile Ex-QPR Assistant Manager, Kenny Jackett one of the Manager of The Month Nominees (Jackett, of course ably assisted by axed-by-QPR, Assistant Manager, Joe Gallen!) (Championship Manager-of-The Month Nominees come AFTER tonight's games! So if QPR win tonight, seems a good chance that Iain Dowie might be one of the nominees.]


Manager of the Month Nominees - Division One and Two...
Football League - THE NOMINATIONS ARE IN
The nominations have been announced for the Coca-Cola Manager of the Month award for September.
With Oldham Athletic and Scunthorpe United currently sharing top spot in League 1, it's no surprise that both John Sheridan and Nigel Adkins are up for this month's award.
Oldham won two and drew two of their four matches, with the wins coming away at Tranmere Rovers and home against Milton Keynes Dons.
Scunthorpe on the other hand have won all four matches to surge up the table. The wins came away at Brighton & Hove Albion and Hereford United and at home against Carlisle and Yeovil.
Millwall are another team to have won all four matches, so Manager Kenny Jackett also deserves his nomination, securing wins over Hartlepool United, Leicester City, Cheltenham Town and Swindon Town. The Lions currently sit fourth in the table on joint points with third placed Leeds United.
Gary McAllister understandably makes up the nominees, after his Leeds side kept up their impressive start to the season with four league wins over Crewe Alexandra, Swindon, Carlisle United and Hereford United. They also progressed to Round 4 of the Carling Cup with a 4-3 win over Hartlepool.
There are also joint table toppers in League 2 with Bury and Wycombe Wanderers sharing top spot and both Alan Knill and Peter Taylor are amongst September's nominees.
Both teams are the other ones in the division to remain unbeaten, with Bury having won two and drawn two, including Saturday's goalless game with Wycombe.
Wanderers' results mirror those of Bury, with wins over Rochdale and Dagenham & Redbridge and a draw with Brentford completing their run in September.
Brentford boss Andy Scott is also amongst the nominees after his side also won two and drew two of their four matches. The Bees' 1-0 win over Chesterfield on Saturday saw them move up to fourth in the League 2 table.
Keith Alexander completes the nominees after his Macclesfield Town side won three of their four matches in September. The Silkmen had failed to pick up a single point or even score a single league goal in August but a 2-1 win over Luton on September 6th kick-started their season. They went on to beat Bournemouth and Port Vale before losing to Exeter last weekend.
The nominations for the Championship Manager of the Month award will be announced on Wednesday with a full programme of action still to be played on Tuesday night.
All winners will be announced on Thursday, live on Sky Sports News at 1.20pm, as well as www.football-league.co.uk.
[Nominees]


Football League - KENNY RELISHING MILLWALL MISSION
After saving Millwall from relegation last season Kenny Jackett is now managing his team at the opposite end of the League 1 table as he looks to build on an impressive record of promotions he has been part of during his 12 years of management.
In stints as assistant manager and manager of Watford, assistant at Queens Park Rangers and manager of Swansea City, the 46 year-old former Watford and Wales defender has helped secure four promotions and been involved in two runs to Play-Off finals.
Another crack at promotion could be in the offing after Millwall's fine start to the new campaign. Sunday's 2-1 win at Swindon, their fifth successive victory, took them up to fourth in the table and only one point behind joint leaders Oldham and Scunthorpe.
It's a totally different situation to the one that Jackett stepped into when he took over at The New Den last November, the Lions at the time lying third from bottom of the table and facing a long battle to avoid the drop.
Yet he left the comparative safety of managing Premiership club Manchester City's reserve team to join Millwall. Why? "It wasn't a difficult decision," insists Jackett. "I'd been a manager before and I wanted to be a manager again - it was that simple.
"Yes, Millwall were in trouble, but you rarely get offered a job with a club in a great situation - and if you do then that brings its own pressure because you have to keep things going well if the club is in a good position.
"When you inherit a situation like the one I had at Millwall the job is obviously to improve things, and it wasn't easy. Injuries had already been a problem and it stayed that way right through the season, so in the circumstances we did well to stay up."
A 17th place finish represented mission accomplished for Jackett, but with a new campaign has come a new mission as the manager sets out with the aim of helping the Lions regain the Championship place they lost in 2006.
"We've had a promising start to the season," he says, "and it's helped players and supporters to believe we can continue to have a good season. I've not set targets, but I have enjoyed a few promotions in my time and I'd love to add to the list with Millwall." Football League

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Dowie: Southampton's Adam Lallan Best Young Player in Championship He'd Seen Glen Roeder/Daily Echo -
“NORWICH manager Glenn Roeder is wary of Saints ahead of his side’s trip to St Mary’s – and singled out Adam Lallana as a real dangerman...'One boy in particular, Adam Lallana, is catching the eye and the imagination of most Premier League clubs, I’m told. “Iain Dowie said to me after the QPR game that he was the best young player he’d seen in the Championship by a mile, so we’ve obviously got to be aware of him.” Daily Echo


Not sure that reading this will add to anything!

Eurosport - Championship - 60 seconds with Gavin Mahon
Eurosport-Yahoo grilled Queens Park Rangers' hardman midfielder Gavin Mahon on a series of important issues such as why he hates Finland.

Who is your sporting hero?
I have to say Steven Gerrard. Every player looks up to him. He's just got better and better and he's been so successful.

What's the worst country you've ever visited?
Finland. We went there on a pre-season tour and it was complete daylight at six or seven in the morning. There were people drunk on the park benches and you could see where they'd vomited: when they get the chance all people do there is drink, drink, drink.

What is your favourite film?
The Shawshank Redemption. And the comedy Kingpin, that's a classic.

How big is your television?
42". I want a bigger one, but my front room isn't that big and my wife won't let me.

If you could choose a magical power for a day, what would it be?
I'd be able to click my fingers and go anywhere. I'd just click and instantly be in Milan to buy clothes.

Gordon Brown or David Cameron?
Gordon Brown. I've listened to what people have said and Mr Cameron has not changed that much. I don't bother voting, although my wife does.

Uncle Benns or Mr Kipling?
Uncle Benns. When I was younger I used to eat loads of rice and Uncle Benns chicken.

What is the first record you bought?
It was Michael Jackson, Bad I think.

What car do you drive?
A Range Rover Vogue.

Who is the best player you have ever played with?
When I played with Jermaine Pennant at Watford, you'd give him the ball and he'd do things with it, just go past people.

What is your least favourite away ground?
Rotherham's old ground Millmoor was poor. The pitch was bad and the changing rooms were separated by a thin wall so you could hear the other manager's team talk from next door! Welling United's was bad in non-league, you'd get changed with only plywood between you and you had to share toilets - you'd go before the match and see their centre-half on his way out! Jonathan Symcox / Eurosport



Two Derby County defenders make the Championship Team of the Week...! Jordan Stewart and Martin Albrechtsen - Championship Team of the Week


Meanwhile ex-QPR Marcus Bean, now at Brentford, made the League Two "Team of the Week"


Bean speaking on Brentford site - BEAN NOT RESTING ON LAURELS
Brentford match-winner Marcus Bean said there was still "more to come" after he notched the only goal in The Bees 1-0 victory at Chesterfield.
The central midfielder headed a Glenn Poole corner in via the far post and said he was really happy that he was able to help his team to the win.
"It was a good feeling," said Bean. "I felt we got what we deserved."
Speaking of his goal, Bean added: "I was trying to glance it and aim for the far post.
"The gaffer [Andy Scott] said 60 per cent of goals last weekend were scored from set pieces - it's an important thing.
"I'm enjoying my time here, I'm enjoying playing games.
"I have got my confidence and there is more to come..." Brentford

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Shana Tova! Have a Good New Year- 5769!


TIME OUT - Queens Park Rangers v Blackpool
In a recent interview, Rangers' co-owner Flavio Briatore stated that he's trying to build 'a unique brand and concept, in essence a boutique stadium'. There are plenty of Rangers diehards who will jib at that description, and also at the wholly unacceptable hike in prices. Tickets which cost £35 are now £50 while the £30 seats are £40. It's a shabby way to treat loyal supporters and also away fans – those from Derby have reported the club to the Football League, and with good reason. The Rams have finally ended their run of 28 games without a win and Paul Jewell's side should begin to make their way up the table, while Tuesday's opponents Blackpool are suggesting they could again confound expectations and stay up. Neither, however, should do a dirty in the Shepherd's Bush boutique. Andrew Shields - Time Out


QPR Game Referees::
- Queens Park Rangers v Blackpool ( 8:00 )
G K HEGLEY I J Cooper and D Ford Fourth Official G R Young
- Birmingham City v Queens Park Rangers (12:45 )
A P D'URSO - S J Rushton and W D Smallwood - Fourth Official S J Bratt Refs


Blackpool's Last Victory at Loftus Road - 1972 - Rodney Marsh's Last QPR Game at Loftus Road
QPR play Blackpool tonight, as Blackpool seek their first victory at Loftus Road since 1972. That 1972 Blackpool victory was in fact the last game, Rodney Marsh played at Loftus Road in the hoops. After playing in QPR's next two away games (both lost), Marsh was sold to Manchester City, in what for QPR fans at the time was one of the blackest moments in QPR History. Gordon Jago's QPR started the game in a strong promotion position, but after Venables limped off with a groin injury (and missed the rest of the season) just a black day as Blackpool snatched a win. Of course, after Marsh was sold, QPR went the rest of the season (12 games) undefeated, with a teenage midfield duo of Gerry Francis and Martyn Busby - and just missed out on promotion. QPR's 1972 Team against Blackpool: Parkes - Clement Hazell Mancini Gillard - Saul Venables Francis Ferguson - Marsh McCulloch - Sub: Busby. -


Blackpool Gazette/Steve Canavan - Gorkss hopes for good reception
KASPARS Gorkss is desperate to face his old club tonight but he has no idea if he'll be in the QPR squad, never mind the starting 11.
Gorkss will meet with his team-mates for the first time since his protracted departure to QPR in the summer.
But life at Rangers hasn't been as idyllic as he'd have liked.
Gorkss was dropped after a dodgy start and has so far been unable to fight his way back in.
He wasn't even in the 16 for Saturday's home defeat at the hands of Derby.
The Latvian feels the length of time it took to get him from Blackpool to QPR didn't help.
Because of a row between the two clubs, his £250,000 move took the entire pre-season to complete.
"It didn't help that I missed most of the pre-season games, so I guess my pre-season began with the start of the league season," said Gorkss.
"But I feel much better now fitness-wise and hopefully I can get in the team."
Whether Gorkss is involved tonight or not, he wishes nothing but the best to his former club.
"I can't say that I'm surprised with the way they've started," added the 26-year-old, who scored for Blackpool against Rangers at Loftus Road last season.
"Some people were talking about Blackpool as a team that's going to go down this year.
"But they got 13 new players and it helps Blackpool that everyone was talking about them like that. It's less pressure on them, that makes it easier to play, and I think they will stay up again.
"Last season Blackpool played much better away to strong teams than they did at home to weaker sides.
"Of course when Blackpool play us I'm not on their side, but I wish them well after that and hope to see them get more wins.
"I have good memories of the club, they're a great bunch of lads and I keep in touch with a lot of them.
"I think it's going to be a friendly atmosphere as far as my old team-mates are concerned, that's for sure.
"The Blackpool fans I'm not too sure about, but I hope they'll still be good to me.
"But I want to win. It's a game that is massively important to the club and it is winnable."
Simon Grayson hopes otherwise, though he is thankful to Gorkss for what the centre half did for Blackpool.
"It will be nice to see Kaspars," said the manager. "Whether he actually plays or not remains to be seen but he did very well for us.
"However, I brought players in during the summer who I think have done equally well and it won't be about Kaspars – it's Blackpool versus QPR."
Ben Burgess lived close to Gorkss in St Annes and he too is keen to seeing his old pal, even if it could mean the odd bruise or two.
"I'm especially looking forward to playing against Kaspars. He kicked me enough times in training and I'm sure it won't be any different during the game," said Burgess, who scored both home and away against Rangers last season.
"I think he's an excellent defender. That's why QPR and a lot of other teams wanted him and that is why he is getting a lot of money and probably lives in a house with a swimming pool!
"But he deserves every penny that he gets because he is a good player.
"He has worked hard. He had bad times at Blackpool when he wasn't involved but he showed last season what a good player he is, both in defence and attack."
Blackpool Gazette


- See Also: Next: Blackpool - Squad, Results, Past Results


Ian Evatt returns to QPR: Famously signed by Bill Power and Gianni Paladini in Majorca in June 2005 - Evatt Joins QPR -- Evatt Leaves QPR

Blackpool Gazette/Steve Canavan - Evatt wants QPR revenge
BLACKPOOL defender Ian Evatt returns to his old club QPR determined to get revenge and keep the Seasiders' Championship campaign on track.
Evatt told The Gazette he believes he is in the form of his life – and tonight he'll need to be.
Britain's second-richest club after Manchester City, fifth-placed Rangers represent a huge challenge for Pool.
Add to that the fact that the Tangerines haven't emerged from Loftus Road with three points for more than 36 years – a 1-0 success in 1972 - and it shows how tough tonight's trip is.
But Evatt is undaunted. He said: "QPR are a good team and it's a tough game for us, but we have been doing well away from home, as the Birmingham and Southampton games showed.
"It suits our style to be the away team because we play good counter attacking football.
"Hopefully QPR will come at us and it will give us opportunities to find gaps in their defence. If we can do that then we are capable, with our creative and attacking players, of getting a goal or two.
"I didn't leave QPR on the best of terms but it's all forgotten now.
"I am loving my football here. I am probably playing the best football of my career.
"Myself and Rob Edwards are thoroughly enjoying it and doing well together" Blackpool Gazette


What Evatt Said After Leaving QPR
IAN EVATT The Times Evatt proves to be Wise signing Ian Whittell
".......“QPR bought my contract out at the start of January, I’d had a good loan spell here and was more than happy to sign,” Evatt said. “But I was disappointed and felt let down a bit by how QPR treated me, especially towards the end.
“You just have to hold your head up and keep battling away and I’ve proved today I can play at Championship level, most of the lads have done. Going for promotion, as we are, that has got to give you confidence...” Times

Dail Mail Leveller Evatt sends message to Gregory - By COLIN WOOD -
Ian Evatt clearly hopes his rescue act for Blackpool will come to the attention of Queens Park Rangers manager John Gregory and everyone at Loftus Road....
The tall, 25-year-old central defender feels he has no cause to be grateful to Gregory and QPR, who paid him off before he made his loan to Blackpool a permanent move this month.
Evatt played under Gregory for more than a year at Derby and admitted that he felt his old boss had treated him with "a lack of common courtesy".
Speaking of the latest parting, Evatt said: "He got sacked at Derby while I was there. Having known him a while it's disappointing that I didn't even get a phone call. I felt let down, the way I was treated at QPR towards the end. A few players will say the same thing. I did not speak to John Gregory, full stop."
But after netting his first goal for Blackpool - "the most important I've ever scored" - he doesn't intend to let that bitterness stop him enjoying his time ahead.His sights are set on promotion to the Championship and a place in the fifth round of the FA Cup - a stage the club last reached 17 years ago..."

Guardian -Evatt settles the scores of a season Louise Taylor at Bloomfield Road
"... afterwards Blackpool's villain-turned-hero displayed greater enthusiasm for deconstructing Gregory than discussing the rematch. "I was bitterly disappointed by the way it ended at QPR; I felt a bit let down," said Evatt, who joined Blackpool, where he spent the early part of the season on loan, for nothing this month after QPR terminated his contract. "I didn't get one phone call from anyone at QPR to explain what was happening. And John Gregory didn't speak to me, full stop. That hurt but I've just got to hold my head up and try and get back into the Championship with Blackpool," added the 25-year-old who, although already borrowed by Grayson when Gregory took charge at Loftus Road, believed their earlier association at Derby County entitled him to a debrief, if not a second chance.
Things went badly wrong for the centre-half almost from the moment QPR's former manager, Ian Holloway, paid Chesterfield £150,000 for him and said he was the club's "new Glenn Roeder". Evatt's decent distribution failed to compensate for a lack of pace and a string of mishaps. Grayson, though, detected potential and Evatt has vindicated this by playing an important role in Blackpool's emergence as promotion contenders...." Guardian - Evatt View


- LoftforWords' Clive Whittingham Previews QPR vs Blackpool and Ashleigh Rose/LoftforWords Memories of and Links Between QPR vs Blackpool

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On this day one year ago, September 30, 1997...West Bromwich Albion crushed QPR 5-1; QPR were alone at the bottom with 3 points from 7 games; and John Gregory was set to depart..QPR (4-4-2): Camp; Rehman (Curtis HT), Cullip, Stewart, Barker (Bignot 60); Ainsworth, Bolder, Sahar (Ephraim 60), Rowlands; Moore, Blackstock. Subs not used: Cole (gk), Timoska. - Reports of WBA 5 QPR 1


Ironically, two years ago on this day, QPR picked up a second second successive victory for new manager John Gregory - Winning at Southampton. Match Report and Comments.]


And Ten Years ago on this date, perphaps QPR's Finest Achievement: Topping the Loo League - "QPR Top Loo League"


Dave McIntyre- BBC606 - 1990 and all that
QPR’s games against Blackpool always bring back happy memories.
The two clubs have met a fair bit in the league in recent years and will do so again on Tuesday night.
But they were poles apart when drawn against each other in the fifth round of the FA Cup in 1990.

Rangers were in good form under Don Howe and had beaten his former club Arsenal in an unforgettable fourth-round replay (my favourite night at Loftus Road until the 2003 play-off victory against Oldham.)

Arsenal manager George Graham said that night: “Rangers have such a great defence they can go all the way to Wembley.”

And it was a great defence.

Howe had all bases covered with Paul Parker as sweeper, Alan McDonald dominant in the air and Danny Maddix, surely the most underrated player ever, establishing himself as the best man-marker in the business – regularly keeping the country's most feared strikers in his pocket.

With Kenny Sansom and the brilliant David Bardsley as the full-backs and David Seaman in goal, Rangers were in good shape.

They had good reason to be confident after Colin Clarke’s equaliser at Blackpool rescued a 2-2 draw and set up a replay.

Replays, like QPR fans on moderate incomes, are being phased out. But back in the day, we not only had replays, we had second replays too.

And if that seems weird to the younger generation then try this: QPR, then a top-flight club with a realistic chance of winning the FA Cup, failed to score against a lower-division side at home, and both teams were applauded off the pitch.

Can you imagine that happening these days, when 0-0 at home to a side in the same division is often greeted with derision?

Blackpool were brilliant that night and so were their fans.

I still vividly remember the chants of “Sea, sea, sea-siders” ringing out from the School End as well as “Oooh Andy Garner” in honour of Blackpool’s popular striker at the time.

But the player who really caught the eye was a young Alan Wright.

He went on to star for Aston Villa as a left-back but played at right-back against Rangers and was outstanding. So much so that he was clapped off by QPR fans when substituted.

Rangers crucially won the toss to host the second replay – a fact announced over the tannoy and greeted with delight by the home supporters.

For those who were there that night: was the buzz among the fans, given the result, as good as I remember and a world apart from the venom that in recent years has so easily spread around the ground? Or was I just seeing things through an excited young fan’s eyes?

The atmosphere did seem different - so much so that the second replay began with Blackpool’s players applauding the Loft in acknowledgment of the applause they received from QPR fans at the end of the previous game.

With a quarter-final at home to Liverpool awaiting the winners, Wright was even better in the first half of the next game as Blackpool continued to keep Rangers at bay.

But he stepped on the ball, letting Andy Sinton in to break the deadlock and then gave away a penalty which Simon Barker converted to seal a 3-0 win for Rangers.

It was a good time to be a young Rangers fan. My mate and I used to arrive early to bag our favourite place at the front of the Loft near the right-hand post, where there was always great banter with Seaman, other fans and Tom the steward, who many other regulars down the years will probably know.

It was also the start of a good era for Rangers, who were then a well-respected club building on solid foundations.

Howe was creating a very good team – arguably QPR’s second-best ever - and I always thought it was a shame he wasn’t given the chance to take it forward. BBC606


BBC - Flowers praises start to season
Queens Park Rangers assistant manager Tim Flowers believes they have started the season better than he expected.
Rangers are fifth in the Championship despite Saturday's 2-0 defeat by Derby.
Flowers told BBC London 94.9: "It's a decent start. If we had been offered this we'd have taken it. But we're not mugs, we know there's a long way to go.
"This season's a marathon. It's a cruel season in the Championship. It's game after game and it stretches you to the limits but we've got a decent squad."
And the R's assistant says it is important to turn their attention to Tuesday night's match against Blackpool rather than dwell on defeat.
"We'll make sure they come out of the blocks a bit quicker.
"But I think we're moving in the right direction. We're trying to play football that people appreciate. This club hasn't had a cup run for a long period of time. Let's make no mistake we are certainly moving in the right direction." BBC


Goal.com -29/09/2008 23:02 De Canio Quashes Reggina Rumours
Former QPR coach Luigi De Canio has denied that Reggina have contacted him to take over the Amaranto hot seat.
The Calabrians lost 1-0 in Palermo yesterday and have only one point after five games.
The pressure is piling on coach Nevio Orlandi and reports in the peninsula suggested that president Lillo Foti was ready to swing the axe and call in veteran De Canio.
But the ex-Udinese manager has told Radio Incontro that there is no truth in those whispers: "I have only received phone calls from a couple of foreign teams," he admitted.
"I don't know anything about Reggina. No one has contacted me yet."
De Canio also commented on the sporting gesture that Palermo fans witnessed yesterday at the Barbera Stadium. Reggina's Franco Brienza had a great opportunity to score when clear on goal, but stopped after a collision between Bernardo Corradi and Moris Carrozzieri left both players on the floor.
"I have to applaud him. Reggina may have lost yesterday, but fair play triumphed. Sometimes players exaggerate and kick the ball out even when it is not really necessary. But this time was different and this kind of gestures deserves to be commended," concluded De Canio.
Vince Masiello, Goal.com - Goal.com


Non-League Daily - BREVETT COUP FOR BEDFONT
Bedfont manager Mick Turtle has managed to pull off something of a coup for the Combined Counties League Premier Division club with the capture of former Queens Park Rangers and Fulham player Rufus Brevitt as his new number two.
Bedfont have been reeling of late with the loss of two key players but this news has reignited the club and they were unfortunate not to get a draw out of high-flying Badshott Lea on Saturday.
Turtle said: “It has all been a bit of a whirlwind really. I only met Rufus on Thursday when he came down to do a bit of coaching for his badges, and to be honest he fitted straight in. The lads loved the session he did and he liked the professionalism and ambition we have here and he feels that he can help us achieve our aims.”
Turtle has also brought in Bobby Watson to help and assist coach Daniel Butler. Non League Daily

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Manchester United will host Queens Park Rangers at Old Trafford on Tuesday ,November 11, 2008. Kickoff 8:00 pm. (QPR victory celebrations hopefully to begin around 10-10:30 pm!)

Manchester United Official Site Date set for QPR clash
United will host Championship side Queens Park Rangers in the Carling Cup fourth round. The tie will take place at Old Trafford on Tuesday 11 November, KO 20:00 GMT.
The clubs have never met in the League Cup and last faced each other in the Premier League back in 1996.
At the time of the fourth round draw, QPR were lying fourth in the Championship. Many experts have tipped the London side to win promotion this season.
QPR boss Iain Dowie oversaw United's shock exit from the competition last season when he brought his Coventry City side to Old Trafford. The Reds lost the third round tie 2-0.
United will play QPR in the week commencing Monday 10 November. Ticket news will be published on ManUtd.com as soon as it's known, so please return regularly for updates.
Elsewhere, Arsenal and Chelsea were both handed home draws, while Liverpool travel to Tottenham Hotspur." Manchester United

UPDATE:
QPR Official Site - UNITED DATE CONFIRMED
Queens Park Rangers will play Manchester United on Tuesday 11th November in the fourth round of the Carling Cup. The tie at Old Trafford will kick-off at 20:00 GMT. Ticket details will follow in due course. QPR

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Reuters - Hungary name squad for World Cup qualifiers - Mon Sep 29, 2008
- Hungary coach Erwin Koeman named the following 24-man squad for next month's 2010 World Cup Group One qualifiers against Albania and Malta. Hungary host Albania on Oct. 11 and visit Malta four days later.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Gabor Babos (NEC), Marton Fulop (Sunderland), Laszlo Koteles (Diosgyor), Adam Bogdan (Bolton).
Defenders: Zoltan Szelesi (Strasbourg), Laszlo Bognar (Red Bull Salzburg), Roland Juhasz (Anderlecht), Tamas Vasko (Avellino), Zsolt Low (Hoffenheim), Vilmos Vanczak (Sion), Boldizsar Bodor (Roda), Krisztian Timar (Plymouth).
Midfielders: Tamas Hajnal (Dortmund), Zoltan Gera (Fulham), Krisztian Vadocz (Osasuna), Pal Dardai (Hertha Berlin), Peter Halmosi (Hull), Balazs Toth (Genk), Akos Buzsaky (QPR), Tamas Koltai (Gyori ETO), Balazs Dzsudzsak (PSV), Szabolcs Huszti (Hanover).
Strikers: Gergely Rudolf (Debrecen), Sandor Torghelle (Augsburg).
(Reported by Zoltan Fazekas; Editing by Padraic Halpin) Reuters

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To any Jewish readers of QPR Report: Shana Tova! Have a Good New Year- 5769!


Next Up: Blackpool at Loftus Road, Tomorrow.
- Blackpool with three ex-QPRs in their squad: Zesh Rehman, Danny Nardiello and never forget, Ian Evatt. Blackpool's Squad -- Blackpool's Results -- Leage Table: If Blackpool should win tomorrow (2 away wins, 1 draw, 1 loss), they'll go above QPR.
QPR have a great record against Blackpool, which of course means, oh-oh! Head to Head Results.
Memories: Tommy Hutchinson and Tony Green playing for Blackpool in the late 1960s: Great players....QPR pipping Blackpool on goal aggregate back in 1967/68 to gain promotion to the First Division. Rodney Marsh's hatrick in QPR's 6-1 win back in 1969 (Blackpool had the last laugh; they won promotion!). Clive Allen's four goals in QPR's FA Cup replay...Richard Langley's hatrick just before he left QPR...
QPR-Blackpool links: Besides Evatt, Nardiello and Rehman, David Bardsley, Trevor Sinclair, Danny Shittu, Clark Carlisle, John Burridge, and most recently, Kaspar Gorkss (which led to some a summer farce, bad blood between the two clubs and had Blackpool reporting QPR to the FA for making an illegal approach).
Last Encounter: March 2008 at Loftus Road which QPR won 3-2 before a crowd of 11,500. QPR: Camp, Mancienne, Connolly, Leigertwood, Delaney, Buzsaky (Lee 85), Hall, Rowlands (Rehman 90), Vine, Blackstock, Agyemang (Mahon 66). Subs Not Used: Pickens, Balanta. Goals: Buzsaky 11, Vine 40, Rowlands 47.
Blackpool: Rachubka, Barker, Evatt, Gorkss, Crainey, Taylor-Fletcher (Parker 71), Southern (Fox 53), Flynn, Hoolahan, Morrell (Burgess 54), McPhee. Subs Not Used: Coid, Welsh. Goals: Burgess 60, Gorkss 73 - Report


- A new name recently added to the QPR Staff List: "Press and Publications Executive", Hamish Dufton - Joining in the QPR Press Office
Press & Publications Manager - Ian Taylor:
New Media Manager - Paul Morrissey: QPR Staff List


- Former QPR Winger, Steve Burke Turns 48 - Born September 29, 1960.
Burke joined QPR in September 1979, signed by Tommy Docherty from Brian Clough's Nottingham Forest for 150,000 pounds, (before he made his League debut).
In his first season, Burke was a regular in the QPR team. But once Docherty left, under Venables and his successors, Burke made few appearances and went out on loan a couple of times. Burke was hower QPR's (one) substitute in the FA Cup Final replay "travesty" against Spurs and came on.
In September 1986, Burke joined Doncaster on a free transfer. Burke's Playing Career


- Southend Official Site U18'S KNOCK SEVEN PAST QPR
[Full Match report, compliments of Southend!] Southend United U18's 7 Queens Park Rangers U18's 1
Under-18s boss Ricky Duncan put his squad through their paces on their week off as they recorded a 7-1 friendly victory over a Queens Park Rangers Development XI at Boots & Laces.
Duncan fielded his more experienced scholars in the first half before taking a look at a younger, pacier side in the second period, including three trialists. One of the trio was Roland Benedict, the son of American actor and star of 'The A Team' Dirk Benedict. Benedict Jnr. appeared on the left-hand side of midfield, having previously appeared for Gillingham's reserve team, whilst his father watched on from the sidelines to add some celebrity to a sunny day in southeast Essex.
The opposition will bear little resemblance to the QPR outfit that line up against the Blues next Saturday in the Football League Youth Alliance Cup, but put up a determined fight during the opening stages of the encounter....
Southend United U18s: First half: Nathan McDonald; Ricky Byrne, Ronnie Jones, Ade Osifuwa, Duran Reynolds; Davis Abbey; Merrick James-Lewis, Medi Abalimba; Justin Hazell; Fredrik Ljungström, Craig Calver. Second half: Nathan McDonald; John Owinja, Merrick James-Lewis, Duran Reynolds, Joel Mitchell; Kyle Asante, Jamie Dennis, Luke [trialist], Roland Benedict; Harry Crawford, Marcus Milner. Goals: Calver 20, Ljungström 31, Mitchell 49, Crawford 60, 76, Asante 74, Dennis 81.
[QPR Team not provided in the report] Southend

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A few QPR-related items for the QPR Fans who might have turned off their computers on Friday...!

No elaboration is needed about QPR's disappointing 0-2 home loss to Derby County, before a crowd of just over 14,000 - Match Reports and Comments.

And every QPR fan in the world pretty much, must be aware that QPR were drawn against Manchester United at Old Trafford in the Fourth Round of the Carling Cup! Game to be played week of November 10!

Elsewhere:

- The proposed Protest against the increase in ticket prices came and went without too much fanfare. (Although most of the Monday press match reports made mention of the ticket prices: Monday Reports)


- "One QPR" Statement - A Statement by "One QPR" - " GREAT FOOTBALL, SHAME ABOUT THE PRICES - ["One QPR" comprises QPR LSA, QPR Official Supporters club,QPR 1st, Friends of QPR, Indy R’s.]


- QPR Name Change to QPC Discussed? - A story by Charles Sale in the Daily Mail, claimed that QPR's owners had discussed a Name Change to Queens Park City!


- Club Statement Categorically Denies Name Change Discussed and Mentions Possible Legal Action vis-a-vis The Daily Mail! - Within hours of the story coming out, the Official Site posted a statement by Briatore Denying any consideration of a name change and mentioning possible Legal Action


- Stan Bowles Expresses Criticism of QPR Owners: - Stan Bowles Criticizes QPR Owners


A Couple of The Articles in Full:

Stan Bowles Perspective:- Sunday People/Peter Ward - 28 September 2008 - TIGHT Rs BLASTED - EXCLUSIVE
QPR legend Stan Bowles has branded the club's billionaire owners skinflints after being sidelined from his hospitality role.
"Billionaires? They're tighter than a coat of paint," said Bowles, 59, once voted Loftus Road's greatest ever player.
Rangers are owned by Formula One big wheels Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore, and Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal.
Bowles said: "On the last day of last season Iwas asked on the pitch to draw a raffle. Then I was told there was no budget left to pay me.
"This season I was asked to unveil the new mascot, which was a man dressed up as a furry aeroplane - I suspect he was on more money than I was.
"I was handed £100 which didn't even cover my train fare"
He was due to act as a club ambassador again - but says the club have never got back to him. Sunday People


The Daily Mail Story which precipitated the following QPR Statement on its Official Site:

Daily Mail/Charles Sale - QPC is definitely a move too far, Flavio
The super-rich owners of London Championship team QPR have been discussing
changing the name of the club to Queens Park City in order to emphasis its location in the capital.
Renault boss Flavio Briatore, in Singapore preparing his Formula One team for the first night grand prix this weekend, has been openly debating the idea with friends in football and motor racing.
But Rangers fans, already not happy about the huge hike in prices at Loftus Road which has seen the introduction of the first £50 ticket in the Championship this season, won’t be impressed with losing a club name that has been in existence since 1887. The team was called St Jude’s for its first two years.
Nor will Briatore and his billionaire co-owners, Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal, whose combined wealth makes QPR currently the second richest club in the country behind Manchester City, find the Football League in agreement. Commercial motives for name changes are not approved in the lower divisions or the Premier League.
Briatore has also made public that the three owners, who easily have the resources to buy their way out of the Championship, would prefer to fine-tune their football vehicle outside the top flight and bide their time in reaching the top flight, especially in the current state of flux with club ownership. Daily Mail


QPR Official Site- CLUB STATEMENT
Following a report in one of today's national newspapers, titled 'QPC is definitely a move too far, Flavio,' QPR Holdings Ltd Chairman Flavio Briatore has issued the following statement:
"This is pure fabrication and I don't know where the story has come from. I haven't spoken to anybody about this subject.
"I don't know the journalist, but I know the story is totally untrue and we will be contacting our lawyers to pursue this matter further.
"I can categorically deny that there is any truth in this article."
The Club will be making no further comment. QPR Official Site


ONE QPR STATEMENT - GREAT FOOTBALL, SHAME ABOUT THE PRICES.[One QPR is made up of, QPR LSA, QPR Official Supporters club, QPR 1st, Friends of QPR, Indy R’s.]
- We are delighted by the football of the Superhoops so far this season. The victory over Villa on Wednesday was our best performance for years. We welcome the investment into the club, which has brought us exciting football and the hope of a return to the top tier of English football. However, we want all of our fan base to enjoy this success and not to be priced out of Loftus Road.
- Price increases in the Loft were only withdrawn after opposition by Derby County and their fans, and the united action of QPR fans groups, with the aid of the Football Supporters’ Association. The Football League told QPR to honour its charter with away fans and to restore prices in the 'away end ' to their original levels. The club could have kept the prices in the Loft at the increased level, but pressure from fans and the coverage in the media thankfully persuaded the board to put prices in the Loft back to their original level. However, increases for other areas of the ground were not withdrawn, we demand that these too be restored to their original levels.
- We want Loftus Road to be full every game and a return of the famous Rangers Roar. Let us make our ground a fortress. But to do this we need to fill the ground with fans, not price out our loyal fan base.
- The club at our meeting with them on the 23 September, listened to our views and the views of the fans and promised to take those views back to the Board. We urge the board to now withdraw all price increases and match banding.
Printed and published by ONE QPR.
One QPR is made up of, QPR LSA, QPR Official Supporters club, QPR 1st, Friends of QPR, Indy R’s. Posted on LSA and Posted on QPR 1st.


Numerous Other QPR-related stories over the past 72-hours can be read at QPR Report, by just scrolling through QPR Report!

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Mazel Tov to QPR's Former Chairman, Bill Power (BP) Who Turns 55 Today!

William (Bill) Power (aka BP)
Born September 29, 1953, Power a life long QPR supporter, who used to view games from his flat across the road from the Stadium, joined the QPR Board in 2003. In the summer of 2004, Power became Chairman when Blackburn, Jones and Davies left the club. A year later, in August 2005, Power was replaced by Gianni Paladini, who in turn was replaced last year, by Flavio Briatore. BP reportedly came close to returning to Loftus Road in the summer of 2007, before graciously bowing out in the face of the Briatore-Ecclestone takeover. Without revisiting some of the Boardroom events of the past few years, unlike a couple of other former QPR Chairman, BP remains "involved with/and extremely committed to" QPR.


Flashback: - Profile of Bill Power from about three or four years ago:
Irish Abroad Power behind QPR - By Ian McCullough
It has often been said, usually in dreamy tones, by many a football supporter, that they would give money to the club they love and support when they win the lottery.
London Irishman Bill Power is someone who has fulfilled the first part of that dream although the money he has invested in Queens Park Rangers is his very own hard-earned cash and not the type made by buying a lucky dip ticket from the local supermarket.
- While London football is now dominated by the nouveau-riche Chelsea courtesy of the billions of Russian oil magnate Roman Abramovich and the charismatic, free-flowing on their day, but enigmatic Arsenal under Arsene Wenger, there was a time when QPR were the talk of the capital.
- At a time when Irish emigration to London was rife during the late 1960s and through to the ’70s, many settled in west London areas such as Hammersmith, Shepherds Bush, Kensal Rise and Greenford and the team whose ground sits just off the Uxbridge Road became the focal point for a many of the new settlers in the capital and their offspring.
- Power, the son of Wexford parents and an Irish passport holder, was one of the many who were hooked by players such as Rodney Marsh, Les Allen and Mark Lazarus lighting up the pitch that the youngster could see from his bedroom window overlooking Loftus Road from the White City Estate adjacent to the ground.
- Forty years on and with memories of Marsh, Stan Bowles, Don Givens, Gerry Francis, Les Ferdinand et al, just that, Power stepped in to help out the club that had been such a huge part of his life.
- Less than 10 years after finishing as top London club in the Premiership, Rangers were on the brink of going out of business as they slipped into the third tier of English football for the first time in 40 years.
- Years of fecklessness both on and off the pitch had taken the club into administration and the only way it was able to get itself out of the parlous situation was by taking out an ill-advised £10million loan with a little-known Panamanian company ABC Loans.
- The repayments were costing the club £1m-a-year in interest alone and after failure to reach the old First Division after a play-off final defeat by Cardiff, the club spent the whole of last season on the verge of slipping back into administration despite an average gate of 16,000 and record season-ticket sales.
- Various parties had expressed an interest in putting money into the club, but to no fruition. The reluctance of former chairman Chris Wright to sell his shares to interested parties despite having declared he was no longer interested in the club proved a stumbling block and QPR needed investment ASAP.
- Step forward Power, a season-ticket holder of over 20 years and an electrician who made his money by setting up [a] Datasat, a Satellite communication company.
- Among their clients are governmental departments from numerous countries, including Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs and the Buckinghamshire-based company are now among the world leaders in their field.
- “It was a complete stroke of luck that I got into the business,” he admitted. “I was working as an electrician and I had just moved into a new house and a new family moved in next door and Phil Emmel, who is now my business partner, asked me if I could have a look at some circuit plans for a job he was about to embark on.
- “He then asked me to help him out on a few jobs abroad and shortly after we set up the business and were very fortunate just getting in at the right time and we have done well to get where are, thanks to some hard work.”
- While business was booming for Bill, the team he followed was not. A family called the Wintons had bought two players for the cash-strapped club so Bill made a phone call to QPR’s former chief executive to offer some further help and ask about the possibility of purchasing another player.
- He explained: “Apart from my family, QPR have been the biggest part of my life and something I have dedicated a great deal of my time and support to.
- “So I picked up the phone and couldn’t believe it when I was put straight through to chief executive David Davies.
- “I made an initial investment of £200,000 which was accepted and was invited to sit in on a couple of board meetings, but I realised shortly after that there were a few things that didn’t make sense.
- “There were some steps being taken that were costing us more money than was being brought in, like planning to install a whole new computer network with new equipment for staff, and bringing in even more personnel to an already oversized staff.”
- In addition to Power an Italian former football agent Gianni Paladini had also become a shareholder along with another London Irishman Kevin McGrath — a senior partner in an asset management company in the City.
- With the club losing money hand over fist, a number of changes had to be made with the first being at the top where senior staff were ousted followed by a number of redundancies.
- “Basically I had put my money into the club which was gratefully received but I was being ignored and decisions were being made without my knowledge,” said Bill.
- With the new board in place, Power was asked to become chairman of the club.
- “It was a great honour to be asked to be chairman and something myself and my family are very proud of but not something I ever envisaged or was aspiring for when I made that phone call last year.”
- So with the club’s long-term future looking far rosier than 12 months ago after a tax bill was paid off in the summer and investment being made in players and money available to manager Ian Holloway to spend, optimism is high in W12 after a respectable return to the Coca-Cola Championship.
- “I am very confident that we will be back in the Premiership within three years. We have a very long way to go at the moment but we are making the right progress,” he said.
- “The loan is still a major millstone around our necks and we looking to get a plan agreed to re-structure the payments as at the minute and hopefully that will be resolved.
- “We are also very close to securing a site for a new training ground. This will not come out of club funds and will be a gift to the club and a sign of our intentions.
- “Myself, Kevin and Gianni are not in the Abramovich mould, none of us have money to chuck away, but we all believe in what we are doing and, hopefully, that will see us back where we feel we belong.” Irish Abroard


BBC - July 9, 2003 - Cash boost for QPR
Queens Park Rangers fan Bill Power has joined the Loftus Road board after pumping £200,000 into the club.
Power becomes the third supporter to be offered a directorship after injecting cash into QPR, following Harold Winton and Kevin McGrath.
"It's a dream come true to join the board and I'm really pleased," Power told BBC Sport.
"I'm from White City and have supported Rangers all my life. To be able to help QPR in this way means a lot to me.
"I haven't been part of any of the bids to take over the club and I don't have any agenda other than wanting to help the club as best I can." BBC


BBC - June 24, 2004
QPR chief stands down - Nick Blackburn has resigned as Queens Park Rangers chairman.
His future has been in doubt since the recent resignation of chief executive David Davies.
Blackburn was former Rangers owner Chris Wright's deputy before taking over as chairman when Wright quit the club in 2001.
Davies, Blackburn and company chairman Ross Jones are leaving as part of a shake-up at Loftus Road following disagreements at board level.
.....QPR director Bill Power will replace Blackburn, with fellow director Kevin McGrath appointed acting plc chairman.
Justin Pieris of the QPR supporters' trust, QPR 1st, welcomed news of Blackburn's departure.... BBC

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The Sun - QPR 0 Derby C 2From PAUL JIGGINS at Loftus Road
AN off-peak return rail ticket from Derby to London: £59.
A seat in the visitors’ enclosure at Loftus Road (if QPR had their way): £40.
Seeing your team win their first away game for 18 months: Absolutely blooming priceless!
Derby boss Paul Jewell was feeling just the ticket after guiding his club to their first victory on the road in the League since they won 2-1 at Barnsley on March 31, 2007.
It was the Rams’ second victory over Rangers in a week after they got the FA to block the billionaire Londoners from raising ticket prices for travelling fans from £30 to £40.
It didn’t stop the price-hike Hoops from charging some of their own fans £50 to watch this sub-standard Championship fayre.
And even though his own side provided some value for money, Jewell warned his mega-rich rivals of the perils of bleeding supporters dry.
He said: “I’d have paid whatever price they wanted to see a win like that! Just to get a win, certainly away from home with a clean sheet, makes it worthwhile.
“But 50 quid is a lot of money. I think football in general is too expensive for the man in the street — it’s a lot of money.
“Hopefully, people will be sensible. We want to see full grounds. Our ground is full or almost full most weeks.
“I don’t know what the pricing is at our ground, but certainly in this day and age when people are struggling for cash, it would be nice if people could make football a bit more affordable for the normal guy in the street.”
Rangers fans are also up in arms over their club’s ticket prices. Before the game, protesters handed out leaflets calling for QPR’s wealthy owners Flavio Briatore, Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal to “withdraw all price increases and match banding”. Jewell added: “We have American owners so I’m not going to slate foreign owners, but what I would say is we have to be careful. Whoever owns the club has to be in contact with the people who come through the turnstiles. Supporters are the lifeblood of a club and sometimes they get a raw deal.
“Likewise, managers sometimes get a raw deal off supporters, but Derby fans have been brilliant with me and, hopefully, a few more wins like this will make the money that they pay worthwhile.
But you can’t put passion into football clubs if it’s not there. You come to QPR and you know there’s going to be a good atmosphere.
“But we can’t just keep on bleeding fans dry — we’ve got to give them something back otherwise we’ll drive them into the pubs and they’ll watch on TV.”
There was more atmosphere on the moon after late strikes from Martin Albrechtsen and sub Emanuel Villa gave Derby a shock, but deserved win.
Rangers crashed back down to earth after knocking Aston Villa out of the Carling Cup in midweek.
Winger Lee Cook said: “Everyone in the dressing room is disappointed with the whole performance.
“It seemed everyone was too close, getting in each other’s way and the ball was bouncing about. We had an off day, that’s how it goes sometimes.
“We’ve set the standard so high. We were undefeated here and all the fans are expecting us to go on a run.We’ve got to keep on the leaders’ tails.” The Sun


The Mirror/Ann Gripper - B£OOD MONEY
Jewell: £50 for a QPR ticket rips off the fans
Paul Jewell insisted football clubs cannot "keep on bleeding fans dry" after seeing Derby County emerge on top against QPR both on and off the pitch.
Stretching their unbeaten run to four games with a first league away winsinceMarch2007, last year's top flight whipping boys earned a deserved victory at Loftus Road with late goals from Martin Albrechtsen and substitute Emanuel Villa.
And it was one in the eye for the QPR money-men too, whose plan to up ticket prices for travelling fans from £30 to £40 fell foul of a Football League ruling following a Derby protest.
The price hike has remained in place for Rangers fans, though, with the top ticket for this platinum category game set at £50 - a Championship record.
And Hoops supporters were none too happy about it, with one QPR supporters' group leafleting ahead of the match and chants of "50 quid, you're having a laugh" inside the ground as the team turned in a disjointed performance.
Jewell has more reason than most to be grateful to his club's supporters, who gave him far longer to find his first win than is usually afforded football managers, and he warned Rangers they must look after their fans.
He said: "I was fully behind Derby's protest at the pricing.
"Fifty quid is a lot of money. Football in general, I think it's too expensive for the man in the street.
"Hopefully people will be sensible.
We want to see full grounds. Certainly in this day and age when people are struggling for cash it would be nice if people could make football a bit more affordable for the normal guy in the street.
"We have American owners so I'm not going to slate foreign owners, but what I would say is we have to be careful.
"Whoever owns the club has to be in contact with the people who come through the turnstiles - supporters are the lifeblood of a football club.
"Derby fans have been brilliant with me, and hopefully a few more wins like this will make the money that they pay worthwhile. But we can't just keep on bleeding fans dry - we've got to give them something back otherwise we'll drive them into the pubs and they'll watch on TV."
Rangers never looked like a side who could beat Aston Villa, as they had done in the Carling Cup on Wednesday.
Dexter Blackstock did have two decent chances, one of them rebounding off both post and keeper before going to safety, and an Emmanuel Ledesma shot was deflected on to the left upright.
But the visitors are rediscovering their confidence with every game and steadily increased their control before taking over in the final 20 minutes.
Miles Addison's 30-yard thunderbolt grazed the crossbar and Rob Hulse's outstretched leg narrowly failed to connect with a Nacer Barazite cross before an 80th-minute corner from the Arsenal loanee was stabbed home by Albrechtsen.
And with one minute left, sub Steven Davies' corner was headed in by Villa to launch another chorus from Rams fans of "Greedy b*******", applauded bymany of the home supporters.
Lee Cook insisted the cup win anddiscovering before kick-off they had Man United in the next round was not to blame.
Headded: "We've set the standard so high and all the fans are expecting us to go on a run, but I'm sure they'll be here on Tuesday cheering us from the start."
With the top price at £35 for Blackpool's visit, maybe a few more will be able to afford to.
Qpr: Cerny 5, Connolly 6, Hall 7, D Stewart 6, Delaney 6, Mahon 6 (Leigertwood 70, 5), Parejo 7, Ledesma 5 (Agyemang 78), Rowlands 6, Buzsaky 5 (Cook 56, 7), Blackstock 6
Derby: Carroll 7, Connolly 6, Leacock 7, Albrechtsen 7, J Stewart 6, Barazite 7 (Davies 84), Addison 6, Green 7, Pearson 6, Hulse 7, Ellington 6 (Villa 76) Mirror


The Times/Alyson Rudd - September 29, 2008 Paul Jewell happy with price of away win -
As that much-parodied advert might state: watching Queens Park Rangers on Saturday – £50; seeing your team win their first away match for 18 months – priceless.
Or rather, it was, for the travelling fans who enjoyed taunting the home supporters about the cost of tickets. Outside Loftus Road a leaflet was handed out by fans stating: “We need to fill the ground with fans, not price out our loyal fan base. We urge the board to now withdraw all price increases and match banding.”
An attempt by QPR to raise the cost of tickets for away supporters to £40 was blocked by the Football League, but, with Derby County designated Category A opposition, tickets for home fans increased to £50.
“When people are struggling for cash, it would be nice if people could make football more affordable for the guy in the street,” Paul Jewell, the Derby manager, said, but he accepted the classification compliment. Derby were a class above a side who had boasted an unbeaten home run and had earlier in the week knocked Aston Villa out of the Carling Cup.
That victory put QPR in the fourth-round draw, made just before kick-off, and may have had an effect on their performance. They face Manchester United at Old Trafford.
“The lads were buzzing and then the gaffer [Iain Dowie] said, ‘Forget about that, it’s Derby at home.’ So we forgot about it and concentrated on today,” Lee Cook, the QPR midfield player, said. “I don’t think that affected us. It was one of those days where passes weren’t going where they should. Probably six or seven of the team weren’t at it.”
QPR conceded both goals from corner kicks and Derby looked the more threatening throughout.
“How much would I have paid to watch a win like that?” Jewell said. “Well, whatever it was to get in. We can’t keep bleeding fans dry. We’ve got to give them something back, otherwise we’ll drive them into pubs and they’ll watch on TV. We want the grounds full and the atmosphere is what we all thrive on. It’s my first away win for 18 months and for ten minutes we’ve talked about tickets.” The Times


The Guardian - Mark Tallentire - Rangers pay their own price as Jewell plots brighter future for DerbyGuardian report
Paul Jewell reckons he has used 45 players trying to settle on a combination to take the club forward in his 10 months at Derby County. On Saturday he came up with the solution and achieved his first away win as manager of the club, Derby's second significant victory over the nouveau riche London club in less than a week.
The first came with the help of the Football Supporters' Association and saw the QPR board back down on a decision to charge Derby fans £40 and £30 rather than £30 and £25 respectively for the privilege of watching Saturday's game. Loftus Road relented in the face of adverse publicity and concerted pressure from the group "One QPR", which wants the club's traditional fan base still to be able to afford to attend and has called for a freeze on ticket prices and an end to the club's selective-pricing system for marquee games. The Derby fan's increases were not withdrawn for other areas of the ground, however, and some Rangers fans are being charged as much as £50 a ticket.
"I was fully behind Derby's protest at the pricing," Jewell said later. "Fifty quid is a lot of money and in these days when people are struggling for cash, it would be nice if people could make it a bit more affordable. I think football in general is too expensive for the man in the street. We want to see full grounds and ours is full or almost full most weeks - whoever owns a club has to be in contact with the people who come through the turnstiles. Still, QPR saying we are category A is a reminder of what we are, a big club."
A couple of thousand Derby fans in the two-thirds full stadium made their contempt for the Rangers board known throughout and after a match which their team never really looked like losing, and were delighted to witness a first league win on their travels since Billy Davies's side beat Barnsley 26 games ago and two months before Derby's Championship play-off final win.
Only two players survived from that Wembley day in May 2007, Dean Leacock and the match-winner Stephen Pearson, with Jewell fielding an unchanged back four for the sixth successive game, although the defence were barely needed in a first half which saw both teams struggle to retain possession for more than three touches. "I thought the back four were outstanding and Roy Carroll's barely had a shot to save," Jewell added. "We're still searching for the right combinations and are well behind where I want them to be, but we're making progress."
Rangers misfired throughout, although Emanuel Ledesma did have a low shot deflected on to a post by the unwitting Jordan Stewart early in the second half and Dexter Blackstock hit the same upright soon after. For Derby, Miles Addison clipped the bar from 25 yards and soon after Martin Albrechtsen had time to chest down a loose ball after a corner and volley it into the net. Another corner from the right then saw the substitutes Steven Davies and Emanuel Villa combine, the Mexican twisting to score with a header and take the sting out of injury time.
QPR slipped a place to fifth and their substitute Lee Cook admitted there had been plenty of pre-match excitement about their League Cup draw at Manchester United. "The lads were buzzing about that one and it was talked about in the changing room. Then the gaffer said forget about that now, it's Derby at home, so we concentrated on today. But that's a game we are all looking forward to."
Blackpool are their visitors tomorrow, two points better off than Derby and very much category B. QPR's manager Iain Dowie, who won at Old Trafford with Coventry in last season's League Cup, would do well to try to put that United game even further to the back of his players' minds. Guardian


Telegraph/David Miller - Nacer Barazite shines amid the mundane
It should be no surprise. Any player Arsene Wenger has deemed worthy of wearing an Arsenal shirt is likely to shine in the second-grade Championship.
Nacer Barazite, the 18-year-old Dutchman on loan from Arsenal to Derby, was a pearl on the right of midfield amid the surrounding seaweed of this dysfunctional encounter which the visitors, shaking off early-season malaise, thoroughly deserved to win. They were totally dominant over the last half-hour.
With bursting bubbles in vogue, the latest to go pop is Iain Dowie’s. QPR’s initial flourish is now floundering with successive defeats, and this performance carried no omens for a prosperous autumn for Dowie’s side.
Leaflets were being distributed outside Loftus Road beforehand protesting at increased ticket prices, the club having been obliged by the Football League to abolish increases for away fans. On this evidence, the QPR chairman, Flavio Briatore, may find himself needing to lower prices if Rangers are to keep the ground near full. An attendance of just over 14,000, only the eighth best of the day in the division, is hardly supportive of promotion.
So ragged was the early play, it was easy to count the excesses of squandered possession. This produced ungainly ping-pong football.
Partially, this was due to the level of physical challenge, yet in truth it was only this element of rugged fitness and commitment which gave either side any dignity at this stage.
The contemporary syndrome is that most teams, lacking technical individuals, are only of interest to their own supporters, offering little attraction to opposing crowds or neutrals.
This mundane situation makes the appearance of someone with the skills of Barazite so welcome. Part of the secret of natural skill is balance. Barazite looks like a player. His fluent running and dangerous crossing to the lively Rob Hulse, constantly threatened QPR’s occasionally leaden defence.
Their rear guard of Damion Stewart and Fitz Hall too often resembled a combine harvester attempting to negotiate a car park and were obliged to stoop to head waist-high balls because they could not swiftly organise either of their feet to meet the requirement of the moment.
Besides Barazite, Paul Green, with some intelligent passing, added to the impression that manager Paul Jewell is at last getting to grips with Derby’s year-long decline.
QPR did have their chances, Dexter Blackstock being blocked midway through the first half and Emmanuel Ledesma having a shot turned against a post early in the second. It was appropriate when Barazite’s corner in the 80th minute was driven home by Martin Albrechtsen, substitute Emanuel Villa adding to QPR’s discomfort a minute from time.
Talking Point
QPR’s season, oscillating from week to week, may come to depend on goalkeeper Radek Cerny compensating for defensive uncertainty in front of him. For so long No 2 to Petr Cech in the Czech national team, his arrival at Loftus Road could prove to be bargain of the season. His positional sense and saves were often crucial as Derby’s attack gained ascendancy.
QPR manager Iain Dowie says: “I like the smell in the dressing room at this club.” Cerny could be a valuable deodorant when the aroma at times turn sour – a figure of authority and reassurance. Telegraph


Dave McIntyre - BBC 606 - The contrast was clear"
2-0 to Derby - their first away win in the league since March 2007. A dismal day for Rangers.
Iain Dowie talked afterwards about the difference between today's performance and the one at Aston Villa.
He said: “The contrast was clear – we won lots of second balls and passed the ball well on Wednesday night, but this time we didn’t.
“I’ll have a look at the stats and I bet, in terms of unforced errors, there will be a huge amount – and that’s why we couldn’t get up a head of steam.
“We had two defensive lapses and conceded goals from set-pieces, which is galling. But we’ve got an opportunity to bounce back against Blackpool on Tuesday night and we must do that.
“When we did pass the ball well we created the best chance of the game and had that gone in, the game could have been different.
“This result hasn’t changed the way I feel. I still believe we’ve got a good bunch of lads here and they can bounce back.
“Sometimes you just have to take things on the chin. Derby beat us today, so good luck to them.”
I'm sure many of you will have a view on this result, so over to you. BBC606

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Sky Sports/Juha Pal - Buzsaky pleased to be back
Hungarian ace hoping to lead promotion charge

Queens Park Rangers playmaker Akos Buzsaky is relishing the prospect of helping the club into the Premier League.
The Hungarian midfielder has only recently returned from a long-term injury, but is hoping to play his part over the course of the current campaign.
Rangers have suffered back-to-back defeats in recent weeks but remain well placed to mount a promotion bid this term.
Buzsaky was involved in the 2-0 loss to Derby on Saturday, but is just happy to be back playing again and expects results to improve.
Stamina
"It was a great thing for me to feel the atmosphere of a game," he told Nemzeti Sport.
"My injured knee is perfect now. I have a little problem with my stamina but it's better than a couple of weeks ago, it will take time until I reach my old physical condition.
"Maybe it sounds strange but I feel I have been lucky. I was injured in March and while I have been recovering there has been a summer break so I was only without football for two-and-a-half months and have returned early in the new season."
Challenge
QPR appointed Iain Dowie as their new boss while Buzsaky was out of action, but the 26-year-old is confident he can impress the former Crystal Palace coach.
"It's a great challenge for me," he added.
"I'll prove that I am a decent footballer as I cannot afford to miss any more opportunities to help my development.
"There are 10 midfielders at the club, and they have only signed good players, but I believe our squad should finish in the top four and challenge for promotion."
Conflict
Buzsaky was also keen to play down reports that he had been attacked by Plymouth supporters after going to watch his former club in action against Reading on 16th August.
"That is not true," he said.
"I watched the game sat with the supporters. Some drunken fans picked a fight with me but the worst they did was swear - there was no assaulting.
"I was advised to leave the stadium 10 minutes early in order to avoid conflict and I walked away on my own."
Sky Sports

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Ten Years Ago Today, Ray Harford Resigned:
The Independent - September 29,1998 - by Alan Nixon - Harford resigns as QPR manager

Ray Harford yesterday resigned as manager of troubled Queen's Park Rangers and brought his unhappy reign to an end within in a year.
Harford left after thinking over his future at the weekend following a humbling 4-1 defeat at Oxford United.
Coach at Blackburn Rovers when they won the title, Harford has had considerable problems at Rangers where he feels that he has been denied transfer funds. The signing of Vinnie Jones was made over his head and lately the fans have turned against the manager and his struggling team. A compensation figure has yet to be agreed, but rather than wait to haggle Harford has decided to leave.
Harford's chance of being given an escape route to Newcastle United disappeared when Kenny Dalglish was sacked a month ago.
Harford, who left West Bromwich Albion in the middle of last season to join the QPR, has achieved only one victory with the Loftus Road side in nine games this season. The club, second from bottom in the First Division, have appointed Iain Dowie, the Northern Ireland international striker, as caretaker manager. A statement from the club said: "Ray felt at this difficult time it was in the club's best interests he should step down." The Independent

Team for Harford's last game in charge: Oxford 4 QPR 1 -
QPR: Harper, Heinola (Scully 53), Baraclough, Yates, Ready, Maddix, Slade, Peacock, Kulcsar (Sheron 70), Gallen, Murray (Rose 63). Scully
Oxford Utd: Whitehead, Robinson, Marsh, Gray, Whelan (Murphy 55), Gilchrist, Powell, Smith (Hill 81), Thomson, Windass (Cook 83), Beauchamp. Goals: Beauchamp 15, Murphy 64, Thomson 72, Windass 75. - Match Report

[Ian Dowie - rather than Vinnie Jones - took over as caretaker manager. Two weeks later, Gerry Francis was appointed QPR manager. Ray Harford went on to coach elsewhere, before sadly, dying, only in his later fifties, in August, 2003. And a decade later, Dowie is back, this time as "permanent" manager (Chief Coach). See also Ray Harford Profile/Wikipedia


On this day three years ago, Gianni Paladini was appointed Chairman of Queens Park Rangers. Seems like a very long time ago....
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - 28 September 2005 Statement GIANNI PALADINI
Gianni Paladini has been appointed Chairman of Queens Park Rangers Football Club and QPR Holdings Ltd.
Interim Chairman Gualtiero Trucco has stepped down and the Board of Directors have unanimously chosen Paladini to take on the role on a full-time basis.
The changes were agreed at a Loftus Road Board Meeting on Wednesday afternoon and Paladini is delighted by the honour of this 'challenging but exciting' role.
"The Monaco investors have recommended that I be appointed Chairman and I am deeply honoured that the Directors have allowed me this opportunity.
"I hope now that after a period of instability we can all look forward to the brightest of futures at Loftus Road.
"We have a wonderful manager, an exciting and improving squad and a real opportunity to push for a place in the play-offs and even the Premiership.
"I believe these are wonderful times to be a QPR supporter and I just want to play whatever part I can in bringing both success and stability to this Club.
"I fully appreciate that supporters will have been a little bewildered by recent events and I wish that so much of what has happened could have happened differently.
"But I believe we now have the right people in place, both on the pitch and behind the scenes, to take this club forward.
"I would like to thank every single fan for their continued, passionate support for QPR and I would also like to pay tribute to all the staff here.
"Life hasn't been particularly easy for them recently either but every single one continues to work as hard as ever for the benefit of this club.
"It has never been clearer to me that, both in the stands and behind the scenes, this is a wonderful place full of very special people."


And a slightly-delayed Anniverary Note: Earlier this month (September 6) marked the half-century mark since QPR Winger, Clive Clark, made his QPR debut: September 6, 1958 against Bournemouth, away. QPR losing 0-2. (Also playing that day, Drinkwater and Ingham). Clark thrived at QPR before being sold to WBA by Alec Stock, reportedly to prevent him from being kicked around by Third Division defenders. At WBA, he spent a decade (including scoring twice against QPR at Wembley). Clark briefly returned to QPR in 1969, in a part-exchange for the brilliant Alan Glover, before moving on to Preston. See also Clark Stats. A board poster recently reported that Clark was not doing at all well; so all best wishes to him.. Some might argue that not enough is done to remember the QPR stalwarts of yesterday, who extend far beyond Stan Bowles and Rodney Marsh and the rest of the 1967 Cup winning team.


- Stefan Moore Turns 25 - Twenty-five years ago, future QPR 'striker' Stefan Moore was born. After arriving at QPR from Aston Villa, with high praise from Ian Holloway, his QPR career never worked out. After QPR, spent time at Port Vale and Walsall. Moore Stats -- Moore/Wikipedia...

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Sunday Times/Roy Collins - Derby delight
QPR boss Iain Dowie said beforehand that he was beginning “to like the smell of his team’s dressing room”. But the air in there would have been bluer than Gordon Ramsay’s kitchen after Rangers became the first club to lose a home league match to Derby for 18 months. After a promising start to the season it was a second successive league defeat for QPR.
Fans of both sides were more worried by the nasty smell of profiteering, Derby fans preventing Rangers from putting a £10 increase on their seats after an appeal to the league. And though QPR are now in money terms the Manchester City of the Championship, their supporters are not keen to pay Eastlands prices, protesting outside against match banding that raises tickets to £50 for some matches.
Derby manager Paul Jewell would happily have paid 100 times that for his dugout seat if you had told him before kick-off that he would claim his first away bonus since taking over last November. Thanks to late goals from Martin Albrechtsen and substitute Emmanuel Villa, the laughing stocks of last year’s Premier League are now having a quiet chuckle.
“We’re making progress,” said Jewell, after four games without defeat. QPR had won all their previous four games at home but struggled to find any cohesion. Dowie admitted: “We never passed the ball with any fluency and that is something we normally pride ourselves on. But I could sense the players’ disappointment afterwards and that’s a good thing.”
Star man:Paul Green (Derby) Referee:A Taylor Attendance:14,311
QPR:Cerny 6, Connolly 6, Stewart 7, Hall 6, Delaney 6, Mahon 7 (Leigertwood 70min), Parejo 6, Rowlands 5, Ledesma 7 (Agyemang 76min), Buz-saky 6, Blackstock 6
DERBY:Carroll 6, Connolly 6, Leacock 6, Albrechtsen 6, Stewart 7, Barazite 6 (Davies 83min), Green 8, Addison 7, Pearson 7, Ellington 6 (Villa 75min), Hulse Sunday Times


Observer/Stuart Barnes - Jewell salutes his Derby heroes
Paul Jewell called the Football League's refusal to grant Queens Park Rangers permission to increase prices for Derby fans for this match as 'a victory for common sense.' He hailed this subsequent success as maybe the turning point for a beleaguered club.
Goals by Martin Albrechtsen and Emanuel Villa secured an unlikely but thoroughly deserved win. Derby are now unbeaten in four games since ending a record run of 36 without a league victory.
They have yielded eight points and while Jewell acknowledges there is still a long way to go to put the club back on the right track, the signs are a great deal more promising than they were a few weeks ago.
'We were terrific - dominant from start to finish,' said Jewell. 'The win over Sheffield United gave us some impetus and a couple of scrappy draws kept things going. Here we showed we are definitely getting better.
'What happened last season has been hanging over us in a big way. Relegation, and the way it happened, took a major toll on everyone. We were so easy to beat then. Now we are proving difficult to beat and if that happens you always have a chance.
'It's now important to consolidate. We are still well behind where I want us to be and I'm not going to make any rash predictions. The season is still in its infancy and this division could be as unpredictable as ever. I know it's a boring cliche, but we are going to take each game as it comes. But any team who can string two or three wins together can make a major move up the table.'
Jewell added: 'I'm really pleased for our supporters. They have travelled the length and breadth of the country, usually to see us beaten, so it's good that they can see a win as good as this one.'
Rangers went into the game brimful of confidence, complementing their bright start to the Championship campaign with a midweek Carling Cup win over Aston Villa which has been rewarded with a fourth round tie against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
But they rarely came to terms with Derby's tenacity and organisation and manager Iain Dowie said: 'We won plenty of second balls against Villa, but not today. There was no fluency about our play - maybe there were a few tired legs out there. Particularly disappointing was conceding from two set-pieces. If we had taken the best chance of the first half, it might have been different.
'But credit to Derby. They came and did a good job. Sometimes you have to take it on the chin and move on. I can sense the disappointment among the players and that's how it should be.'
Before the kick-off, Rangers chairman Flavio Briatore issued a statement denying a report that the club were considering changing their name to Queens Park City. 'Pure fabrication,' Briatore insisted.
His side survived an early scare when Paul Connelly's long, low cross from the right touch-line somehow skidded across the face of goal. Derby survived an even bigger one when Emanuel Ledesma played in Daniel Parejo. Striker Dexter Blackstock looked a racing certainty to turn the resulting low centre into a goal until the ball was scrambled clear.
But these were isolated goalmouth incidents in a first half lacking shape and substance. The second opened in much more promising fashion. Ledesma's shot was deflected against the far post with Roy Carroll scrambling across his line trying to cover it.
After that it was a much more eventful affair. Rob Hulse, clear on goal, was denied by a splendid challenge from Damion Stewart, scorer of the Rangers winner at Villa Park. Blackstock struck a post, while Derby went close again twice. Nacer Barazite, on loan from Arsenal, fired inches over, while Miles Addison hit the bar with a drive from almost 35 yards.
Derby's growing influence was rewarded when Barazite's corner came out to Albrechtsen who, from just inside the penalty area, scored through a crowd of players.
Barazite made way for Steve Davies, who matched the youngster by delivering the corner from the same flank for his side's second. This time it was a twisting header by substitute Villa, who had replaced Nathan Ellington, that did the trick. Guardian


SUNDAY PEOPLE/Chris Davies - QPR 0-2 DERBY
Coca Cola FOOTBALL LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP Jubilant Jewell wins on the road
Paul Jewell finally got his first away win in the league as Derby boss and said: "This is a start. It gives us hope."
This victory was the Rams' first success on the road in the league since they won at Barnsley 18 months ago, having failed to win on their travels in the Premier League last season.
It was only two weeks ago that Jewell, appointed last November, tasted his first league win as manager when the Rams beat Sheffield United.
Yesterday, the long-awaited away win came and, with Paul Green pulling the strings in midfield, it was no fluke.
Derby were dubbed the worst Premier League side ever after one win all season.
But Jewell can see some light at the end of the tunnel after goals by Martin Albrechtsen and Emanuel Villa sank Rangers.
Jewell said: "We're getting better. I didn't realise the cloud of relegation would hang over for so long.
"We had no confidence - you get that by winning matches. In some ways we're still staggering off the ropes.
"We still have a long way to go and we're a way behind where we want to be, but this is a start. It gives us hope. We're becoming more difficult to beat and play against.
"This is a new team, the United win gave us some impetus and today we dominated the game. Roy Carroll hardly had a shot to save."
Derby fans had objected to the Loftus Road ticket prices which QPR, the Championship's richest club, tried to increase by £10.
"I'm pleased for the fans who have travelled the length and breadth of the country usually seeing us getting beaten," said Jewell. "When you win a game it's always money well spent."
Both goals came from corners on the right. The first, by Nacer Barazite in the 80th minute, was swept home by Albrechtsen at the far post.
With a minute remaining Steve Davies' corner was headed past Radek Cerny by substitute Villa.
Rangers boss Iain Dowie remained upbeat after their second successive league defeat but was unhappy with his side's sloppy display.
He said: "We didn't pass the ball with any fluency, we didn't win the second ball, we never clicked into gear and we gave up possession with unforced errors.
"We conceded from two set-pieces, which was poor. We had chances but we never really got going.
"But it is one we can bounce back from against Blackpool in midweek because we have a good bunch of lads. You have to take things on the chin - good luck to Derby."
Rangers' best chance came in the 22nd minute. A superb cross from the right by the dangerous Emanuel Ledesma saw Carroll just beat Daniel Parejo to the ball which bounced free. Paul Connolly managed to clear the danger as Dexter Blackstock tried to force the ball over the line.
Qpr: Cerny 6 - Connolly 6, D Stewart 7, Hall 6, Delaney 5 - *LEDESMA 8 (Agyemang, 78 mins), Mahon 7 (Leigertwood, 70mins, 5), Parejo 7, Buzsaky 6 (Cook, 57mins, 6) - Rowlands 6 - Blackstock 6.
Derby County: Carroll 7 - Connolly 7, Leacock 6, Albrechtsen 7, J Stewart 7 - Barazite 6 (Davies, 84mins), *GREEN 8, Addison 6, Pearson 7 - Ellington 6 (Villa, 76mins), Hulse 7.
Referee: A Taylor 7. Sunday People


Derby County Official Site - JEWELL: FEET STAY ON THE GROUND
Paul Jewell felt the Rams deserved their 2-0 success at Queens Park Rangers - but he's refusing to get too carried away.
Derby had the upper-hand for large periods at Loftus Road and earned a fine win against the mega-rich Hoops.
It took the unbeaten run to four games and while Jewell was delighted with the result, he is keen to keep everyone's feet on the ground.
"It is nice to be talking after another win and we are uneaten in four games, which is a big improvement," he said after the win in West London.
"I thought we were terrific today. We came here in the blazing-hot sun against a team with a 100 per cent home record but we controlled the game from start to finish.
"I said last week that at times it wouldn't be pretty so we have been digging and if you make yourself hard to beat it's a start.
"We are not creating millions of chances but we controlled things today.
"It was our first clean sheet in the league since the 0-0 draw with Sunderland in March but we are trying to put last year's results and experiences behind us.
"We have to look forward now and we are looking forward to the visit of Birmingham on Tuesday, which will be a difficult game but we can go into it with some confidence."
The victory at QPR was built on solid foundations with goalkeeper Roy Carroll enjoying a quiet afternoon and rarely being tested.
In front of him, centre-half Martin Albrechtsen opened the scoring with a goal almost identical to his strike against Cardiff City seven days ago.
Derby wrestled control of midfield away from the home side to give themselves the platform to earn their points.
"I thought both Martin and Deano were terrific at the back but so were the whole team," said Jewell.
"Greeny and Miles Addison were our tigers in midfield to control things for us and it was good to score from two set-pieces.
"We haven't done well enough from set-pieces since I have been at the club but our last goals have come from them, which is very important.
"The second was a nice corner from Steve Davies and Tito did what he does best. He had a cut ear but he won't feel the pain half as much after scoring his first goal of the season.
"We've got our first away win of the season but we are only early in the season and there is a long haul ahead of us yet.
"Of course we are pleased with the result but we are not going to get too carried away, and now we are looking forward to getting on with the job against Birmingham." Derby


QPR Official Site - DOWIE: WE MUST RESPOND
Iain Dowie failed to his disappointment, as the R's slipped to their first home defeat of the campaign.
Second half goals from Martin Albrechtsen and Emanuel Villa handed Derby County victory in W12, on an afternoon when Dowie's men failed to fire following their midweek victory against Aston Villa in the Carling Cup.
"We fell asleep twice on set-pieces and that's very unlike us," Dowie told www.qpr.co.uk.
"We had two crazy moments and its cost us today.
"Our passing wasn't anywhere near good enough. We gave it away far too often. They won far more second balls we did.
"These days are going to happen. It's a 46 rung ladder and we've slipped up on one of the steps.
"Good luck to them, they deserved the victory and we've got to move on."
Dowie is demanding a response from his side on Tuesday night, when Blackpool come to town.
"We had chances today and didn't take them, but we've got the chance to bounce back against Blackpool on Tuesday and we need to do that," he said.
"The Championship is good in that way, because the matches come so thick and fast. But we weren't anywhere near good enough today and we've got to respond." QPR


News Of The World/Steve Goodman - Paul Jewell off the ropes at last
DERBY boss Paul Jewell saw his team end their long away jinx and then joked: “Don’t back us for promotion yet.”
The Rams earned their first league win on the road for two seasons thanks to late goals from Martin Albrechtsen and Emanuel Villa.
It stretched their unbeaten run to four games after enduring a nightmare Premier League season and a hungover start to the current campaign — going 36 matches in all without victory.
But, at Loftus Road, Derby made nonsense of moneybags QPR’s top-flight dreams by winning with ease.
Jewell admitted: “We are just getting off the ropes. I won’t say we will now mount a promotion campaign.
“It’s important for us to consolidate this season and there’s a long way to go.
“I hadn’t realised the toll last season took on us. The way we got relegated, meant clouds hung over us all year.
“But our win over Sheffield United gave us an impetus. Since then we’ve drawn two matches and we dominated today.
“QPR were restricted to a few scrappy chances and we were terrific. Confidence comes from winning games.”
Derby got the Football League to overturn QPR’s bid to raise ticket prices for visiting fans to £40. But Jewell’s men performed so impressively that even £100 would have seemed value for money for the Rams’ success-starved followers.
Scares
Derby were fully worth their win after surviving a few scares.
Keeper Roy Carroll had to dive at Dexter Blackstock’s feet early on and Argentine youngster Emmanuel Ledesma saw his shot deflected onto a post.
Blackstock also hit the woodwork just past the hour but Rangers’ centre backs needed two last-ditch tackles to prevent Nathan Ellington and Rob Hulse scoring.
Derby went close again when Miles Addison’s 30-yard snap shot hit the top of the crossbar.
They finally broke through 11 minutes from time when on-loan Arsenal youngster Nacer Barazite’s corner found Albrechtsen at the far post.
The Danish centre back took one touch to control and another in drilling a low shot through a crowded penalty area.
Albrechtsen’s second goal in a week knocked the stuffing out of QPR and Derby made the game safe a minute from time with a near carbon-copy finish.
This time two substitutes combined, with Steve Davies’ corner picking out Villa for a far-post header.
Jewell added: “I’m really pleased for our long-suffering supporters.
“They’ll have a nice trip home up the M1 and, for once, they can say their ticket money was well spent.” News of The World

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Stan Bowles' Perspective - At least, according to the Sunday People!

Sunday People/Peter Ward - 28 September 2008 - TIGHT Rs BLASTED
EXCLUSIVE
QPR legend Stan Bowles has branded the club's billionaire owners skinflints after being sidelined from his hospitality role.
"Billionaires? They're tighter than a coat of paint," said Bowles, 59, once voted Loftus Road's greatest ever player.
Rangers are owned by Formula One big wheels Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore, and Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal.
Bowles said: "On the last day of last season Iwas asked on the pitch to draw a raffle. Then I was told there was no budget left to pay me.
"This season I was asked to unveil the new mascot, which was a man dressed up as a furry aeroplane - I suspect he was on more money than I was.
"I was handed £100 which didn't even cover my train fare"
He was due to act as a club ambassador again - but says the club have never got back to him. Sunday People

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A day after having a Daily Mail story about a proposed QPR name change was categorically denied in a QPR official statement from Chairman Briatore....Some forced "humour" from the Mail's Patrick Collins

Daily Mail/Patrick Collins

PS...
RUMOUR suggests that Queens Park Rangers will shortly be renamed by the motor racing money men who purchased the club. QPR is such a dated, off-the-pace kind of name for those cutting-edge fellows from Formula One.
What they're after is something which epitomises a defiant little club determined to punch its weight, a club prepared to suffer punishment before whipping back with some savage blows of its own. Perhaps they'll call it 'Max'." Daily Mail

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QPR Official Site - DOWIE: WE MUST RESPOND
Iain Dowie failed to his disappointment, as the R's slipped to their first home defeat of the campaign.
Second half goals from Martin Albrechtsen and Emanuel Villa handed Derby County victory in W12, on an afternoon when Dowie's men failed to fire following their midweek victory against Aston Villa in the Carling Cup.
"We fell asleep twice on set-pieces and that's very unlike us," Dowie told www.qpr.co.uk.
"We had two crazy moments and its cost us today.
"Our passing wasn't anywhere near good enough. We gave it away far too often. They won far more second balls we did.
"These days are going to happen. It's a 46 rung ladder and we've slipped up on one of the steps.
"Good luck to them, they deserved the victory and we've got to move on."
Dowie is demanding a response from his side on Tuesday night, when Blackpool come to town.
"We had chances today and didn't take them, but we've got the chance to bounce back against Blackpool on Tuesday and we need to do that," he said.
"The Championship is good in that way, because the matches come so thick and fast. But we weren't anywhere near good enough today and we've got to respond." QPR

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A crowd of just over 14,000 saw QPR slump at home: QPR 0 Derby County 2. 0-0 at halftime. In the second half: A late Derby Goal. Then a second, even-later Derby goal.
League Table - Updated

Derby Official Site - Gareth Davis reports from Loftus Road

Martin Albrechtsen scored again with a carbon-copy of his goal against Cardiff and Tito Villa came off the bench to net as Derby earned a fine 2-0 win away to Queens Park Rangers.

Mega-rich Rangers are among the favourites for the Coca-Cola Championship but they looked ordinary for long periods against a Derby side who extended their unbeaten run to five games.

There wasn't a lot to choose between the teams in the first half but Derby stepped it up after the break and after a couple of scares when QPR saw shots deflected on to the post, Miles Addison smashed a long-range shot against the crossbar.

Home goalkeeper Radek Cerny - who produced a couple of good saves in the first-half - had no chance when Albrechtsen drove in Nacer Barazite's corner on 78 minutes.

And another flag-kick led to the Rams' second as Villa rose highest to power a header down and earn Derby an impressive - and deserved - three points.

Nathan Ellington made his return to the starting line-up as the Rams made one change for their trip to face West London's richest club.

The Duke was back in place of Tito Villa, who dropped to the bench, with boss Paul Jewell keeping to the same 16 on duty for the 1-1 draw with Cardiff City last week.

QPR named former Derby goalkeeper Lee Camp among their replacements and ex Pride Park loanee Dexter Blackstock in from the start as they looked to build on an as-yet perfect home record.

Bright September sunshine greeted the players and there was an early chance to the Rams as Martin Albrechtsen rose to meet a Nacer Barazite corner, though he couldn't get enough power on his effort to trouble Radek Cerny.

Derby's start had reflected the weather and they came within an inch of taking the lead on eight minutes when a low Paul Connolly cross caused chaos in the home defence and took two deflections before bobbling just wide of the far post.

The home side should have gone in front on 22 through Blackstock, who somehow failed to turn in an inviting low ball from Daniel Parejo as he met the delivery from close-range.

And they had a fortunate escape a few minutes later when Cerny inexplicably dropped a long ball in to the box - no doubt troubled byb the sun - but as it rolled out towards the touchline, no Derby player was close enough to take advantage.

Cerny was in action again shortly before the half-hour to palm out a Stephen Pearson shot after a well-crafted move, and the ball was cleared for a corner with Rob Hulse set to pounce.

Parejo was first into the notebook for a 36th-minute foul on Jordan Stewart out on the left that gave Derby another chance to put the home defence under pressure, but Barazite's cross was too near Cerny to make an impact.

QPR's first real shot in anger arrived five minutes before the interval through Emanuel Ledesma, who lined up an audacious volley from distance that never threatened to dip under Roy Carroll's crossbar.

The 2008/09 season - in association with BuyMobilePhones.net

The first threats of the second half centred on Derby's goal with Ledesma involved both times.

First, he saw a shot deflected against the post, and from the resulting corner - QPR's first of the game - he cracked a half-volley narrowly over the bar.

Leacock saw yellow for a foul on home skipper Martin Rowlands that again gave Ledesma the chance to threaten with a dangerous in-swinging free-kick that was met by a powerful Miles Addison clearing header.

And that was the cue for Rangers to make the afternoon's first change as they took off Akos Buzsaky and replaced him with Lee Cook, a firm favourite among the home fans.

Derby's best chance so far came just after the hour and it fell for Hulse, who read Ellington's clever flick-on and made ground into the area, but he took a split-second too long before getting his shot away and Damion Stewart was back to block.

QPR raced forward and Cook supplied Blackstock on the edge of the six-yard box, only for the front-man's shot to take a deflection and strike the post.

A spell of Derby pressure on 68 saw Barazite fire over the bar after his corner wasn't cleared but both sides were struggling to carve out any serious clear-cut opportunities.

And out of nothing an Addison drive from all of 30 yards smacked against the crossbar, leaving the teenager wishing for a bit of extra dip with Cerny beaten.

The Rams' first change followed with 15 minutes remaining as Villa took over in attack from Ellington.

And the opening goal arrived with 11 minutes remaining for Derby - in pretty much identical style to their goal last week against Cardiff.

Barazite's right-wing corner was allowed to bounce inside the QPR box and, with frightening coincidence, fell to Martin Albrechtsen who took a touch before smashing it past Cerny.

It was the Dane's second goal in as many weeks having only previously registered four in his career in England.

And the game was wrapped up with 90 seconds remaining thanks to another right-wing corner.

This time Steve Davies, on for Barazite, delivered superbly and Villa got up well to head down and into the bottom corner for his first goal of the season.

Derby fully deserved their victory, of that there is no doubt whatsoever.

QPR: Cerny, Delaney, D Stewart, Mahon (Leigertwood 70), Hall, Parejo, Blackstock, Buszaky (Cook 55), Rowlands (C), M Connolly, Ledesma (Agyemang 76).

Substitutes: Camp (GK), Ramage.

Derby: Carroll, P Connolly (C), Green, J Stewart, Ellington (Villa 75), Hulse, Leacock, Addison, Barazite (Davies 84), Pearson, Albrechtsen.

Substitutes: Bywater (GK), Kazmierczak, Nyatanga.

Attendance: 14,311. Derby



QPR Official Site - QPR vs Derby County
QPR suffered from a League Cup hangover after Martin Albrechtson's volley and Emmanuel Villa's header gave Derby County all three points at Loftus Road.

After the dramatic night at Villa Park in midweek, Rangers players gave a frustrating performance in front of a boisterous home support.

Dexter Blackstock could've opened the scoring midway through the first half but Paul Connolly, the Derby Captain, executed a superb recovery tackle to keep his side in it.

As Rangers pressed on, they were caught out as the Danish international met Miles Addison's well taken corner to hand Derby the win, before Villa headed beyond Radek Cerny in the R's net to make it two.

For the visit of the Rams, Manager Iain Dowie made one change to the starting 11 that triumphed over Aston Villa in midweek. Patrick Agyemang made way for Blackstock, taking up a place on the bench instead.

He was joined by Lee Cook, who had missed the trip to Villa Park. Akos Buzsaky made his first home start of the season, much to the delight of the Loftus Road crowd.

Derby handed starts to several of their new summer signings, with strikers Rob Hulse and on-loan Nathan Ellington partnering up in attack, with Arsenal prospect and fellow loan-man Nacer Barazite lining up in midfield.

It was the visitors who threatened first as an early Barazite corner was headed goalwards by Albrechtson but the Dane could not muster the power required to trouble Radek Cerny.

Back came Rangers moments later, as Emmanuel Ledesma received a perfect long pass from Martin Rowlands and cut inside Jordan Stewart, only to see his shot from the edge of the box miss the target.

Absolutely brilliant football gave Rangers another chance seconds later, as first Daniel Parejo nut-megged Paul Green with a pass to Rowlands who turned and fed Blackstock. The big man turned and crossed for the onrushing Rowlands. The midfield marvel couldn't direct his effort however and the danger passed.

Paul Connelly then almost got lucky with a cross as he whistled in a ball that evaded everyone and just missed the post on its way out.

After 22 minutes Rangers should've scored. Smooth build up play involving Rowlands and Ledesma led to the Argentine clipping a perfect through ball over the Rams defence for Parejo who unselfishly squared for the charging Blackstock. Out of nowhere however, came Paul Connolly who somehow managed to hook a leg in front of the ball and stop the R's striker from sending it across the line.

Minutes later, it was Cerny's turn to keep the scores level as Stewart fed Stephen Pearson down the left hand side of the R's box. The Scot's right footed shot however was well gathered by a smothering Cerny.

Derby had a chance of their own to open the day's scoring eleven minutes before half time. Gavin Mahon was disposed by Green who fed Hulse. As the striker bore down on goal he was denied by a fantastic sliding tackle from Fitz Hall.

With the half drawing to a close, Ledesma tried the spectacular with a long range volley after the ball sat up invitingly for him 25 yards out. Carroll was never worried however, as the ball flew well over.

That proved the final act of a frustrating half for the Rangers faithful.

The second half opened with Rangers in a more determined mood. Parejo and Ledesma exchanged passes on the edge of the box before the latter curled a shot that struck a Derby body, clipped the post, and went out for a corner.

From the resultant set piece, Ledesma blazed a volley narrowly over the Rams bar. Minutes later the same player made a mess of an attempted chip, after he saw Carroll had wandered off his line.

Hall came to the rescue once again as Derby hit back, superbly blocking Hulse as the striker looked to score.

To inject some impetus into his side, Dowie introduced fans favourite Cook after 55 minutes.

It was, however, Derby's Green who tried his luck next as he sent a 25 yard shot toward Cerny but the Czech keeper saved comfortably.

Derby threatened again moments later as Ellington flicked on a long ball for his strike partner to chase. It looked like Hulse was a certainty to score but Damion Stewart, inspired by Hall next to him, slid in expertly to rob the Rams hit-man at the dying second.

Rangers, buoyed by this moment of brilliance countered, as Damien Delaney found Rowlands who escaped his man and crossed a superb ball for Blackstock. Our leading scorer in the League managed to get a foot to it but to the disbelief of the fans, the ball smacked off the post and away from danger.

Derby were just edging it this half and went close again. A corner from the right resulted in a period of pin-balling as the ball bounced around in the R's box. Eventually it fell to Dutchman Barazite who controlled and rifled a shot that only just flew over the home side's bar.

Derby had their best chance so far minutes later as Addison opened up from 25 yards with a shot that clipped the bar.

To try and match their opponents, Dowie replaced Ledesma with Agyemang and sent Rowlands out to the right in a 4-4-2 formation, with the sole aim to try and wrestle the initiative back Rangers way.

The change did not have the required effect however as seconds later, Derby took the lead. The Rams won a corner that was taken by Addison who found Albrechtson. The Dane made no mistake, firing home with a crisp half-volley.

Minutes later it was two as another corner was not dealt with and Villa rose to head past a stranded Cerny.

QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Mahon (Leigertwood 70), Hall, Parejo, Blackstock, Buzsaky (Cook 55), Rowlands, Connolly, Ledesma (Agyemang 77).

Subs: Camp, Ramage.

Scorers:

Bookings: Ledesma (36)

Red Cards:

Derby County: Carroll, Connolly, Green, Stewart, Ellington (Villa 76), Hulse, Leacock, Addison, Barazite (Davies 83), Pearson, Albrechtsen.

Subs: Bywater, Kazmierczak, Nyatanga.

Scorers: Albrechtson (79), Villa (88)

Bookings: Leacock (54)

Red Cards:

Referee: Mr A Taylor

Attendance: 14,311 QPR


Sporting Life - First Part Report
Coca-Cola Championship promotion hopefuls QPR struggled to rediscover the form which saw them claim the cup scalp of Aston Villa in midweek as Derby edged a disappointing first half at Loftus Road.
Iain Dowie's side stunned Villa with a 1-0 win in the Carling Cup on Wednesday night, but Derby had the best of a goalless opening 45 minutes today in the London sunshine.
Stephen Pearson came closest for Paul Jewell's side, forcing Radek Cerny into a fine save, while Rams goalkeeper Roy Carroll was only tested once when he denied Dexter Blackstock from close range.

QPR boss Iain Dowie made a change to the side that won at Villa Park, with leading scorer Blackstock replacing Patrick Agyemang.

Jewell also opted for a change in the Derby forward line, with Nathan Ellington preferred to Emanuel Villa.

Derby started competitively and almost went in front after 11 minutes in when on-loan Arsenal midfielder Nacer Barazite put in a dangerous cross which was deflected wide for a corner.

The home side struggled to get into their stride and it was the Rams who were sharper in the tackle and winning the battle in midfield.

But QPR did manage to get in behind the visitors' defence after 15 minutes and only a brave save from Carroll prevented Blackstock from opening the scoring.

Pearson then had Derby's best chance to open the scoring just before the half-hour mark but Cerny produced an agile stop to turn the Scotland midfielder's drive past the post.

And five minutes later it took a last-ditch challenge from Damion Stewart to prevent Rob Hulse from bearing down on goal. Sporting Life

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The Fourth Round of the Carling Cup has been made.
QPR will play...Manchester United, Away.

Hopefully Deja vu for Ian Dowie, whose Coventry side got a shock victory at Old Trafford last season! Games are played week of November 10.


Manchester United Official Site Reds to Face QPR
Report by Nick Coppack
Sir Alex's men will face Championship side Queens Park Rangers at Old Trafford in the Carling Cup fourth round.
The clubs have never met in the League Cup and last faced each other in the Premier League back in 1996.
The tie will be played in the week commencing Monday 10 November. Ticket news will be published on ManUtd.com as soon as it's known, so please check back regularly for updates.
Elsewhere, Arsenal and Chelsea were both handed home draws, while Liverpool travel to Tottenham Hotspur. Manchester United


QPR Official Site - IT'S MANCHESTER UNITED!
Iain Dowie's QPR side will travel to Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, in the Fourth Round of the Carling Cup.
Following Wednesday's 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park, today's draw pitted the R's against Sir Alex Ferguson's reigning Premier League and UEFA Champions League holders.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, R's Assistant Manager, Tim Flowers, said: "What a draw!
"It's fantastic for the Football CLub and especially those supporters who travel the length and breadth of the country to support us.
"The lads will be buzzing, but the immediate focus is on Derby County.
"Manchester United will take care of itself when it comes round in early November."
The tie will be playing during the week commencing Monday 10th November 2008.
Further details will follow in due course. QPR


FULL DRAW - Carling Cup fourth round draw:

Sunderland v Blackburn Rovers

Arsenal v Wigan Athletic

Chelsea v Burnley

Swansea City v Watford

Manchester United v Queens Park Rangers

Stoke City v Rotherham United

Brighton & Hove Albion or Derby v Leeds United

Tottenham Hotspur v Liverpool

BBC

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QPR Official Site- CLUB STATEMENT
Following a report in one of today's national newspapers, titled 'QPC is definitely a move too far, Flavio,' QPR Holdings Ltd Chairman Flavio Briatore has issued the following statement:
"This is pure fabrication and I don't know where the story has come from. I haven't spoken to anybody about this subject.
"I don't know the journalist, but I know the story is totally untrue and we will be contacting our lawyers to pursue this matter further.
"I can categorically deny that there is any truth in this article."
The Club will be making no further comment. QPR


The Daily Mail Story which precipitated this response:

Daily Mail/Charles Sale - QPC is definitely a move too far, Flavio

The super-rich owners of London Championship team QPR have been discussing
changing the name of the club to Queens Park City in order to emphasis its location in the capital.
Renault boss Flavio Briatore, in Singapore preparing his Formula One team for the first night grand prix this weekend, has been openly debating the idea with friends in football and motor racing.
But Rangers fans, already not happy about the huge hike in prices at Loftus Road which has seen the introduction of the first £50 ticket in the Championship this season, won’t be impressed with losing a club name that has been in existence since 1887. The team was called St Jude’s for its first two years.
Nor will Briatore and his billionaire co-owners, Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal, whose combined wealth makes QPR currently the second richest club in the country behind Manchester City, find the Football League in agreement. Commercial motives for name changes are not approved in the lower divisions or the Premier League.
Briatore has also made public that the three owners, who easily have the resources to buy their way out of the Championship, would prefer to fine-tune their football vehicle outside the top flight and bide their time in reaching the top flight, especially in the current state of flux with club ownership. Daily Mail

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ONE QPR STATEMENT - GREAT FOOTBALL, SHAME ABOUT THE PRICES.

[One QPR is made up of, QPR LSA, QPR Official Supporters club, QPR 1st, Friends of QPR, Indy R’s.]

We are delighted by the football of the Superhoops so far this season. The victory over Villa on Wednesday was our best performance for years. We welcome the investment into the club, which has brought us exciting football and the hope of a return to the top tier of English football. However, we want all of our fan base to enjoy this success and not to be priced out of Loftus Road.

Price increases in the Loft were only withdrawn after opposition by Derby County and their fans, and the united action of QPR fans groups, with the aid of the Football Supporters’ Association. The Football League told QPR to honour its charter with away fans and to restore prices in the 'away end ' to their original levels. The club could have kept the prices in the Loft at the increased level, but pressure from fans and the coverage in the media thankfully persuaded the board to put prices in the Loft back to their original level. However, increases for other areas of the ground were not withdrawn, we demand that these too be restored to their original levels.

We want Loftus Road to be full every game and a return of the famous Rangers Roar. Let us make our ground a fortress. But to do this we need to fill the ground with fans, not price out our loyal fan base.

The club at our meeting with them on the 23 September, listened to our views and the views of the fans and promised to take those views back to the Board. We urge the board to now withdraw all price increases and match banding.


Printed and published by ONE QPR.
One QPR is made up of, QPR LSA, QPR Official Supporters club, QPR 1st, Friends of QPR, Indy R’s.

Posted on LSA and Posted on QPR 1st

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Derby Evening Telegraph - Carroll: We Need to Stay Sharp
ROY Carroll feels understanding at the back is growing for Derby County but the experienced goalkeeper knows the Rams must stay on their toes.
Derby have named the same defence and keeper in the past five matches, and results have improved. The Rams have won two, drawn two and lost one.
Victories have come against Preston in the Carling Cup and Sheffield United in the Championship. Draws were recorded against Swansea and Cardiff, and the defeat was at Barnsley in a match Derby controlled for 70 minutes until Iain Hume's cracker set the Tykes on their way to a 2-0 win.
Carroll is again set to line up behind full-backs Paul Connolly and Jordan Stewart, and centre-backs Martin Albrechtsen and Dean Leacock this afternoon as the Rams take on Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road.
"You need that understanding at the back. We have got a settled back four and we have been playing well together but there are still things to work on," said Carroll.
"There are a few minutes in the game when you can switch off and it can prove costly. So we need to keep on our toes.
"Against Cardiff last Saturday, I don't think they had a shot on target in the whole game and then we gave a penalty away. That was disappointing but we got a point out of the game.
"As long as we don't lose and keep building on the points tally, that is the main thing."
Carroll joined Derby from Glasgow Rangers in January and suffered with the rest of the team in the nightmare Premier League campaign.
He made 14 appearances and was beaten six times on three different occasions as the Rams were thrashed by Chelsea, Aston Villa and Arsenal on their way to relegation.
Derby lost three of their first four Championship matches and slumped to the foot of the table before a win against Sheffield United sparked an unbeaten run of three games.
Carroll, the Northern Ireland international, says there is now a renewed confidence in the camp.
"Last season has gone. The manager brought in a lot of players in the summer and from the first day back, everybody was looking forward to doing well in the Championship. Since we beat Sheffield United we have pushed on," he added.
"Confidence is important. The victory over Sheffield United got that run without a win off our back. It is a good feeling when you get a win under your belt.
"The players know what they can do and they are now more relaxed but there is still a long way to go. It's a long season and a very hard season as well.
"We are unbeaten in three but we are not getting carried away."
We've got a big game at QPR but the lads are working really hard and hopefully we will go there and get a good result.
"QPR put Aston Villa out of the Carling Cup but they got beat at Coventry last weekend. We are going there unbeaten in three and we are looking to keep the run going.
"If we can, it will add to the belief in the camp." Derby Evening Telegraph


QPR Official Site THE FRIDAY PREVIEW: RAMS
What else is there to say about Derby County? A disastrous Premier League campaign last term has given Paul Jewell's side an unwelcome tag as the Premiership's worst ever team.
That tag is something that Jewell has taken steps to remove and the Club's first victory in the League for 10 months against Sheffield United recently, 'bodes well for the future,' according the Rams' gaffer.

That win however, has only provided half of the points so far this season, after an opening day defeat by new-boys Doncaster Rovers was followed by draws with Bristol City, Cardiff City and Swansea City. Defeats against Southampton and Barnsley in recent weeks have continued to leave the Rams faithful frustrated.
A probable cause for this indifferent start to the season is the huge revolving door at the entrance of Pride Park, that has seen no less than 14 new players arrive and eight leave this summer, in a remarkable show of wheeling and dealing from Jewell.

Amongst the new faces are experienced campaigners and intriguing foreign talent.
Rob Hulse, a £1.75 million acquisition from Sheffield United, is a man who will get amongst the goals; Nathan Ellington has arrived from Watford after excelling under Jewell at Wigan; and ex-West Bromwich Albion defender Martin Albrechtsen adds presence and versatility to the backline.

Youngsters Liam Dickinson, Steve Davies and Nacer Barazite - the latest Arsenal prospect - have also arrived looking for a higher level at which to prove themselves.
From overseas, Polish winger Przemyslaw Kazmierczak has arrived on loan from Porto, joining Andrejs Pereplotkins and Aleksander Prijovic, as unknown quantities within the Derby squad.
With a brand new set of players all needing time to gel, Derby will look to the next few games to really prove their credentials as promotion hopefuls and, perhaps -more importantly - to rebuild a somewhat tarnished reputation.
Team News
Derby will again be without star midfielder Kris Commons, who is nursing a hamstring injury, while goalkeeper Roy Carroll is expected to overcome a back strain. QPR

See Also:

- Earlier QPR vs Derby Preview

- QPRNet's Ron Norris & Simon Skinner Derby Match Preview


Former QPR defensive Midfielder, John Delve Turns 55:
Born September 27, 1953. A "Home grown" player, John Delve was given his debut by Gordon Jago in December 1972 at Luton. Delve was a defensive midfielder who along with another home-grown youngster, John Beck, seemed to be the perennial substitute for much of our 1972/1973 season. For the next couple of season, Delve and Beck were QPR midfield back ups -especially to Gerry Francis - either when Francis was injured, or if Francis played forward (as he did a couple of times when Stan Bowles was suspended!).
For QPR's opening game back in Division One, (August 25, 1973: QPR 1 Southampton 1)
under Gordon Jago/Bobby Campbell, Delve replaced the suspended Gerry Francis.
Parkes - Clement Mancini Hazell Watson - Venables Delve Leach - Thomas Bowles Givens
Delve joned Plymouth in July 1974. He subsequently played for Exeter and Hereford totalling almost 500 league games. See Delve Career Stats and also Delve/Wikipedia


Carling Cup Draw being made just after Noon Today (Saturday) - Club Numbers for Draw (QPR Number 9). Games will be played Week of November 10 - Draw Details

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Hopefully just media hype, although there were board rumours a few months ago, but then the talk was "London Rangers"

Daily Mail/Charles Sale - QPC is definitely a move too far, Flavio

The super-rich owners of London Championship team QPR have been discussing
changing the name of the club to Queens Park City in order to emphasis its location in the capital.
Renault boss Flavio Briatore, in Singapore preparing his Formula One team for the first night grand prix this weekend, has been openly debating the idea with friends in football and motor racing.
But Rangers fans, already not happy about the huge hike in prices at Loftus Road which has seen the introduction of the first £50 ticket in the Championship this season, won’t be impressed with losing a club name that has been in existence since 1887. The team was called St Jude’s for its first two years.
Nor will Briatore and his billionaire co-owners, Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal, whose combined wealth makes QPR currently the second richest club in the country behind Manchester City, find the Football League in agreement. Commercial motives for name changes are not approved in the lower divisions or the Premier League.
Briatore has also made public that the three owners, who easily have the resources to buy their way out of the Championship, would prefer to fine-tune their football vehicle outside the top flight and bide their time in reaching the top flight, especially in the current state of flux with club ownership. Daily Mail

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Birthdays:

- Kenny Sansom Turns 50 - Stats-

- Ex-QPR Loan, Martin Cranie, Turns 22 - Stats

- And apparently also...Luigi De Canio, Turning 51- "1957: Luigi De Canio (51) – Former Udinese, Napoli, Reggina and Siena coach, who most recently had a spell at English Championship side Queens Park Rangers. - Goal.com


Dave McIntyre - BBC 606 - Stewart on a roll
Damion Stewart is the man of the moment, defying expectations by holding down a place in the QPR team and winning praise for his recent performances.
Given the amount of money splashed out by Rangers and the number of players signed in 2008, it’s a surprise to many that Stewart is still at the club, let alone in the side.
Some people, myself included, believed he was the first player who ought to be axed and simply had to be replaced if Rangers were to stand any chance at all of being serious promotion contenders.
Kaspars Gorkss, outstanding for Blackpool last season, looked the ideal replacement – the kind of dominant, footballing centre-back Rangers have desperately needed.
But, short of match fitness after a pre-season ruined by the wrangling over his transfer, Gorkss made a woeful start to his R’s career.
He now faces a fight to establish himself, while Stewart is flavour of the month and is set to keep his place alongside Fitz Hall for Saturday’s game against Derby.
But the real test of Stewart is perhaps yet to come.
He has always been a good athlete; quick, strong and good in the air, and with those attributes, it’s understandable that successive managers have selected him.
He can, and has, had games and spells in a season where he’s able to put these assets to good use.
Some games just pan out in a way that means Stewart can head and tackle his way to rave reviews about his performance. Nothing’s changed in that respect.
But what has definitely improved is his concentration.
Gigi De Canio was convinced Stewart would be a competent defender if he maintained his concentration level for 90 minutes.
Even during a spell towards the end of the 2006-07 season, when Stewart was receiving much praise for his performances, he cost Rangers several points during their relegation battle by being found wanting in various situations, often at set-pieces and often late in games.
This season he has improved in this department and to see the job through against a forward like Aston Villa’s John Carew is a big achievement.
A few days before Rangers’ cup win at Villa Park, I saw Carew destroy West Brom’s defence and Leon Barnett, a centre-back who many in the game feel has real potential, was embarrassed by the big Norwegian.
But in many ways, a physical battle with the likes of Carew and a side peppering Rangers with crosses is right up Stewart’s street.
So too have been the recent away games in which QPR have had a man sent off.
Being reduced to 10 men at Bristol City and Norwich in a way helped Rangers, because it made those games less open.
It was a case of all hands to the pump, with Mikele Leigertwood and Gavin Mahon digging in and shielding the backline.
In more open games, as even 10-man Southampton recently showed, Rangers are more vulnerable and the centre of their defence still looks very poor.
Expect several Championships sides – including Derby this weekend – to focus on trying to isolate Stewart and force him to make decisions in a way he hasn’t had to in recent matches.
Balls into the channel can trouble him, especially when Damien Delaney surges forward.
And while he copes when the game is played out in straight lines, Stewart has all-too often been guilty of ball-watching or been far too easily turned in certain situations.
Those are the situations the likes of Derby, Birmingham and Reading will look to put him in in the coming weeks.
If he passes those kinds of tests, then even his fiercest critics will have to eat their words. BBC 606


QPR Official Site: QPR v WOLVES LIVE ON SKY
The R's Coca Cola Championship fixture at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers has been selected for live Sky Sports transmission.
The fixture on Saturday 6th December will now kick-off at 5.20pm. QPR

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MLS/Craig Merz - Padula a quiet leader for Crew
Columbus has 8-0-1 record with Argentinean defender in lineup
Gino Padula has missed nearly two-thirds of the season with an injury, but has still had an impact for the Crew.

COLUMBUS -- Good luck charm or just plain good? Maybe a little of both for the lesser known of the two Argentinean players for the Columbus Crew.
While forward Guillermo Barros Schelotto has put up gaudy numbers with six goals and a league-best 18 assists, the case could be made that defender Gino Padula is the team's most valuable player despite missing nearly two-thirds of the season.
- The Crew are 8-0-1 when Padula is in the lineup, including a 5-0-1 mark since his return Aug. 16 from injuries that had sidelined him for more than three months. Columbus is 6-6-4 when he doesn't play.
- "This is a good thing coming back to the team and winning games," Padula said. "The whole team has done a great job all season, not just the last six or seven games."
- Speaking of injuries, Schelotto will likely miss his third consecutive match Saturday at New England because of a left hamstring strain.
- "He's probably doubtful for the game," coach Sigi Schmid said after Thursday's practice. "We'll make a decision tomorrow and decide whether to take him or not."
- Having a healthy Padula defending helps ease the loss of an offensive player such as Schelotto. Padula brings stability to the left back spot by being solid, not flashy, and calm on the ball. He isn't careless with his passes or in his tackles.
- "He brings a lot of experience at left back with his possession and good talking out there. He helps settle us down and keeps us going when we come out on his side with ball," defensive midfielder Brian Carroll said. "He came in and was a little unlucky with the injuries but recovered from that and has done well to position himself to get ready for the pace and style of the league. The experience of where he played before he was here gave him all the tools needed to play well here."
- Columbus signed Padula from Montpellier HSC of the French Ligue 2 on March 24 and after sitting out the first two matches while his work permit was approved, he made his MLS debut April 12 against Chivas. He went 90 minutes in his first two games before suffering a knee injury in the April 26 game vs. Houston.
- He was one the comeback trail in mid-June when he strained his hamstring during a reserve match and missed a total of 14 league games.
- "It's hard when you're injured because you want to come back as soon as possible. When you couldn't play it's very hard, you feel sad," he said.
- Making it more difficult was transitioning to a new league, team, city and country.
- "I know this league now. I've watched so many games," said Padula. "I know my teammates. It's very important because when I was injured I did not train with them. Now, I enjoy the moment because there are only five games left. If we win the five games we finish first in the table."
- The Crew had a revolving door at left back in Padula's absence with Danny O'Rourke, Ryan Junge, Ezra Hendrickson and Jed Zayner filling in. Padula has played all but nine minutes in the past six games.
- "He helps us at left back. That was an area where we looked at the young guys," Schmid said. "Last year it was a committee of people. We played Stefani (Miglioranzi) there. We played Ezra there. We played Danny O'Rourke there and we were auditioning people. We added Gino at the start of the year because of that.
- "He helps us because he is an experienced defender. Positionally, his play is pretty good. He's a good passer of the ball out of the back and that helps us."
- Padula, 32, began his career with Argentinean side River Plate in 1996 before moving to Club Atletico Huracan the following year. He played in Spain in 1998 then went to English football from 1999 to 2006 with stops below the Premiership level in Bristol, Walsall, Wigan, Queens' Park Rangers and Nottingham Forest.
- His resume is exceeded on the backline only by that of U.S. World Cup veteran Frankie Hejduk on the right side.
- "It's a good combination right now," Hejduk said. "You have two experienced guys in the back. We've got two in the middle in Chad (Marshall) and Danny who are experienced players but are young and hungry. Especially the last few games our understanding of one another has gotten better and better. We all feel confident playing with each other. For a back four, that's what has to happen. If you know each other and are used to each other and know when to drop and you're on the same page there, that's what a good defense is all about."
- Hejduk said it's easy to see why the Crew have so much success when Padula is playing.
- "He knows how to play the position. He's been a left back his whole life so he knows the ins and outs of it. We all feel -- myself, Chad and Dan -- more confident in our play with him back there," said Hejduk. "We can play through him to get the ball out of the back rather than kicking it long all the time. With him and myself on the outside we can play a bit more. It also helps to have a guy whose naturally left-footed on the left side. A lot of times this year we've been asking guys who are right-footed to play out there. It makes it a little more difficult."
- Padula didn't know what to make of MLS prior to coming to Columbus but the league and his new home have grown on him.
- "Before I got here I thought in America you have too many sports; the fans wouldn't go out to Crew Stadium but we have 15, 18, 19,000 at games," he said. "This is very important. When we play the playoffs maybe the stadium will be full. The fans help out a lot. This league will improve a lot. It is a very good league right now.
- "I am happy here. My family is happy. That's very important to me. It's a new experience in my life. I would like to stay here a very long time." MLS

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London Informer/Noam Friedlander - Lee's not a happy camper
Lee Camp could quit QPR in January if he doesn't get first-team football.
The 24-year-old shot-stopper faces the prospect of watching Saturday's match with old club Derby from the Rangers' dugout after losing his place to Radek Cerny.
Ironically, Camp only quit his hometown club for Loftus Road at the start of last season because he'd been left warming the bench at Pride Park after failing to dislodge Stephen Bywater from the number one Jersey.
Clearly, it's not a situation Camp intends to tolerate forever."I'd really like to play football - it's as simple as that," said Camp.
"It's fantastic the way the football club is going. It's geared for success, but I'm someone who doesn't like to sit around not doing anything. I like to work in the week and have a game on Saturday, and I want to be number one not number two.
"There are some goalkeepers who are happy to just sit there, be a number two and pick their money up - but that's not me."
The former Ram was brought back to west London, where he'd served two previous loan spells, by John Gregory, and remained an ever-present in the Rs side last season during the brief reign of Luigi De Canio.
However, new boss Iain Dowie wasted no time bringing in Cerny from Tottenham, and Camp hasn't had a look in since.
"I don't think I've done a lot wrong, but the manager has given his reasons," Camp added. "And whether I agree with them or not, that's what he's paid to do.But it's frustrating, as everyone wants to play football."
By contrast, Kaspars Gorks is likely to see action against his former club, with Blackpool due in west London on Tuesday night.
The 26-year-old Latvian centre-back played 57 games for the Seasiders before joining Rangers in a long drawn-out transfer deal in the summer.
His former club were expected to be the whipping boys of the Championship this season, but threw the form book out of the window with victory at then-leaders Birmingham on Saturday.
Gorks expects his former team to continue to confound the pundits and reckons they are famous for rising to the big occasion.He said: "Last season we played much better away to stronger teams than we did at home to weaker sides.
"I can't say I'm surprised at how they've started. People have been talking about them as a team that's going to go down, but it helps Blackpool when people say things like that.
"It takes the pressure off them and makes it easier for them to play. I think they will stay up again." London Informer


Little premature media talk! Anyway never forget, QPR want to concentrate on the League!
The Sun/Pat Sheehan -Stew: We R on our way to Wembley
DAMION STEWART reckons QPR can carry on creating Carling Cup shocks and get to the final.
The Rangers defender scored a terrific third-round winner at Aston Villa to stun Martin O’Neill’s impressive Premier League side.
But Stewart believes the fans ain’t seen nothing yet.
He is convinced the R’s have the quality to emulate Cardiff, who reached last season’s FA Cup final.
Stewart said: “We saw Cardiff City get to Wembley last season so we have to believe we can go all the way in this competition.
“Rangers were testing themselves against a top side.
“We did well and proved we can match anyone on the night.
“As a side we’re getting stronger and stronger and we’re getting better and better at defending.
“The team is doing well this season and we hope to keep that momentum going now.” The Sun

Daniel Parejo re Real Madrid. Unfortunately in Spanish. Translations welcome!
Parejo: "Venir del Real Madrid aquí impone mucho"
El canterano repasó su estancia en las islas Thursday, Por: Defensa Central -September 25
- Dani Parejo, una de las joyas de la cantera del Real Madrid, repasó en la web oficial del club blanco las sensaciones que está viviendo en su nuevo equipo, el QPR, de Inglaterra, en el que juega cedido por el equipo madridista: "Hemos jugado seis partidos de Liga y hemos ganado cuatro, empatado uno y perdido dos. Aquí se juega muy distinto a España, con un delantero alto al que van todos los balones y se busca mucho la segunda jugada. El balón va poco por el suelo", sentenció Parejo.
- Parejo habló muy bien de su nueva afición: "El público es increíble, nuestro estadio siempre se llena. Me cantan algo, pero todavía no entiendo lo que me dicen. Los aficionados me tratan muy bien igual que la gente del Club. Quizá, el venir del Madrid les impone".
- El canterano blanco no quiso dejar pasar la ocasión de alabar a uno de sus jefes, Flavio Briatore: "La adaptación a la vida va muy bien. Vivimos a 20 minutos del campo de entrenamiento y del estadio. Al centro voy en tren. Estoy cerca de la estación de Waterloo y del Big-ben. Briatore es un tipo sensacional. Gracias a él pude ver la Formula 1 en Valencia. Conocí a Fernando Alonso", finalizó el de Coslada.
Report


Metro/Matthew Nash - September 25, 2008 Making a stand: Birmingham fans can expect cheaper tickets
Birmingham chairman David Gold insists ticket prices in football must come down.
In a week when Derby have won their battle with QPR over inflated entry fees for this weekend's Championship showdown at Loftus Road, St Andrew's chief Gold believes it is the duty of all clubs to price matches fairly.
Gold a self-made multi-millionaire and co-owner of City, reckons supporters pay over the odds to get into games - and the money is only going into the players' already inflated pay-packets.
'The trouble is, fans are contributing to what the players earn by paying their wages via the turnstiles and the club shop,' he said.
'Somehow we have to find a way of distributing the wealth of the players and reducing ticket prices is one way of doing that.
'As clubs we could all commit to a ten per cent reduction in Championship admission prices, that would keep the wages down for players.
'It can be done - it's only a question of us all getting together to agree it.'
Gold's comments come as his own club offer tickets starting from just £22 for the match with cash-rich QPR on October 4.
Birmingham's London rivals for promotion, however, are charging as much as £50 for Championship football this season.
But Gold admits he takes Rangers seriously as title contenders after backing from the likes of Formula One entrepreneurs Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore and London-based Indian billionaire industrialist Lakshmi Mittal.
The clubs are favourites to go up to the Premier League - despite City's 1-0 home defeat by Blackpool at the weekend - and Gold is eager to see how much more money QPR boss Iain Dowie will be allowed to spend in January. The former Crystal Palace manager brought in the likes of Tottenham keeper Radek Cerny, former Roma midfielder Damiano Tommasi and Real Madrid playmaker Daniel Parejo, on loan, during the summer but is expected to make more signings in the New Year.
Gold added: 'The question is: Will QPR want to spend £2million or £20m?
'There's always a dark horse, like a Bristol City or a Hull, but that aside, you have to say the other two relegated clubs [Reading and Derby] will be rivals for the title.
'I don't know if Nottingham Forest have done enough in the transfer market but I had Crystal Palace down as an outside bet to go up this year.'
Gold, however, is certain he has the right man to take his club straight back to the top flight in former Scotland coach Alex McLeish...." Metro


The New Shirts Are Coming
QPR Official Site - SUPER SUNDAY - 2ND & 3RD SHIRTS LAUNCHED
The QPR Superstore will be open on Sunday - as the new second and third shirts are launched. The Superstore will be open from 11.00am-4.00pm for R's fans to get their hands on the new shirts, ahead of our crucial Coca Cola Championship fixture against Blackpool on Tuesday night. The shirts are priced £39.99 (adults) and £32.99 (children) respectively. QPR

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QPR take on Derby County on Saturday. Derby recently got their first win in a long, long, time so that burden is now removed from their neck. One of the teams picked for promotion, if they beat QPR, that would be a good start for them. Over the years had various momentous games between the two clubs: Think Brian Clough and Dave Mackay getting knocked out of the FA Cup 5th Round in 1969...An incredible 5-1 win at Derby in 1975...A Phil Nutt goal at Loftus Road....(And several Derby victories, which we won't speak about!) See Head to Head Results between the two clubs. And of course, the two clubs shared a joint interest as both being recipients of loans from the mysterious ABC Company. Most recently Derby County complained about QPR's just-announced ticket price increase, and the Football League ruled against QPR. Derby apparently will not have Savage or Commons in the team on Saturday. Derby's results -- Derby's League Standing -- Derby's squad: (And of course accompanying all this, the question is whether or not the proposed fan protest against the ticket price increases goes ahead; and in what form; and of course, how many fans will take part (or will even know about it)


Derby Evening Telegraph - Road trips give Jewell's men hope as they aim to triumph at Loftus Road
DERBY County will tomorrow look to dent one of the three remaining perfect home records in the Championship when they take on Queens Park Rangers.
QPR shocked Premier League Aston Villa on Wednesday by winning at Villa Park in the Carling Cup but their impressive start to the season has been built on their form at Loftus Road.
Iain Dowie's side have beaten Barnsley, Doncaster Rovers and Southampton to collect maximum points from three home league games.
Reading and Wolverhampton Wanderers are the only other teams in the division to boast such a record.
For good measure, Dowie's men mauled Carlisle United 4-0 in a home tie in an earlier round of the Carling Cup.
Investment in the club has strengthened QPR's hand and confidence must be sweeping through the camp.
Striker Dexter Blackstock, who spent a loan spell at Derby in 2005, has hit five goals in eight appearances, while Patrick Agyemang provides power and pace up front.
Twenty-year-old Emmanuel Ledesma is also chipping in with goals.
The Argentine forward, on loan from Genoa, struck a hat-trick against Carlisle United and one in the victory over Doncaster.
The fixture is a test for Derby but Paul Jewell's team has shown plenty of character in an unbeaten run of three matches.
They have also shown plenty of fight on their travels.
Paul Green's equaliser earned a point against Bristol City at Ashton Gate and the Rams came away from Swansea with a 1-1 draw. Stephen Pearson's strike put them ahead before a sloppy goal was conceced from a corner 14 minutes from time, Ashley Williams escaping his marker to power a head past Roy Carroll.
Green headed the winner in the Carling Cup victory over Preston North End at Deepdale a few days before the one away defeat, the 2-0 setback at Barnsley, came in a game Derby bossed for 70 minutes.
"We have shown some character on the road, and the best performance was at Barnsley in a game we lost," said manager Paul Jewell.
"Sometimes it can be easier to play away from home because there is less expectation on you.
"We are not creating a host of chances at the moment but what we have to do is become hard to beat before we can move forward.
"We need to keep clean sheets but I believe we are getting more shape and balance in the team to make us harder to play against than we were in the past.
"I know we are playing against Championship players rather than Premier League players but if we had shown more resolve last season, we would not have been beaten five and six, and we might have held out in games rather than collapsing under pressure.
"There is definitely more resolve at this moment in time.
"It is nowhere near where I expect us to be but we are making slow progress."
QPR go into the game as favourites but the unpredictable nature of the Championship has already been seen in the early weeks of the season.
Many expected Derby to lose at Bristol City and Preston – they didn't.
Many thought Sheffield United would inflict more pain on the team and Jewell. They didn't and instead, the Rams recorded their first league win in 37 attempts.
And last weekend high-riding Birmingham City suffered their first defeat of the season at home to Blackpool.
Jewell went to watch QPR at Villa.
"I felt QPR, other than one chance when Gareth Barry got through, were quite comfortable," said Jewell.
"They have a way of playing and have got some good players.
"It will be top notch for us if we go and win there after three games unbeaten.
"Our run doesn't make all the problems go away but certainly you see a change in the players' demeanour.
"We've got a bit of fight about us now and when things go against us, we don't collapse like last year." Derby Evening Telegraph


The Rams - The Rams' no-risk policy on commons
Paul Jewell is keen for Derby County to sharpen their cutting edge but refuses to risk Kris Commons if the Derby County winger is not 100 per cent fit.
Commons is out of tomorrow’s trip to face Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road and is already a major doubt for Tuesday’s Championship clash against high-riding Birmingham City at Pride Park Stadium.
The Scottish international was an ever-present until he missed the last two matches with niggling calf and hamstring strains.
Derby are short of goals – they have scored five in seven League games – and Jewell believes the strikers are suffering from a lack of service.
Commons is one of the side’s creative players and Jewell says the former Nottingham Forest man is missed when he is not in the team.
“It’s disappointing for Kris because he’s picked up the injury and it keeps niggling him,” Jewell added.
"The injury is at the back of his knee, where the hamstring and calf are attached. He got a kick on it and it has turned into a strain.
"It’s not a major worry and he’s not a million miles away but he’s not right and we’ve got to make sure he is.
“He needs to be 100 per cent fit because if he plays on it and it goes, he will be out longer.”
Goalkeeper Roy Carroll is expected to face QPR and maintain his ever-present run in the side this season.
Carroll complained of a stiff back at half-time during the draw against Cardiff City last Saturday and has had treatment this week.
“He trained yesterday and should be OK,” said Jewell.
Australian international Ruben Zadkovich is working with the physios as he recovers from surgery on a groin injury.
The midfielder, who has yet to make his debut, could feature in the Reserve League Cup tie at Walsall on October 8.
“He is going to be another 10 days with the physios and all being well, he will be somewhere close for that game,” said Jewell.
Serbian striker Alexsander Prijovic could also face Walsall. The 18-year-old scored for the Academy team against Manchester United at the weekend.
Jewell said the Reserve fixture was likely to come round too soon for Giles Barnes, who is working his way back to fitness following knee surgery.
“Giles is training with the kids and is making progress,” added Jewell.
“It is very important we do not rush Giles. He has worked exceptionally hard, he has met all his targets and is on schedule but we definitely will not rush him back because he has had such a major injury and to rush him back would be crazy.” The Rams


Derby Evening Telegraph - Jewell: Loan would not rule Sav out of picture
ROBBIE Savage is set to sit out a sixth consecutive game tomorrow as Derby County take on Queens Park Rangers in the Championship.
The 33-year-old midfielder – he turns 34 next month – last featured for the Rams in the home defeat by Southampton on August 23.
He is currently not in the first-team plans and has been told he can go out on loan if the right offer comes in.
Savage has turned down a loan move to Brighton and there could be interest from one of his old clubs, Crewe Alexandra.
The former Welsh international was expected to be a key figure for the Rams in the Championship but he has slipped behind Paul Green, Miles Addison and Przemyslaw Kazmierczak in the battle for midfield places.
Jewell says Savage going out on loan would not necessarily rule him out of his thinking.
"No, it wouldn't," said Jewell.
"I have no problem with Sav, there is not an issue. People have tried to make an issue but there has never been an issue.
"Players can go out on loan and can come back and get back in the team. Lewin Nyatanga did it last season.
"Loans can suit both parties. If Sav is getting games and playing well, he could come back to Derby and try and get in the first team.
"Brighton asked about him but it was not for Sav.
"If a club comes on and Sav wants to do it and it suits us, we'll do it, but Sav did not want to go to Brighton on loan. That's no problem with me."
Asked about interest from Crewe, Jewell replied: "I have not heard from Crewe."
Savage, who cost £1.5m from Blackburn Rovers in January, has started two league games this season and the Carling Cup first round victory over Lincoln City.
Jewell says other players not in the first-team picture are also available for loan.
"Nobody likes not to be playing and there are players I think would be available, I know would be available, if other clubs came in for them," he said.
"We've got quite a big squad so if we could get some more out on loan I would be quite happy because that frees it up for me to go out and maybe exploit the loan market to bring players in.
"It has to benefit all parties. My interest is the club and the player, and obviously the club where we want to loan them want to get something out of it. So, if it suits everyone I don't see a problem." Derby Evening Telegraph

See Also:

- LoftforWord's Ashleigh Rose' Derby Connections and Memories

- LoftforWords - Derby Preview

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Football League- QPR Support for Kiyan Prince Foundation

QPR BACK FOUNDATION FOR KIYAN
Queens Park Rangers are supporting a foundation in memory of teenager Kiyan Prince.
Former QPR youth team player Prince was stabbed to death aged 15 after a row at the London Academy in Edgware just over two years ago.
Since then, his father Mark has worked tirelessly to set up the Kiyan Prince Foundation with the aim of educating youngsters of the dangers of knife and gun crime.
Now his plans for a lasting tribute to his son have been taken to the next level thanks to help from QPR and Sky 1 show Noel's HQ.
The programme's producers have found a team of experts - including a child psychologist, business mentor and public relations guru - to work with the Foundation in developing its activities.
QPR have dedicated the London derby with Charlton Athletic on November 25 to the Foundation.
The charity will be given free advertising space in the programme and on the Loftus Road big screen and collection buckets will be situated around the ground.
In addition, the club has promised to embark on a more long-term relationship with the Foundation.
Mark Prince will be invited to lead six workshops during the 2008/09 season as part of the Kickz Scheme, which helps youngsters from deprived areas play organised sport.
QPR's Football in the Community Manager Andy Evans, said: "The enduring image associated with Kiyan is the picture of him in the QPR kit he loved.
"As a club, we are one hundred per cent committed to helping Mark Prince to continue with the outstanding work he has already undertaken.
"We will use the Charlton fixture to celebrate the life of Kiyan, who would have been celebrating his 18th birthday on that day, as well as to highlight the excellent work Mark is doing in the local communities."
For more information on the Kiyan Prince Foundation, please visit www.kiyan.org. - Football League


See Also:

- QPR Official Site - QPR & THE KIYAN PRINCE FOUNDATION

- Remembering Kiyan Prince

- Kiyan Prince Foundation

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Clive Whittingham of LoftforWords writing on the subject of the proposed increase in ticket prices and how QPR fans are responding (or not responding).

(Reposted with permission)


Clive Whittingham, LoftForWords - United we stand

Well I nearly fell off my seat when I heard that the Football League had told us we couldn’t raise our prices for away fans mid season. The Football League siding with the common fan and standing up against the outrageous pricing of football matches? Whatever next? I haven’t been so gob smacked since I heard QPR were introducing this rip off in the first place.

Credit where it’s due to the league, and to Derby County who took one look at the scandalous prices QPR wanted to charge their fans, stifled a laugh and then sent them straight back. I can well imagine plenty of clubs, ours included, would have mumbled a bit and sold them for £40 without asking any questions. Derby have done exactly the right thing by their fans, who will still pay prices a little on the expensive side this coming Saturday and if I was a Rams fan I’d be absolutely delighted with the way my club has stood up for me this week.

If only I could say the same of the club I do support. QPR never seem to be more than 20 minutes away from another idea designed to shaft me and you. Be it a ticket price rise, a £3.50 booking fee or making me pay to have my season ticket posted to me after shelling out £600 to buy it in the first place one thing QPR are not doing at the moment is any favours for the people that turn up to support them week after week and have done through thick and extremely thin times.

Amit Bhatia’s heartfelt thanks to the fans at Villa Park published on the club’s official website on Thursday was a lovely touch and much appreciated but it had a hollow ring to it coming as it did just two days after the same website had announced that, because of Derby’s objections and the league decision, ticket prices in the Loft would be returned to their previous level. News that was broken to us by way of a paragraph at the end of a story about how all the most expensive tickets for the Derby game had sold out. Those would be the platinum tickets we were told were sold out in the summer would they? A story published on the same website that said the club had experienced unprecedented demand for tickets to the Barnsley game (attendance 14,964)? How bloody stupid do they think we are?

The problem is, what are we going to do about it? I grew up among QPR fans, a tiny little mop haired dot among all these big blokes at football matches. It was the best time of my life. Back in those days QPR fans protested at the drop of a hat – mergers with Fulham and Wimbledon were fought off, a chairman was ousted after selling our best players, a blonde lady ran on the pitch and removed her shirt (but not her bra). The story goes that a week later at Sheffield Wednesday my Grandad told her we were all very proud but somewhat disappointed. Dirty old man.

Now the fan base seems to be fractured. There are that many groups and personalities that think they should have a say it really has become like the Life of Brian and the Judean People’s Front, or is that the People’s Front of Judea? In time I’d like to think that all these splinter groups and websites can come back under the banner of either the LSA or QPR 1st so when things like this happen in future we can speak with one voice.

The initial season ticket price rises were announced after the last match, presumably so we didn’t all kick up a fuss at Flavio’s big party before the West Brom match. In the end those increases, necessary to some extent but scandalously over cooked, went through and we quietly accepted them. Now just three home league games in we’re forced to swallow another increase and it seems we’re going to say nothing again.

A silent protest was muted, excuse the pun, for the first ten minutes this weekend. Some said this wouldn’t work, some wanted to know how this decision had been reached, others said it would detrimentally affect the team (do me a favour), and others said we shouldn’t offend our owners in case they pack up and leave us in the lurch. Purlease. Nobody is more grateful than me for what our board has done for this club – the team is excellent, the ground looks better although I do miss my members bar, the sponsorship deals are superb, we’re on the up and it’s absolutely bloody awesome after years of decline. But to raise prices in the summer by so much after telling us specifically they would be going up by “10 per cent or something normal” and then raise them again after three games to £40 for Championship football, again out of the blue with no consultation, and to insult us with spin on the official website. Well I’m sorry but something needs to be said about that.

The fact that we’ve won at Norwich and Aston Villa since the raises were announced, exhilarating though it was, makes not one bit of difference. We don’t want the board to leave but we need to show them somehow that we’re much more than “somebody who turns up once a week and pays £20” as Flavio Briatore has previously suggested. We deserve to be treated better than we have been over the past fortnight and the club needs to understand that we will not stand for things like this. Sadly, reading round the other message boards, it seems that apathy and some deluded sense of self importance about just how crucial it is that 300 people sing “you Northern scum” in the first ten minutes of the Derby match means that the silence protest is doomed to failure.

Fine. If a silence isn’t the way to go then I can accept that. Personally I’d go with banners and a few well targeted chants. However if a silence is the preferred method then as many people as possible should take part. The worst thing we can do this Saturday is do nothing, roll over and accept what has been handed to us. What is to stop this happening again if we do? What is to stop prices for say the last home game of the season being hiked to £60 or £70 each if it turns out to be a promotion decider? Grateful yes, but door mats no. This raise must not go unopposed and with the ITV cameras at Loftus Road this Saturday we have a terrific chance to make a point. A decade ago we wouldn’t have thought twice about it." LoftForWords

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Strange that one particular club is not included in the category of "Giantkillers!"

Football League - WHAT'S YOUR NUMBER
The draw for Round 4 of the Carling Cup takes place on Saturday and there are no less than eight Football League clubs left in the competition.
Giantkillers Burnley, Rotherham United and Watford will all be hoping the draw is kind to them, either handing them a winnable tie in, order to progress, or a good money spinner.
The week's other giantkillers Brighton and Hove Albion are still a round behind, so they go into the draw along with their third round opponents Derby County.


The full numbers are as follows:
1.ARSENAL
2.BLACKBURN ROVERS
3.BURNLEY
4.CHELSEA
5.BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION or DERBY COUNTY
6.LEEDS UNITED
7.LIVERPOOL
8.MANCHESTER UNITED
9.QUEENS PARK RANGERS
10.ROTHERHAM UNITED
11.STOKE CITY
12.SUNDERLAND
13.SWANSEA CITY
14.TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
15.WATFORD
16.WIGAN ATHLETIC

The ties will be played during the week commencing 10th November with the draw taking place on Saturday, Sky Sports One, during the Soccer Saturday show from 12.15pm. Football League

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Professional Footballers Association (PFA) - Vote for your favourite player - and meet the stars
PFA 2UP Fans’ Player of the Month Contenders: September 2008

The PFA's search for the Official PFA 2UP Fans' Divisional Players' of the Year Awards is now under way - and there are plenty of big names in the frame to succeed last year’s winner Cristiano Ronaldo as the fans' choice.
This season, we’ve launched a brand new website where fans can register to vote for their favourite player every month. And already there are some big names in the frame across all divisions of the best league in the world.
The PFA 2UP Divisional Fans Player Awards are the only official awards of the Professional Footballers’ Association that are voted for by the fans. The awards are also endorsed by The Fans Supporters Federation.
Steven Gerrard, a former winner of the Fans' Player of the Year award, has played himself into contention - not least for his heroics in Liverpool's 2-1 Champions League win against Marseille.
Premier League newcomer Deco has made a big impression in his opening games for Chelsea whilst Portsmouth's Lassana Diarra has also won many admirers.
In the Championship, Michael Kightly's contribution to Wolves' impressive start to the season has not gone unoticed - with Jermaine Beckford (League One) and Darren Anderton (League Two) showing their class for Leeds and Bournemouth, respectively. But it's not too late to change the standings.
Voting for this month's awards close on Sept 30th, and here's a good reason why you should do so....
* Every month of the football season, four fans who have voted for the divisional winners get the chance to present the PFA 2UP Player of the Month award to their football idol. This season, there are also runner-up prizes for voters including limited edition PFA Centenary books and keyrings.
PFA 2UP Fans’ Player of the Month Contenders: September 2008
Premier League
Steven Gerrard: Liverpool
Deco: Chelsea
Lassana Diarra: Portsmouth
Championship
Tommy Smith: Watford
Adam Lallana: Southampton
Michael Kightly: Wolverhampton
League 1
Jermaine Beckford: Leeds
Adam Virgo: Brighton
Jack Hobbs: Leicester
League 2
Darren Anderton: Bournemouth
Peter Thorne: Bradford
Rob Edwards: Exeter
Vote for your PFA 2UP Fans' Player of the Month now - and meet the stars!


PFA

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Very nice words from the Vice Chairman - who perhaps unfortunately, is not the Chairman! Of course just to note, no mention of the ticket price issue or what the final resolution may be.

QPR Official Site - BHATIA: SIMPLY FAN-TASTIC
QPR Holdings Ltd Vice-Chairman, Amit Bhatia, has today (Thursday) issued the following message to QPR supporters.

Dear Supporters,
May I start by saying how ecstatic I am feeling by our triumph over Aston Villa in the Carling Cup last night.
I felt both proud and honoured watching this moment unfold, when we succeeded not only in defeating a Club which currently stands fourth in the Premiership, but also in enjoying success at a Premiership ground for the first time in 12 years.
It was a fantastic victory for Queens Park Rangers; an undeniable demonstration of a Club heading in the right direction.
The football which our players displayed last night was supreme; they strode out confidently - undeterred by the giants of Villa - and played to a high level and displayed great quality.
I am especially grateful to the supporters who tirelessly travelled to Villa Park to support the Club they love so dearly.
From where I was seated, I was overcome with emotion with the noise and raucous which you generated last night. You gave our team the boost they really needed to turn the match our way. Your enthusiasm was inspiring, your passion never ceasing. This was your win, as much as it was the players' and staff's.
I hope that we continue our success as the season progresses. QPR has a promising future ahead and results like those we have had so far this season make our dreams seem ever nearer.
Once again, my enormous thanks to all of you for contributing so much to the Club and being the essence of Queen Park Rangers.
Yours Sincerely,
Amit Bhatia
QPR Holdings Ltd Vice-Chairman QPR


Martin Rowlands included in special Ireland Squad:

Eleven A Side - Trap names fringe squad for friendly clash
Giovanni Trapattoni has named a squad of 22 for a friendly clash with Nottingham Forest in Dublin next month.
The game takes place at Dalymount Park on Thursday, October 9th - six days before Cyprus visit Croke Park for an important World Cup qualifier.
Several members of the fringe squad have already played senior internationals under Trapattoni, including Wolves forward Andy Keogh and Norwich midfielder Wes Hoolahan.
There are three Blackburn Rovers players in the party, with defender Eddie Nolan and winger Keith Treacy stepping up from the under-21 grade and Keith Andrews making the leap to international football a month after joining Rovers from MK Dons.
Stoke winger Liam Lawrence and Hull City striker Caleb Folan, both of whom were included in Irish squads under Steve Staunton but have yet to win a cap, are summoned once more, while Coventry City goalkeeper Keiren Westwood will be hoping to catch the eye after making a fine start to life with the Sky Blues and Reading’s Noel Hunt, the 25-year-old younger brother of senior international Stephen, receives a first international call since his under-21 days.
Trapattoni said: ”This game will give me an important opportunity to work closely with many of our talented players. We have another eight games ahead of us in our challenge for World Cup qualification and I have no doubt that some of this squad will be called upon to play their part.
”I want to thank our scouting team and our U-21 manager Don Givens for identifying many new players who are performing well this year. I have already worked with some of this squad during our time in Portugal and I look forward to working with those I have not already seen.
”The October 9th game will form part of an important build up to our first home World Cup qualifier match against Cyprus the following week.”
The match will kick off at 7.30pm on Thursday, October 9th, with tickets on sale from Monday September 29th in Dalymount Park (Adults €10, children €5 - open 10am to 6pm, Mon - Fri) or online from Ticketmaster.
Republic of Ireland squad (v Nottingham Forest, 9/10/2008)
Goalkeepers: Joe Murphy (Scunthorpe United), Keiren Westwood (Coventry City).

Defenders: Kevin Foley (Wolves), Alex Bruce (Ipswich Town), Darren O’Dea (Celtic), Paddy McCarthy (Crystal Palace), Eddie Nolan (Blackburn Rovers).

Midfielders: Darron Gibson (Manchester United), Stephen Ward, Darren Potter (both Wolves), Wes Hoolahan (Norwich City), Martin Rowlands (QPR), Owen Garvan (Ipswich Town), Liam Lawrence (Stoke City), Keith Treacy, Keith Andrews (both Blackburn Rovers).

Forwards: Andy Keogh (Wolves), Shane Long, Noel Hunt (both Reading), Caleb Folan (Hull City), Sean Scannell (Crystal Palace), Anthony Stokes (Sunderland).
http://www.eleven-a-side.com/acrossthewater/news.asp?n=34183

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QPR move into the Fourth Round of the Carling Cup which will be played the week of November 10. The draw for the 16 remaining teams will be made on Saturday at around noon.

- See Also: Earlier Reports and Comments of QPR's Win against Aston Volla
- Match Photos


QPR Official Site - R'S AWAIT CUP FATE
Rangers will find out who their Carling Cup Fourth Round opponents will be on Saturday lunchtime.
The draw will be made live on Sky Sports' Soccer Saturday show from midday.
Speaking after last night's victory against Aston Villa, R's boss Iain Dowie gave his thoughts on the next round, commenting: "We'll take whoever we get, but I'd like a home draw.
"There's nothing like playing in front of a big crowd at Loftus Road and I'd dearly love us to get a home tie after coming through what was a very difficult trip to Villa Park." QPR


SPORTING LIFE/Rory Dollard, PA Sport - O'NEILL LAMENTS CUP LOSS
Martin O'Neill was left ruing a missed opportunity after his Aston Villa side slumped to a 1-0 Carling Cup defeat at the hands of QPR.
The Villa boss had targeted the competition as a possible source of silverware and demonstrated his intentions by naming a handful of frontline stars in his starting XI.
There were also six changes from the side which defeated West Brom 2-1 last time out, but the presence of first-team regulars like Ashley Young, John Carew, Stiliyan Petrov and Gareth Barry - back as captain for the first time since his flirtation with a move to Liverpool - was designed to see Villa into the next round.
Instead, Rangers defender Damion Stewart left Carlos Cuellar in his wake to head the Coca-Cola Championship side into the fourth round.
"We put enough into the game to win it. It's a wasted opportunity," said O'Neill.
"When the match is in the balance and you don't take your chances there's always a possibility you might concede and we did.
"We were beaten in the game but if we had been played off the park it would have been a different issue.
"It's naturally disappointing to go out of the competition and not to be in the hat for the next round is really frustrating."
O'Neill was less concerned by the significance - or lack of it - in his decision to hand Barry the armband.
Nevertheless, his restoration as skipper - albeit in Martin Laursen's absence - seems to be final proof that relations between the pair are back on track after the midfielder's dream move to Anfield fell through.
"It's nothing. In the scheme of things it's really unimportant," he said of the decision.
"I'm more disappointed about losing the game so the captaincy is not the thing. I was more than pleased to give it to Gareth and he was more than pleased to get it.
"He didn't hold a speech or anything like that over it but he was, I'm sure, pretty pleased. He doesn't give much away but I think he was pleased - as anyone who gets the captaincy at this football club should be."
Victorious QPR boss Iain Dowie was delighted to see his side match - and better - a side he rates as one of the best in the country through hard work and determination.
"People might ask who I want in the next round but there's not too many bigger sides than them," he said.
"We gave it all we had. I can cope with losing to good sides and maybe on another day Villa would have won. But it's not as though our goalkeeper had to make two or three world-class saves and that is testament to the effort they gave."
Dowie praised Villa winger Ashley Young, who was man of the match by some distance despite finishing on the losing side, but also commented on the home side's physical presence.
"Ashley is one of the best wingers in the world," said Dowie.
"He's a top, top winger and he takes some playing that's for sure. But I picked up their team sheet and... well, they're a big side at the best of times, but they brought in Zat Knight and put Marlon Harewood up front.
"We're a big side too but they are the biggest side on the planet." Sporting Life


Telegraph/Phil Shaw - Iain Dowie's QPR claim scalp of Aston Villa
The team lying fourth in the Premier League were dumped out of the Carling Cup by the side occupying the same position in the Championship last night, Queens Park Rangers overcoming under-strength Aston Villa through a header by defender Damion Stewart early in the second half.
The 28-year-old Stewart, whose career has led him from Harbour View FC in his native Jamaica to Shepherd’s Bush via Bradford City and Darlington, was hailed by Rangers manager Iain Dowie as “a very powerful lad”, though he also acknowledged the excellence of the ball whipped in by Danny Parejo, a 19-year-old on loan from Real Madrid.
Dowie, who was in charge of Coventry when they won at Manchester United at the same stage last season, was delighted to claim another major scalp, especially one managed by one of his Northern Ireland role models, Martin O’Neill. “We’re a big side, but Villa are the biggest team on the planet, so I was pleased with how we worked to the defend set-pieces,” he said. “They’ve got pace and power throughout their side, but we had heart and desire in abundance, and we played a lot better after we scored. I was very proud of the way the lads played.”
O’Neill magnanimously described Rangers as “a fine footballing side” yet felt Villa should have been “out of sight” before Stewart’s intervention. “I accept the fact that it was our fourth match in 10 days but it wasn’t tiredness that beat us. We just couldn’t score, though we had enough chances to win the game. When a game’s in the balance, there’s always a possibility of conceding. That’s what happened and it’s desperately disappointing.”
Rangers rode their luck when Gareth Barry lofted the ball wide with only Radek Cerny to beat with 15 minutes remaining. Otherwise they dealt comfortably with Villa’s territorial ascendancy, even after Gabriel Agbonlahor was sent on to join John Carew and Ashley Young in attack.
O’Neill, mindful of the importance to supporters of a competition Villa have won on five occasions, had promised “phenomenal determination” from a line-up captained by Barry for the first time since his summer courtship with Liverpool. The Villa manager also insisted it was a “colossal game” but rested six first choices. The understudies performed capably enough, but with the possible exception of right-back Craig Gardner, few are likely to have forced their way into O’Neill’s thinking for the first XI at home to Sunderland on Saturday.
One of the understudies, American Olympic goalkeeper Brad Guzan, did not have to make a save worthy of the name on his debut. However, his weak punch from a corner shortly before the hour directed the ball to Parejo on Rangers’ right wing. His cross found Stewart rising in a congested six-yard area to score his third goal of the season.
In the first half, Stewart’s textbook sliding tackle halted Carew as he bore down on goal, while a Young shot flashed past the far post and Marlon Harewood headed over from Young’s cross. Rangers, for all their neat, composed passing, created only one comparable opportunity, but Stewart seized the moment. Telegraph


Guardian/Stuart James - O'Neill laments missed chances as Dowie claims another scalp
Martin O'Neill can no longer reflect on this competition with such fondness. Having won the League Cup twice during his time in charge at Leicester City, the Aston Villa manager has now suffered humbling exits in successive seasons. Unconvincing for periods and desperate in front of goal, Villa were knocked out by lower league opposition for the fourth time in five years last night after Damion Stewart headed the only goal to secure Queens Park Rangers a place in the last 16.

It is a chastening result that will check the optimism in these parts after three away victories in seven days. The belief and confidence shown during that run was badly lacking here, however, as a weakened yet still experienced Villa side toiled against their Championship opponents. Boos reverberated at the final whistle although O'Neill, despite admitting that the result represented "a wasted opportunity", refused to draw parallels with defeat to Leicester this time last year.

"It's desperately disappointing," said the Villa manager. "It's a competition we wanted to win and before they scored we should have been out of sight. We treated the competition with the respect it deserves and we got beaten but it wasn't because we fielded a weakened side. It was just because we couldn't put the ball in the back of the net. It's hugely disappointing but, unlike last year when I felt we didn't do enough against Leicester, tonight we created the chances."

Although O'Neill made six changes from the side that defeated West Bromwich Albion on Sunday, the Villa manager claimed the starting XI, which included Ashley Young, Gareth Barry and John Carew, ought to have been strong enough. That was the theory but Villa lacked conviction, particularly in the final third where Marlon Harewood, afforded a rare start in place of Gabriel Agbonlahor, was guilty of profligacy.

It was Barry, however, who squandered Villa's best opportunity of the evening when, with 15 minutes remaining, the midfielder, wearing the captain's armband for the first time this season, sliced wide with the goal at his mercy. Carlos Cuéllar will also want to forget the evening after he slipped prior to Stewart heading Daniel Parejo's cross emphatically past Brad Guzan from around six yards to give Iain Dowie's side an unexpected lead.

Although Rangers rarely threatened - it was not until Parejo drilled a low shot from 20 yards, after the Jamaica international Stewart's goal, that Guzan had a serious save to make - the visitors grew in confidence after the interval and, Barry's chance apart, rarely looked like surrendering their lead. For Dowie, who masterminded victory over Manchester United at the same stage of the competition last year during his time in charge of Coventry, this was another moment to cherish.

"It was a powerful team Villa put out and I was very proud of the lads with how they played," said Dowie. "With Ashley Young, who has such a great delivery, we knew we would have to be bang on with set-pieces. There was a big sheet in the dressing room saying that and we got it right. We were terrific [defending set-pieces] and that was a key factor." Guardian


The Times/Peter Lansley - Stewart exposes familiar failings for Villa
Never mind Manchester City; it is not so long ago that Queens Park Rangers were hailed as richer than Chelsea. They almost represent old money, but this victory over a strong Aston Villa side was a new high for Iain Dowie’s team, notwithstanding their excellent start to the Coca-Cola Championship campaign. This is the kind of night that Bernie Ecclestone and the other wealthy owners at Loftus Road will be anticipating on a more regular basis.

Fourth in the Championship overcame fourth in the Barclays Premier League, but there did not appear a division between the teams even if Damion Stewart’s winning goal, a powerful header in the 58th minute, represented the rarest of chances for QPR.

Villa, it would seem, have the ability to implode in this competition: this was the fourth time in five seasons that they have been knocked out by lower-division opponents.

Martin O’Neill, the Villa manager, argued that this was not a humiliation to rank with the defeat by Leicester City 12 months ago. They fielded a strong team - with Gareth Barry regaining the captaincy while Martin Laursen was rested - who created several chances that were not taken. Marlon Harewood was the chief culprit as several of Villa’s fringe players failed to maintain the standard of the regulars.

Related Links
Aston Villa find the winning formula
Davies expects hot reception at Hawthorns
Villa have been carrying all before them at home and abroad this season, courtesy of flowing form that brought three wins away from home last week. Their place in the group stage of the Uefa Cup looks assured after the 3-1 win away to Litex Lovech and, if there is any consolation from last night’s exit from a competition that they have won five times, it is the reduction in the number of games they must play.

QPR enter the last 16 of the tournament with some talented players liable to flourish on the higher stage. Daniel Parejo and Emmanuel Ledesma, on loan from Real Madrid and Genoa respectively, were particularly deft. Dowie believes that Akos Buzsaky is capable of top-grade football. More than anything last night, the back four produced immense performances to repel John Carew.

Just when Villa had upped their game, with Ashley Young running at defenders menacingly, the visiting side went ahead. Craig Gardner was adjudged to have conceded a corner and, when Brad Guzan, on an otherwise impressive Villa debut, punched clear, Stewart headed in Parejo’s cross.

Barry should have equalised 15 minutes from time, running clear on to Carew’s flick-on, but he pulled his shot wide. It was a miserable end to a miserable night for Villa.

Aston Villa (4-4-2): B Guzan — C Gardner, Z Knight, C Cuéllar, N Shorey — A Young, S Petrov, I Osbourne (sub: W Routledge, 67min) , G Barry — J Carew, M Harewood (sub: G Agbonlahor, 67). Substitutes not used: B Friedel, N Delfouneso, C Davies, M Salifou, N Reo-Coker. Booked: Cuéllar, Gardner.

Queens Park Rangers (4-4-1-1): R Cerny — M Connolly, F Hall, D Stewart, D Delaney — E Ledesma (sub: A Balanta, 90), D Parejo, G Mahon, M Rowlands — A Buzsaky (sub: M Leigertwood, 81) — P Agyemang (sub; S Di Carmine, 66). Substitutes not used: L Camp, D Blackstock, K Gorkss, H Ephraim. Booked: Delaney.

Referee: L Mason. The Times


Mirror - Aston Villa 0-1 QPR: It's nod Stewart!
By Lee Reynolds 25/09/2008
Iain Dowie loves the odour of the QPR dressing room - and there was the sweet smell of success at Villa Park last night as he pulled off another shock.
Dowie grabbed one of the greatest results of his career this time last season when he was the manager at Coventry - beating Manchester United 2-0 at Old Trafford.
And Damion Stewart's third goal of the season meant Dowie was at it again at Villa Park, as Martin O'Neill's big-four wannabees were left red-faced and out of the competition at the hands of Championship opposition for the second time in a year after their defeat to Leicester last term.

Dowie's hit-and-run raid was perfectly executed as Stewart headed home the 53rd-minute winner.

"I love the smell of the dressing room. I don't mean liniment. I mean the character and the strength of the people in there. They showed that against a team which I think can finish in the top four this season," said Dowie.

"They know how to smile and have a laugh and a joke but, when it comes to being serious and getting the job done, they know how to do that too and I am immensely proud of them. Old Trafford was a pretty special moment for me - but this comes close.
"Martin has to be one of the best managers I have ever come up against and there are not too many bigger clubs in the country than Villa."
Stewart was playing amateur football with Harbour View in Jamaica little more than two years ago and he created the devastation at Villa Park, heading home Daniel Parejo's cross.
But O'Neill insisted that Villa only had themselves to blame and not the six changes he had made to freshen up a squad in the middle of a run of seven games in 21 days.
"We had enough chances to win the game. When the game is in the balance and you don't take your chances, there is always the possibility of conceding a goal," said O'Neill.
"I did not disrespect the competition by fielding a weakened side.
"I wanted to progress and have a chance of winning it. So it is hugely disappointing."
Villa's culprits were their second-string striker Marlon Harewood and, late on, Gareth Barry - who shot wide with only the keeper to beat.
Villa: Guzan, Gardner, Cuellar, Knight, Shorey, Osbourne (Routledge 67), Petrov, Barry, Ashley Young, Harewood (Agbonlahor 67), Carew.
QPR: Cerny, Connolly, Hall, Stewart, Delaney, Mahon, Rowlands, Parejo, Ledesma (Balanta 90), Buzsaky (Leigertwood 81), Agyemang (Di Carmine 66).
Referee: Lee Mason
Attendance: 21,541 Mirror


SPORTING LIFE
Rory Dollard, PA Sport
Aston Villa 0 QPR 1
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By Rory Dollard, PA Sport

Click here for full match stats

Gareth Barry endured a miserable return to captaincy duties as QPR's Damion Stewart dumped Aston Villa out of the Carling Cup with the only goal at Villa Park.

Stewart headed home after 58 minutes to put the Coca-Cola Championship side into the fourth round as a reshuffled Villa side struggled to find any fluency.

Barry was one of only five survivors from Villa's Premier League victory over West Brom and was asked to lead the side for the first time since his dream move to Liverpool fell through.

But despite a lively display from Ashley Young, Villa could not find the goal they needed to force extra-time.

Carlos Cuellar was handed a first home start alongside Zat Knight in a reshuffled Villa defence, while Isaiah Osbourne and goalkeeper Brad Guzan, on debut, were given chances to impress.

The applause when Barry's name was announced to the fans was warm, if a little less than delirious, but the decision suggests that, if any further proof were needed, player and manager are fully reconciled.

Villa had a gilt-edged chance to open the scoring in the 10th minute after fine work down the left from Barry and Nicky Shorey provided Stiliyan Petrov with possession just outside the box.

The Bulgaria international opted not to shoot, instead rolling the ball delicately into Marlon Harewood's path only for the striker to curl his effort over the crossbar from six-yards out.

Emmanuel Ledesma, scorer of a hat-trick in the previous round, showed some neat footwork inside the Villa box to give the hosts a scare but he ran the ball a fraction too far and lost sight of goal.

Young then showed the skill and fleet of foot that mark him out as an England star in the making when he set in motion another Villa attack with a first-time flick with the outside of the boot.

That set Barry scampering down the flank but when he found Harewood in the middle, he could not steer his shot through a clutch of hooped shirts.

Young, predictably, was involved in Villa's next good chance, springing the offside trap before trapping the ball on the touchline and drilling it into the box.

His pass took a deflection before finding Harewood, who snatched at a tough chance and powered it into the stand.

Cuellar, who looked short on composure in his first home start, was booked 10 minutes before the break for dissent.

Young, the liveliest player on the pitch by a handsome margin, looked as though he would send Villa into the break ahead but his sweetly-hit effort curled just wide of the far post.

Osbourne, like Cuellar, appeared to be fluffing his lines on what could be seen as an audition for the first XI, betraying a poor first touch seconds after the restart and immediately ceding possession.

Villa quickly cranked up the pressure, Young earning a corner with a low near-post cross from the right which Harewood might have done better from.

Then, with 58 minutes on the clock, Rangers took an unlikely lead.

The away side won a disputed corner and although that was cleared, Daniel Parejo - on loan from Real Madrid - floated the ball back into the penalty area where Stewart rose to nod a bullet header beyond Guzan.

Panic appeared to be spreading in the home ranks, with a series of mis-hit passes and poor touches serving to spur on their opponents.

With a little over 23 minutes remaining, O'Neill sent on Gabriel Agbonlahor and Wayne Routledge.

O'Neill had probably been hoping to give Agbonlahor, who has endured a heavy workload so far this season, a night off but summoning him from the bench was an obvious show of intent.

After 75 minutes, the chance of an equaliser came and went as Barry spurned the chance to cap his return as skipper with a goal.

Carew flicked on a high ball leaving the onrushing Barry clear on goal. The England midfielder opted to chip the advancing Cerny but failed to hit the target.

It did not get any better for Villa, who by now were tossing away possession liberally.

Routledge screwed a presentable chance wide with three minutes to play, ending Villa's hopes of a sixth League Cup with a whimper. Sporting Life


Daily Mail/Neil Moxley - Dowie delivers again: This time it's Villa as Stewart sees QPR through

Manager Iain Dowie followed his Carling Cup triumph at Manchester United last season with a similar success at Aston Villa as Damion Stewart pulled off the perfect smash-and-grab raid.

The Queens Park Rangers boss was in charge at Coventry City when he upset Sir Alex Ferguson 12 months ago and he did likewise to Martin O’Neill last night as the Irishman paid for tinkering with his in-form side.

Stewart powerfully nodded home a 58th-minute winner to bring Rangers their first victory on a Barclays Premier League ground since 1996 as Villa, shorn of six of the side that recorded three away wins last week, failed to come up to scratch.

Dowie said: ‘I think last year just shades it. It would have to because they ended up as Premier League champions and European Champions.

‘But I’m old enough to remember Villa when they did that, the side with Tony Morley and Dennis Mortimer. This is a big, big football club and a big, big club to pay for, so I’m very pleased.’
Dowie had every reason to feel happy as his tactics of playing Patrick Agyemang up front on his own paid off. Stewart’s header was their first direct effort on goal and they survived a late scare to advance into the last 16.
He said: ‘We knew we would have to be bang-on at set-pieces and we were terrific. They are a powerful team and Martin O’Neill is one of the best managers I’ve come up against.’
O’Neill risked being embarrassed like last year when Leicester City pulled off a similar result after he had rested several of his side.
That did not prove enough of a deterrent for him to continue with his best team, although mainstays such as Ashley Young, Gareth Barry and John Carew started.
However, more than half the side that won 2-1 at West Bromwich on Sunday were rested. It was a pity that Marlon Harewood was not among them. He was Villa’s culprit-in-chief in front of goal. O’Neill remarked, quite rightly, that this setback was different from 12 months ago as Villa did not deserve to progress.
Harewood had two chances that simply begged to be put away. He was put through by Stiliyan Petrov in the 10th minute, only to send the ball over the bar. Then, just before the interval, he charged on to an Ashley Young centre but with Rangers’ goalkeeper Radek Cerny stranded headed over.
The winner arrived after Rangers had fortuitously been awarded a corner. The ball was half cleared and Daniel Parejo helped it back into the area. Stewart, who already has two goals to his credit this term, ran on to the cross to beat Villa’s debutant goalkeeper Brad Guzan.
Villa wasted a glorious late chance to take the tie into extra-time. Gareth Barry, restored to the captaincy to confirm that there is no longer a rift between him and his boss following the upheaval that almost saw him quit the club, broke free of the packed midfield. He gambled that Carew would win a flick-on and was left to lob Cerny to equalise. However, his shot was skewed and bounced the wrong side of the upright.
O’Neill who won this competition twice with Leicester City, said: ‘It was a frustrating night. We had enough chances to win the game. I’m the first one to criticise but I thought we should have been out-of-sight before they scored. We were beaten, but it wasn’t because I fielded a weakened side.’ Daily Mail


Sunday MERCURY/Andy Walker - Aston Villa 0 QPR 1

THE TEMPORARY return of Villa's Captain Marvel couldn't stop the claret and blue wave crashing to an end at the hands of group of loaded Londoners with a cup specialist at the helm.

Villa boss Martin O'Neill sprung a surprise before kick-off by naming Gareth Barry as his skipper just over a month after the England man was sensationally stripped of the captaincy following the bust-up over his failed move to Liverpool.

However even putting Barry back in charge, albeit temporarily due to the omission of Martin Laursen and Nigel Reo-Coker, couldn't stop Iain Dowie adding another Premier League scalp to his impressive array of Premier League victims.

Last season, while in charge of his former club Coventry, Dowie masterminded giantkilling operations over Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers in the Carling Cup and FA Cup respectively. And at Villa Park he managed to guide QPR to their first victory over Premier League opposition since their relegation from the top flight thanks to a second-half Damion Stewart goal.

It turned out to be a case of deja vu for Villa who were knocked out of last season's Carling Cup by then-Championship outfit Leicester City, again by a solo goal in the second half.

QPR, backed by mega rich owners Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone, presented the slippiest of banana skins and Villa fell flat on their face to ensure that no West Midlands teams will advance to the last 16 of the Carling Cup.

At times Villa toyed with QPR, Ashley Young's typical mazy runs and John Carew's frightening power in the box ensuring that their visitors had plenty to think about.

But when Rs defender Stewart rose highest to power home Daniel Parejo's cross past the unimposing figure of debutant goalkeeper Brad Guzan just before the hour mark, it was enough to see off in-form Villa, who were previously undefeated in their last five games.

There were six changes from the side that beat Albion 2-1 on Sunday but surprisingly their was no rest for Villa's big-hitters Barry, Carew and Young. American keeper Guzan was handed his debut between the sticks while Marlon Harewood, Zat Knight, Carlos Cuellar, Isaiah Osbourne and Craig Gardner all made the starting line-up.

Perennial substitute Osbourne, who this week put pen-to-paper on a new three-year deal, showed signs of rustiness during the first half with the odd poor touch and misplaced pass but that is unsurprising for a player who barely gets a whiff of first-team action. Meanwhile Gardner, clearly not a right-back, often showed signs of weakness in his makeshift position.

Spaniard Cuellar looked eager to stamp his mark on the match but his risky lunge on Emmanuel Ledesma, as the midfielder teased the Villa defence on the fringes of the box, could have cost his side a penalty early on, fortunately the Argentine skipped past his trailing legs.

Cuellar, who also attempted to get his name on the scoresheet in the 25th minute but could only head Young's cross wide of the mark, narrowly outshone his centre half partner Zat Knight in the first-half. But after the break error-prone Knight looked much more in control at the back.

Villa have so far scored 21 goals this season but Harewood hasn't bagged one of them and at times his desperation to get off the mark this season showed.

The ex-Hammer blazed his first effort over in the 12 minute after latching on to Stiliyan Petrov's neat throughballl. Harewood attempted to carve out his own opener 15 minutes later, a smart turn set the burly frontman loose on goal but visiting right-back Matthew Connolly tracked back well to halt his progress. Then with half-time approaching, Harewood failed to nod home Young's testing corner from the left following some suspect goalkeeping from the less-than-impressive Radek Cerny. It was no surprise when goal-shy Harewood was replaced by Holte End hero Gabby Agbonlahor in the second half as Villa desperately went in search of a winner.

As the rain poured down after the break, Stewart's goal rocked Villa and visably lifted QPR. However, despite the earlier goal, it wasn't until the 75th minute when Guzan was truly tested when the ex-Chivas man palmed away a solid long-range effort from Parejo.

Substitute Wayne Routledge and Gardner spurned decent chances for the hosts late on but it was Barry who wasted the best chance to complete his transformation from villain to Villan and drag this tie into extra time.

With 15 minutes remaining, Barry only had Cerny to beat after Carew's flick had put him in on goal but the midfielder hit his side-footed effort wide of the left hand post to sum up a miserable night for high-flying Villa. Sunday Mercury

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QPR move into the Fourth Round!


QPR OFFICIAL SITE - DOWIE: A SPECIAL NIGHT
Iain Dowie saluted the goal that booked Rangers' place in the Fourth Round of the Carling Cup.
Damion Stewart bagged the crucial winner, rising high to nod home Dani Parejo's cross, as the R's stunned the Villa Park faithful with a 1-0 win.
"Dani's delivery for the goal was excellent," Dowie told www.qp.co.uk.
"We worked on it in training yesterday and I wasn't altogether happy with it, but to be fair to him, he's put a first class delivery in and Damion's absolutely buried it.
"It was a great delivery and a great header - worthy of winning the match in my opinion."
Backed by 2,500-plus Rangers fans, Dowie's men showed courage and heart against their high-flying Premiership opponents.
It was a performance that didn't go unnoticed by the R's boss.
"It's a special night for us - terrific," said Dowie.
"To come to a Club like this, led by a Manager like Martin O'Neill, and to win and keep a clean sheet is just unbelievable.
"Martin always manages to get the best out of his players and I'm incredibly proud that we've come here and upset the odds."
Both sides made changes for the Third Round tie in the Midlands, but Villa still including six full internationals - and even introduced hot-shot Gabi Agbonlahor from the bench in the second half.
"I looked at the team sheet and they were as big as they could be and they've got excellent set-piece delivery, so we were well aware of what we were up against.
"We were concerned that we'd have to defend well and we did that magnificently.
"To be honest, I don't think we played as well as we're capable of, in terms of keeping the ball. We gave it away a lot in important areas.
"Defensively though we were terrific and I don't think Radek has really had a top save to make."
Dowie added: "I'm proud of each and every one of the lads and it's a really pleasing result.
"When you come to a side that can bring on a player like Gabi Agbonlahor and in my opinion they've got one of the best wingers in the game in Ashley Young, it will always cause you problems, but we coped with it really well.
"I thought we had loads of possession up until the edge of the penalty box, but we didn't use the ball well enough.
"We gave them such cheap giveaways and they've got blistering pace which could have really hurt us.
"But out defensive shape improve as the game went on and we got the desired result." QPR


Aston Villa Official Site -MArtin O'Neil
Martin O'Neill revealed his bitter disappointment at Villa's exit from the Carling Cup but insisted: "We had the chances to win the game!"
The Villa boss told AVTV Online: "It's a desperate disappointment and hard to take because I felt we should have won.
"We had a number of chances in the game, particularly in the first half, but we spurned them.
"You do worry that they might come back to haunt you - but I always felt we were in control of the match.
"While there were moments in the game where QPR looked a fine, talented and entertaining side, the fact is we had enough chances to get through. "But it doesn't matter how well you play between the penalty boxes, you have to score when you have the opportunity and defend when you have to.
"I have to say there weren't that many times when we had to defend. I remember Craig Gardner getting a block in in the first half and a couple of 35-yarders that didn't really trouble us.
"I feel if we had scored one of our chances in the first half, we would have gone on to win the game. We are really disappointed.
"People will say it's déjà vu from last season but I disagree.
"In terms of the result, I can't argue but in terms of the performance, I think we should have won tonight. I can't remember too many positives from the game against Leicester." Aston VIlla


QPR Official Site: Aston Villa 0 QPR 1
Damion Stewart's second half header booked Rangers' place in the Fourth Round of the Carling Cup, on a night to remember for Iain Dowie's side.
The Jamaican international leapt to head home Daniel Parejo's pin-point cross, as the R's - backed by 2,500 fanatical fans - claimed the notable scalp of a Villa side currently sitting pretty in fourth spot in the Premiership.
Victory was no less than the R's deserved, as Villa failed to breakdown a resolute Rangers defence, led magnificently by Fitz Hall.
To a man, Rangers out-battled and out-foxed the hosts, with a Radek Cerny a virtual spectator in the R's goal.
Rangers made five changes to the side that was beaten in the Championship by Coventry City on Saturday, as Daniel Parejo, Fitz Hall, Matt Connolly and Patrick Agyemang all returned to the starting line-up at the expense of Mikele Leigertwood, Kaspars Gorkss, Peter Ramage and Dexter Blackstock, who all - with the exception of Ramage - took up seats on the bench.
The final change was warmly greeted by the travelling support, as Akos Buzsaky made his first start of the season, with Lee Cook making way.
Villa Manager Martin O'Neill chose a strong side to contest the tie, despite making five changes of his own. In came Brad Guzan - making his debut - Carlos Cuellar, Isaiah Osbourne, Zat Knight and Marlon Harewood to the team that triumphed in the Birmingham derby last weekend.
A lively opening and neat one-touch football from the visitors led to Buzsaky registering the first effort on goal, but his shot from the edge of the box flew high and wide.
Emmanuel Ledesma tried his luck minutes later, but his shot from even further out had a similar outcome.
The boisterous R's fans were in full voice as their team made a bright start to the game against their Premiership opponents.
Finally, Villa created an opening of their own, as Stiliyan Petrov slipped a perfect through ball for Harewood, who could only curl his shot over the Rangers bar.
Ashley Young then forced Cerny into his first save, not that it was too difficult. Switching to the left, he was fed by Gareth Barry and cut inside, but could not get enough power on his curling strike.
Parejo saw a free-kick smack the wall minutes later, as the R's it back.
Back came Villa and a surging John Carew run was only halted by a superb recovery tackle from Stewart.
The game was seesawing back and forth and Ledesma again saw an effort curl high and wide after being picked out by the roaming Parejo.
Seconds later, Harewood latched on to a Carew flick-on and was only denied the opening goal of the game by another fantastic recovery challenge, this time from Connolly.
Sloppy defending almost saw Young net as the game burst back into life after a period of stalemate. The Villa winger picked up on a loose ball and again tried to bend the ball around Cerny, only to see his effort fly well wide.
Harewood missed a glaring chance on the stroke of half-time, as Young crossed from the left and the big striker sent his header from four yards out over the bar.
Villa opened the second half the brighter despite the weather deteriorating and Young's dangerous cross was only just gathered ahead of the onrushing Harewood.
Despite the home side's stronger start to the half, it was Rangers who bagged the crucial opening goal on 58 minutes.
Buzsaky fortunately won, then took a corner that was only half cleared to Parejo on the right hand side.
The Spaniard's inch-perfect cross back into the box met the head of Stewart, who rose unchallenged to power home his tenth goal in QPR colours, beyond the outstretched hand of the exposed Guzan.
The hard working Agyemang made way for Samuel Di Carmine on 65 minutes to give the R's a stronger presence up front.
O'Neill responded to going a goal behind by throwing on winger Wayne Routledge and England Under-21 hot-shot Gabriel Agbonlahor.
And his double substitution nearly paid off five minutes later.
Young's long ball was expertly flicked on by Carew and with the Rangers defence all at sea, Barry ghosted clean through, only to scuff his attempted chip wide of Cerny's right hand post.
Buoyed by their reprieve, the R's went straight back up the other end and Parejo - who was becoming more and more influential as the half wore on - stung the palms of Guzan with a rasping 25-yard drive.
After putting his side ahead, Stewart was equally effective at the other end of the park, successfully winning a plethora of headers, as Villa looked to utilise the height and physical presence of Norwegian front-man Carew in their pursuit of an equaliser.
Despite their best efforts though, it was Rangers who prevailed, to book their place in Saturday's fourth round draw.
Aston Villa: Guzan, Barry, Young, Harewood (Agbonlahor 68), Carew, Knight, Petrov, Shorey, Cuellar, Gardner, Osbourne (Routledge 68).
Subs: Friedel, Delfouneso, Davies, Salifou, Reo-Coker.
Goals:
Bookings: Cuellar (34), Gardner (60)
Sendings Off:
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Mahon, Hall, Parejo, Buzsaky (Leigertwood 82), Agyemang (Di Carmine 66), Rowlands, Connolly, Ledesma (Balanta 91).
Subs: Camp, Blackstock, Gorkss, Ephraim.
Goals: Stewart (58)
Bookings: Delaney (81)
Sendings Off: Referee: Mr L Mason Attendance: 21, 541 QPR Official Site


ASTON VILLA OFFICIAL SITE - VILLA 0-1 QPR
la suffered League Cup disappointment for the second year running as Martin O'Neill's men went down 1-0 to QPR.
The home side dominated the first half but didn't get the rewards their effort deserved.
Marlon Harewood blasted over the bar and saw a header fly wide in an opening 45 minutes when Martin O'Neill's side were primarily on the offensive.
Damion Stewart settled the tie just before the hour mark as he headed home a Daniel Parejo centre.
Villa showed plenty of endeavour in the second period but couldn't find a way past a resolute QPR defence.
Buzsaky saw a 30-yard shot fly well over the bar on three minutes.
Young's corner on six was met by Harewood but his header didn't hit the target.
Harewood blasted over the bar from close range after a magnificent through ball from Petrov on 12.
Young ran at Connolly down the left and cut inside but his low shot went straight at Cerny on 15.
Harewood, from a tight angle on the right, saw hit shot well parried by Cerny on 19. Parejo saw his 25-yard free-kick cannon into the wall on 21.
Carew made a terrific run down the right on 25 but he couldn't cut the ball back to Harewood.
Cuellar headed wide of Cerny's left hand post a minute later from a great left-footed centre from Barry.
Harewood did brilliantly to evade his man with a wonderful overhead kick on 27 but his path to goal was well marshalled by Hall.
Harewood drove wildly over the bar on 35. Cuellar was booked on 36.
Young curled a shot wide of Cerny's left-hand post after great work from Osbourne down the left on 38.
The wing wizard produced a wonderful cross from the left on 43 but Harewood couldn't direct his header past Cerny.
Young again was the provider on 52 as his low cross went into the danger area but Harewood couldn't quite reach the impressive centre.

Petrov tried his luck on 54 but it flew a way wide of Cerny's right-hand post.

Stewart headed home a Parejo cross on 58 to give the visitors the lead.

Petrov did well to evade two challenges but his 20-yard strike went straight into the arms of Cerny on 63.

Di Carmine replaced Agyemang on 67. Then Routledge and Agbonlahor came on for Osbourne and Harewood.

Knight put across a magnificent ball on 70 to Young on the left. The winger cut inside but, once again, Cerny was in the right place to parry the shot.

Barry had a glorious chance to equalise as he ran through the Rangers defence but he miscued his shot wide from 10 yards out on 75.

Parejo's 25-yarder was well parried by Guzan a minute later. Gardner saw a 15-yard strike fly wide of Cerny's post on 79.

Delaney was booked for a wild challenge on Routledge on 80. Leigertwood replaced Buzsaky on 81.

Routledge wasted a chance to cross on 84 as he found himself in space down the right. He then fired wide on 86 from a central area.

Balanta replaced Ledesma on 90 as QPR looked to run down the clock.

VILLA: Guzan; Gardner BOOKED, Knight, Cuellar BOOKED, Shorey; Osbourne, Petrov, Barry, Young; Carew, Harewood. Subs: Friedel, Agbonlahor (for Harewood, 67), Delfouneso, Davies, Salfou, Routledge (for Osbourne, 67), Reo-Coker.

QPR: Cerny, Delaney BOOKED, Stewart, Mahon, Hall, Parejo, Buzsaky, Agyemang, Rowlands, Connolly, Ledesma. Subs: Camp, Leigertwood (for Buzsaky, 81), Blackstock, Gorkss, Balanta (for Ledesma, 90), Di Carmine (for Agyemang, 67), Ephraim.

Att: 24,541 ASton Villa

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Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - Stand up if you love Rangers
IT'S still unclear whether we can expect some form of organised demonstration of discontent from QPR fans at Saturday's game against Derby.
But if there isn't any, that says more about the way the club has changed than any number of fireworks displays, supermodels, or classy cuisine in the executive boxes ever could. Remember the sit-down protest at the Manchester City game after the horrendous notion of 'Fulham Park Rangers' became a very real threat in 1987?
Or the pitch invasion against Leeds seven years later by supporters who were upset and bewildered at the way owner Richard Thompson was steadily dismantling a team of genuine promise to balance the books?
Let's stress that we do NOT advise anyone to invade the Loftus Road pitch on Saturday, or at any other match.
But, if QPR fans care enough about the recent saga over ticket prices, they need to display their displeasure - and a united front - to the club's owners in some way before, during or after the Derby game.
It's bad enough that Flavio Briatore - and let's be clear, it is he who makes the decisions, not Messrs Ecclestone or Mittal - thinks it acceptable to fleece fans for £50 a time to watch a team who have not yet won anything or come close to doing so.
But, even after the Football League intervened to prevent Rangers raising prices for Derby fans, there was no real climbdown from Briatore - only a rather puzzling club statement thanking those who had actually forked out an obscene price for 'platinum' seats.
It has been truly alarming to see some comments on supporters' internet forums, reminding us all that, but for Briatore's buy-out just over a year ago, the future of QPR would have been a return to administration at best.
True as that may be, it does not make it acceptable for him - or anyone else - to turn the club into his plaything, a corporate entity shrouded by marketing and rebranding and despised by fans of other clubs for an attitude that is cold-hearted and smacks of greed.
Whatever Briatore thinks, a club loses its soul if it brazenly disenfranchises its traditional fanbase.
This may be a 'new era'. But it's still as vital as ever for the fans to show their passion for QPR has not dimmed. Kilburn Times

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Tonight's Teams:

QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Mahon, Hall, Parejo, Buzsaky, Agyemang, Rowlands, Connolly, Ledesma. Subs: Camp, Leigertwood, Blackstock, Gorkss, Balanta, Di Carmine, Ephraim.


Aston Villa Official Site: "Villa make six changes from the side that defeated West Brom 2-1 on Sunday.
VILLA: Guzan; Gardner, Knight, Cuellar, Shorey; Osbourne, Petrov, Barry, Young; Carew, Harewood. Subs: Friedel, Agbonlahor, Delfouneso, Davies, Salfou, Routledge, Reo-Coker. Aston Villa

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[Updated/Edited Link to actually work!]
In a cartoon! - QPR Prices: Cartoon in Autosport Magazine

Derby Manager Paul Jewell: Ticket price win is good news for fans
PAUL Jewell is pleased for the Derby County supporters following the club’s victory in their ticket-price row with Queen’s Park Rangers.
QPR wanted to charge Rams fans up to £40 to attend Saturday’s game at Loftus Road – £10 more than originally agreed – but a Football League ruling has prevented the West London club from doing so.
Jewell thinks the extras charge would have been outrageous.
“I think £30 is a lot of money to watch a Championship match. They [QPR]were going to raise it £10 for our fans which is outrageous,” said Jewell.
“I’m sure we’ll have a good following there but this is a victory for our supporters and common sense.” Derby County anticipates having tickets for the game available for sale from Pride Park Stadium at 6pm tonight.
The tickets – priced £30 and £25 for adults with concessions – are being sent by QPR today.
Tickets will also be available for sale to Derby fans on the day at Loftus Road, via cash turnstiles on the School End of the ground on Bloemfontein Road. Rams


Derby County Official Site - BUY NOW FOR THE QPR TRIP
Tickets for the Rams' trip to Queens Park Rangers on Saturday are currently on sale by calling 0871 472 1884 and from the Pride Park Stadium ticket office.
They are be priced as follows:
Upper tier: Adults - £30 Juniors - £20 Seniors - £20 Young adults - £20
Lower tier: Adults - £25 Juniors - £15 Seniors - £15 Young adults - £15
Due to the exceptional circumstances surrounding this game there will be no ticket priority sales system.
Tickets will also be available for sales on the day for Derby fans at Loftus Road, via cash turnstiles on the School End of the ground on Bloemfontein Road. Derby


The Guardian/Matt Scott- Fans pay for takeover
Queens Park Rangers might be the richest club in the land - at least until Sheikh Mansour Al Nahyan's takeover of Manchester City is completed - but fans should be careful what they wish for. Loftus Road is a billionaires' playground, with Bernie Ecclestone, Flavio Briatore, left, and Lakshmi Mittal on the board. Yet that has not prevented price hikes to £50 for "platinum" tickets as QPR (only trophy the 1967 League Cup) is transformed into what they like to think of as a boutique club. A £10 price increase was due to be levied on visiting fans ahead of the "Category A" match against Derby County this weekend; until the Football League's board pointed out on Monday that mid-season price increases for away fans are illegal under its regulations. Guardian

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Kilburn Times/Ben Kosky - Got a Buz around the place again!
A WEEK is a long time in football, apparently - so five months is like an eternity when you consider the pace of player turnover at QPR.
During Akos Buzsaky's enforced spell on the sidelines, Rangers brought in three players - Emmanuel Ledesma, Lee Cook and Daniel Parejo - who all operate in the Hungarian's preferred zone of influence behind a main striker.
So it's little surprise that Buzsaky reiterated his willingness to fill any role required of him after finally returning to action with a 10-minute run-out as a substitute at Norwich last week.
But, whereas the former Plymouth playmaker often appeared marginalised on the right wing last season, the 4-2-3-1 system favoured by new boss Iain Dowie should allow him to flourish fully.
"If I have to play centre-back, I'll do that," Buzsaky told the Times. "Of course I prefer to play behind the striker, because that's the area where you can create chances and play passes through.
"Dani is also a very good player and he's in that position as well, so if the gaffer wants me to play on the right side, I will - although Ledesma is doing very well there.
"The most important thing is to be in the team and I will give 100 per cent in any position. The bigger the competition, the harder you have to train and the better player you'll be.
"I'm prepared for that. There are a lot of good players and good personalities too and it's not a fight for places - competition helps everyone and helps the team spirit, which brings the club forward."
Buzsaky played a significant role in ushering QPR away from the lower reaches of the Championship last season after joining the club in November on loan and completing a £500,000 transfer two months later.
A healthy 10 goals in 27 games placed him at the head of the club's scoring charts, but a persistent ankle problem ended his season prematurely after the home game against Charlton in mid-April.
"My ankle was always inflamed and I had a few scans. They couldn't really see what was going on, but I knew something was wrong because recovery was taking a lot of time," Buzsaky recalled.
"So I decided to have the operation and they found a split in the ligament, then I had to go through the treatment and rehabilitation, so it felt like a really long summer.
"I'm so happy to be back - you can train as hard as you like, but you can only get the match rhythm from a game. Hopefully I can build my fitness and be in form very soon.
"That's the past and I want to talk about the future - I'm really happy about the team and how we're doing this season. We are strong now and we want to keep going."
The 26-year-old midfielder has now spent nearly four years at this level since joining Plymouth from Porto - and is relishing the chance to finally be involved in a challenge to reach the next level.
"Every year in this league is hard and you have to fight for three points every time, you can't go to any team and expect to win," added Buzsaky.
"Of course I want to be in the Premier League one day. The most important thing is to be back playing and help the team perform well - and I'm sure I can be in the Premier League with this team. Kilburn Times


Gareth Ainsworth/Kilburn Times On Coventry Game and Looking to Derby and Blackpool "...Still, replays wouldn't have done us any good at Coventry with the penalty we conceded - it was fairly clear-cut and we can't complain.
Overall I felt a draw would probably have been fair. We absolutely battered Coventry in the second half and a few of their players knew they'd been quite lucky when they came off at full-time.
We had positives, though - not conceding from open play again, Akos getting minutes under his belt and the fact that despite losing the game, we're still fourth in the league.
In the past we might have settled for four points from our next two home games, but now we have to aim for all six.
Derby could be tricky - it's a situation where they're still feeling the shock of relegation and trying to get out of a rut.
They were always going to win at some stage, but you need more than one win if you're going to compete and I don't think we'll see the best of Derby for some time yet.
Paul Jewell's sides always work hard when he's able to bring in his own players and I get the feeling he's still in the middle of that process now.
The Championship has a habit of swallowing up a big club every now and then - as QPR know only too well - and Derby have to be careful that doesn't happen to them.
Blackpool aren't as big a club as Derby, but they're in good form at the moment and it's always pleasing if you can beat a team in form.
I'm sure Nards will have a point to prove if he plays. He never really got a run at QPR and because he's a player who really thrives on confidence and scoring goals, it didn't work out for him here.
But the lads will know how to handle him and the rest of the Blackpool team - and I'm sure we've got the firepower to do some damage at the other end of the pitch as well. Kilburn Times


Mirror - QPR will have to splash out to make loanee Lee Cook permanent
QPR will be told they still have to pay £1.7m to sign Fulham winger Lee Cook in January if they want the loan player on a permanent deal. Mirror


Football 365 -OSBOURNE PRIMED FOR BIG VILLA CHANCE
Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill may rest some of his regulars for tonight's Carling Cup third round tie against Queens Park Rangers - and one player hoping to take advantage is midfielder Isaiah Osbourne.
The 21-year-old signed a new three-year deal on Tuesday, which commits him to the club until 2011.
"I am delighted Isaiah has signed. He has ability and great strength and his attitude has been fantastic this season," said O'Neill.
"His contract was running out and we wanted to renew it. We think he has a future here and importantly, so does Isaiah."
Striker John Carew believes QPR are destined to join them in the Barclays Premier League.
"QPR are one of the most high-profile teams in the Championship and they have masses of potential," Carew told the club's website, www.avfc.co.uk.
"They are an up-and-coming club and I fully expect them to be a Premier League team soon.
"It is a massive game for us and we have to be thoroughly prepared for it.
"They may be in the division below us but there's no doubt they will be up for it.
"You always get that in these cup games because they are after the ultimate scalp - a Premier League club.
"We are desperate to win some silverware here at Villa - it's been too long for the supporters. The League Cup offers a big chance for us to do well.
"We would love to go all the way to the final and a date at Wembley." Football 365


Telegraph/Oliver Pickup - Carling Cup: QPR's Ian Dowie will drop old pals act when his side face Aston Villa
Queens Park Rangers manager Iain Dowie will put friendship to one side when he attempts to defeat his mentor Martin O'Neill in the Carling Cup.

The former Northern Ireland internationals, who became good friends two years ago while at the World Cup in Germany, will go head to head when the west Londoners take on Aston Villa at Villa Park.
Elder statesman O'Neill, 56, who made 64 appearances for his country, has offered advice and hot drinks to 59-cap Dowie during his management career.
The 43-year-old Dowie said: "Martin and I spent a lot of time together at the World Cup in Germany and we got to know each other very well and are good friends.
"I always keep track of him and of course there is the Northern Ireland connection too.
"I've been for a cup of tea in his office a few times. He is a very busy man but he has been very helpful."
Dowie, who scored for Crystal Palace in the 1994-95 FA Cup semi-final at Villa Park to take Manchester United to a replay, is envious of the firepower his opposite number can call upon.
"Martin has put Gabriel Agbonlahor in, and bought in other English youngsters Nigel Reo-Coker, Ashley Young, Luke Young, Curtis Davies and Nicky Shorey," the former Coventry manager added.
"Martin's side has a very good balance and it is refreshing what he is doing in regards to selecting young Englishmen, when these days teams are packed with foreigners.
"In Ashley Young – one of the best natural wingers in the game – and Agbonlahor you have the cream of British talent.
"I went to watch them on Sunday against West Bromwich and they were a real potent attacking threat.
"I don't think I need to get my players up for it. If you are not up for playing against the best young British players in the country then you should not be in the game."
On the prospect of QPR, who are fourth in the Championship, progressing to the fourth round of the Carling Cup, Dowie said: "We have a very pacey defence but it is difficult when Agbonlahor drops off and even if you hold a high line he can get behind you. And John Carew is a big part of his game and a good foil for him, so we will have to be on our game."
Aston Villa's Norwegian international striker is impressed with Iain Dowie's team. John Carew believes his side's Carling Cup opponents are destined to join them in the Barclays Premier League.
He said: "QPR are one of the most high-profile teams in the Championship and they have masses of potential.
"They are an up-and-coming club and I fully expect them to be a Premier League team soon. It is a massive game for us and we have to be thoroughly prepared for it. They may be in the division below us but there's no doubt they will be up for it.
"You always get that in these cup games because they are after the ultimate scalp – a Premier League club.
"We are desperate to win some silverware here at Villa – it's been too long for the supporters. The League Cup offers a big chance for us to do well. We would love to go all the way to the final and a date at Wembley."
Villa boss Martin O'Neill may rest some of his regulars for the match – and one player hoping to take advantage is midfielder Isaiah Osbourne.
The 21-year-old signed a new three-year deal, which commits him to the club until 2011.
O'Neill said: "I am delighted Isaiah has signed. He has ability and great strength and his attitude has been fantastic this season. His contract was running out and we waited to renew it.
"We think he has a future here and importantly, so does Isaiah." Telegraph


Two Ex-QPR Birthdays
Matt Rose Turns 33. Born September 24, 1975
Spent ten seasons with QPR before being released to join Yeovil (He left in the summer, and may have retired). The unluckily often-injured Rose has played some 200+ games. Rose was signed for 500,000 pounds from Arsenal by Stuart Houston in the summmer of 1997. Rose/Stats See also: Matt Rose Remembered

Rufus Brevett Turns 39 - Born September 24, 1969
Signed by Don Howe from Doncaster Rovers in March 1991, (around the same time that QPR also signed defenders Peacock and Tillson.) Brevett played almost 150 games for QPR before being sold to Fulham in January 1998 (in what generally came to be seen as a bad move by QPR!). For a few months was 'Sporting Director' at Swindon after the club's takeover. Brevett/Stats See also: Wikipedia/Brevett


- Vital Football Aston Villa Interview with Vital Football QPR/Fan Adam Boxer -- Vital Football Aston Villa

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A lot of fans will be very happy with this outcome; but in the Official Statement, not a single reference to the massive controversy that's been going on all week; and not a reference to pricing for future home games. From the Official site, one wouldn't know what's been really going on; and long term, some might think that somewhat damages the credibility of the site

QPR Official Site - MATCHDAY TICKET PRICE UPDATE
- The Club are pleased to announce that it has now sold out all Platinum (£50) tickets for Saturday's Coca Cola Championship fixture against Derby County at Loftus Road.
- The Board of Directors would like to thank the QPR fans for their continued support.
- The Club can also confirm that matchday ticket prices for the category A fixture against the Rams will reflect the ticket prices on offer to the visiting supporters.
- Tickets in the Upper Loft will be priced at £30, while Lower Loft seats will be available for £25. QPR


GUARDIAN -Football League rules in Derby's favour in QPR ticket row
· League decides against QPR's £10 price hike
· Tickets will be available to Derby fans from this evening
QPR argued that the increase was 'to provide a better standard of entertainment for home and away fans'.
The Football League has ruled in favour of Derby County in the disagreement with Championship rivals Queens Park Rangers over ticket prices. The London club wanted to increase prices by £10 for the game at Loftus Road on Saturday, despite Derby's claim that prices of £30 for adults and £20 for concessions had been agreed over the summer.
Derby complained to the League and, as QPR faced the prospect of no away fans at Saturday's fixture, the governing body ruled that the tickets must be sold at the originally agreed price.
John Vicars, Derby's vice-president of operations, welcomed the ruling and tickets will now go on sale from Pride Park this evening. "Derby County are pleased with the Football League's decision," said Vicars. "We will now be working closely with QPR to sort out the swift distribution of tickets to our supporters. We therefore look forward to seeing plenty of Rams fans at Loftus Road this Saturday supporting the team."
QPR said the increase in ticket prices at Loftus Road this season was to help maintain budgets previously set to provide a better standard of entertainment for home and away fans.
Read Tom Lutz's blog on QPR's financial woes -- Guardian


Soccernet - League block QPR from hiking prices up further
The Football League have ruled in favour of Derby in the disagreement with Championship rivals QPR over ticket prices.
The London club wanted to increase prices by £10 for the game at Loftus Road on Saturday, despite County's claim that prices of £30 for adults and £20 for concessions had been agreed over the summer.
In a statement, John Vicars, Derby's vice president of operations, welcomed the ruling. He said: "Derby County are pleased with the Football League's decision.
"We will now be working closely with QPR to sort out the swift distribution of tickets to our supporters.
"We therefore look forward to seeing plenty of Rams fans at Loftus Road this Saturday supporting the team.'' Soccernet


- See Also Earlier re Ticket Prices:

- League Rule Against QPR: Derby Comment...QPR Remain Silent

- "QPR Ticket Update - From Derby County (Continued Silence from QPR)

- QPR Fan Groups United in QPR Protest - One-QPR Statement- Joint QPR Fan Groups Protest Supposedly Planned

- QPR's Price Increases: Compilation of QPR's Various Statements and Fan and Media Reactions

- "Continued Media Attention on QPR's Price Increases"

-
Derby County Official Site - SATURDAY TICKETS UPDATE
Derby County Football Club anticipates having tickets for Saturday's game at Queens Park Rangers available for purchase from Pride Park Stadium at 6pm today.
The tickets are being sent by QPR today and will be on sale at this evening's player signing session at shopDCFC following their arrival.
They will be priced as follows:
Upper tier:
Adults - £30
Juniors - £20
Seniors - £20
Young adults - £20
Lower tier:
Adults - £25
Juniors - £15
Seniors - £15
Young adults - £15
After tonight's signing session, the tickets will be available in store at the ticket office and over the telephone on 0871 472 1884 from 9am on Wednesday.
Due to the exceptional circumstances surrounding this game there will be no ticket priority sales system.
Tickets will also be available for sales on the day for Derby fans at Loftus Road, via cash turnstiles on the School End of the ground on Bloemfontein Road.
Derby

To Follow, to see if/when QPR do make any announcement, see QPR Official Site

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Tough cup game for QPR tomorrow: Aston Villa Away: Location of perhaps QPR's most momentous location: Gaining promotion to the old-First Division, forty years ago, this past May. Even if Aston Villa play a number of their non-First team regulars, a tough game for QPR against 4th place Aston Villa...Aston Villa's First Team Squad


QPR Official Site VILLA TICKET UPDATE
Aston Villa v QPR - Carling Cup 3rd Round - Wednesday 24th September 2008 - Kick Off 7:45pm
This fixture is now an ALL TICKET affair - no tickets available on the night. Please do not travel without a ticket.
4000 tickets remaining priced:
Adults, Senior Citizens and Young Adults £15.00.
Junior Under 16's £5.00.
Tickets now on General Sale.
Coach departs 3.30pm - priced Adult £26.00, Senior and Young Adult £16.00 and Junior £14.00.
Adult Season Ticket Holders receive a £2.00 discount on away travel and Junior, Senior and Young Adult Season Ticket Holders receive a £1.00 discount on away travel.
SIX Loyalty points awarded for this game - tickets MUST be purchased in advance to gain Loyalty points.
We have now added a third supporters coach - to book your place on the coach, call 08444 777 004 or order online. QPR


Dave McIntyre/BBC 606 - Watching Villa in action
Theres no getting away from it, Rangers have a hell of a task awaiting them at Villa Park.
Aston Villa are a strong side in good form and many believe they are currently the best team outside the Premier League s big four - and the most likely to break into it.
I had a chance to see them on Sunday, when they won 2-1 at West Brom and showed what might be in store for Rangers this week.
Martin O Neill will make some changes for Wednesday night s Carling Cup tie but he means it when he says he takes the competition and QPR very seriously.
That could mean the R s are spared the ordeal of having to deal with John Carew and Gabriel Agbonlahor, with Marlon Harewood and possibly Wayne Routledge among the fringe players in contention.
Craig Gardner could also play and O Neill is expected to start with recent signing Carlos Cuellar at the back.
But it s unlikely that wholesale changes will be made and, although some tweaking could upset Villa s rhythm and give Rangers something to exploit, whatever team O Neill puts out will take some stopping.
For starters, they are very strong indeed at set-pieces. Ashley Young s deliveries are excellent and free-kicks conceded in their own half will cause Rangers problems.
At least one of the midfield trio of Reo-Coker, Petrov and Barry is likely to be rested but it is still an area Villa tend to be strong in.
In a 4-2-3-1 formation, the system Rangers have used this season, the man in the attacking central midfield position will have a vital role to play against Villa s midfield.
He will need to drop deep and get forward at the right times to occupy the likes of Petrov and stop Rangers being swamped.
Martin Rowlands, who has been playing there of late, is perfect for the job because he s a grafter who can also offer a threat going forward. Opting for Dani Parejo would be a risk.
Akos Buzsaky is a class act who could trouble even a top Premier League side in that advanced midfield role and is intelligent enough to track back when he needs to, despite being a different type of player to Rowlands.
Buzsaky could be a good option there, perhaps with Rowlands replacing Cook on the left a position from which he could still annoy Villa while tucking in to provide essential cover through the middle.
Buzsaky and Rowlands can both keep the ball well as they showed at Chelsea in the FA Cup last season and this will be important because Villa are one of the best counter-attacking teams around and Rangers can t afford to be sloppy against them.
Rangers will also offer a threat of their own. They have attacking midfielders of genuine quality and no defence likes playing against that type of player.
If Damien Delaney shakes off a knock in time to play, his surging runs from full-back to support whoever gets the nod on the left flank could cause Villa problems.
And on the opposite side, I think Rangers might be able to get at Nicky Shorey, especially if Emmanuel Ledesma starts.
The game against QPR will be another tough one, O Neill said after Sunday s match.
It's a game we might learn to our cost not to change things too phenomenally in because we could get turned over. In fact, we could get turned over even with our very best team.
How do you see it going? Let s have your thoughts. BBC 606

- Also: Martin O'Neil on Villa afte their 2-1 win at WBA.

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Yesterday, as announced by Derby County, and reported in the Derby Press...Thus far, still no official comment or announcement by Queens Park Rangers about the League ruling (and thus far not even QPR comments in the media). No word yet what it means for QPR fans; and what it means for future games - and how the club will make up for the possible absence of this additional revenue. The club has yet to commen - in fact, since it's initial announcement about the new prices "MatchDay Ticket Prices", there's been no mention on the Official Site about the fan uproar it provoken - or even about the Derby League Protest. Meanwhile, it's been a major focus of discussion on QPR messageboards. Assuming the prices increases are rescinded for home fans and for future games, (and for now that's just an assumption, the intended fan protest, will presumably be cancelled.)
- Update: According to several messageboard posters, as of now, the League ruling has not impacted upon the QPR box office, which is continuing to cite the new, increased prices for the Derby County game. [Club Contact Details]


BBC - Derby welcome ticket rise ruling
Derby County have welcomed a Football League ruling which prevents increased prices for this Saturday's game against Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road.
The club turned down tickets priced £40 for adults and £30 for concessions as it was a £10 increase on agreed rates.
John Vicars, vice-president of operations, said the club was pleased with the Football League's decision.
"We will now be working closely with QPR to sort out the swift distribution of tickets to our supporters."
QPR said the increase in ticket prices at Loftus Road was to help maintain budgets previously set to provide a better standard of entertainment for home and away fans.
The Queens Park Rangers supporters trust, QPR 1st, have said the decision "is unjustified and will have a serious effect on the relationship between the club and its supporters." BBC



Derby Evening Telegraph - Derby County fans hail League ruling in ticket price row with QPR

- DERBY County fans have welcomed the Football League's ruling in the ticket-price row with Queen's Park Rangers as a victory for common sense.
QPR wanted to charge Rams fans £10 more than originally agreed to attend Saturday's Championship clash at Loftus Road.
- Ticket prices of £30 for adults and £20 for concessions had been set before the start of the season but the West London club upped this to £40 and £30.
Derby objected and the matter went to the Football League, who have backed the Rams and prevented Rangers increasing the prices.
- John Hemsworth, chairman of the Derby County Supporters' Clubs executive committee, said the League had made the right decsion.
- "It was an important ruling because it was not just Derby County versus QPR, it was a landmark ruling to stop other clubs trying to do a similar thing," he said.
"Derby have superb visiting support. Had the ruling gone against us, then each time a team like ourselves, Wolves or whoever are in town, there would always be the temptation for the home club to put the price up.
"I'm sure supporters are very pleased with the decision and I would like to thank Derby County and the directors, because they fought our corner right from the beginning."
- But Hemsworth said he was disappointed the Football League took so long to come to a decision.
- "They have been looking at it for over a week when, really, they only had to ratify their own rule," he said.
- "The major problem now is the logistics of getting tickets to fans. How quickly can QPR get the tickets out to Derby County? Hopefully they will send them by courier and they will be available from today.
- "A lot of damage has already been done by the delay and it could be too late for some supporters to organise coaches, although I'm sure they will make their way to the game under their own steam.
- "I'd have thought we would take a couple of thousand fans to the Loftus Road but the delay over tickets might hit that figure."
John Vicars, the Rams' vice-president of operations, said the club was pleased with the Football League's decision.
- He added: "We will now be working closely with QPR to sort out the swift distribution of tickets to our supporters and look forward to seeing plenty of Rams fans at Loftus Road this Saturday supporting the team."
- Derby are unable to confirm sales arrangements until they receive the tickets from QPR, who say they will also make tickets available for Derby fans to purchase on the day of the game at Loftus Road.
- The prices are as follows:
Upper tier – Adults £30; Juniors £20; Seniors £20; Young adults £20.
Lower tier – Adults £25; Juniors £15; Seniors £15; Young adults £15.
- Rangers have increased ticket prices for their own fans and defended the rise, saying it will help maintain budgets previously set to provide a better standard of entertainment for home and away fans.
- A restructuring of seat prices at Loftus Road means adult tickets range from £20 to £50, depending on the category of the match.
- The visit of Derby is rated a Category A match, with adult prices for home fans as follows: Platinum £50, Gold £40, Silver £30 and Bronze £20 (with concessions).
Rangers entertain Blackpool three days later in a Category C fixture and seats cost £35, £30, £25 and £20. Derby Evening Telegraph

See Also
- Clive Whittingham/LoftforWords- " rare victory for common sense, but will QPR back down?"

Earlier Fan Responses

- League Rule Against QPR: Derby Comment...QPR Remain Silent

- QPR Fan Groups United in QPR Protest - One-QPR Statement- Joint QPR Fan Groups Protest Supposedly Planned

- QPR's Price Increases: Compilation of QPR's Various Statements and Fan and Media Reactions

- "Continued Media Attention on QPR's Price Increases"

-
Mostly on his non-QPR Life and activities

Independent La Dolce Vita: What really drives Flavio Briatore?

- The yacht, the women, the football club, the F1 team – he's got the lot. But what drives Flavio Briatore? Susie Rushton finds out
- By two o'clock in the afternoon, the smooth asphalt of the Autodromo Nazionale in the royal park at Monza has become a treacherous river of rainwater. The huge grandstand next to the starting grid offering them little shelter, about 500 Formula One fans in plastic capes cheer on 20 cars – if these overbred mechanical beasts can be described as such – careering around the circuit in qualifying for the 78th Italian Grand Prix.
- Suddenly, a French radio commentator in the media room starts yelling into his mic. The huge trackside screens flash up images of Lewis Hamilton, leading the drivers' championship in his silver McLaren Mercedes, as he spins off on a bend. It is the defining moment of an afternoon of horrendous downpours, shock results and the ear-splitting wail of multimillion-pound engines.
- But down on the pit wall, where the bosses of the 10 F1 teams watch columns of numbers cascading down computer screens, one man slumps on his stool. He wears the shirt and matching gilet of the Renault team. Equally as impassive when team's younger driver records a poor lap time as when its star, Fernando Alonso, puts in a quick one, the tall Italian stares at his screen, arms folded, long legs wide apart. I've seen it all, says his easy slouch. I'm king of this place, declare those splayed legs and crossed arms.
- Every four laps, one of his drivers pulls into the pit lane. The bizarre choreographed scene that follows resembles a baby being taken into intensive care by a squadron of Power Rangers as a dozen mechanics in jumpsuits and reflective visors crawl all over the tiny car, pumping fuel through a thick silver hose or blowing industrial-strength hairdryers into various apertures. Ten seconds later, the engine lets out an ear-splitting scream as the car is released from the mechanics' embrace and shoots back out on to the track. Only for the briefest moment does Flavio Briatore, the managing director of Renault's F1 team, glance over his shoulder at the car, face expressionless. Giant headphones are clamped over his ears, and his mane of collar-length silver hair is curled into ringlets by the damp.
- When his marvellously tanned face is broadcast on screens around the track for a moment, two eight-year-old French boys standing near me in the paddock, F1's "backstage" area, see the famous blue-tinted glasses. They yelp with delight: "C'est Flavio!" they exclaim.
- Fulfilling the roles of celebrity, motorsport supremo and paternal team-boss, Briatore's schedule at Monza is a succession of brief meetings. Some of them are of the motivational, back-slapping variety (Briatore manages several drivers in addition to his Renault responsibilities); others appear more high-powered, like the 10-minute assignation he has with a suited, doddery-looking Max Mosley. Every time Briatore strides into the Renault team's motorhome – the huge café-cum-office parked in the middle of the paddock – all eyes swivel towards him. As he charges in and out of his office, his assistant, a petite Italian with an anxious manner, attempts to keep track of his movements via mobile phone (calls from her boss have a special ringtone; it's the Godfather theme).
- By the time I'm called into the inner sanctum – "You're here to interview me? Wonderful!" – I've seen Briatore work the charm on everybody, from the young fans who stop him to pose for a photograph, to the Renault hostesses who bring him breakfast (white toast and marmalade), to the gawping corporate guests ushered down from the hospitality suite to meet The Guy Who Used To Date Naomi Campbell.
- Inside Briatore's cosy office, it's all cream suede banquettes and matching cream table. Three empty espresso cups are arrayed in front of him. Briatore half reclines, still wearing his Renault shirt (made-to-measure, as are his jeans) with one eye on the English Premier League football match playing on a massive flatscreen. "Every day in Formula One is different – the weather, different conditions, the car – it's never the same," he says, when I ask him if he still gets a thrill out of motorsport. "And because every time it's different, I think it's still exciting."
- Yes, he does have a good line in sporting platitudes. Otherwise, though, Briatore is not the typical sports mogul. In a nepotistic industry where most managers are former drivers or ex-engineers (or their relations), Briatore is a businessman first and foremost. He just happens to be selling a spectator sport – with a team budget estimated at $324m per year. "The races are quite boring," he says, waving one arm, "and not only because there isn't enough overtaking."
- The Renault F1 boss couldn't care less about the mind-blowing technology beneath the streamlined skin of a Grand Prix car. "I don't love the cars. For me, a car is transport. For me, you go in a car because you want to go from one point to another point." And sometimes you don't even bother doing that – this morning, Briatore travelled from his hotel in Milan to the racetrack by helicopter. Of course he did.
- With a fortune estimated at £120m, Flavio Briatore is not the richest man in Formula One – but he is certainly the sport's most flamboyant. With neither inherited wealth nor academic brilliance, he has built for himself the ultimate male fantasy existence. His trophy collection includes a yacht, the £68.2m Force Blue, a converted icebreaker with 12 suites and an on-board Turkish bath; the exclusive Sardinian beach club Billionaire, which each summer plays host to a flotilla of celebrities and super-rich Russians; the Twiga beach club in Tuscany; and the Lion under the Sun spa resort in Kenya, which was recently hired out in its entirety by Bono.
- A year ago, Briatore added an English football club, Queens Park Rangers, after masterminding a £14m takeover with two far wealthier partners, the F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone and the steel magnate (and Britain's richest man) Lakshmi Mittal. A partner in the celeb-friendly Cipriani restaurants, Briatore also has his own menswear line, Billionaire Couture, which sells £500 jeans with real gold buttons and monogrammed slippers (the Sloane Street flagship store is due to open next month).

- Then there are the women. And, boy, what women. Naomi Campbell famously had the benefit of Briatore's charms for two years before the two split up after a series of rows (although they remain friends). Flav followed that up with another supermodel, Heidi Klum, with whom he had a daughter, Leni. Another consort, the Italian TV presenter Adriana Volpe, wasn't quite super-league but had the requisite statistics.
- In June, he broke a thousand models' hearts, taking himself off the market to marry Elisabetta Gregoraci, another minor Italian glamour-girl – and one-time Wonderbra "face" – who has 28 years to Flavio's 58. The marriage took place at the Santo Spirito in Sassia church in Rome; Fernando Alonso drove the wedding car; the guests included the socialite Tamara Beckwith and Silvio Berlusconi, two friends who, one suspects, exemplify the range of Briatore's social circle. "We only had 350 people. I knew everyone," he says, and I believe him.
- If his "small" wedding practically shut down Rome, the Italians did not begrudge him that. "Every Italian boy wants to be Flavio," explains Paola Jaccobi, an editor at the Italian edition of Vanity Fair. "The models, the yacht, the lifestyle. And the Italian housewives – they think he's bel'uomo [a good-looking man]."
- But this summer, as ordinary Italians felt the pinch of the global economic downturn, Briatore's gilt-edged image began to look out of step with the times. The first salvo came from an unexpected quarter. Last month, the far-right Italian politician Daniela Santanchè launched an attack on one of his most high-profile business interests.
- "With people struggling to get by, Billionaire should be consigned to history," Santanchè declared of the extravagant Porto Cuervo club where Methuselahs of Cristal sell for £35,000 a pop. "I myself have put my Aston Martin in the garage and get around in a Fiat 500." Curiously, Santanchè herself owns a 10 per cent share of the Billionaire club.
- "She's a politician, and she'll do anything to get in a newspaper," Flavio says, with a mirthless laugh. "She's actually a friend of mine. But you know, she feels she needs to have more... visibility. She has more Hermès Kelly bags than the whole shop. And," he says, pounding the table with a brown fist, "if she wants to talk about not wanting to spend money, she shouldn't charter a boat for £80,000 a week, like I know she did." That's her told, then.
- Porto Cuervo was the scene for another PR embarrassment this summer. At the inauguration of his new waterfront restaurant, Billionaire Rubacuori, newspapers reported that Flavio and friends attempted to disembark at the packed beach in dinghies, only to be pelted with sand and water by indignant ordinary Italians whose sunbathing was disturbed by the imperious landing. "Never 'appened," he now insists. "A group of Russians – friends of mine – were attacked by two or three idiots. But it was not my boat. They were visiting my place. I was having lunch! Normally, when you arrive at the beach there's a channel with buoys, but somebody took the channel away. But it wasn't me. It was a full lie."
- He thumps the table again. "You know, in Italy people are loving me." He flashes his pleasantly crooked smile. "For me, it's very difficult to go to the beach without taking two or three hundred pictures a day [with fans]. This is why I don't go out. I stay on the boat. You know, it's a lot of jealousy. Especially the Italians this summer; everybody was playing [their wealth] down because of the crisis, this and that..."
- Neither will a pesky banking crisis prevent Briatore rolling out the ostentatious Billionaire franchise around the world. An outpost is planned for Mayfair. Doesn't the economic situation affect his businesses at all? He claims not, offering the Briatore economic world-view: "You know, everything that did well this summer was either high quality – or low price. Everything that's affected is in the middle. This summer at Billionaire, we had the best customers in our history. Less people, yes, less people – but better quality."
- Flavio hasn't always had the best in life. Born in Verzuolo in the Italian Alps on 12 April 1950, he comes from a family of schoolteachers, and his brother is a farmer. After scraping through high school with the lowest grades, he worked as a ski instructor and then a restaurant manager.
- Briatore's entrée into business was as a travelling insurance salesman. By the 1970s, he was working at the stock exchange in Milan. It was here, in 1974, that he met Luciano Benetton, founder of the global clothing company. It was also during this period that Briatore was convicted of fraud and sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison – a fate he escaped by fleeing to the Virgin Islands. In interviews, Briatore has generally preferred to emphasise his phenomenal period of success with Benetton in the 1980s. Appointed director of the group's American arm in 1979, he took charge of an unorthodox style of retail franchising that would make the T-shirt brand one of the boom stories of the era – and would make him an extremely wealthy man.
- In 1989, Luciano Benetton took his protégé to a Grand Prix, in Adelaide, Australia. "It was really the first time I saw a Formula One car. But I was impressed about everything, really; the car, the facility. By that time, Benetton had just arrived in Formula One, and Luciano wanted somebody to be in charge of the merchandising side."
- On the airplane back to Europe, the two men discussed what they had seen. "I was living in the US at the time. Formula One wasn't popular there. I wasn't a fan. But Luciano convinced me to at least do one year and see what happens. And little by little, I was in charge of the whole team."
- The former fashion executive brought with him a fresh, and ruthless, approach. Not only did he spot the potential of rising star Michael Schumacher – persuading him to leave the Jordan team and join Benetton after his first F1 race in 1991 – but he also set about applying his entrepreneurial skills to a sport hitherto dominated by engineers. "I don't think you need to understand engineering if you are in charge of a group of people. If you're in charge of Ferrero, you're not eating chocolate every day," he says, allowing himself a smile at his own joke. "You see so many drivers getting involved in management of Formula One, and they fail – because managing is completely different from having knowledge of the business. Managing is... a little bit more complicated." Seasoned F1 watchers acknowledge that Briatore is not only charming but a talented delegater. Indeed, when I ask him if he's involved in the creative direction of Billionaire Couture, he frankly admits that he leaves all that to a partner (tailor Angelo Galasso of Interno 8).
- The cut-throat tactics of the F1 power players in the 1990s were down to a circle of men, including Briatore, who were dubbed "the Piranha Club". "He did not fit in at all [at the beginning]," recalls Joe Saward, editor of the website grandprix.com, who's reported on the sport for 25 years. "He wasn't a racing person and his ideas about how things were done were very different to what had come before. But... [eventually] people began working to Flavio's rules." Briatore understood better than most the mechanics of sponsorship deals; he helped to push F1 towards its current hyper-commercial state.
- His team got results on the track, too, with Schumacher winning the drivers' championship twice. In 1995, the team won the constructors' championship.
- When Renault bought the Benetton team in 2000, it hired Briatore as part of the deal. At Renault, his record has been slightly less glittering – although he did spot the potential of two-time champion Fernando Alonso.
- And yet, Briatore's personal stock has never been higher. "It is all about Brand Flavio now," says Saward, who remembers Briatore courting the paddock press in his early years while wearing his cap back to front. "He loves being a celebrity – and in F1 he's always in the spotlight. It's like a drug, he can't give it up."

- Although Briatore assesses his F1 commitments as taking "90 per cent" of his time, for the past year his attention has been diverted by a new passion, Queens Park Rangers, the west London football club (now in the second tier). Why did this lifelong Juventus fan buy QPR? "If you want to do football in the business way, England is the only place. I am a Juventus fan, and it's very cheap for me – I just buy a ticket and go and see a match. You don't buy a club because you like it."
- Much has been made of the fancy makeover Briatore and his wealthy friends have given to QPR's Loftus Road ground. The stadium now has its own Cipriani restaurant, and Briatore recently declared that QPR would host something he termed "boutique football". Er, which means? "It's like... if you have a hotel, a boutique hotel, that only has 50 rooms, while a grand hotel has 400 rooms. We only have 20,000 seats, and we will offer the best service to the fans... you know, it's going to look amazing."
- It probably will, although I can't help thinking that it will be sponsors and Flav's celebrity pals, not Super Hoops fans, who will be tucking into Cipriani's signature bellinis and beef carpaccio. Despite aiming to make it to the Premier League "within two years", Briatore isn't splashing the cash on star players. "Well, Manchester City put the players before the club," he purrs, referring to the spending spree by that club's new Arab owners. "We have a different approach. It takes time. I know people think that QPR is a very rich football club. It has very rich shareholders, but it's not because you have very rich shareholders that the company is rich." Which, roughly translated, means: that's your lot.

- Even if he won't put any more sports trophies in his cabinet this year, 2008 has been momentous for Briatore in one respect: the bachelor boy got married (for the second time; the first was short-lived). Does he feel any different? Earlier, his new bride, demure in an ankle-length skirt, had had lunch in the Renault motorhome, looking like any other supportive, if slightly bored, wife.
- I expected a heartbreaker with Briatore's form to have a suitably romantic response to this question. But even here, he is pragmatic. "It feels different because you think about two. Before, it was myself and myself. When I had dinner I only had to organise myself. When I travelled, it was by myself." There is a hint that the constant upgrading of new models left Briatore wanting. "With every relationship you lose a lot of time as well."
- Perhaps Gregoraci has reformed this former Casanova, but it also seems possible that a brush with mortality played a part; in 2007, Briatore was diagnosed with kidney cancer. "Maybe what you learn is that you shouldn't lose time with somebody you basically don't like." Apparently recovered – "I was lucky, I had a check-up that prevented it" – Briatore says he's now more careful with his health, but it's hard to see how this peripatetic, relentlessly hard-working existence is wholesome. "I've got used to living with all this pressure. Maybe because I like it." He sounds resigned. But a Milanese friend tells me later that Flavio and Elisabetta had danced into the night at Giorgio Armani's Privé club the previous evening, so he is having some fun.
- It's often been said that Briatore is a sore loser, that he is obsessed with winning. "I used to get in bad mood [if we lost]," he admits. "Two years ago, I would get upset if we finished second. Now I'm happy if we're fourth."
- He glances at his expensive watch (his other hairy wrist is circled by two black diamond bracelets), and on cue the phone rings. "Mario! I wanted to talk to you earlier but I didn't want to interrupt your lunch!" he yells down his phone, and with the briefest of nods the interview is over. Flavio Briatore must get back to the gruelling business of being the flashiest playboy in the paddock.
The Independent


Flasback Two Years - September 23, 2006 QPR,under new Manager, John Gregory, Win with goals by Ray Jones (RIP) and Blackstock and Climb out of Bottom Three! Reports & Comments
QPR's Team: QPR: Paul Jones, Bignot, Rehman, Stewart, Rose (Kanyuka 45), Rowlands, Bircham (Ward 64), Bailey (Lomas 64), Cook, Ray Jones, Blackstock.
Subs Not Used: Royce, Baidoo. BBC - Reports and Comments

Post-Match Comments - QPR Official Site, September 2006
- John Gregory was on top of the world after the R's clinched a 2-0 win against Hull at Loftus Road.
Just four days after being appointed QPR manager, the former Aston Villa manager inspired his side to maximum points, and in doing so, saw them climb off the foot of the table.
"Hopefully we've put a few smiles back on the faces of our fans today,'' he told qpr.co.uk.
Goals from Ray Jones and Dexter Blackstock sealed the points, but it was Gregory's touchline celebration for goal number two that was the main talking point.
"The second goal won us the game which is why I probably went so overboard with my celebration and darted down the touchline.
"It was a mixture of happiness and delight, and frustration and anger, for things that have happened in the last few years.''
Gregory continued: "Getting the clean sheet was the best part of the day for me.
"They got the ball forward very quickly and were difficult to play against, so credit has to go to the back four and Jonah who were absolutely magnificent.
"I thought Lee Cook was terrific. His cross for the second goal was different class and him, Martin Rowlands and Marc Bircham led from the front.
Gregory clearly isn't one to rest on his laurels though, commenting: "We'll be back on the training ground tomorrow to iron out those things that went wrong, but in general I was satisifed with the performance and delighted with the result.

QPR OFFICIAL - Chairman Paladini on Win Over Hull
Chairman Gianni Paladini was left speechless after the R's got off to a winning start under John Gregory.
"I'm speechless,'' he told qpr.co.uk.
"I'm just so, so happy. It's a great result for the Club and it's a fantastic start to John Gregory's reign as QPR boss.
"The fans and everyone connected to the Club deserved that result.''
Paladini continued: "Considering the week we've had, that's the most important victory in my time here.
"It's been an amazing day.''
QPR

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As reported on the Derby County Official Site. QPR's Official Site has yet to announce or comment.

Derby County Official Site - QPR TICKET PRICES RULING
Derby County Football Club acknowledges the Football League ruling which prevents Queens Park Rangers from increasing ticket prices for Saturday's game at Loftus Road.
John Vicars, Derby County's vice-president of operations, said: "Derby County are pleased with the Football League's decision.
"We will now be working closely with QPR to sort out the swift distribution of tickets to our supporters.
"We therefore look forward to seeing plenty of Rams fans at Loftus Road this Saturday supporting the team."
The Football League has ruled that ticket prices will be as follows:
Upper tier:
Adults - £30
Juniors - £20
Seniors - £20
Young adults - £20

Lower tier:
Adults - £25
Juniors - £15
Seniors - £15
Young adults - £15

We are unable to confirm sales arrangements until we we are in receipt of the tickets. Full details will be posted at www.dcfc.co.uk once they are confirmed.
Derby Official Site


-- Derby Evening Telegraph - League rules in Rams favour in ticket price row with QPR

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Dowie's Problems? From the Daily Express Article
"... Dowie said: “There are no low points in football and I’m very lucky because I do ­something I love every day. “When I was at Coventry, it was more of a concern for office staff because there were times when they weren’t being paid...I have a ­different set of problems now but I have to ignore them and worry about making sure we have a successful team and, on this evidence, we can do that...." .”

Daily Express/Graham Read - EASY DOES IT FOR COLEMAN
For two men who have a lot in common, Iain Dowie and Chris Coleman are managerial opposites.
Coventry have experienced the styles of both men in the past seven months and, as they won at the Ricoh Arena, they will be more than happy with the present occupier of a ­managerial seat which has proved too hot to be successful in recent years.
Dowie lasted just under a year at the club and was swiftly replaced by Coleman. It is ­obvious that Coleman’s more
urbane nature sits easier with chairman Ray Ranson, who has backed his charge with substantial finance this summer.
And it was there for all to see in this game. Coleman stood calm and cool – outwardly at least – in his trademark dark suit just a couple of yards from the dugout.
Occasionally there would be a shout or a gesture, but it was always targeted and directed with the minimum of fuss.
Just a couple of yards away was Dowie – a picture of ­perpetual motion – clad in full kit looking as if he was about to come on as a player. And he did feel every kick, header and foul; he looked as tired as his players on the final whistle.
His manic urgings came to nothing on a day of frustration for QPR as, it could be argued, they showed their true colours. After all, Dowie had spent very little, that much was evident.
Coleman and Dowie played together at Crystal Palace and are good friends, perhaps proof that opposites attract.
"I don’t know what Iain is like in the dressing room,” said Coleman. “But I know what he was like as a player and he was a strong competitor. We are both competitors. I might look very calm and composed but, if I had a heart-rate monitor, it would tell you a different story.
“If you wave your arms about constantly, it can look as if you are nervous, so I tend not to do it. It is the same if you
are shouting at players for 90 ­minutes – they just turn off.”
His Coventry side won the game thanks to a first-half penalty by Elliott Ward.
But just as they had at Sheffield United last Tuesday, they stopped doing the things which had earned them their domination and that helped, along with Dowie’s half-time urgings, to give QPR the upper hand. They knew, therefore, that they should have taken something from the game.
But Dowie said: “There are no low points in football and I’m very lucky because I do ­something I love every day.
“When I was at Coventry, it was more of a concern for office staff because there were times when they weren’t being paid.
“I’m pleased the takeover happened for Coventry. I have a ­different set of problems now but I have to ignore them and worry about making sure we have a successful team and, on this evidence, we can do that.
“We have people here who are wealthy and the ­spectre of administration is never going to loom over this club.” Daily Express

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QPR Official Site - September 22, 2008 - BALANTA ON STANDBY
Angelo Balanta has been placed on standby for the England Under-19 squad.
In the event of any pull-outs, the young striker will join up with the squad for their UEFA European Under-19 Championships Qualifying Round matches against Albania, Northern Ireland and Serbia in Belfast, between Thursday 2nd October and Tuesday 14th October. QPR

Football Association - Qualifying squad named Monday, 22 September 2008. UEFA European U19 Championship
Qualifying Round Group 9 - England, Albania, Northern Ireland and Serbia.
Belfast, Northern Ireland, 2-14 October 2008.
- England U19s get their qualifying campaign for this season's European Championship underway early next month when they travel to Northern Ireland for the Qualifying Round.
v Brian Eastick has named his squad for the game, which sees the Young Lions face Albania, Serbia and Northern Ireland in a bid to progress to the next stage which is the Elite Qualfying Round and will take place early next year.
The U19s got their season off to a winning start earlier this month, when two goals from Arsenal's Rhys Murphy saw them run out as 2-1 victors against the Netherlands in Shrewsbury.
Many of the players involved in that game are named in this squad, whilst there are call-ups for Chelsea midfielder Jacob Mellis and Aston Villa striker Nathan Delfouneso who now have the opportunity to make an impression.
West Ham's Jordan Spence and Manchester United's Danny Drinkwater also return to the squad after missing out on the previous game through injury.
The likes of Jason Steele, Krystian Pearce, Danny Rose and Victor Moses all had a taste of the U19 Championship in July, when they were included in the squad which competed in the finals in the Czech Republic.
The Squad
Player Club
Ben Amos Manchester United
Jason Steele Middlesbrough
Matthew Briggs Fulham
Lee Hills Crystal Palace
Gavin Hoyte Arsenal
Krystian Pearce Birmingham City (on loan to Scunthorpe)
Jordan Spence West Ham United
Kieran Trippier Manchester City
Danny Drinkwater Manchester United
Henri Lansbury Arsenal
Jacob Mellis Chelsea
Jack Rodwell Everton
Daniel Rose Tottenham Hotspur
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas Arsenal
Nathan Delfouneso Aston Villa
Victor Moses Crystal Palace
Rhys Murphy Arsenal
Daniel Welbeck Manchester United
Football Association


- See Also: Belanta on Cusp of England U-18 Chance


SKY SPORTS/Chris Galea - Cook wants to sign QPR deal
Winger enjoying being back at Loftus Road
Lee Cook is hoping to sign a permanent contract at Queens Park Rangers in January.
The winger is on a season-long loan at Loftus Road from Fulham and has made nine appearances to date.
He has not played a first-team game for Fulham since joining from QPR in 2007 and wants to stay with Iain Dowie's side.
"The loan deal is with a view to a permanent, so I'm hoping it will be sorted out in January," Cook told skysports.com.
"As far as I am concerned I am going to be at QPR for the next three-and-a-half years at least.
"It's a football club that I have supported all my life, so I can't think of anywhere better to play my football."
Promotion target
Meanwhile, Cook believes the Loftus Road faithful can roar the Hoops to promotion this season, after 13 years outside the top flight.
He added: "There's a lot more expectation around the club now and the fans are more excited because they feel it is a realistic target to return to the Premier League, whereas before we dreamed of promotion when there wasn't much chance of us fulfilling it back then.
"You can see it off the pitch as well as on it, everything at this football club is geared towards being successful and gaining promotion to the Premier League.
"The owners are successful men and they don't muck about. They've put a lot of money into the club and they will be looking to steer this club back into the promised land."
The 26-year-old believes the atmosphere generated by the fans at Loftus Road can help guide them to a Premier League return.
Crowd
"It's a great football club and I love the atmosphere down here, any team who comes to Loftus Road say how difficult it is to get a result here due to the atmosphere the crowd build," Cook continued.
"It is important to get a good start and that's what we have done, but we have to build on it.
"We have to keep our feet on the ground and concentrate on playing our football and if we keep getting good results week in week out then I can't see why we can't get promoted" Skysports

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Telegraph/Sandy Macaskill - QPR's Iain Dowie refuses to be downhearted by defeat
Having been sacked as Coventry's manager in February, Iain Dowie will have been looking to lay a few ghosts to rest when he took his Queens Park Rangers side to the Ricoh Arena. But it turned out to be not quite the return he had wished for.
Whether it was complacency or over-confidence, an uninspired start to the match – it took QPR until the half-hour mark to fashion a move capable of putting any pressure on Coventry goalkeeper Keiren Westwood – and an early penalty netted by Elliott Ward proved too much for Dowie's new side to overcome.
Although Emmanuel Ledesma, released through the middle for a one-on-one opportunity, did have the chance to level the match just minutes before half-time – frittered away with a shot straight at Westwood – it was Ward's spot-kick, granted when Damien Delaney brought down Jay Tabb in the area, that proved decisive.
There is some irony in the fact that such a refereeing decision should decide the outcome as Coventry manager Chris Coleman was fined £5,000 by the Football Association only days ago for protesting at having a penalty appeal denied against Bristol City in August. A decision in his favour seems to have done little to placate him, however.
"Of course we have to respect the referees, I understand that," Coleman said, "but it is fair to say that he made both sets of players nervous."
It was unfortunate for the visitors that the game should hinge on such a decision, especially as their second-half performance was greatly improved.
"I don't think it was a penalty, but that's life," Dowie explained. "You just get on with it. I thought our display in the second half was terrific. But for the break of the ball and a few bits of heroic defending by their back four, it could have been our day."
Coleman agreed: "That second half felt like it went on for 90 minutes. The very thing we said not to do at half-time, we did. We tried to hold onto a 1-0 lead which is very dangerous. Apart from some fantastic defending we didn't really offer a lot in the second half."
Despite the reverse, QPR stay fourth in the table, six points off the leaders, and Dowie believes the "acid test" of two tough away games, here and at Norwich, has been passed with "flying colours".
He added: "This defeat doesn't change my mind that I thought we played very well today. I've seen a lot today that makes me feel that we are a decent side." Telegraph


MIRROR - WARD IS PICKING UP THE SCRAPS
Elliott Ward was glad it was only nerves he had to fight before firing Coventry to a welcome win at the Ricoh Arena.
Ward failed to convert from the spot at Sheffield United in midweek, prompting team-mate Aron Gunnarsson to say he would scrap with the centre-half for the ball if they won a penalty against Rangers.
But the diminutive Icelander was no where to be seen in the 13th minute as Ward managed to score despite the efforts of keeper Radek Cerny.
"That was a big joke but it got built up as a fight," said Ward. "I'm a bit bigger, but he's Icelandic, a Viking and they're strong boys.
"The keeper did get a hand to it but I was always going to take it because the lads were behind me and had confidence in me.
"It was nice to get it so soon after the one I missed on Tuesday."
When Ward stroked the ball home after Mikele Leigertwood brought down Jay Tabb it looked as if City would win in equally relaxed fashion.
They were well on top and outplaying Rangers, managed by former Coventry boss Iain Dowie.
But they failed to make their advantage count and very nearly paid the price.
Dowie fired up Rangers at half time and they enjoyed the majority share of the second half.
But they showed a lack of quality in the final third. And when they did break Coventry down they found Ward equally sure inside his own area as he had been in theirs.
Dexter Blackstock had a gilt-edged chance to equalise with 18 minutes left but side-footed wide from just a few yards out.
It made for a miserable return for Dowie but midfielder Gavin Mahon said: "The manager will look for the positives from that performance and there were lots.
"At half-time he wasn't happy but in the second half we had a lot of possession should have taken one or two chances." Mirror


Coventry Telegraph - Chris Coleman: Coventry City were lucky against QPR
Chris Coleman admitted Coventry were lucky to win 1-0 against QPR as he got one over on his old Crystal Palace room-mate at the Ricoh Arena.

Coleman used to room with Iain Dowie when they played at Selhurst Park together and the Welshman's side grabbed the three points thanks to Elliott Ward's 13th minute penalty.

The Coventry boss conceded that his side were somewhat lucky to claim the win but was happy with his team's return of five points from their last three matches.

He said: "The second half felt like 90 minutes. We did exactly the opposite of what we had spoken about at half-time.

"We tried to defend a one goal lead - which was partly down to fatigue and partly down to nerves.

"But for me it was just a case of getting the job done and we did that. It doesn't mean any more or less because it was against an old friend - I am just happy we have the three points."

Coventry could have had the lead as early as the third minute but they failed to make the most of a scramble in the QPR box and, in the end, Aron Gunnarsson's shot was blocked by Gavin Mahon.

Ward headed into the side-netting on eight minutes as the home side started to build up momentum.

It finally told in the 13th minute when Mikele Leigertwood upended Jay Tabb in the box and referee Dean Whitestone awarded a spot-kick.

Ward, who missed a penalty at Sheffield United in midweek, stepped up and although his strike was far from ideal it made it into the back of the net via the hand of Radek Cerny.

Danny Fox and Leon McKenzie both went close to doubling the home team's lead as they dominated early on but they did allow Rangers to stamp their authority as the opening period came to a close.

The visitors should have drawn level with two minutes left in the half as Emmanuel Ledesma broke clear of City's back four.

He seemed to have an age to pick his spot but his effort was too close to Coventry keeper Keiren Westwood, who made a strong save.

Within 30 seconds, the home side could have been two up but Cerny made a good stop to keep out Tabb's powerful diving header.

QPR were all over Coventry in the second half but for all their possession, they rarely troubled keeper Westwood.

Damion Stewart blasted over from inside the box while Lee Cook's fine run ended with his shot being deflected wide.

The best opportunity fell to Dexter Blackstock, but he fired wide from six yards as Coventry defended deeper and deeper.

Dowie, who was sacked by Coventry in February, said: "It's not the return I was hoping for. The result will tell you that - but the performance will tell you something else.

"I've watched Coventry a few times and I've not seen them be outplayed like they were in the second half.

"I'm very proud of the second half display and but for the break of a ball and a few bits of heroic defending by their back four, it could have been our day.

"You have to say that the best players on the pitch were their central defenders and I didn't think it was a penalty but that's life and you get on with it." Coventry Telegraph


Coventry Telegraph/Andy Turner - Seven out of eight penalties for Elliott Ward
ELLIOTT WARD put his midweek penalty miss behind him by scoring his seventh Coventry City goal from the spot in eight attempts on Saturday.

The Sky Blues centre-back held his nerve to beat QPR keeper Radek Cerny with the only goal of the game, days after putting the ball wide against Sheffield United.

"I was always going to take the next penalty," he said confidently after the 1-0 win over Rangers.

"The lads and the manager are behind me all the way because they are still confident in me to take them, so there was no question really.

"It was nice to get one so soon after Tuesday night but it was a strange week because before Tuesday I knew that I would be getting a penalty. And then the disappointment of not actually hitting the target was the worst thing for me.

"But it was like a dream on Friday and I knew something was going to happen against QPR but there was no problem with me taking it."

Reflecting on what went wrong at Bramall Lane, he explained: "I have mixed my penalties up a couple of times and I knew Paddy Kenny was going to dive the way he did and that I had an open goal, so it was really disappointing to miss an open goal.

"But I knew exactly what I was doing on Saturday and unfortunately for their keeper, his hand wasn't strong enough. I made sure there was plenty of power and the fans were cheering before it even went over the line, so that was good enough for me."

Team-mate Aron Gunnarsson had joked before the match that he wanted to take City's penalties following Ward's miss, but the defiant defender said: "That is seven out of eight I have scored. If it had been one out of two or something there might have been a case to change the penalty taker.

"Aron was just winding me up before hand saying he was going to fight me, but it was just a joke and we had a good laugh before the game."

As well as scoring the all important goal, Ward also more than played his part at the back in helping to maintain the fragile lead.

"We did very well defending as a whole team in the first half but in the second half it was frustrating because it felt like we had 10 men and had to defend for virtually the whole 45 minutes," he said.

"But we did that well. It is not something we want to do every week - but we won.
"It was frustrating that we couldn't get it out of our half but you have to stay strong. It has been quite a good week really. It could have been seven points and it gives us confidence going into Saturday's match at Blackpool." Coventry Telegraph


-- Also: Earlier Reports and comments on QPR's Loss to Coventry

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Almost a quarter of a century ago!

September 22, 1984...QPR 5 Newcastle 5
See much of the game and the goals: Video: Part I ....Video Part II....Video Part III...Video Part IV....Video Part V

On September 22, 1984, a crowd of 14,234 turned up at Loftus Road to see Alan Mullery/Frank Sibley's QPR take on Jack Charlton's Newcastle. QPR had begin by winning two and drawing two (including at Liverpool)...Then the previous week had lost to Clive Allen's Spurs 5-0...And then came the Newcastle game and QPR's incredible comeback from 0-4 at half-time. A hattrick for Newcastle's Chris Waddle. Among QPR scorers, subsequent manager, John Gregory! (And on the Newcastle team, ex-QPR and later Newcastle manager, Glen Roeder)
The scoring sequence: 0-1...0-2...0-3...0-4...1-4...2-4...3-4...3-5...4-5...5-5
QPR's Team:
Hucker Neil Wicks Fenwick Dawes
Micklewhite Fillery Gregory Fereday
Stainrod Bannister - Ian Stewart sub for Fillery - QPR Scorers: Bannister, Stainrod, Gregory, Wicks, Micklewhite
Newcastle's team: Kevin Carr Malcolm Brown,Wesley Saunders,Glen Roeder, Anderson, Haddock, Neil Macdonald, David Mcreery, Kenny Wharton,Peter Beardsley Chrissy Waddle. -


NOBOK SPORTS - Top Five comebacks
5. QPR 5 Newcastle United 5, First Division, 1984
With a 4-0 half-time lead and Chris Waddle in inspirational form, you could have forgiven Newcastle for thinking they had QPR beaten at Loftus Road in 1984.
But this titanic Division One match took a huge twist when Rangers responded to manager Alan Mullery's furious half-time team-talk with a stirring comeback.
Gary Bannister, John Gregory and an own goal dragged the home side back into it only for Kenny Wharton to restore Newcastle's two-goal lead with six minutes left.
But Rangers were still not done as Steve Wicks and Gary Micklewhite grabbed a share of the points with two last-gasp strikes. Nobok Sports

[Aside: From a Peter Doherty Interview in Time Out
"...What’s the best sporting event you’ve ever been to?
When I was five or six I went to a QPR game and the score was QPR 5, Newcastle 5. [Chants] ‘Say we are QPR, say we are QPR!’
"http://homepage.ntlworld.com/mickzoe/matches/qpr55.html
QPRReport

A Newcastle Site, Toonarama, Match Report of that Day
Absolutely Diabolical - a 10 goal extravaganza Tighten Up Mister
On the 22nd of September 1984 United travelled to Loftus Road to take on QPR in their 7th game of the season on their return to Division 1. After winning the first 3 games United had lost three on the trot, conceding 10 goals in the process.
Manager Charlton decided that changes were necessary. He adopted for a more defensive line-up but the match ended up as one of the highest scoring games in the club's history.
Crowded Out
Newcastle lined up with Kevin Carr in goal, Malcolm Brown and Wesley Saunders at full-back and three centre-backs; Roeder, Anderson and Haddock In midfield he played Neil Macdonald, David Mcreery, Kenny Wharton and Peter Beardsley who dropped in behind the sole attacker Chrissy Waddle.
The QPR side was: Hucker in goal, full backs Neill and Dawes, centre-backs Fenwick and Wicks, midfield of Wayne Fereday (a player who would later "play" for the Toon), Micklewhite, Fillery and John Gregory and an attack of Bannister and Stainrod.

The tactics were very simple and classic Charlton; crowd the midfield and defence to cut down the space for the opposition and boot diagonal balls out to the wings in the general direction of Waddle. Even if Waddle didn't get it the ball was deep into QPR territory.
All We Want For Xmas is a Plastic Pitch
Three minutes gone and the first real chance of the match. Waddle attacks down the left, reaches the byeline and crosses deep to the far post where the ball is headed in by Macdonald at point blank range (0-1)

QPR try and hit back immediately and Newcastle are forced to defend desperately. Carr pulls off a magnificent save, QPR have a decent penalty appeal turned down and Roeder clears another shot off the line. But on seventeen minutes Waddle gets away on the right side of the area, cooly rounds Hucker and slots it in from an acute angle (0-2)

Five minutes later and United win a free-kick on the edge of the centre-circle . Roeder floats it in and a poor headed clearance drops perfectly for Wharton who volleys goalwards. His shot deflects off a defender and hits the post. Waddle gleefully slots in the rebound with Hucker grounded.(0-3)

Almost immediately QPR pull a "goal" back, but to the Hoops fans displeasure, the referee disallows the goal having already whistled for a free-kick to the home side. The free kick is easily fielded by Carr.

With 4 minutes of the first half remaining Waddle picks up a loose ball just outside the area and curls in a superb shot into the top left-hand corner to register a 24 minute hat-trick( 0-4)

So, four goals up at half time and surely the match is over. The Toon Army are (for the one and only time I imagine) singing the praises of the artificial turf. Charlton's tactics seem to be coming up trumps. However United's football has been scrappy and QPR did have chances while Newcastle had scored from all four of theirs....
In Your Face
QPR bring on left-winger Ian Stewart (another player who would later have a deeply unimpressive spell at Gallowgate) for Fillery.
The second half begins and almost immediately Carr has to make a superb save to deny QPR from a free kick. At the other end Waddle makes space for a shot but his effort is blocked. He tries to win a penalty with a ludicrous dive. The referee is not fooled, but there is no booking as players got away with that sort of thing then.
Four minutes into the second half and the ball is punted upfield by the QPR keeper, it is flicked on and suddenly Gary Bannister is in on goal. Carr (not for the first time in his career) rushes from his line and manages to parry the shot. Unfortunately it goes straight back to the QPR player who heads into the empty net (1-4)

Play is now switching from end to end, Carr is forced into another brilliant save and a shot from Wharton is saved at the other end. A free-kick from QPR goes narrowly past the post. What then followed had to be seen to be believed. All through the game United's defensive strategy had appeared to be to get a foot in and kick the ball as hard as possible, in whatever direction you happened to be facing.

Well in this case Haddock was on the edge of the area facing the corner post. He blasts the ball towards the corner but only succeeds in hitting Wharton full in the face. He hits it at such pace that the ball ricochets off Wharton's head right across the goal and passed a startled Kevin Carr into the far corner of the net (2-4)

Almost immediately QPR try and score an even better own-goal. The ball is passed back so hard and high from the half-way line in the QPR goal is forced to back-pedal furiously to get a hand to it and tip it over the crossbar just before it crossed the line.

QPR are now full of confidence and are attacking at will. Just past the hour mark and Roeder makes a hash of a clearance - completely missing his kick- and the ball is in the Toon net again; but once again the referee disallows Stainrod's effort. However after 74 minutes Carr again rushes out of his goal and is left in no-mans land as the ball is steered home by John Gregory for QPR's third (3-4)
You're Not Singing Any more

During the next ten minutes the game becomes even more scrappy and is littered with fouls. Another QPR header flies narrowly wide of the post before Waddle heads just over and then has another shot deflected for a corner.

Then with six minutes to go, Beardsley picks up the ball ten yards within his own half and hits a great cross-field pass to Waddle out on the right-wing. Waddle lollops into the area and crosses for Kenny Wharton to slot the ball home from three yards out. This brings the stunned Toon Army back to life.

However, just as they were starting a chorus of "You're not singing any more" the words stuck in their throats as a free kick was headed in by Steve Wicks at the far post (4-5)

Then with 90 minutes on the clock more slack defending allowed Gary Micklewhite to burst into the area and cooly lift the ball over Carr who had already gone to ground (5-5)
A Total Embarrassment
After the game Charlton was livid. "Saturdays game was a total embarrassment, absolutely diabolical. I have never seen anything like it in my 32 years in the game. I went mad at the players because there were times when they were going to give me a heart attack. They just stopped playing"
Big Jack obviously thought the problems went deeper than just the one game. "There are so many things wrong at Newcastle it is incredible. People are asking me where I intend to start with the problems, but I just don't know. It will take years to put right. Some of the players couldn't even breathe in the second half. I don't know where they got their education from before, but, believe me they'll get it from me in the months to come."
QPR manager Alan Mullery added "These kind of games are great for the fans but they give managers heart attacks. We needed a miracle in the second half and we got it"
Toonarama


Meanwhile, one year ago today, substitute Steffan Moore scored a rare goal for Queens Park Rangers as they drew 1-1 with Watford and had 3 points from 6 games and looking for their first win since April! QPR's team: QPR Camp; Barker, D Stewart, Cullip, Timoska; Ainsworth, Rowlands, Leigertwood, Bolder (c); Blackstock, Nardiello. Subs: Cole (gk), Bignot, Curtis, Ephraim, Moore. Reports

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As QPR and Derby County wait for a ruling by the Football League, and QPR fan groups announce their intention to protest

The Times/Martin Samuel - "...Paying a Queens’ ransom
Obviously, not everyone does badly in a recession, but Queens Park Rangers are attempting to buck the trend spectacularly by minting the first £50 ticket for football outside the Barclays Premier League. “Since the takeover, the club has had massive investment which has enabled us to increase our competitiveness in the Championship and provide a better standard of entertainment,” a spokesman said. Maybe so, but QPR are six points adrift of Wolverhampton Wanderers, who are top, and the season is barely a month old.
What will the board do if this team go up and they really have to put their hands in their pockets? For a conglomerate of billionaires, it seems early to send out the collection plate." The Times


The Times - Fanzine/Fanzone

Derby refuse QPR ticket prices
Overshadowed by the Newcastle saga and the usual Big Four coverage, the story of Derby refusing to sell QPR's marked up match tickets made few headlines. It might be a storm in a tea cup but it could also lead to an FA ruling with wider implications. At the time of writing and the game six days away, no tickets are available for the away end whilst the FA decide if QPR can raise ticket prices by 30% mid season.

A group of us bought train tickets to London two months ago but after hearing the proposed £40 ticket price, there's now a divided opinion on the best way to spend £40 in London. Even at the original £30, some are having second thoughts. On seeing QPR's playboy chairman Flavio Briatore, the archetypal medallion man surrounded by models on TV, one mate commented "there's no way I'm giving him forty quid", another friend is reluctant to subsidise Naomi Campbell's corporate champagne.

So now we have to make a few decisions. None of us are keen to pay £40 for a ticket; and after all the hassle, most of us are reluctant to put anything into the QPR coffers. On the other hand, as a loyal fan, it pains you to think of the away being empty; it's no good for the players and no way to support the club.

One justification for not going could be that we are "boycotting" the game. Boycotting is often questionable in football- I've heard many a part-timer credit their non-attendance to protest when the chips are down. Having bought train tickets, we could make a valid claim to be boycotting- just don't expect to see us outside the ground waving placards.

For some readers, this may all sound hypocritical coming from Derby. Last season after selling out of season tickets, Derby held their own fans to ransom over the remaining tickets by hiking up matchday prices by around 50% in a move unchallenged by either the compliant local media or supporters groups. Matches against Sunderland, Portsmouth, Bolton and Birmingham were all classified as "Gold" under the bling-coding which indicates the degree to which the club profit from any given game. Inevitably, away fans were fleeced. Rest assured though- The Rams reaped every ounce of bad karma going.

Derby's stance comes only weeks after the Falkirk- Rangers row in Scotland (the Auld Firm clubs are charging opponents 5% to sell away tickets- Falkirk told Rangers to stick it and sold the tickets locally). Dundee Utd had less luck when Celtic threatened to block similar tactics, risking around £100k of gate money for United. I suppose market forces will always dictate to some degree, so with a top price of £50 in the Championship, it will be interesting to see how many full houses there are at Loftus Road this season. - S Spaceram www.ramspace.co.uk - The Times

From a few days ago: Derby County Supporters Club Statement re Tickets

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Obviously various individual fans have a variety of views, but on an organizational basis, this statement from ONE-QPR, reflects the views of a coalition of groups, websites and fanzines. Given that some of these various entities often hold diametrically divergent viewpoints regarding QPR matters, this display of unanimity on this issue is especially noteworthy.

ONE-QPR STATEMENT
- ONE-QPR, a coalition of supporters groups, websites and fanzines, would like to make it very clear that the call for action at the game V Derby on the 27th , is one we have all decided on and endorsed for the good name, reputation and future of QPR FC and all that it represents.
- Whilst it has been noted on web sites ect that some statements from various supporters groups to their members have been published, ONE-QPR would like all QPR supporters and the board at QPR FC to understand we are united and stand as one on this issue.
- QPR FC is much more than a football club, it is an institution, a community, it is a family and each and every one of us holds a stake in that. We believe we should also have a voice in our future too."


- See Also: "Joint QPR Fan Groups Protest Supposedly Planned"

- Also see: "QPR's Price Increases: Compilation of QPR's Various Statements and Fan and Media Reactions"

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London Informer/Paul Warburton -Half Cooked
- LEE COOK is nowhere near the fabulous levels that saw the QPR winger sold to Fulham for £2m a year ago - and he's going to need another three games at least to regain some of that form. Manager Iain Dowie's honest assessment of the fans' favourite comes after the ever-present Cookie ploughed through seven games this season - but has often looked a bit-player rather than the star attraction.
Cook is back from Fulham on a year-long loan after a barren spell in which he never pulled on a white shirt in a meaningful game, and his fourth boss in 14 months thinks he knows why.
Dowie said: "A year out when you've had a bad injury, will do for anyone's confidence. "Lee's worked ever so hard in training - especially during the international break and he's gradually getting fitter and fitter,but it's going to take time.
"At the moment, anything up to 10 or 11 games might be needed." Cook has yet to score in his second spell at Loftus Road, and suffered a knee injury this time last year needing corrective surgery after the first operation was found wanting.
Rangers have the option of buying back Cook from their neighbours - but the deal is dependent on what the dyed-in-the-wool Hoops' fan produces this season.
* HE SCORED twice for QPR in the 4-1 win over Southampton on Sunday - but the reason why striker Dexter Blackstock has bagged five goals already was a heart-to-heart with his boss before a ball had been kicked.
Dowie has always been known as a boss with very fit sides, and could see his striker was easily capable of upping the tempo in training.
"Some players are just game players - they're not interested in training as much," Dowie said. "But I told Dexter in pre-season he's got to train as he plays, and he's done that. He's intensive, and a striker wants to get 20 goals-a-season." London Informer


News of the World - QUEEN'S PARK RIP-OFF
IF you want to go and watch QPR play Derby next Saturday, you will probably have to fork out £50 for the privilege.
If you do, you are a mug. Taking fans’ loyalty for granted is the curse of modern-day foreign ownership. News of The World


QPR Forward, Rowand Vine Turns 26 - Born September 21, 1982.
Joined QPR on loan a year ago, before signing permanently in January for a reported one million pounds. Then broke his leg, and still returning to fitness.

QPR Official Site October 2, 2007 - EXCLUSIVE: ROWAN'S A RANGER
Queens Park Rangers have completed the emergency loan signing of Birmingham City front-man Rowan Vine.
The 25 year-old signed a one month loan deal this afternoon and is expected to go straight into the R's squad for Wednesday's Championship fixture against Colchester United.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, Vine said: "The major factor for me was the opportunity to stake a claim for a first team spot.
"I've been surplus to requirements at Birmingham and this is a fantastic opportunity for me."
Vine worked with Mick Harford during his time at Luton Town and the former Hatters striker has nothing but admiration for the R's new Caretaker Manager.
"Obviously knowing Mick was a big pull. He knows what I can do as a player and it's up to me to produce the goods," said Vine.
"He's a great coach and a good man and I'm looking forward to working with him again."
On the subject of tomorrow's trip to Layer Road, Vine added: "I know Layer Road like the back of my hand after my time there and what better place to start.
"I'm here to do a job for QPR and I can't wait to pull on the shirt.
"I've always had a lot of admiration for QPR fans. They are a passionate bunch and I've always enjoyed playing in front of them."
Vine joined Blues from fellow Championship side Luton Town in January 2007 for a substantial but undisclosed fee.
During his time at St Andrews, Vine has been used sparingly and has made a total of 19 appearances, scoring one goal.
His two appearances for the Blues so far this season have both come in League Cup fixtures.
Vine, who scored against the R's for Luton in an FA Cup third round tie at Loftus Road last season, will wear squad number 26. QPR -- See Also: Career Stats and Vine/Wikipedia


Former QPR Kevin Gallen Turns 33 - Born September 21, 1975.
Gerry Francis gave Gallen his debut as an 18 year-old in the game at Manchester United (August 20, 1994). In his two periods at QPR, Gallen played 300+ games for QPR scoring nearly 100 goals. Gallen

See also:
- Daves' Unofficial Queens Park Rangers Website for Gallen Profile - Kevin GallenC
- Wikipedia/Gallen


Flashback: QPR Official Site, September 21, 2006 - 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.''

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Sunday Mirro/Ray Matts - Defeat leaves Dowie dour
COVENTRY 1 Ward (pen) 15 QPR 0
Iain Dowie failed to make a happy return to Coventry, the club that showed him the managerial door earlier this year.
A penalty by centre-back Elliott Ward after 15 minutes was enough to give the Sky Blues maximum points from a grudge match high on effort but short on real quality.
Dowie tried to play down any suggestion it was a game of any major personal significance. But if you believed that, you would believe anything.
Qpr have a lot more on their horizon, having set their sights on promotion this season.
There was, however, a definite sense that this fixture meant something extra special to them but their resolve to show support for the manager appeared to stifle their effectiveness, particularly in the first half.
The penalty award proved to be a killer, knocking the confidence out of Rangers and giving a real boost to Coventry.
Mikele Leigertwood became entangled with Jay Tabb, and upended him smack in front of referee Dean Whitehouse.
The pressure was on Ward, whohad missed from the spot in the previous game at Sheffield United. But he kept his nerve to blast the ball past Radek Cerny.
There was plenty of time for Rangers to claw their way back and Dowie provided plenty of touchline encouragement for them to do so.
Yet despite monopolising possession they were unable to produce an equaliser.
Miss of the match came from Emmanuel Ledesma in the 42nd minute when he burst clear only to delay his shot which was parried away by Kieran Westwood. It was frustrating for Dowie, who said: "We had so much of the play for a visiting side but we lost a game we felt we should have won.
"That's life. You have to get on with it. Good luck to Coventry. I still have lots of friends there and got on with people at the club.
"I was really pleased with our form in the second half. All it needed was a goal.
"Sometimes you have to take a defeat on the chin and come back from it."
Coventry manager Chris Coleman praised Ward, saying: "I asked him if he wanted to continue as our penalty taker and he had no hesitation.
"But not only did he do well with the kick, he and Scott Dann played exceptional in the second half to help us keep a clean sheet."
HOW THEY RATED
COVENTRY
6 Westwood
6 Osbourne
7 Ward
6 Dann
6 Fox
8 Tabb
7 Doyle
7 Gunnarsson
6 McKenzie
6 Eastwood
7 Morrison
QPR
Cerny 6
Ramage 6
Gorkss 6
Stewart 7
Delaney 6
Mahon 7
Leigertwood 7
Rowlands 6
Ledesma 6
Cook 6
Blackstock 7
SUBSTITUTES Beuzelin (Tabb) 5, Best (Eastwood) 5, Mifsud (McKenzie) 5
Parejo (Ramage) 5, Buzsaky (Ledesma) 5, Agyemang (Blackstock) 5
MANAGERS 7 Coleman Dowie 6
MAN OF THE MATCH 8 JAY TABB Pint-sized pain to QPR.
Referee: D Whitestone 6
Sunday Mirror


Coventry Telegraph
FIRST-half penalty from Elliott Ward gave Coventry City their first Coca-Cola Championship win in four games against QPR.
The hosts had the first chance of the game after three minutes when Aron Gunnarsson's shot was scrambled away from Kaspars Gorkss as the game started at a frantic pace.
Freddy Eastwood then went close for the Sky Blues, Clinton Morrison crossed deep from the right-hand side and Eastwood's goalbound header was deflected wide by Gorkss.
The home crowd thought their side had taken the lead from the resulting corner but Ward's near-post header went the wrong side of the upright.
The Sky Blues were awarded a penalty after 13 minutes when Damien Delaney chopped down Jay Tabb on the corner of the penalty area and referee Dean Whitestone did not hesitate in giving the spot-kick.
Ward, signed by Rangers manager Iain Dowie during his time at the Ricoh Arena, stepped up and buried the ball past Radek Cerny in the visitors' goal.
Chris Coleman's side almost doubled their advantage after 24 minutes, but Daniel Fox's curling free-kick took a deflection and drifted over the bar.
Dowie looked to change the shape of his side as the half progressed with Lee Cook and Emmanuel Ledesma pushing forward to help the lone striker, Dexter Blackstock
And it was Ledesma who had the chance to draw the sides level as he raced clear with three minutes remaining of the half but his shot was well saved by Keiren Westwood.
Rangers started the second half much brighter with Cook and Ledesma seeing much of the ball in wide positions as they looked to draw level.
Dowie's side came close to equalising as first Martin Rowlands shot at goal and then Damion Stewart shot over the bar from the edge of the area.
Cook then made a fine run taking jinking past two defenders before his shot was deflected wide of the post at Rangers looked to stamp their authority on the match.
Dexter Blackstock should have put Rangers on level terms but after controlling Delaney's cross he slid the ball agonisingly wide of the post as Coventry held on to the lead with 17 minutes to play.
The Sky Blues' crowd began to get anxious as Chris Coleman's side looked content to hold onto their one-goal lead rather than push for more goals but they were almost rewarded after Isaac Osbourne fired the ball over after good work from Eastwood.
As time ran out Coleman brought on Leon Best and Michael Mifsud in a surprise attacking move but his side held firm at the back to secure their first three points since the second game of the season. " Coventry Telegraph


The Times - Early penalty gives Coventry the win
Coventry 1 QPR 0 Times Online
A first-half penalty from Elliott Ward gave Coventry their first Coca-Cola Championship win in four games against QPR.
The hosts had the first chance of the game after three minutes when Aron Gunnarsson's shot was scrambled away from Kaspars Gorkss as the game started at a frantic pace.
Freddy Eastwood then went close for the Sky Blues, Clinton Morrison crossed deep from the right-hand side and Eastwood's goalbound header was deflected wide by Gorkss.
The home crowd thought their side had taken the lead from the resulting corner but Ward's near-post header went the wrong side of the upright.
The Sky Blues were awarded a penalty after 13 minutes when Damien Delaney chopped down Jay Tabb on the corner of the penalty area and referee Dean Whitestone did not hesitate in giving the spot-kick.
Ward, signed by Rangers manager Iain Dowie during his time at the Ricoh Arena, stepped up and buried the ball past Radek Cerny in the visitors' goal.
Chris Coleman's side almost doubled their advantage after 24 minutes, but Daniel Fox's curling free-kick took a deflection and drifted over the bar.
Dowie looked to change the shape of his side as the half progressed with Lee Cook and Emmanuel Ledesma pushing forward to help the lone striker, Dexter Blackstock.
And it was Ledesma who had the chance to draw the sides level as he raced clear with three minutes remaining of the half but his shot was well saved by Keiren Westwood.
Rangers started the second half much brighter with Cook and Ledesma seeing much of the ball in wide positions as they looked to draw level.
Dowie's side came close to equalising as first Martin Rowlands shot at goal and then Damion Stewart shot over the bar from the edge of the area.
Cook then made a fine run taking jinking past two defenders before his shot was deflected wide of the post at Rangers looked to stamp their authority on the match.
Dexter Blackstock should have put Rangers on level terms but after controlling Delaney's cross he slid the ball agonisingly wide of the post as Coventry held on to the lead with 17 minutes to play.
The Sky Blues' crowd began to get anxious as Chris Coleman's side looked content to hold onto their one-goal lead rather than push for more goals but they were almost rewarded after Isaac Osbourne fired the ball over after good work from Eastwood.
As time ran out Coleman brought on Leon Best and Michael Mifsud in a surprise attacking move but his side held firm at the back to secure their first three points since the second game of the season. The Times


QPR OFFICIAL SITE - DOWIE: "THE BEST TEAM LOST"
Iain Dowie was adamant his Rangers side deserved more, as Elliott Ward's first half spot-kick condemned the R's to their first defeat in five games in all competitions.
Ward's penalty, given for a contentious foul on Jay Tabb by Mikele Leigertwood, proved to be the difference despite Rangers totally orchestrating proceedings in the second half.
Emmanuel Ledesma, Dexter Blackstock, and late on, Daniel Parejo, all went close but it wasn't to be on Dowie's return to The Ricoh Arena.
"I've seen a lot today to convince me we're a very good side," he told www.qpr.co.uk.
"You can win games, and lose games, that happens but I can't have any complaints with the performance, especially in the second half.
"Chris Coleman told me he thought we were excellent, and I don't think anyone here today would disagree.
"The lads gave me everything, I thought we passed he ball really well in the second half and certainly deserved something for our efforts."
Dowie bemoaned referee Mr Whitestone's decision to award what he believed to be a soft penalty decision.
"The linesman was ten yards away and he didn't give it," said Dowie.
"It looked like Mikele played the ball, but the referee gave the decision.
"Radek almost pulled a fantastic save off, but it wasn't to be.
"That was the only time he was involved because we were so dominant."
Dowie added; "Ward, Osbourne, Dann and Fox were the best players on the park for City and that tells you everything.
"I wasn't singing from the roof tops Wednesday after our victory at Norwich and I'm not going to go overboard with this defeat.
"You've got to keep it real and we will do. We're still in the top six and that's to be applauded." QPR


Sky Sports - Coleman unconcerned by friendship
Coventry boss welcomes win over defeating Dowie
Coventry manager Chris Coleman insists his side's return to winning ways against Queens Park Rangers was more satisfying than defeating his friend Iain Dowie.
The Sky Blues secured a 1-0 home win as Elliot Ward's 13th minute penalty earned a first victory in four games.
Coleman used to room with QPR boss Dowie during their playing careers at Crystal Palace, but he is adamant the three points are more of a boost than downing his former colleague.
The Ricoh Arena chief confesses his side were fortunate, but he was delighted with the result.
He said: "The second half felt like 90 minutes. We did exactly the opposite of what we had spoken about at half-time.
Nervous
"We tried to defend a one-goal lead - which was partly down to fatigue and partly down to nerves.
"But for me it was just a case of getting the job done and we did that. It doesn't mean any more or less because it was against an old friend - I am just happy we have the three points."
Dowie, who was sacked by Coventry in February, said: "It's not the return I was hoping for. The result will tell you that - but the performance will tell you something else.
"I've watched Coventry a few times and I've not seen them be outplayed like they were in the second half.
"I'm very proud of the second-half display and but for the break of a ball and a few bits of heroic defending by their back four, it could have been our day.
"You have to say that the best players on the pitch were their central defenders and I didn't think it was a penalty but that's life and you get on with it." Sky





See Also: Earlier Reports of Coventry 1 QPR 0

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Despite their loss, QPR stay 4th (would have moved up to 2nd with a win) - Updated Table


QPR Official Site Coventry 1 QPR 0

QPR's impressive start to the season suffered its latest setback as - despite dominating the second half - Elliott Ward's first half penalty gave Coventry City all three points.

Mikele Leigertwood's foul on Sky Blues midfielder Jay Tabb gave the home side the chance from 12-yards, which Ward converted to ensure Manager Iain Dowie's return to The Ricoh Arena was not as he had hoped.

Midfielder Emmanuel Ledesma had the best chance to equalise after he was put through on goal, but he could only muster a tame effort that barely troubled home keeper Kieren Westwood.

Following Wednesday's hard-earned victory against Norwich City, Dowie was forced in to one change.

Latvian international defender Kaspars Gorkss came in for Matthew Connolly, who missed out owing to the red card he received at Carrow Road four days ago.

Akos Buzsaky was again named on the bench, as was Fitz Hall, returning from a groin injury.

City boss Chris Coleman named an unchanged line-up, which meant Michael Mifsud - who starred under the guidance of Dowie during his reign at The Ricoh Arena - again had to make do with a place on the Sky Blues' bench.

With the impressive 1700-strong away support in full voice, the game got underway.

And it was the visitors who threatened first, as Lee Cook ran at the Coventry defence before laying the ball off to the gallivanting Damien Delaney, who cut inside and unleashed a shot on his weaker right foot that went high and wide.

City fought back and Clinton Morrison's right-wing cross only just eluded the onrushing Freddy Eastwood.

Moments later, this time from a corner, Ward's near-post header went inches wide of Radek Cerny's right hand post.

The home side's pressure was beginning to mount, and they received the rewards of their efforts through the awarding of a penalty in the 13th minute, as Leigertwood bundled over Tabb.

Ward, who had missed his last penalty in midweek, was almost denied again as a strong left hand by Cerny couldn't quite keep the ball from crossing the line to give the Sky Blues the lead.

Rangers could not get into their stride just yet. Another set play, this time a Daniel Fox free-kick, nearly reaped further benefits for the home side but the wall did its job and the ball flew out for a corner.

City continued to press and Eastwood returned the favour for Morrison after half an hour but the ex-Crystal Palace man could only get the faintest of touches as the ball flashed across the box.

The R's were slowly creeping their way back into the game and were determined to finish the half in the ascendancy.

And the equaliser could and probably should have been Ledesma's. Leigertwood played a delightful ball over the top for the Argentine to control, steady and frustratingly shoot straight at a grateful Westwood who had got down quickly.

Coventry then almost went up the other end to double their lead, when Morrison again escaped down the right and fizzed in a cross that Tabb guided goalwards. Cerny, however, was equal to it as he got down well and smothered the midfielder's header.

With that, the curtain fell on the first half with Rangers trailing by a goal.

This time it was Coventry who threatened first as Aron Gunnarson drilled a shot wide from 20 yards.

Peter Ramage, prowling the right hand side, delivered a beautiful cross minutes later that Rowlands managed to flick on at the near post, but before the charging Blackstock could poke it in, Ward's foot sent it wide.

From the resultant corner, Martin Rowlands' edge-of-the-box shot was charged down and the deflection fell to Damion Stewart, who lashed an effort over the Coventry bar.

Dowie rang the changes, introducing attacking midfielders Daniel Parejo and Buzsaky, the former for Ramage who had taken a knock.

And they almost paid dividends. Parejo's long pass found Cook on the left who controlled, danced passed first one, then two, cut into the box and took a shot, which hit a Coventry player, looped up and narrowly wide with Westwood well beaten.

Rowlands, Cook and Delaney all combined minutes later to present a glorious chance for Blackstock as the Irish full back crossed for the man in form to miss-hit his shot and it too, looped up and wide of Westwood's post.

With seconds remaining, Parejo took matters into his own hands, picking up on a loose ball and striding towards the opposition box before unleashing a rasping drive that so nearly found the back of the net, leaving a frustrated Dowie with his head in his hands.

Coventry City: Westwood, Fox, Ward, Dann, Doyle, Eastwood (Best 75), Gunnarsson, McKenzie (Mifsud 79), Osbourne, Morrison, Tabb (Beuzelin 84).

Subs: Marshall, Hall.

Goals: Ward (pen 13)

Bookings: Tabb (5), Doyle (42), Ward (57), Osbourne (77)

QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Mahon, Liegertwood, Blackstock (Agyemang 76), Gorkss, Rowlands, Ramage (Parejo 56), Cook, Ledesma (Buzsaky 53).

Subs: Camp, Hall.

Bookings: Mahon (62)

Referee: Mr D Whitehouse

Attendance: 16, 718 (1,782)

QPR


COVENTRY OFFICIAL SITE
Coventry City vs QPR
Coventry City Football Club
0 - 0
Queen's Park Rangers Football Club
Date:
20/09/2008
Venue:
Ricoh Arena
Attendance:
0
Referee:

The Sky Blues beat QPR by a single goal to nil with Elliott Ward's first half penalty enough to earn City a thoroughly deserved three points.

Iain Dowie received an indifferent reaction from the Sky Blues fans on his first return to Coventry, the City faithful more concerned with seeing their side collect three points after two positive displays against Preston and Sheffield United.

Chris Coleman named an unchanged starting line-up and the Sky Blues started brightly. They could have taken an early lead when a Leon McKenzie cross led to a goalmouth melee but QPR cleared the danger. Jay Tabb was shown a yellow card in the seventh minute for a cynical challenge on Lee Cook before Elliott Ward headed into the side netting from a Danny Fox corner in a lively opening to the game.

Ward soon had a chance to make amends for his penalty miss on Tuesday when a push on Tabb led to a spot-kick being awarded to the Sky Blues and the centre-back duly converted to give City a 14th minute lead, despite keeper Radek Cerny getting a strong hand to his effort.

The Sky Blues continued to control the game, having successfully stifled the visitors' main attacking threats. They were also looking well capable of extending their lead - Freddy Eastwood whipping in a delightful cross on the half hour mark, which Clinton Morrison was just inches away from converting.

With just two minutes left in the half, the R's had a great opportunity to equalize when Emmanuel Ledesma broke the offside trap and raced through on goal but thankfully Keiren Westwood raced off his line to narrow the angles and saved well.

The Sky Blues maintained the upper hand at the beginning of the second period, pinning the visitors back and on 52 minutes Gunnarsson sent a low volley inches wide of the upright from 20 yards.

QPR made their first substitution on 53, Hungarian playmaker Akos Buzsaky replacing Ledesma and soon afterwards Dowie made an attacking switch, introducing midfielder Daniel Parejo for injured defender Peter Ramage.

As the game reached its climax, the Hoops really began to pressurise City and on 74 minutes, Dexter Blackstock came close to converting a low cross from Cook. But the Sky Blues were defending admirably, getting bodies behind the ball to frustrate their opponents.

Coleman introduced Leon Best for Eastwood with just over ten minutes remaining while Dowie made his final switch, bringing on Patrick Agyemang for Blackstock. Michael Mifsud then entered the fray for the Sky Blues, replacing Leon McKenzie.

With five left on the clock Guillaume Beuzelin came on for Jay Tabb to play a hold-up role in the middle of the park and City saw out time without any major worries to earn a thoroughly deserved free-kick and bring a tough week of fixtures to a very pleasing end. Coventry

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Today's Teams:
QPR: Cerny; Delaney; Stewart; Mahon; Leigertwood; Blackstock; Gorkss; Rowlands; Ramage; Cook; Ledesma. Subs: Camp; Hall; Parejo; Buzsaky; Agyemang

Coventry: Westwood; Fox; Ward; Dann; Doyle; Eastwood; Gunnarsson; McKenzie; Osbourne; Morrison; Tabb. Subs: Marshall; Hall; Beuzelin; Best; Mifsud

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As posted: According to another board poster this is the collective initiative of the combination of QPR fan groups and QPR websites as "One QPR"

***Agreed Protest***
From QPR 1st
Following discussion between representatives of the main fans groups, organisations and messageboards within the QPR Community, it has been agreed that we should call for ten minutes silence at the start of the Derby match.
This Silence will be symbolic of where our club is heading if fans continue to be priced out. At the end of the ten minute silence, we urge everyone to get behind our team at full volume, again to demonstrate the difference between a full stadium and an empty one.
Should QPR score in that 10-minute period, all fans will be encouraged to celebrate per normal but we hope they will return to silence after play commences for the rest of the ten minutes.
This is not a protest against our Board of Directors and certainly not against our squad but against a policy which we believe is misguided and harmful to our Club and its reputation.
We will be meeting with Ali Russell on Tuesday in the hope that common sense will prevail and this protest will be unnecessary. Nevertheless if he continues to refuse to offer any concessions or guarantees on behalf of the Board then the protest will continue as planned.
We would ask all fans to join in this protest and hopefully encourage a r on a policy which will eventually ensure that for the majority of the exisiting fan base going to matches becomes a luxury that we and our families can no longer afford.

Follow up from QPR1st The production of leaflets will be at personal expense although I will discuss with the rest of the trust management team whether the trust will donate from its own 'rainy day' fund. (You will remember this was discussed at our AGM)
We will require a team of volunteers to give out the leaflets. Please let us know if you can help out by contacting any of the main supporters groups.
Only one representative from each supporters group have been invited to attend the meeting on Tuesday. The trust will of course report back on the meeting as I am sure other groups will.
As chairman of the supporters trust, please forgive me for keep refering to QPR1st but please also appreciate this protest is not just about QPR1st but is also supported by the LSA, the OSC, Indys, WATRBs to name but some of the groups who are involved." [As posted on WeAreTheRangersBoys]

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BBC Gossip - Crystal Palace midfielder Ben Watson will seek a cut-price move to QPR in January. (Daily Mirror) BBC


Sydney Morning Herald/Michael Cockerill - Bosnich - "....QUEENS PARK RANGERS
"..."I totally understand that. My past is not Queens Park Rangers' past."
"I was offered a contract at QPR in December, but eventually it was explained to me that there was somebody on the board who was dead-set against it because of my past. "I totally understand that. My past is not Queens Park Rangers' past." Report


Flashback: Two years ago Today: John Gregory Appointed Manager of QPR.

QPR Official Site, September 20, 2006: - GREGORY APPOINTED
John Gregory has been appointed as QPR First Team Manager with immediate effect.
Gary Waddock will now work under the former Aston Villa boss in an Assistant Manager's role.
In an exclusive interview with www.qpr.co.uk, Chairman Gianni Paladini revealed his delight at the appointment: "It's a fantastic scoop for the Club.
"John is a proven manager at the highest level and is very eager to get back in to the managerial game.
"He's sat down with Gary and talked everything through and the situation is perfect as we look to climb the Championship table.
"I'd like to wish the pair of them the very best in their new roles.''
Gregory - who has been out of the game since leaving Derby County in 2003 - commented: "I'm back in the hot-seat and it's a huge challenge.
"QPR are very close to my heart and it's a fantastic opportunity for me.
"This is a job I can very much get my teeth into and I'm relishing the challenge that lies ahead.
"Winning matches is what matters most in the business and we aim to do that, starting Saturday.''
Waddock said: "It's the right decision for the club, I'm just thankful that Gianni thinks enough of me to keep me here as Assistant Manager.
"I look forward to working with John, we both played together under Terry Venables and have the same work ethic.
"I'll learn a lot from him and I'm sure that this appointment will benefit the club I love."

QPR 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.''


SKYSPORTS - Gregory happy to be back By Lewis Rutledge - 20 Sep 2006
John Gregory has expressed his delight at returning to management with Queens Park Rangers.
Gregory has been away from football since being sacked by Derby in 2003, but QPR decided to bring him in following a disastrous start to the season.
Having played for QPR in the past Gregory admits he is pained to see the club bottom of The Championship, and he is determined to guide them clear of relegation.
He also explained that his history at the club had been a factor in his decision to return to Loftus Road.
"It feels very good," he told Sky Sports News. "I'm ready to come back to work.
"It (news of the appointment) kind of broke towards the end of the weekend. I spoke to the chairman and the board of directors and we sorted things out very quickly.
"You can start romancing about the past and what it was like during my time here.
"I was here for four-and-a-half seasons and we won almost every week. We had a tremendous success rate, so they were very happy times.
"So that did influence me but it wasn't the overriding issue.
"From a geography point of view it is ideal for me, and just knowing that there is an opportunity here to improve the team, to get us back up the table, and look for Championship safety."
Gregory's predecessor Gary Waddock, who played alongside the 51-year-old at QPR, is to remain at the club as assistant manager.
"It's been a tough time for Gary but he'll cope. He's a really strong personality and I want him to continue to be part of my staff," said Gregory.
"We'll work together and I hope the next time he sits in the big chair he'll be a lot more experienced and he'll have learned from his time in charge here."
Skysports


TEAMTALK Gregory warns of tough times ahead
John Gregory has warned QPR they face "a serious relegation threat" after succeeding Gary Waddock as manager at Loftus Road.
The former Aston Villa and Derby boss has signed a contract until the end of the season with Rangers, with the option of a one-year rolling contract to follow if he does well.
Gregory takes over with Rangers bottom of the Championship and out of the Carling Cup - and he urged the players to show more heart in the battles that lie ahead.
"There is a serious threat of relegation at this club," Gregory said. "I saw them knocked out of the Carling Cup at Port Vale last night.
"Some of the players turned up - but quite a few of them did not bother going.
"Every player will have a fresh chance to impress me, and that is what they are here to do.
"I still have lots of points to prove to myself - although not to anyone else. I hope I can improve the fortunes of the team."
Waddock was relieved of his duties after meeting Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini - a close friend of Gregory - after the 3-2 defeat at Vale Park.
During the reigns of Ian Holloway and Waddock, there was considerable speculation regarding how much influence Paladini exerted over team selection and transfer policy - but Gregory made it clear he would tolerate no such interference.
The 51-year-old continued: "The training ground is the one place where I do not want anyone to interfere with my work.
"That is my domain. Having success is about keeping good habits, working hard and getting things right.
"In terms of transfers, we will work with what we have, although there is the opportunity to make loan signings, which has been a blessing for Championship clubs."
Gregory's friendship with Paladini is likely to raise some eyebrows among Rangers fans, with whom the Italian former agent has never been wholly popular.
Backed by a consortium of Monte Carlo-based businessmen, Paladini took control from former chairman Bill Power in a boardroom coup in September 2005.
Rangers have suffered considerable financial problems in recent seasons and spent the 2001-02 season - before Paladini had become involved with the club - in administration, but Gregory was quick to defend Paladini and fellow director Antonio Caliendo.
He added: "I have known Gianni for some time, and, were it not for he and Antonio, the club might not be here today.
"Our results can dictate the direction of the financial side of things.
"If we can improve on the pitch, more supporters will start coming to watch us, and it will help everything." Teamtalk


BBC - September 20, 2006: Gregory appointed as new QPR boss
QPR have unveiled John Gregory as their new manager, with former boss Gary Waddock becoming first-team coach.
Former Aston Villa boss Gregory, 51, returns to management three-and-a-half years after leaving Derby.
Waddock replaced sacked Ian Holloway at the helm in February before getting the position full-time in the summer but has struggled since then.
Gregory, joining with QPR bottom of the Championship, said: "I'm back in the hot-seat and it's a huge challenge."
QPR have won just one league game this season and were knocked out of the Carling Cup by Port Vale on Tuesday evening.
This is a job I can very much get my teeth into and I'm relishing the challenge
John Gregory
But Gregory, a close friend of Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini and a former player at the club in the 1980s, is looking forward to a daunting task.
"QPR are very close to my heart and it's a fantastic opportunity for me," said Gregory, who reached the FA Cup final with QPR as a player in 1982.
"This is a job I can very much get my teeth into and I'm relishing the challenge that lies ahead.
"Winning matches is what matters most in the business and we aim to do that, starting Saturday.''
He also told BBC Sport: "It's a club I was associated with for four-and-a-half years of my playing career - probably the most successful of my football career.
"I won my England caps while playing for QPR - that kind of influenced to want to come here."
Paladini revealed his delight at Gregory's appointment, saying: "It's a fantastic scoop for the club.
"John is a proven manager at the highest level and is very eager to get back in to the managerial game.
"He's sat down with Gary and talked everything through and the situation is perfect as we look to climb the Championship table.
Waddock said: "It's the right decision for the club, I'm just thankful that Gianni thinks enough of me to keep me here as Assistant Manager.
I look forward to working with John, we both played together under Terry Venables and have the same work ethic
Gary Waddock
"I look forward to working with John, we both played together under Terry Venables and have the same work ethic.
"I'll learn a lot from him and I'm sure that this appointment will benefit the club I love."
Gregory began his managerial career at Portsmouth and he also had a spell at Plymouth.
He took over at Wycombe Wanderers in October 1996, where he helped the team avoid relegation and remained in charge for two years.
The former England midfielder took over at Villa in the 1997/98 season and during the four years under Gregory's management Villa never finished outside the top eight in the Premiership.
He has also managed Derby and has been out of management since leaving the Rams in March 2003. BBC QPR Report

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QPR Official Site - MATCHDAY TICKET PRICES
Our ultimate goal at Queens Park Rangers Football Club is to reach the Promised Land of the Premiership and to compete with some of the biggest Club's in the country, and in time, across Europe.
As such, we are totally committed to building a sound financial base for the future, upon which we can continue to build for what we all believe will be the most successful period in our Club's history.
As part of this financial restructuring, we need to increase our matchday revenues and as a result, we have introduced a new three-tiered category banding structure, whereby adult matchday prices are determined by the opposition, their league position, and the day of the fixture.
Matchday prices will vary depending on the part of the ground in which you choose to sit, namely the Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze areas.
Our forthcoming home fixture against Derby County on Saturday 27th September will be a category A match, where tickets are priced £50 Platinum, £40 Gold, £30 Silver and £20 Bronze respectively.
Our fixture against Blackpool on Tuesday 30th September will be a category C fixture. Platinum priced seats will be available from £35, while Gold, Silver and Bronze priced seats are £30, £25 and £20 respectively.
In line with our ethos as a Family Club, children under the age of eight will continue to be able to purchase matchday tickets in silver and bronze areas free of charge, while concessions will continue to receive substantial discounts.
One-hundred per-cent of all matchday profits will continue to be ploughed back into the Club, allowing us to continue our policy of attracting some of the most exciting, young players from these shores and across Europe to QPR.
We are committed to continue building a successful, yet financially stable future at QPR and as supporters of our great Football Club, we want you to be with us all the way.
Category A v Derby
Platinum Gold Silver Bronze
Adult 50.00 40.00 30.00 20.00
U-16 25.00 20.00 15.00 12.00
U-8 n/a n/a FREE FREE
Seniors 25.00 20.00 15.00 12.00
16-21 25.00 20.00 15.00 12.00

Category C v Blackpool
Platinum Gold Silver Bronze
Adult 35.00 30.00 25.00 20.00
U-16 25.00 20.00 15.00 12.00
U-8 n/a n/a FREE FREE
Seniors 25.00 20.00 15.00 12.00
16-21 25.00 20.00 15.00 12.00
QPR


Ben Kosky/Kilburn Times - All about the money?
QPR have denied that miscalculations in their budget prompted the controversial decision to raise ticket prices just six weeks into the new season.
Rangers supporters reacted angrily on internet forums this week after the club announced that the top seats for their next match at Loftus Road would now cost a whopping £50 each.
Unsurprisingly, the move appears highly unpopular - particularly after the club increased prices across the board in the summer, with some season tickets costing up to an additional 50 per cent.
But deputy managing director Ali Russell told the Times: "There are no errors. We're trying to build a football club which is sustainable and the board felt it was necessary to take the club forward.
"We need to increase revenue in line with other areas of the business and all areas have got to come together to hit our targets.
"We feel we're offering value for money and we want to give our season ticket holders the best value.
"The base price has not changed - you can still get a ticket here for £20, but we're making an effort to maximise our revenue for the best views in the stadium."
Under the new banding system, seats for Rangers' match against Derby on September 27 will range from £50 (platinum area) to £40 (gold), £30 (silver) and £20 (bronze) for adults.
But prices remain at the lower rates of £35, £30, £25 and £20 respectively for the Blackpool game three days later, which is designated Category C.
Future matches will be graded according to factors such as the day of the week and standard of opposition, while tickets for under-eights remain free in silver and bronze areas.
"I think there are always risks with prices," Russell admitted. "We've looked at prices both in the Championship and the Premier League and we believe we're providing a good entertainment product.
"Some games are going to be more expensive than others, but that isn't a new concept in football. Everything that's been spent has gone into running the team and that will continue."
QPR co-owner Flavio Briatore recently claimed that the club had not spent anything on transfer fees during the summer - yet they did recoup £500,000 from the sale of Simon Walton to Plymouth.
And it cannot have escaped anyone's notice that only last week Rangers handed a contract to a 34-year-old ex-international who plays in a position where - even after ditching Walton - the club already have several options.
Whatever Damiano Tommasi's pedigree, he is possibly the most illogical signing in QPR's history - and supporters must be wondering why they are apparently expected to help fund it.
While Russell declined to comment on specific team matters, he added: "It's difficult to know what players are going to be available and how your squad is going to be made up.
"The transfer window is now closed and we're trying to balance the books, but I certainly don't want to give the impression that this is to cover any individual player's salary."
If there were any doubts about the reasons for signing Tommasi, who made his first appearance in a QPR shirt in the reserves' 1-1 draw with Reading on Monday, they were dispelled by Rs boss Iain Dowie.
Asked whether he had personally wanted to bring the former Roma midfield man to Loftus Road, Dowie answered: "He was available and he was happy to come to London.
"The game's changing and you either resist it or you go with it - as long as I'm in charge of team selection, that's the holy grail for me."
It will be fascinating to see exactly how many hard-pressed Rangers fans reach into their pockets again to see Dowie's next home team selection a week on Saturday." Kilburn Times


BBC - QPR defend ticket price increase
QPR say their increased ticket prices will help maintain budgets previously set to provide a better standard of entertainment for home and away fans.
In a statement released to BBC London 94.9: "Since the takeover, the club has had massive investment, for both on and off the pitch activities.
"The board has considered it a necessity to increase match-day prices to maintain budgets previously set.
"We are totally committed to building a sound financial base for the future."
There has already been protests against the rise in ticket prices.
Derby County are refusing to meet the demands and are not accepting the prices set by the R's for the game at Loftus Road on 27 September.
It is believed that QPR have already appealed to the Football League and a decision is expected by the end of the week.
The statement continued: "Our ultimate goal at Queens Park Rangers Football Club is to reach the Premier League and to compete with some of the biggest club’s in the country, and in time, across Europe.
"One hundred percent of all match-day profits will continue to be ploughed back into the club, allowing us to continue our policy of attracting some of the most exciting, young players from these shores and across Europe to QPR."
And despite objections from fans and other Championship clubs the Rangers believe they are offering value for money.
"We've looked at prices both in the Championship and the Premier League and we believe we're providing a good entertainment product.
"The base price has not changed. You can still get a ticket at QPR for £20, but we're making an effort to maximise our revenue for the best views in the house.
"Children under the age of eight will continue to be able to purchase match-day tickets in certain areas of the ground free of charge, while concessions will continue to receive substantial discounts." BBC


Loyal Soccer Association (LSA) Statement
The QPR Loyal Supporters' Association is dismayed and disgusted at the latest price increases for match day tickets. Many fans who were unable to afford to purchase season tickets due to the 50% plus increase in prices, now will be unable to afford a match day ticket. Is it a conscious policy to price out long standing loyal fans and replace them with a more well off section of 'fans'.
- The LSA stands against all forms of discrimination, including discrimination on economic grounds. We feel the club is excluding a section of our fans who are no longer able to pay the very high prices asked. It may also be a very short sighted policy, given that the economy is in recession, people are losing their jobs and inflation is rocketing. People may make the choice in these hard times to stop paying high prices to watch a live match.
- We in the LSA came into existence to offer an independent voice for QPR fans and to protect and safeguard our beloved club. When the club was in dire straits we along with others organised collections and sponsored events, we even raised money to pay for a player. We welcome the fact that the club is safe financially and we are confident that there will be success on the field, but we want all the QPR family to be able to enjoy that success.
What is Queens Park Rangers? we believe it is ultimately the fans who make up the club, if we lose our loyal fan base, we lose the heart and soul of our club.
We urge fans to write letters of protest to the club, we also urge fans to peacefully demonstrate outside the main entrance in South Africa Road after the Derby County game.But get behind the R's and let us cheer them on to promotion.
QUEENS PARK RANGERS LOYAL SUPPORTERS' ASSOCIATION LSA


QPR1st join LSA in condemning the latest price increase.
BBC - QPR fans condemn price increases
The Queens Park Rangers supporters trust, QPR 1st, have condemned the club for further increasing ticket prices.
Admission to some areas of Loftus Road will cost £40 or £50 for some games.
In a statement, QPR 1st said the decision "is unjustified and will have a serious effect on the relationship between the club and its supporters."
The trust say they sympathise with Derby County, who have refused to accept the prices set for their fans for the game at QPR on 27 September.
The Rangers board caused dismay among many supporters by drastically increasing the cost of season tickets in the summer.
And this week the Championship club, owned by Formula One magnates Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore as well as Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, announced another hike in matchday prices.
The QPR 1st statement added: "We regret to say that the club's action is consistent with its policy towards the pricing of season tickets, which was also dealt with in an insensitive and brash manner.
"The board of directors claims to take pride in QPR as a family club whilst expanding a prohibitive pricing structure that will fail to encourage families and young supporters to the club.
606: DEBATE Your views on QPR's price increases
"In view of calls for protests from other supporters groups and on messageboards, we will be canvassing our members to find out whether there is majority support for the trust formally participating in such action."
QPR say the increase in prices is needed as part of a financial restructure.
In a statement to BBC London 94.9, the club said: "Since the takeover, the club has had massive investment, for both on and off the pitch activities.
"The board has considered it a necessity to increase match-day prices to maintain budgets previously set. We are totally committed to building a sound financial base for the future." BBC


Dave McIntyre - BBC606 Trust condemn 'unjustified' price hike
The QPR supporters trust, QPR 1st, have issued a statement condemning the latest price increases announced by the club.
The trust describe the increases and “unjustified” and say they “will have a serious effect on the relationship between the club and its supporters."

Below is the full QPR 1st statement and as always, I’d like your views on the issue and what you think the fans’ reaction ought to be.
QPR 1st acknowledges the role of the board in improving our financial prospects and shares its aims in wanting the club to thrive. It has always been accepted among the fans that there would be ticket price rises as the club develops over the next few years.
Nevertheless QPR 1st believe that the recently announced rises are unjustified and will have a serious effect on the relationship between the club and its supporters, as well as the fans of other clubs. The decision to charge away fans up to £40 for their seats will sour the goodwill that QPR has with other teams' supporters.
We fully sympathise with the response of the Board of Directors of Derby Football Club who are acting in the interest of their supporters and will be writing to both the Chairman of Derby and the Chairman of Derby's Supporters Trust (as well as the Football League) making our feelings known.
We regret to say that the club's action is consistent with its policy towards the pricing of season tickets, which was also dealt with in an insensitive and brash manner. The Board of Directors claims to take pride in QPR as a family club whilst expanding a prohibitive pricing structure that will fail to encourage families and young supporters to the club.
QPR 1st will continue to work with other QPR supporters groups to bring our concerns to the notice of the management of the club. We also wish to maintain a constructive dialogue with the club that will benefit everybody in the QPR community.
We regret that the directors have so far chosen not to meet with the trust or as far as we are aware other supporters groups. We also regret that the meeting due to be held in August between Club representatives and supporters representatives was postponed by the Club and we await confirmation of the revised date of this meeting, which we understand will be early next month.
In view of calls for protests from other supporters groups and on the messageboards we will be canvassing our members to find out whether there is majority support for the trust formally participating in such action. BBC606


Ealing Gazette - Yann Tear - QPR ticket price probe
Rs could face u-turn pressure over pricing
QPR could be forced into an embarrassing climbdown over their newly-announced ticket price hike.
The club have chosen to categorise games in three bands according to the attractiveness of the opposition but the Gazette understands the move breaks Football League rules because you cannot re-price once the season is under way.
All clubs have to submit details of ticket prices before the first fixtures and they then need permission to make any alterations which Rangers do not have.
The Football League is looking into the matter as a matter of urgency, according to press spokesman John Nagle, who said Rangers re-pricing into different bands was Ôhighly unusual for a club outside the Premier League.
A test of the fans' reaction to the increases and there has been no consultation comes immediately with next weekend's home match against Derby County classified a top category match. QPR fan group LSA are planning a protest outside
Loftus Road before and after the match and want to collect signatures for a petition they intend to hand to chairman Flavio Briatore.
It is unclear what sanctions Rangers could face for breaking the rules but with tickets already on sale at the higher prices, refunds for fans may be an option the league board considers as well as an insistence that matchday prices revert to what they were at the start of the season for all future matches.
The club was criticised for summer price rises of 50 per cent for season tickets, which led to many fans deciding not to renew.
But if those fans opting out were hoping to pick and choose individual games to save cash, they are still being hit.
Tickets are going up from £40 to £50 in the main stand for the top games and from £30 to £40 at the Loft End.
John Reid, secretary of the LSA (Loyal Supporters Association) said he was dismayed and disgusted at the price increases.
He feared it might be a conscious policy to price out long-standing fans and replace them with a new breed of richer spectators with no real loyalty to the club.
"The LSA stands against all forms of discrimination, including discrimination on economic grounds, he said. "We feel the club is excluding a section of our fans who are no longer able to pay the very high prices asked.
"It may be a very short-sighted policy, given that the economy is in recession, people are losing their jobs and inflation is rocketing. People may make the choice in these hard times to stop paying high prices to watch a live match.
"We welcome the fact that the club is safe financially and we are confident there will be success on the field, but if we lose our loyal fan base, we lose the heart and soul of our club." Ealing Gazette


Derby Evening Telegraph - QPR fans side with the Rams
QUEENS Park Rangers fans have backed Derby County in the ticket-price row between the two clubs.
Derby, who were still waiting on a final ruling on the issue from the Football League last night, are contesting the £40 away-ticket price set by QPR for the Championship clash on September 27 – an increase of £10 on the original agreement.
QPR fans have also seen their ticket prices increased to up to £50.
The Queens Park Rangers supporters trust, QPR 1st, said the prices were "unjustified."
"It is consistent with its policy towards the pricing of season tickets, which was also dealt with in an insensitive and brash manner," said a statement.
Derby Supporters Club chairman John Hemsworth sympathised with fans at Loftus Road.
"It would be like a Derby fan paying £40 to go and sit in the East Stand," he said.
"You just can't charge that amount for a Championship game.
"I've got every sympathy with QPR fans because it looks like they're going to be battling this problem for the rest of the season."
The prices for Derby's visit to Loftus Road had been set at £30 in the Upper Tier and £25 in the Lower Tier with the standard concessions. QPR want to raise them to £40 and £30. Derby Evening Telegraph

Tom Luntz - Guardian Blog
Long-suffering QPR fans forced to jump through financial hoops
With Rangers doing well on and off the pitch, it's galling for many fans that ticket prices have been hiked
There's always a price for success. For Julius Caesar it was a backstreet spinal tap, for a post-Croatia Theo Walcott it's the sour breath of a thousand hulking full-backs on his neck and for the Stereophonics it was, well, you've heard Just Enough Education To Perform, right? But the fans of QPR - currently fourth in the Championship - can put an exact figure on their stroll up the table: £40 for a home game against Derby.
Not too long ago, of course, QPR's supporters would have been happy to hear they'd still be paying to watch their team play anybody. Hoops fans had endured the humiliation of their side going from a team that often played the beautiful game at its most erotic – they finished fifth in the top flight in the early 90s too – to a side of League One also-rans. The fun didn't end there though; the club had a £10m loan they'd taken out from a mysterious Panamanian conglomerate hanging over its bowed head, was involved in a mass brawl with the nation of China, while the then chairman Gianni Paladini claimed he had a gun pulled on him by a fellow director (the allegation was thrown out in court). To top it all off the board even sunk so low as to appoint John Gregory manager.
But last year, with QPR just hours from administration, they were snapped up by Formula One supremos Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore, who were later joined by Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, a man so rich he could probably buy a 0.32% share in Man City. Rather than Ridsdale-it-up, though, the new owners have invested in the club sensibly, paying off debts renovating the ground and bringing in good players on free transfers.
Last season was one of consolidation. Gregory departed in November and was replaced by Luigi Di Canio who got the team playing attractive football again. Unfortunately, he forgot to tell them to defend and they gave away leads again and again. This season, Iain Dowie has kept Di Canio's attacking ethos, but tightened up at the back – at Norwich on Wednesday QPR played 65 minutes with 10 men and still came away with a win.
So with the club doing well on and off the pitch, it's galling for many fans that ticket prices have been hiked. And it's happened more than once. "In the summer we were told season ticket prices would be going up by 10%," says Clive Whittingham of Loft for Words. "Many of the rises ended up being closer to 100%." This was compounded when prices for the Derby game went up too – a change that's set to be permanent for games against bigger sides (whether a side who set a host of new lows last season is a top club is an argument for another day). There's a bewildering array of tickets for games at Loftus Rd: Platinum, Silver, Bronze - chintzy names for what is essentially a plastic seat - but what it comes down to is that a good seat that cost £30 last week will now set you back £40.
"We feel like we're not being told the whole truth and we're being ripped off," says Whittingham. "£40 is ridiculously poor value to watch Championship football."
Derby County agree, and the Football League will rule today whether the price changes are fair. "We have stuck by our guns. We don't think it is fair to increase those prices," said Matt McCann, the Rams' head of communications.
According to QPR "the board has considered it a necessity to increase match-day prices to maintain budgets previously set. We are totally committed to building a sound financial base for the future." They also point out that you can get tickets for as little as £20, although many fans will point out that you might not be able to see one of the goals from your seat.
And then there's Briatore's sometimes baffling quotes, which bring in to question whether he thinks he's running a football club or a swish hotel. "Step by step we have been putting money into facilities so as to create a unique brand and concept; in essence a boutique stadium," he said earlier this season. "It is an exclusive side of football that will rely on service, style, the ability to look after people and an insistence on playing the game the right way. It is all part of our plan, and we must make sure we do things the right way."
It's a shame that it's come to this – despite Rangers' encouraging start to the season crowds have only passed 15,000 once, and price rises are likely have something to do with that - especially as Whittingham acknowledges that the vast majority of fans are grateful for what the new owners have done for them. It just seems very little reward for a set of fans that have stuck with their club through thin, thinner and gossamer.
Tom Lutz Posted by Tom Lutz Friday September 19 2008 - Guardian Blog


When Saturday Comes - Price of success at QPR
In a week where the global economy has been veering towards the very real possibility of a severe depression, no-one at Queens Park Rangers has been reading the news. After significantly hiking season ticket prices over the summer, the club has decided to further raise the entrance price for any fans turning up on the day to as high as £50. Yes, that's for 90 minutes of football at Loftus Road, in the good old English second division. And it's not much better for visiting fans – Derby County were shocked to receive tickets for their upcoming game at QPR with a mark-up to £40 from the price of £30 the two clubs had agreed on prior to the season's start. Derby have refused the tickets, and now the west London side is appealing to the Football League, presumably for the right to be as greedy as they bloody well want.
It's odd that the wealthy captains of industry who've recently taken over the club have such a rudimentary understanding of economics. They are apparently oblivious to the consequences of recession, which dictate that as soon as times are hard, the first costs that people cut back on are leisure-related. Amazingly, people are prone to choose flippant purchases such as food and clothing ahead of essential pastimes like watching Fitz Hall and Adam Bolder gad about after Blackpool, Plymouth and Swansea on a Saturday afternoon. Had the well-minted trio of Bernie Ecclestone, Lakshmi Mittal and Flavio Briatore looked more intelligently at the team's attendances so far, they might have made the connection – despite a decent start to the season, QPR are well short of selling out their modest 19,100 capacity ground.
No doubt these men didn't get where they are today by giving anything away for free. And so despite the newly sound financial footing of the club, the fans are still being asked to pay exorbitant sums for the pleasure of following their team. QPR are strutting about like they're already playing in the Premier League, and if there's any kind of warped thinking at all behind these outrageous increases, it must be to the effect that the higher something is priced, the more valuable it will appear. It's the way the diamond market works, after all. Though it would be a brave fan who handed his loved one a fancy box on her birthday that contained two main stand seats for the crucial November 8 home clash with Cardiff City.
The option for disgruntled fans is to vote with their feet and stay away, either because they've had enough of being treated with such contempt, or because they simply can't afford to go any more. But it's an obviously unsatisfactory solution for supporters who love their team, unless they can stomach a drop in standard and develop a sudden affinity for Hendon Town. Meanwhile, it's hard to understand what the club's motivation is other than to test both the loyalty and the pocket depth of their fans. Right now, they look suspiciously like the nouveau riche trying to cast off their old friends in favour of mixing with a perceived elite. Maybe QPR and the Premier League deserve each other. Though charging palatial prices to get inside football's equivalent of a glorified garden shed may not win them as many new friends as they hope. Ian Plenderleith [When Saturday Comes



Mirror/James Nursey - £50 TO SEE RANGERS!
Qpr fans plan to protest at the club's "outrageous" ticket price hike as some supporters face paying £50 to watch the Championship side.
Rangers' costs have soared since being bought last year by billionaires Flavio Briatore, Bernie Ecclestone and Lakshmi Mittal, who have spent nearly £10million on new players.
But fans have reacted with fury after learning non-season ticket holders may have to shell out £50 for some home games - an increase of £10.
"This has caused outrage and there is talk of protests," said Howard Prosser, editor of a new book about the club, From Buckets To Billionaires.
"The club put their prices up in the summer by 10 per cent and have put prices up again just weeks into the season.
"This is a strange decision which will alienate fans further." Mirror


Daily Mail/Ian Gibb - As the credit crunch deepens, QPR come up with the first £50 Championship ticket
Queens Park Rangers have sparked an angry reaction from fans by becoming the first Championship team to charge £50 for a ticket.
It is all the more surprising considering their opponents for the game a week tomorrow are struggling Derby County, who have refused to accept their
allocation after Rangers also raised prices for away fans to as high as £40.
Dexter Blackstock scores for Rangers in front of rows of empty seats
The disagreement between the clubs is in the hands of the Coca-Cola Football League after an appeal from QPR.
But Rangers have come under fire from their own supporters who cannot understand why the billionaire owners who took over at Loftus Road last year, Lakshmi Mittal, Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone, have sanctioned the £10 hike.
One angry season ticket holder said: ‘I’m disgusted with the pricing. I hope other supporters do not judge the fans and team of QPR by the greed of the owners. I hope away fans stay away in protest. It’s daylight robbery.’
QPR Loyal Supporters’ Association announced they were ‘dismayed and disgusted’ by the increase, especially after some season tickets went up by half.
The £50 ticket is still less than London’s Barclays Premier League clubs, with
Arsenal (£96), Chelsea (£65), Tottenham (£75), West Ham (£63) and Fulham (£70) charging more for top-priced tickets to category A games.
But it is more expensive than every other top-flight team, except Manchester United, who charge only £5 more for the best seats to top fixtures.
Ticket prices are usually set before the season and submitted to the League, with both teams needing to give their permission for any changes.
Derby refused to accept the rise, and a club spokesman said: ‘We think it’s too high and we don’t think that’s fair. We’ve stood our ground and QPR have exercised their right to appeal that to the Football League.’
QPR said: ‘Since the takeover, the club has had massive investment which has enabled us to increase our competitiveness in the Championship and provide a better standard of entertainment for home and away supporters.
'The base price has not changed. You can still get a ticket for £20. All match-day profits will continue to be ploughed back into the club.’ Daily Mail


Derby Evening Telegraph - League set to deliver verdict on QPR tickets
DERBY County will today find out if the Football League has ruled in their favour in the ticket price row with Queens Park Rangers.
QPR want to charge visiting Rams supporters up to £40 to attend the Championship clash on September 27 – an increase of £10 on the price originally agreed.
The Rams objected and the matter is now in the hands of the League.
"We have stuck by our guns. We don't think it is fair to increase those prices," said Matt McCann, the Rams' head of communications.
Clubs set their ticket prices before the start of the season and have to submit them to the Football League. Any change to prices for away fans has to be agreed between the two clubs.
The prices for Derby's visit to Loftus Road are £30 in the Upper Tier and £25 in the Lower Tier with the standard concessions. QPR want to raise them to £40 and £30.
The West London club has increased ticket prices for their own fans and defended the rise saying it will help maintain budgets previously set to provide a better standard of entertainment for home and away fans.
A statement read: "Since the takeover, the club has had massive investment, for both on and off the pitch activities. The board has considered it a necessity to increase match-day prices to maintain budgets previously set. We are totally committed to building a sound financial base for the future." Derby Evening Telegraph


Football 365 -QPR CHARGE £50 FOR CHAMPIONSHIP TICKET
As purse strings around the world tighten, QPR have paid no attention to any global financial worries by charging £50 for a Championship match ticket.
The wealthiest team in the second tier have announced that the top price ticket for their forthcoming game against Derby will cost more than all but six of the Premier League's most expensive admission prices.
Only the five London clubs and Manchester United charge more, and Derby have refused to accept the new structure for the game on September 27.
A Derby spokesman said: 'We think it's too high and we don't think that's fair. We've stood our ground and QPR have exercised their right to appeal that to the Football League.'
However, QPR sought to justify the rise, saying that the better standard of play at Loftus Road meant the price was fair.
A club statement said: 'Since the takeover, the club has had massive investment which has enabled us to increase our competitiveness in the Championship and provide a better standard of entertainment for home and away supporters.
'The base price has not changed. You can still get a ticket for £20. All match-day profits will continue to be ploughed back into the club.' Football 365


- See Also:

- Perspective of Website "Can't Stop The Bleeding" - "QPR : Hoping Rival Fans Have More Money Than Brains

- Earlier Responses/Comments re Ticket Increases "Media Disparages QPR's Decision to Raise Ticket Prices - As Derby County Protest QPR's Decison"


The club's decision to raise ticket prices, critiqued by quite a few messageboard posters, attracts media attention (and criticism).
[See also: Official Statement Announcing Ticket Price Increases -- QPR's Ali Russell Comments QPR's Finances/Ticket Price Increases ----
Loyal Supporters Association (LSA) Statement ---- QPR Fan Reactions


Daily Telegraph/The Daily Bung - Mike Norrish The Daily Bung: Butch is back at the Bridge, while greedy QPR feel the pinch
All the news, views, gossip and rumours from the world of football you need to see you through the day, with hourly news round-ups and your chance to enter the debate, too....
So the backlash has begun over QPR's gruesomely greedy, penny-pinching, skinflint and downright wrong ticket prices.
Drawing themselves level with Mike Ashley in the Bung's new 'There's a credit crunch on, Stupid!' league table, the Rs are trying to charge Derby fans £40 for entry to Toff-tus Road.
Supposedly the world's richest club, owned by Lakshmi Mittal, Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore, QPR still think it's acceptable to charge Premier League prices for Championship football, even at a ground which is poor by Championship standards.
And Derby aren't having it. The midlands club have refused to accept the prices and have complained to the Football League.
Deby spokesman Matt McCann said: "We think it's too high and we don't think that's fair. We have stood our ground and QPR have exercised their right to appeal that to the Football League. We expect a decision within 24 hours but either way, we will make sure our supporters aren't the victims of this situation."
Derby, the Bung salutes you... Telegraph


- Also: The Spoiler "Money Matter$ - Derby County refuse to accept inflated ticket pricing at QPR - West Londoners vastly overestimate value of watching their team


Mirror/Ann Gripper - QPR money men are Category A clowns
“We have introduced a new three-tiered category banding structure, whereby adult matchday prices are determined by the opposition, their league position and the day of the fixture,” QPR announced on Monday.
So how QPR can justify asking fans to stump up £50 for some seats in the main stand for the Derby match later this month is a mystery.
Unbeaten in two games and finally boasting a league win under Paul Jewell, Rams fans are hoping their team has turned the corner. But whether that is really enough to rate as a Category A side – the verdict of the QPR money men – is another matter.
Equivalent seats last year cost just £22.
With the economy in meltdown and money too tight to mention – a feeling QPR fans must be all too used to from the years of uncertainty before last year’s mega-money Formula 1 takeover – this pricing policy is a real slap in the face for fans. Mirror


Mail That's rich: Mega-rich QPR anger fans with ticket price rises
For the so-called richest club on the planet, the penny-pinching at Queens Park Rangers is surprising.
After a huge rise in season-ticket prices, the club have announced a hike in matchday tickets which will see pay-on-the-day fans charged £50 for a "Category A" match.
A QPR spokesman said: 'As part of financial restructuring we need to increase our revenues. One hundred per cent of profits will be ploughed back into the club.'
But fans are not happy and there is talk of a protest at the next home game with Derby.
Despite the arrival of mega-rich owners, QPR are yet to sell out a home game this season and only 13,770 saw them beat Southampton in a ground that holds 19,100. Mail


BBC - Derby turn down QPR ticket prices
Derby County have refused to accept the prices set by QPR for the game at Loftus Road on 27 September.
The club said a pre-season price of £30 for adults and £20 for concessions had been agreed but had been sent tickets priced £10 above those amounts by QPR.
Club spokesman Matt McCann told BBC Radio Derby: "We think it's too high and we don't think that's fair.
"We have stood our ground and QPR have exercised their right to appeal that to the Football League."
A decision on the prices is expected later this week.
"One of our biggest frustrations is the inconvenience it's causing fans," added McCann.
"With going to London supporters may want to book a weekend and make an occasion of it.
"We expect a decision within 24 hours but either way, we will make sure our supporters aren't the victims of this situation."
QPR have recently restructured their ticket pricing with adult tickets ranging from £20 to £50 for league matches. BBC


Derby Evening Telegraph - League to rule on QPR ticket prices for Derby County clash
DERBY County are waiting for the Football League to rule on their row with Queens Park Rangers over ticket prices for the Championship clash at Loftus Road.
QPR want to charge visiting Rams supporters up to £40 to attend the game a week on Saturday – £10 more than originally agreed – but Derby have objected and say the price hike is unfair.
Now the dispute is in the hands of the League, who are expected to make a decision in the next 24 hours.
Clubs set their ticket prices before the start of the season and have to submit them to the League.
If a club varies the pricing, then both participating clubs have to agree to any changes.
QPR contacted Derby and said they wanted to increase the prices from £30 in the Upper Tier and £25 in the Lower Tier with the standard concessions to £40 and £30.
Derby refused to agree and QPR appealed to the League.
The Rams head of communications, Matt McCann, said: “One of our biggest frustrations is the inconvenience it is casuing the fans.
“Tickets have to be with us four weeks before the fixture so we can get them on sale and supporters can make their plans for the game but we got those tickets 12 days before the fixture.
“We need it sorting as soon as possible because we want to get the tickets on sale as quickly as possible so Derby fans can follow their team.
“We have stuck by our guns. We have been very firm on this from day one, we don’t think it is fair to increase those prices.
“Hopefully, the Football League will rule on our side. We have just got to hope commonsense prevails.”
Derby say they have a contingency plan in place if the outcome does not go their way. They want to make sure supporters are not the ‘victims’ of the situation.
QPR want to raise ticket prices not only for the Rams game but other fixtures as well. The West London club’s decision has angered their own fans and top seats for home supporters could now cost £50.
John Hemsworth, chairman of the Derby County Supporters Club’s executive committee said:
“We are very happy the club is sticking to its guns on this and, hopefully ,commonsense will prevail when the Football League makes its decision.
“The hold-up is a logistical nightmare for fans because you have to get tickets out in the post and book coaches. Normally we have away tickets two or three weeks before a game.
“Some fans cannot afford such price increases in the current economic climate. Going to QPR could cost a fan almost £100 if you take into account £40 for a ticket, £20 or more for travel and something to eat and drink.
“My main worry over all this is that if QPR get away with it, other clubs might try to do the same.”
“The prices are going up for QPR supporters as well and apparently they are not happy because they are being stung also.” The Rams


See also: Clive Whittingham/LoftforWords Perspective

Fan Reactions can be viewed on the various QPR Messageboards:

- QPRdot.org

- LoftForWords

- We Are The Rangers Boys

- QPR.org

- BBC 606

- QPR Net

- QPR Fans Net

- Independent Rs

- LSA

- QPR Official Messageboard (registration required to view)


Copy/Pasted

***Agreed Protest***

From QPR 1st

Following discussion between representatives of the main fans groups, organisations and messageboards within the QPR Community, it has been agreed that we should call for ten minutes silence at the start of the Derby match.

This Silence will be symbolic of where our club is heading if fans continue to be priced out. At the end of the ten minute silence, we urge everyone to get behind our team at full volume, again to demonstrate the difference between a full stadium and an empty one.

Should QPR score in that 10-minute period, all fans will be encouraged to celebrate per normal but we hope they will return to silence after play commences for the rest of the ten minutes.

This is not a protest against our Board of Directors and certainly not against our squad but against a policy which we believe is misguided and harmful to our Club and its reputation.

We will be meeting with Ali Russell on Tuesday in the hope that common sense will prevail and this protest will be unnecessary. Nevertheless if he continues to refuse to offer any concessions or guarantees on behalf of the Board then the protest will continue as planned.

We would ask all fans to join in this protest and hopefully encourage a r on a policy which will eventually ensure that for the majority of the exisiting fan base going to matches becomes a luxury that we and our families can no longer afford.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Follow up from QPR1st
The production of leaflets will be at personal expense although I will discuss with the rest of the trust management team whether the trust will donate from its own 'rainy day' fund. (You will remember this was discussed at our AGM)
We will require a team of volunteers to give out the leaflets. Please let us know if you can help out by contacting any of the main supporters groups.
Only one representative from each supporters group have been invited to attend the meeting on Tuesday. The trust will of course report back on the meeting as I am sure other groups will.
As chairman of the supporters trust, please forgive me for keep refering to QPR1st but please also appreciate this protest is not just about QPR1st but is also supported by the LSA, the OSC, Indys, WATRBs to name but some of the groups who are involved. - [As posted on WeAreTheRangersBoys]

After two successive victories on the field (including the great win at Norwich), and the uproar over the announced increase in ticket prices, QPR return to the field, with a tough game at Ian Dowie's recent team, Coventry City. Coventry's playing squad --- Coventry's Results : After winning their opening three games (including one in the cup), Coventry then lost three and then drew two...so a draw it is!

Among the players who've played for both teams: John O'Rourke, John Beck, Gerry Francis and Garry Bannister. And of course Dave Sexton managed both teams; while ex-Coventry Manager, Bobby Gould was briefly a coach at QPR (and in fact Gould resigned as Coventry manager after a five goal loss against QPR) And of course, Iain Dowie. Best memories: Clive Allen's (full) debut hatrick against Coventry in 1979; Jim Smith's QPR winning at Coventry to go top; and a last second free kick winner (3-2) by Stan Bowles at Loftus Road in the FA Cup Fifth Round Replay, back in 1974. Among the worst: The double Coventry got over QPR in QPR's 1968/69 First Division season (including the 5-0 loss at Coventry)

QPR last played Coventry in March when the two teams drew 0-0 in Coventry: The two teams for that last game: QPR: Camp, Delaney, Mancienne, Buzsaky, Rowlands (Ainsworth 91), Connolly, Agyemang (Blackstock 86), Ephraim, Vine, Hall, Leigertwood. Subs: Barker, Stewart, Pickens.
Coventry: Marshall, Fox, Ward, Hughes, Doyle, Osbourne, Mifsud, Tabb (Gray 76), Best, Dann, Thornton. Subs: Konstantopoulos, Hall, Andrews, Simpson. QPR-Coventr Reports and Comments -- See: Past results between QPR