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Updated: From London Informer/Paul Warburton - QPR Move in for Campbell
QPR are ready to launch a loan bid for Manchester United starlet Frazier Campbell.
Rangers' focus had been across town at rivals City, with a view to taking striker Ched Evans away from Eastlands as the final piece in the squad jigsaw.
But City boss Mark Hughes has a mounting catalogue of injury woes, and Evans looks like staying put for the time being.
Rangers have since made soundings for 20-year-old Campbell who made his Premiership debut for United against Newcastle - but there are strings attached to any switch, with Ferguson only willing to release Campbell if he gets Berbatov from Spurs by Monday.
A Ranger source said: "With four strikers, including Vine, there is no urgent need for another." London Informer
From Teamtalk Citing The Daily Star
"QPR are claiming a cheeky attempt to sign Manchester United's Fraizer Campbell on loan. - Teamtalk
[Note: It doesn't sound the most likely of rumours given that Hull reportedly wanted him back either as a permanent signing or on loan; but obviously were it to happen, it would be a great signing - assuming he'd fit into the way QPR play]
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Thursday, August 28, 2008
Two QPR Birthdays...Richard Langley and Chis Day News...Another Carlisle View...Ex-Chairman Caliendo's Golden Foot Awards..."On This Day"...Mark Stein
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Today would have been the 20th birthday of QPR forward Ray Jones (RIP) Born August 28, 1988. Former Coach Joe Gallen Talking about Jones, after his death. QPR Retire Jones #31 Shirt
Ex-QPR Forward, Jamie Cureton turns 33 - Jamie Cureton Stats - Born August 28, 1975 . The ex-Norwich/Reading striker was signed by QPR at the end of our Division 2 Promotion race. Unfortunately, at QPR for the most part, it didn't quite work out as many hoped. QPR Record: 20+ 23 as sub - 6 goals (including a hatrick). Cureton had a brilliant season for Colchester. And joined Norwich last summer. See also Cureton/Wikipedia
Another Trial for Richard Langley: This time at Bristol Rovers.
Bristol Evening Post - Langley gets a second chance
PAUL Trollope says Bristol Rovers will be prepared to have another look at Jamaican international Richard Langley – despite the midfielder limping out of a trial game with the club yesterday.
The 28-year-old former QPR, Cardiff City and Luton Town player strained a hamstring midway through the first-half of the reserve team's 3-0 defeat by the Bluebirds in a Memorial Stadium friendly.
Langley, released by the Hatters last season, has made 264 league appearances and has also been looked at by Hereford United and Cheltenham Town
"Richard has been at a number of clubs in recent weeks and we didn't realise until after he picked up the injury that he'd had a hard session at Gilllingham yesterday," said Pirates' coach Trollope.
"He gave a good little cameo appearance and it's something we may look at again in the future.
"He has proven quality, he's played a lot of international games and he needs a chance somewhere.
"He has strained his hamstring, but we may well look at things again when he is fit."
Rovers' director of football Lennie Lawrence paid £200,000 to take Langley to Cardiff City from QPR in 2003 while in charge at Ninian Park.
The Londoner spent two seasons with the Welsh club before returning to Loftus Road, where he had first come up through the youth ranks...This is Bristol
Chris Day to Stevenage (Thought was returning to Watford)
The Comet 24 - Westley brings in a new goalkeeper
"Stevenage Boro boss Graham Westley has acted in an attempt to stop his side leaking goals.
Chris Day was introduced in goal for Bank Holiday Monday's 1-1 draw against Crawley Town after previous incumbent Ashley Bayes had leaked 13 goals in the first four Blue Square Premier games of the season.
Day, the former QPR stopper, is currently without a club after being released by Millwall following a lengthy injury lay-off.
The 33 year old lives in Stevenage and replaced Bayes following Saturday's 4-0 capitulation at Ebbsfleet United...." Comet
Another View of QPR Carlisle
Chris Bevan - BBC Sport - BBC 606 - Post-match thoughts/Ledesma hat-trick
Dave M couldn't make it to Loftus Road on Tuesday night - and he missed a bit of a treat.
I'd heard a few whispers about Emmanuel Ledesma but that was the first time I'd seen him for myself - and he does look a bit useful.
I think Carlisle fought well in the first half - and they had the odd sniff of an opening - but Rangers had stacks of chances themselves before the break and completlely took the Cumbrians apart afterwards.
You can't help but be impressed by Parejo but Ledesma is looking the real deal. Quick feet, and an eye for goal. Hungry too.
He did go to ground a bit too easily a couple of times in the first half but once he worked out the ref wasn't going to play ball he got on with things and three superb finishes mean he has four goals in three games.
Blackstock would have played, apparently, but he has got flu. Good for Rangers to show they can score without him though.
All in all, a good night - Carlisle are no mugs either so don't think it was just down to putting lower division opposition to bed.
Dowie and Flowers want a big club in round three but would you prefer a cup run (this is only the second time in 13 seasons that Rangers have reached this stage of the Carling Cup after all)??
Look forward to reading your views on the game, the team selection and how Rangers are looking five games into the season. BBC 606
Golden Foot Award:
Coming up on Monday, September 1: Former QPR Holdings Chairman Antonio Caliendo's World Champions Club and Monaco's Golden Foot Award. Last year's winner was Del Piero. The 2006 winner was Ronaldo. Players Nominated (and how many of the current or future nominees will end up playing for QPR?!" David BECKHAM - Gianluigi BUFFON - Fabio CANNAVARO - Luis FIGO
Ryan GIGGS - Thierry HENRY - RAUL Gonzalez - ROBERTO CARLOS - Francesco TOTTI - David TREZEGUET - See Golden Foot Awards
On This Day: August 28, 1982: QPR's Division 2 Championship-Winning season got under way. A few months after being "robbed" of the FA Cup Terry Venables QPR started the season with a 0-1 loss at Kevin Keegan's Newcastle. The QPR team (with several injuries: No Clive Allen, Glen Roeder, Steve Wicks, Tony Currie): Hucker, Neil, Dawes, Waddock, Hazell, Fenwick, Micklwehite, Stewart, Sealy, Stainrod Gregory. Sub Burke.
Also on this day:
August 28, 1984: Alan Mullery's first away game for QPR - QPR drew 1-1 at Watford. Gary Bannister scoring for QPR. Team: Hucke, Neil, Dawes, Stewart, Wicks, Fenwick, Micklewhite, Fillery, Bannister, Stainrod, Gregory.
August 28, 1976: After two losses (0-4 at home to Everton; 0-1 away to West Ham, Dave Sexton's almost Championship winning team from the previous season drew 1-1 at home to Ipswich (Givens and Masson). The "normal" QPR team except Ron Abbott deputizing for David Webb and Mick Leach wearing Gerry Francis #8 shirt (as Francis missed much of this season through injury).
August 28 1971: QPR drew 1-1 at home to Millwall. Marsh scoring for QPR (The season ended with both teams missing out on promotion: Millwall 3rd and QPR 4th - and with Rodney Marsh gone!)Team: Parkes, Clement Gillard, Venables, Hunt, Hazell, Busby, Francis, McCulloch, Marsh, Leach.
August 28, 2000 (QPR's relegation year)- WBA 2 QPR 1
August 28, 1991 - QPR lost 0-1 at Liverpool.
August 28, 1993: West Ham 0 QPR 4: Ferdinand 2, Peacock, PEncirce
August 28, 1990 Nott Forest 1 QPR 1
Ex-QPR Mark Stein Talking About His New Career as a Physiotherapist
Football League - IN THE CLUB: MARK STEIN
With 246 goals to his name, Mark Stein is not your average football physiotherapist.
He was as talented as many other strikers around during a 19-year career that saw him play for 10 different clubs.
Now Barnet have given him an opportunity to make his breakthrough in the medical world.
Stein said: "I loved playing football. The thrill of scoring a goal simply cannot be matched.
"But for the final three years of my career I began to think about what I'd do after I'd hung up my boots.
"I'd always been interested in the work of physios, and I'd spent quite a bit of time with them over the years.
"So when I stopped playing at 37, I decided that was what I would try to do."
He retired in 2003 after leaving Dagenham & Redbridge, and immediately began his study on a full-time three-year university course.
He said: "It was so difficult. To sit there and study for so many hours was so different from the days I'd spent on the training pitch scoring goals and working on tactics.
"But I knew I had to focus and that eventually I would get my rewards."
His break back into the football world came at the end of the 2006/07 season.
Barnet's regular physio was ill, and manager Paul Fairclough decided to give Stein an opportunity.
The former Stoke forward added: "I was so nervous before my first game. Within two minutes our defender, Ian Hendon, was elbowed and I was involved. That was when my new job really sunk in."
At the start of the last campaign Fairclough offered Stein the role on a full-time basis.
He added: "I knew I could not turn it down. It could be the only chance I ever got.
"I have a lot of responsibility here at Barnet. We have a small squad, so it is vital that I get players fit as soon as possible But at the same time I must be careful not to rush them back.
"When I was a player I would only really think about what I was doing, but now I'm sat up at night thinking about the whole team.
"People wonder if I get tempted to talk the forwards through what they should be doing, but I don't. That's not in my remit here so I leave it to the coaches.
"The squad have definitely helped me make the transition from player to physio - and I thank them."
Things have gone well for Stein, as he has just signed a new two-year contract to remain at Underhill.
He went on: "I've got a great team working with me and I love it. I may not be a hero to the fans, as I was when I was scoring goals.
"But the satisfaction I get of helping these players and the whole club from behind the scenes is almost as great.
"If we can keep a fit squad this season then we can push for the Play-Offs. So all the pressure is on me!" Football League
Former QPR, Carl Connolly at Non-League Prescot Cables:
Crewe and Nantwich Guardian Tony RObinson Dabbers prove their Premier class NANTWICH Town boss Steve Davis insists there is more to come after a strong start in UniBond Premier. Beaten in their opener at Hednesford, the Dabbers have bounced back with successive wins at Worksop (4-0) and Prescot Cables (3-2).
"...Shotton gave Nantwich the perfect start in front of almost 700 supporters on Monday...
Former QPR striker Karl Connolly tried to inspire Prescot but Nantwich upped their game in the second half and Robin Gibson (53) had the final say to a melee for 3-1...: Crewe and Nantwich Guardian
Today would have been the 20th birthday of QPR forward Ray Jones (RIP) Born August 28, 1988. Former Coach Joe Gallen Talking about Jones, after his death. QPR Retire Jones #31 Shirt
Ex-QPR Forward, Jamie Cureton turns 33 - Jamie Cureton Stats - Born August 28, 1975 . The ex-Norwich/Reading striker was signed by QPR at the end of our Division 2 Promotion race. Unfortunately, at QPR for the most part, it didn't quite work out as many hoped. QPR Record: 20+ 23 as sub - 6 goals (including a hatrick). Cureton had a brilliant season for Colchester. And joined Norwich last summer. See also Cureton/Wikipedia
Another Trial for Richard Langley: This time at Bristol Rovers.
Bristol Evening Post - Langley gets a second chance
PAUL Trollope says Bristol Rovers will be prepared to have another look at Jamaican international Richard Langley – despite the midfielder limping out of a trial game with the club yesterday.
The 28-year-old former QPR, Cardiff City and Luton Town player strained a hamstring midway through the first-half of the reserve team's 3-0 defeat by the Bluebirds in a Memorial Stadium friendly.
Langley, released by the Hatters last season, has made 264 league appearances and has also been looked at by Hereford United and Cheltenham Town
"Richard has been at a number of clubs in recent weeks and we didn't realise until after he picked up the injury that he'd had a hard session at Gilllingham yesterday," said Pirates' coach Trollope.
"He gave a good little cameo appearance and it's something we may look at again in the future.
"He has proven quality, he's played a lot of international games and he needs a chance somewhere.
"He has strained his hamstring, but we may well look at things again when he is fit."
Rovers' director of football Lennie Lawrence paid £200,000 to take Langley to Cardiff City from QPR in 2003 while in charge at Ninian Park.
The Londoner spent two seasons with the Welsh club before returning to Loftus Road, where he had first come up through the youth ranks...This is Bristol
Chris Day to Stevenage (Thought was returning to Watford)
The Comet 24 - Westley brings in a new goalkeeper
"Stevenage Boro boss Graham Westley has acted in an attempt to stop his side leaking goals.
Chris Day was introduced in goal for Bank Holiday Monday's 1-1 draw against Crawley Town after previous incumbent Ashley Bayes had leaked 13 goals in the first four Blue Square Premier games of the season.
Day, the former QPR stopper, is currently without a club after being released by Millwall following a lengthy injury lay-off.
The 33 year old lives in Stevenage and replaced Bayes following Saturday's 4-0 capitulation at Ebbsfleet United...." Comet
Another View of QPR Carlisle
Chris Bevan - BBC Sport - BBC 606 - Post-match thoughts/Ledesma hat-trick
Dave M couldn't make it to Loftus Road on Tuesday night - and he missed a bit of a treat.
I'd heard a few whispers about Emmanuel Ledesma but that was the first time I'd seen him for myself - and he does look a bit useful.
I think Carlisle fought well in the first half - and they had the odd sniff of an opening - but Rangers had stacks of chances themselves before the break and completlely took the Cumbrians apart afterwards.
You can't help but be impressed by Parejo but Ledesma is looking the real deal. Quick feet, and an eye for goal. Hungry too.
He did go to ground a bit too easily a couple of times in the first half but once he worked out the ref wasn't going to play ball he got on with things and three superb finishes mean he has four goals in three games.
Blackstock would have played, apparently, but he has got flu. Good for Rangers to show they can score without him though.
All in all, a good night - Carlisle are no mugs either so don't think it was just down to putting lower division opposition to bed.
Dowie and Flowers want a big club in round three but would you prefer a cup run (this is only the second time in 13 seasons that Rangers have reached this stage of the Carling Cup after all)??
Look forward to reading your views on the game, the team selection and how Rangers are looking five games into the season. BBC 606
Golden Foot Award:
Coming up on Monday, September 1: Former QPR Holdings Chairman Antonio Caliendo's World Champions Club and Monaco's Golden Foot Award. Last year's winner was Del Piero. The 2006 winner was Ronaldo. Players Nominated (and how many of the current or future nominees will end up playing for QPR?!" David BECKHAM - Gianluigi BUFFON - Fabio CANNAVARO - Luis FIGO
Ryan GIGGS - Thierry HENRY - RAUL Gonzalez - ROBERTO CARLOS - Francesco TOTTI - David TREZEGUET - See Golden Foot Awards
On This Day: August 28, 1982: QPR's Division 2 Championship-Winning season got under way. A few months after being "robbed" of the FA Cup Terry Venables QPR started the season with a 0-1 loss at Kevin Keegan's Newcastle. The QPR team (with several injuries: No Clive Allen, Glen Roeder, Steve Wicks, Tony Currie): Hucker, Neil, Dawes, Waddock, Hazell, Fenwick, Micklwehite, Stewart, Sealy, Stainrod Gregory. Sub Burke.
Also on this day:
August 28, 1984: Alan Mullery's first away game for QPR - QPR drew 1-1 at Watford. Gary Bannister scoring for QPR. Team: Hucke, Neil, Dawes, Stewart, Wicks, Fenwick, Micklewhite, Fillery, Bannister, Stainrod, Gregory.
August 28, 1976: After two losses (0-4 at home to Everton; 0-1 away to West Ham, Dave Sexton's almost Championship winning team from the previous season drew 1-1 at home to Ipswich (Givens and Masson). The "normal" QPR team except Ron Abbott deputizing for David Webb and Mick Leach wearing Gerry Francis #8 shirt (as Francis missed much of this season through injury).
August 28 1971: QPR drew 1-1 at home to Millwall. Marsh scoring for QPR (The season ended with both teams missing out on promotion: Millwall 3rd and QPR 4th - and with Rodney Marsh gone!)Team: Parkes, Clement Gillard, Venables, Hunt, Hazell, Busby, Francis, McCulloch, Marsh, Leach.
August 28, 2000 (QPR's relegation year)- WBA 2 QPR 1
August 28, 1991 - QPR lost 0-1 at Liverpool.
August 28, 1993: West Ham 0 QPR 4: Ferdinand 2, Peacock, PEncirce
August 28, 1990 Nott Forest 1 QPR 1
Ex-QPR Mark Stein Talking About His New Career as a Physiotherapist
Football League - IN THE CLUB: MARK STEIN
With 246 goals to his name, Mark Stein is not your average football physiotherapist.
He was as talented as many other strikers around during a 19-year career that saw him play for 10 different clubs.
Now Barnet have given him an opportunity to make his breakthrough in the medical world.
Stein said: "I loved playing football. The thrill of scoring a goal simply cannot be matched.
"But for the final three years of my career I began to think about what I'd do after I'd hung up my boots.
"I'd always been interested in the work of physios, and I'd spent quite a bit of time with them over the years.
"So when I stopped playing at 37, I decided that was what I would try to do."
He retired in 2003 after leaving Dagenham & Redbridge, and immediately began his study on a full-time three-year university course.
He said: "It was so difficult. To sit there and study for so many hours was so different from the days I'd spent on the training pitch scoring goals and working on tactics.
"But I knew I had to focus and that eventually I would get my rewards."
His break back into the football world came at the end of the 2006/07 season.
Barnet's regular physio was ill, and manager Paul Fairclough decided to give Stein an opportunity.
The former Stoke forward added: "I was so nervous before my first game. Within two minutes our defender, Ian Hendon, was elbowed and I was involved. That was when my new job really sunk in."
At the start of the last campaign Fairclough offered Stein the role on a full-time basis.
He added: "I knew I could not turn it down. It could be the only chance I ever got.
"I have a lot of responsibility here at Barnet. We have a small squad, so it is vital that I get players fit as soon as possible But at the same time I must be careful not to rush them back.
"When I was a player I would only really think about what I was doing, but now I'm sat up at night thinking about the whole team.
"People wonder if I get tempted to talk the forwards through what they should be doing, but I don't. That's not in my remit here so I leave it to the coaches.
"The squad have definitely helped me make the transition from player to physio - and I thank them."
Things have gone well for Stein, as he has just signed a new two-year contract to remain at Underhill.
He went on: "I've got a great team working with me and I love it. I may not be a hero to the fans, as I was when I was scoring goals.
"But the satisfaction I get of helping these players and the whole club from behind the scenes is almost as great.
"If we can keep a fit squad this season then we can push for the Play-Offs. So all the pressure is on me!" Football League
Former QPR, Carl Connolly at Non-League Prescot Cables:
Crewe and Nantwich Guardian Tony RObinson Dabbers prove their Premier class NANTWICH Town boss Steve Davis insists there is more to come after a strong start in UniBond Premier. Beaten in their opener at Hednesford, the Dabbers have bounced back with successive wins at Worksop (4-0) and Prescot Cables (3-2).
"...Shotton gave Nantwich the perfect start in front of almost 700 supporters on Monday...
Former QPR striker Karl Connolly tried to inspire Prescot but Nantwich upped their game in the second half and Robin Gibson (53) had the final say to a melee for 3-1...: Crewe and Nantwich Guardian
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Tim Flowers NOT Yet Happy With QPR ...Nick Ward Getting Over his Olympic Disappointment
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BBC -Flowers not happy despite victory
QPR assistant manager Tim Flowers insists the team still have a lot to work on despite their 4-0 thrashing of Carlisle in the Carling Cup.
Flowers told BBC London 94.9: "Speaking as a defensive player I was not happy with us. We have got to make sure we do not play too open.
"We still have quite a bit to do and we have to build from the back forward."
Striker Emmanuel Ledesma scored a hat-trick as his side booked a spot in the third round of the competition. BBC
Listen to Tim Flowers
Nick Ward spurred on by Olympics - Grantley Bernard/Herald Sun
THE Olympic Games are over and it's time for Nick Ward to move on.
But that does not mean the residual disappointment of not being in Beijing with the Olyroos has disappeared for the Melbourne Victory attacking midfielder.
Having been a valuable team and squad member in the qualifying process to make the Olympics, Ward was overlooked for final selection, along with other surprise omissions Bruce Djite and Nathan Burns.
There was never any real personal explanation from Olyroos coach Graham Arnold for leaving him out, so Ward has tried to forge ahead and get ready for an A-League campaign to salve the Olympic wound.
"It was very disappointing for me," Ward said.
"I was involved with the squad for three years and I certainly wanted to go. But (Arnold) had to make the decision and I didn't fit into that. I'm sure my injuries haven't helped me. I wasn't at the last few camps, and maybe that was a factor and he thought I couldn't get up for every game. But he made his decision and I've moved on from that.
"I was disappointed and I have moved on and I'm focused on the A-League, and I think we're going to give it a real good shake this year."
After missing the first two games of the A-League season with a calf injury, Ward is aiming to play tomorrow night against Newcastle Jets at Telstra Dome. He is likely to come off the bench if fit and selected.
Troubled by groin problems when he arrived from English club Queens Park Rangers just before Christmas, Ward has been doing extra training such as pilates to make sure he keeps his body in good shape.
The Young Player of the Year in the A-League's first season with Perth Glory, Ward will use his Olyroos snub as motivation to push him through the season with Victory.
"I think we play pretty good football and we play for the crowd," Ward said.
"We've got a good squad and built it from last year.
"We were disappointed not to make the finals, especially with our run towards the end, because if we had made the finals, we probably would have won it." Herald Sun
Leroy Griffiths Playing for Staines last night - Match Report
BBC -Flowers not happy despite victory
QPR assistant manager Tim Flowers insists the team still have a lot to work on despite their 4-0 thrashing of Carlisle in the Carling Cup.
Flowers told BBC London 94.9: "Speaking as a defensive player I was not happy with us. We have got to make sure we do not play too open.
"We still have quite a bit to do and we have to build from the back forward."
Striker Emmanuel Ledesma scored a hat-trick as his side booked a spot in the third round of the competition. BBC
Listen to Tim Flowers
Nick Ward spurred on by Olympics - Grantley Bernard/Herald Sun
THE Olympic Games are over and it's time for Nick Ward to move on.
But that does not mean the residual disappointment of not being in Beijing with the Olyroos has disappeared for the Melbourne Victory attacking midfielder.
Having been a valuable team and squad member in the qualifying process to make the Olympics, Ward was overlooked for final selection, along with other surprise omissions Bruce Djite and Nathan Burns.
There was never any real personal explanation from Olyroos coach Graham Arnold for leaving him out, so Ward has tried to forge ahead and get ready for an A-League campaign to salve the Olympic wound.
"It was very disappointing for me," Ward said.
"I was involved with the squad for three years and I certainly wanted to go. But (Arnold) had to make the decision and I didn't fit into that. I'm sure my injuries haven't helped me. I wasn't at the last few camps, and maybe that was a factor and he thought I couldn't get up for every game. But he made his decision and I've moved on from that.
"I was disappointed and I have moved on and I'm focused on the A-League, and I think we're going to give it a real good shake this year."
After missing the first two games of the A-League season with a calf injury, Ward is aiming to play tomorrow night against Newcastle Jets at Telstra Dome. He is likely to come off the bench if fit and selected.
Troubled by groin problems when he arrived from English club Queens Park Rangers just before Christmas, Ward has been doing extra training such as pilates to make sure he keeps his body in good shape.
The Young Player of the Year in the A-League's first season with Perth Glory, Ward will use his Olyroos snub as motivation to push him through the season with Victory.
"I think we play pretty good football and we play for the crowd," Ward said.
"We've got a good squad and built it from last year.
"We were disappointed not to make the finals, especially with our run towards the end, because if we had made the finals, we probably would have won it." Herald Sun
Leroy Griffiths Playing for Staines last night - Match Report
Carlisle-Area Perspectives of QPR Game - "United Are Bludgeoned by the Power of Money"
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Carlisle News and Star/Jon Colman - United are bludgeoned by the power of money
Finance 4, Romance 0. Don’t linger on this page if you’re leafing through the paper in search of an inspirational underdog story.
Foot in: Danny Livesey, right, breaks down the move after QPR’s Samuel Di Carmine attempts to race down the touchline Last night Carlisle United were bludgeoned by the power of money and the sophisticated foreign talent it can bring whizzing through customs.
These are sport’s starkest evenings, when a dream is exposed as a delusion just as soon as the rich people turn up, rattling their jewellery. Carlisle matched QPR for effort and enterprise for half this Carling Cup tie. Then the home side’s Argentine maestro found his glittering range, and the illusion went pop.
Fact one: Emmanuel Ledesma, who lanced United with a brilliant second-half hat-trick, chose to move from Genoa to Loftus Road on loan, despite the overtures of several Italian Serie A clubs. Fact two: Daniel Perejo, the Spaniard who created Rangers’ first goal, has been borrowed from Real Madrid. And three: Samuel Di Carmine, the third foreign raider in Iain Dowie’s starting eleven last night, is the property of Fiorentina.
Additional information: QPR’s owners are the billionaire Formula One chums Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone, on whose stupefying wealth and renown Dowie is building this shiny new team. Cuffing Carlisle in a second round cup tie registers as the smallest brushstroke on Briatore’s canvas, which he soon expects to be filled with the gaudy colours of Premier League and European football.
No apologies for setting the scene with pound signs. QPR and Carlisle are a division apart but exist in different financial galaxies. The glorious gifts revealed by Ledesma don’t necessarily deserve to be pushed down the page by the sober realities of the balance sheet, but is there another context for what we saw last night?
Fair enough: you should only be allowed to say all this if you can still appreciate the talent which QPR's new riches have provided. There’s no problem here in letting the ink of praise flow for Ledesma, whose three goals were individual entertainment packages that even the most dazed Cumbrian had to applaud.
Reality intruded on this game the moment Damion Stewart beat Ben Williams to Parejo’s whipped corner and bashed home Rangers’ opener. From the 47th minute on, dramatic tension was replaced by Ledesma’s virtuoso performance.
Minute 55: the 20-year-old Argentine accepts the ball with his back to the target, holds off Peter Murphy, spins into shooting space and whacks his first goal into the bottom right of Williams’ net.
Minute 64: QPR push through the middle, Ledesma plays a cute one-two with Parejo, and fires the ball confidently past the diving goalkeeper. And minute 84: the coup de grace, as Colombian substitute Angelo Balanta deftly backheels the ball into Ledesma’s path, and the midfielder sprints forward and clips the ball over the onrushing Williams.
How do you analyse this; how do you begin to criticise the likes of Murphy and Williams for failing to lay a glove on such brilliance? Answer: you don’t, unless you think Carlisle will be confronting players like Ledesma on a regular basis this season. The search to find a more damaging opponent for United’s defenders in League One will be long and futile.
How deceptive that first half now seems. For John Ward’s reshuffled team were going toe-to-toe with their hosts until the interval and might even have claimed a lead, given some sharper finishing and a more observant referee.
Amid an unconvincing flurry of QPR half-chances - the best of which saw Williams superbly tip wide Damien Delaney’s howitzer - the Blues appeared comfortable with the occasion. Gary Madine, who battled admirably against the towering Stewart all night, set up a far-post chance for Michael Bridges after 23 minutes, but the former Premier League man’s stooping header was blocked.
Later, a United cross from the right saw the 18-year-old Madine clatter to the floor under a clumsy-looking Matthew Connolly challenge, but the plausible penalty claims were rejected by referee Keith Hill, who had already batted away Simon Hackney’s insistence that an earlier cross had connected with a QPR arm in the area.
It was a frustrating end to a half notable for QPR’s attractive one-touch passing (which, at the time, seemed to be lacking the attacking focus of an old-fashioned number 9) and United’s defensive persistence and occasional forays led by the pace of Hackney and Cleveland Taylor on respective flanks.
At Carlisle’s end, Lee Cook took unsuccessful aim and then Williams saved well from the roaming Ledesma. At the home end, Hackney scampered towards the area and fed Bridges to the left of goal, only for the striker to slice wastefully wide. At half-time, 8,021 spectators were discussing an even skirmish. Then the myth was dismantled.
QPR, suddenly appearing more vibrant and focused, flew at United moments after the restart. Pereja wriggled free from Murphy then tore away from the Dubliner down the right. A touch too many from the Spaniard allowed Danny Livesey to intervene, but the resulting corner saw Williams leap from his line only to be beaten to the cross by Stewart.
At this point, Ledesma assumed the stage. QPR’s football became quicker and slicker while Carlisle’s attacking influence evaporated, save for some wholehearted running from Taylor which drew more than one heavy challenge from Dowie’s defenders.
Madine and Bridges, who had flickered with promise in the first half, now disappeared from view. There was a brief, late surge from United which twice took them close to a consolation goal, but on both occasions Jeff Smith was denied by Radek Cerny - the Czech ‘keeper turning behind Smith’s first sliding effort, then flying to his left to beat away the substitute’s curling free-kick.
All that these token efforts achieved was to rouse Ledesma into a final, devastating eruption, the Argentine firing an injury-time rocket over Williams’ bar by millimetres, as if assembling a hat-trick for the ages wasn't enough.
By then, Loftus Road cult status had long been conferred on the floppy-haired loanee, whose goals allowed Dowie to complete a personal treble of Carling Cup victories over United, after triumphs with Charlton and Coventry in the two preceding seasons.
For what it’s worth, this was by far the most resounding of the three. What it’s worth, in fact, is a possible third round meeting with a Premier League big cheese, and, more importantly, another modest step in fame’s direction. That’s where QPR are heading, bobbing along a sea of cash.
Carlisle, by cruel contrast, have rarely looked smaller.
BEN WILLIAMS - Made a couple of fine first-half saves but couldn’t lay a glove on Ledesma’s superb finishing.
DAVID RAVEN - Solid enough against the dangerous Cook but United’s defence were eventually overrun.
EVAN HORWOOD - Wholehearted effort at the back and a couple of promising moments in attack, but it wasn’t a good night to be a Blues defender.
DANNY LIVESEY - Didn’t shirk from the challenge but had no answer to the brilliance of Ledesma.
PETER MURPHY - Dowie’s talented strikeforce got the better of the Irish defender for two of the Rangers goals.
MARC BRIDGE-WILKINSON - Industrious but couldn’t conjure anything to unduly concern the hosts.
PAUL THIRLWELL - Got stuck in and embodied Carlisle’s early defiance, but couldn’t stop the Blues being overwhelmed.
SIMON HACKNEY - Was United’s main counter-attacking weapon in the first half but didn’t see much of the ball after the break. 6
CLEVELAND TAYLOR - Made several positive runs down the right, the winger was Carlisle’s most threatening player.
MICHAEL BRIDGES - Unable to profit from a couple of half-chances in the first half, and nothing came his way as QPR began to dominate.
GARY MADINE - Won his share of aerial battles with the towering Stewart and almost set up a goal for Bridges, but the teenager struggled to influence matters in the second half.
Subs: Jeff Smith (for Hackney, 72) - Almost scored on two occasions but by then the game was dead. 7; Grant Smith (for Bridges, 74) - Thankless job for the fit-again midfielder. 6. Not used: Howarth, Graham, Carlton, Keogh, Campion. News and Star
Carlisle News and Star/Jon Colman - We got a tanking - Ward
Argentine wonderkid Emmanuel Ledesma fired a brilliant hat-trick to dump Carlisle United out of the Carling Cup - and boss John Ward admitted: We got a tanking.
Midfield tangle: United’s Marc Bridge-Wilkinson, left, battles with QPR’s Martin Rowlands during the Carling Cup clash at Loftus Road last nightQPR’s summer recruit from Genoa was too hot for the Cumbrians to handle in last night’s 4-0 second round defeat at Loftus Road.
It was a heavy first defeat of the season for Ward’s side and the United manager did not hide from big-spending Rangers’ superiority.
“It’s no disgrace being beaten by a team like that,” said the Blues boss.
“They are a good side who play good football, and in the second half they gave us a tanking. We’ve got to take it. Players at Championship level are faster with the ball and without the ball. He (Ledesma) was the instigator for all that.
“We got close to coming into this division last year, but it’s a massive step looking at that second 45 minutes. We've got a lot to do.”
Ward felt United should have been awarded a penalty when 18-year-old striker Gary Madine appeared to be bundled over in the box near the end of the goalless first half.
But Damion Stewart’s 47th-minute opener triggered a second-half rout with 20-year-old Ledesma scoring superb goals in the 55th, 64th and 84th minutes.
QPR, backed by the billions of Formula One chiefs Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore, also fielded impressive Real Madrid loanee Daniel Parejo as they cruised into the third round.
“We did ok in the first half and we had a shout for a penalty,” said Ward. “Iain Dowie was quiet at the time - he didn’t tell me I was wrong to shout for it. But you either get them or you don’t.
“We knew if we could pinch a goal we could give them a problem, but there weren’t many concerns for them after 47 minutes.
“They have always been a massive danger at set plays because their delivery is fantastic. We warned the players about that at half-time, and then within a minute or two we conceded off one.
“The best team has won, end of story. But I don’t regret winning at Shrewsbury in the last round to get this game. It’s better coming here and having this opportunity than going out in the first round and wondering where we might have been.”
Cleveland Taylor, in for the suspended Scott Dobie, earned praise from Ward for his encouraging performance down the right.
And the boss said young Madine - who partnered Michael Bridges in attack with first-choice pair Danny Graham and Danny Carlton rested - would not forget his first start of the season in a hurry.
“Gary will remember that for a long time - but he won’t enjoy it,” said Ward.
The United chief added: “We will be back in on Thursday, we will be strong and we will be ready for Saturday’s match against Yeovil.” News and Star
Read: Earlier Reports and Post Match Comments on QPR's Carlisle Victory
Carlisle News and Star/Jon Colman - United are bludgeoned by the power of money
Finance 4, Romance 0. Don’t linger on this page if you’re leafing through the paper in search of an inspirational underdog story.
Foot in: Danny Livesey, right, breaks down the move after QPR’s Samuel Di Carmine attempts to race down the touchline Last night Carlisle United were bludgeoned by the power of money and the sophisticated foreign talent it can bring whizzing through customs.
These are sport’s starkest evenings, when a dream is exposed as a delusion just as soon as the rich people turn up, rattling their jewellery. Carlisle matched QPR for effort and enterprise for half this Carling Cup tie. Then the home side’s Argentine maestro found his glittering range, and the illusion went pop.
Fact one: Emmanuel Ledesma, who lanced United with a brilliant second-half hat-trick, chose to move from Genoa to Loftus Road on loan, despite the overtures of several Italian Serie A clubs. Fact two: Daniel Perejo, the Spaniard who created Rangers’ first goal, has been borrowed from Real Madrid. And three: Samuel Di Carmine, the third foreign raider in Iain Dowie’s starting eleven last night, is the property of Fiorentina.
Additional information: QPR’s owners are the billionaire Formula One chums Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone, on whose stupefying wealth and renown Dowie is building this shiny new team. Cuffing Carlisle in a second round cup tie registers as the smallest brushstroke on Briatore’s canvas, which he soon expects to be filled with the gaudy colours of Premier League and European football.
No apologies for setting the scene with pound signs. QPR and Carlisle are a division apart but exist in different financial galaxies. The glorious gifts revealed by Ledesma don’t necessarily deserve to be pushed down the page by the sober realities of the balance sheet, but is there another context for what we saw last night?
Fair enough: you should only be allowed to say all this if you can still appreciate the talent which QPR's new riches have provided. There’s no problem here in letting the ink of praise flow for Ledesma, whose three goals were individual entertainment packages that even the most dazed Cumbrian had to applaud.
Reality intruded on this game the moment Damion Stewart beat Ben Williams to Parejo’s whipped corner and bashed home Rangers’ opener. From the 47th minute on, dramatic tension was replaced by Ledesma’s virtuoso performance.
Minute 55: the 20-year-old Argentine accepts the ball with his back to the target, holds off Peter Murphy, spins into shooting space and whacks his first goal into the bottom right of Williams’ net.
Minute 64: QPR push through the middle, Ledesma plays a cute one-two with Parejo, and fires the ball confidently past the diving goalkeeper. And minute 84: the coup de grace, as Colombian substitute Angelo Balanta deftly backheels the ball into Ledesma’s path, and the midfielder sprints forward and clips the ball over the onrushing Williams.
How do you analyse this; how do you begin to criticise the likes of Murphy and Williams for failing to lay a glove on such brilliance? Answer: you don’t, unless you think Carlisle will be confronting players like Ledesma on a regular basis this season. The search to find a more damaging opponent for United’s defenders in League One will be long and futile.
How deceptive that first half now seems. For John Ward’s reshuffled team were going toe-to-toe with their hosts until the interval and might even have claimed a lead, given some sharper finishing and a more observant referee.
Amid an unconvincing flurry of QPR half-chances - the best of which saw Williams superbly tip wide Damien Delaney’s howitzer - the Blues appeared comfortable with the occasion. Gary Madine, who battled admirably against the towering Stewart all night, set up a far-post chance for Michael Bridges after 23 minutes, but the former Premier League man’s stooping header was blocked.
Later, a United cross from the right saw the 18-year-old Madine clatter to the floor under a clumsy-looking Matthew Connolly challenge, but the plausible penalty claims were rejected by referee Keith Hill, who had already batted away Simon Hackney’s insistence that an earlier cross had connected with a QPR arm in the area.
It was a frustrating end to a half notable for QPR’s attractive one-touch passing (which, at the time, seemed to be lacking the attacking focus of an old-fashioned number 9) and United’s defensive persistence and occasional forays led by the pace of Hackney and Cleveland Taylor on respective flanks.
At Carlisle’s end, Lee Cook took unsuccessful aim and then Williams saved well from the roaming Ledesma. At the home end, Hackney scampered towards the area and fed Bridges to the left of goal, only for the striker to slice wastefully wide. At half-time, 8,021 spectators were discussing an even skirmish. Then the myth was dismantled.
QPR, suddenly appearing more vibrant and focused, flew at United moments after the restart. Pereja wriggled free from Murphy then tore away from the Dubliner down the right. A touch too many from the Spaniard allowed Danny Livesey to intervene, but the resulting corner saw Williams leap from his line only to be beaten to the cross by Stewart.
At this point, Ledesma assumed the stage. QPR’s football became quicker and slicker while Carlisle’s attacking influence evaporated, save for some wholehearted running from Taylor which drew more than one heavy challenge from Dowie’s defenders.
Madine and Bridges, who had flickered with promise in the first half, now disappeared from view. There was a brief, late surge from United which twice took them close to a consolation goal, but on both occasions Jeff Smith was denied by Radek Cerny - the Czech ‘keeper turning behind Smith’s first sliding effort, then flying to his left to beat away the substitute’s curling free-kick.
All that these token efforts achieved was to rouse Ledesma into a final, devastating eruption, the Argentine firing an injury-time rocket over Williams’ bar by millimetres, as if assembling a hat-trick for the ages wasn't enough.
By then, Loftus Road cult status had long been conferred on the floppy-haired loanee, whose goals allowed Dowie to complete a personal treble of Carling Cup victories over United, after triumphs with Charlton and Coventry in the two preceding seasons.
For what it’s worth, this was by far the most resounding of the three. What it’s worth, in fact, is a possible third round meeting with a Premier League big cheese, and, more importantly, another modest step in fame’s direction. That’s where QPR are heading, bobbing along a sea of cash.
Carlisle, by cruel contrast, have rarely looked smaller.
BEN WILLIAMS - Made a couple of fine first-half saves but couldn’t lay a glove on Ledesma’s superb finishing.
DAVID RAVEN - Solid enough against the dangerous Cook but United’s defence were eventually overrun.
EVAN HORWOOD - Wholehearted effort at the back and a couple of promising moments in attack, but it wasn’t a good night to be a Blues defender.
DANNY LIVESEY - Didn’t shirk from the challenge but had no answer to the brilliance of Ledesma.
PETER MURPHY - Dowie’s talented strikeforce got the better of the Irish defender for two of the Rangers goals.
MARC BRIDGE-WILKINSON - Industrious but couldn’t conjure anything to unduly concern the hosts.
PAUL THIRLWELL - Got stuck in and embodied Carlisle’s early defiance, but couldn’t stop the Blues being overwhelmed.
SIMON HACKNEY - Was United’s main counter-attacking weapon in the first half but didn’t see much of the ball after the break. 6
CLEVELAND TAYLOR - Made several positive runs down the right, the winger was Carlisle’s most threatening player.
MICHAEL BRIDGES - Unable to profit from a couple of half-chances in the first half, and nothing came his way as QPR began to dominate.
GARY MADINE - Won his share of aerial battles with the towering Stewart and almost set up a goal for Bridges, but the teenager struggled to influence matters in the second half.
Subs: Jeff Smith (for Hackney, 72) - Almost scored on two occasions but by then the game was dead. 7; Grant Smith (for Bridges, 74) - Thankless job for the fit-again midfielder. 6. Not used: Howarth, Graham, Carlton, Keogh, Campion. News and Star
Carlisle News and Star/Jon Colman - We got a tanking - Ward
Argentine wonderkid Emmanuel Ledesma fired a brilliant hat-trick to dump Carlisle United out of the Carling Cup - and boss John Ward admitted: We got a tanking.
Midfield tangle: United’s Marc Bridge-Wilkinson, left, battles with QPR’s Martin Rowlands during the Carling Cup clash at Loftus Road last nightQPR’s summer recruit from Genoa was too hot for the Cumbrians to handle in last night’s 4-0 second round defeat at Loftus Road.
It was a heavy first defeat of the season for Ward’s side and the United manager did not hide from big-spending Rangers’ superiority.
“It’s no disgrace being beaten by a team like that,” said the Blues boss.
“They are a good side who play good football, and in the second half they gave us a tanking. We’ve got to take it. Players at Championship level are faster with the ball and without the ball. He (Ledesma) was the instigator for all that.
“We got close to coming into this division last year, but it’s a massive step looking at that second 45 minutes. We've got a lot to do.”
Ward felt United should have been awarded a penalty when 18-year-old striker Gary Madine appeared to be bundled over in the box near the end of the goalless first half.
But Damion Stewart’s 47th-minute opener triggered a second-half rout with 20-year-old Ledesma scoring superb goals in the 55th, 64th and 84th minutes.
QPR, backed by the billions of Formula One chiefs Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore, also fielded impressive Real Madrid loanee Daniel Parejo as they cruised into the third round.
“We did ok in the first half and we had a shout for a penalty,” said Ward. “Iain Dowie was quiet at the time - he didn’t tell me I was wrong to shout for it. But you either get them or you don’t.
“We knew if we could pinch a goal we could give them a problem, but there weren’t many concerns for them after 47 minutes.
“They have always been a massive danger at set plays because their delivery is fantastic. We warned the players about that at half-time, and then within a minute or two we conceded off one.
“The best team has won, end of story. But I don’t regret winning at Shrewsbury in the last round to get this game. It’s better coming here and having this opportunity than going out in the first round and wondering where we might have been.”
Cleveland Taylor, in for the suspended Scott Dobie, earned praise from Ward for his encouraging performance down the right.
And the boss said young Madine - who partnered Michael Bridges in attack with first-choice pair Danny Graham and Danny Carlton rested - would not forget his first start of the season in a hurry.
“Gary will remember that for a long time - but he won’t enjoy it,” said Ward.
The United chief added: “We will be back in on Thursday, we will be strong and we will be ready for Saturday’s match against Yeovil.” News and Star
Read: Earlier Reports and Post Match Comments on QPR's Carlisle Victory
Football-Related Train Arrest Statistics
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Celtic Quick News draws attention to a report by British Transport Police "Transport Police report sectarian offences eradicated in all but one club"
British Transport Police 7th August 2008 06:00
ALCOHOL TO BLAME FOR MOST FOOTBALL DISORDER, SAY BRITISH TRANSPORT POLICE
British Transport Police has called on football fans to act responsibly this coming football season, with figures from last season showing a worrying increase in alcohol-fuelled violence by fans using the railway system.
BTP Assistant Chief Constable Operations Alan Pacey said the 2007-2008 season saw a 10 per cent increase in football related anti-social and alcohol-fuelled incidents on trains and at stations across the England, Wales and Scotland.
"The 2007/2008 season was definitely a challenging one for us. Alcohol-fuelled disorder was the most prevalent problem, with an increase from 305 to 337 incidents. We also had 25 police officers assaulted during the season – the highest number ever recorded by BTP," he said.
"We did however get a better grip on organised hooligan elements through increased use of football banning orders on known trouble-makers. Consequently we had a reduction in serious incidents from 83 in the 2006/07 season to 63 last season."
For the eighth season running, football-related arrests have increased - up from 567 to 601.
"In the same time period we secured 122 football banning orders, with many cases still pending.
"This is something we will continue to pursue to ensure that those who engage in disorder are banned from travelling to, or from attending, football matches.
"We will use all the tools at our disposal to rid the railway system of football troublemakers. We know that these people are in the minority but we don’t want them spoiling things for the majority of law-abiding football fans. Our number one concern is ensuring that well-behaved football fans as well as other members of the public who are using the transport system on match days can travel from A to B in safety.
"With the ever expanding list of fixtures, including the creation of the European Champions League, the pressures on us as a force to provide policing for multiple matches in multiple leagues across the country has never been greater.
"A forum which brings together key groups from the railway industry, the FA,Football League and Premier League, supporters associations and BTP has been also been set up to work through any issues that may be causing concern."
ACC Pacey said the forum was eager to ensure that season 2008/2009 was a success.
"We would appeal to fans ahead of the new football season not to over indulge in alcohol. For those coming into London, we would remind passengers to adhere to the ban on consumption of alcohol on the Tube, along with any other "dry train" restrictions which may be imposed by mainline train operators throughout the season.
"Officers will be out in force across the country monitoring fixtures and working with football clubs and colleagues from other forces to ensure each match is policed successfully and with the minimum amount of trouble."
KEY POINTS IN THE SEASON:
- BTP annual Policing Plan targets on football banning orders, applying for post-conviction orders and reducing serious offences were all met.
- The reopening of Wembley, with the FA Cup returning to its traditional home in May 2007, was a significant event. Chelsea and Manchester United fans were there in force with around 85% using the Tube system. More than 500 BTP officers were on duty to meet them and make sure all ran smoothly. Only four arrests were made during the day.
- In the same month, an equally successful football operation was put in place for the UEFA Cup Final at Hampden Park, Glasgow. Sevilla and Espanyol fans were in buoyant mood and no arrests were made amongst the 51,000 crowd. This was in sharp contrast to Glasgow Rangers UEFA Cup visit to Manchester a year later when rioting occurred in the city centre near Piccadilly station.
- In December, officers were involved in the first deployment on the new high speed Channel Tunnel link for a major sporting event. Spurs UEFA cup tie with Anderlecht saw Belgian and BTP officers travelling together on trains as part of international policing from St Pancras International.
- In November 2007, a series of football operations took place across the country, during which 33 people were arrested. On 8 November, a team of 150 BTP and Metropolitan Police officers arrested 14 men in dawn raids across south London, Sussex and Kent. Two more were subsequently arrested. This followed violent football-related disorder at Sydenham station on 1 September. All 16 were charged with violent disorder and ten have so far been convicted, with others yet to face court.
- On 8 November, 10 men were arrested and charged in the North Western Area by BTP and Merseyside officers following disorder on a train between Wrexham and Chester on 7 July. The disorder followed the Wrexham v Liverpool pre-season friendly. All have been given Football Banning Orders.
- In the North Eastern Area, a violent incident on a York bound train between Middlesbrough and Thornaby, following the Middlesbrough versus Chelsea match on 20 October, left several passengers injured. Four men were charged with affray and are due to be sentenced at Teesside Crown Court on Friday this week (August 8). BTP's Chief Insp Jane Townsley will be available for interview outside the court following the sentencing - contact North Eastern Area Media Manager Melanie Hill on 07827 257495 for further details.
- In the Wales and Western Area, a 24-year-old Cardiff City supporter was jailed for a year and given a six-year Football Banning Order for affray. Following a match, a group of about 30 Cardiff City fans began threatening police on the platform at Derby station. The convicted man repeatedly punched one officer in the face then assaulted another who came to his colleague’s assistance.
- Following another prosecution in October 2007, a 43-year-old Leicester City supporter was given a five-month jail sentence and a six-year banning order for an unprovoked attack on an elderly couple. In this case, the man had been on a train with a mixed group of Leicester and Sheffield Wednesday fans. They were rowdy, shouting and singing, and, as the train approached Kettering, the woman asked him and his friends to mind their language. He became aggressive and when her partner protested; he punched him in the head several times. The woman was also assaulted as she tried to protect her partner.
- On 8 January 2008, 11 Shrewsbury Town FC supporters were arrested during early morning raids by BTP in Shrewsbury. Two other men from Shrewsbury were also later arrested and a further two men from Wednesbury, who supported Walsall FC.
- Code-named Operation Highway, the men were charged with Section 4 Public Order (threatening behaviour) in connection with disorder, which took place on Saturday 10 November, 2007, before a football match at Banks’s Stadium (formerly Bescot) outside Tamebridge Parkway railway station, Wednesbury.
- To date eight people have been convicted and six have been given a four-year football banning order, 100 hours of unpaid community work, 20 weeks prison sentence suspended for 12 months and £120 court costs. Two of the men charged received a three-year football banning order, 100 hours of unpaid community work, and £60 court costs with others yet to face court in November 2008.
- Football Banning Orders are an effective weapon against hooligans and, for the first time this year, two were imposed in Scotland. The two St Johnstone fans have been banned from every football ground in the country, as well as from travelling abroad to support Scotland. - British Transport Police
Celtic Quick News draws attention to a report by British Transport Police "Transport Police report sectarian offences eradicated in all but one club"
British Transport Police 7th August 2008 06:00
ALCOHOL TO BLAME FOR MOST FOOTBALL DISORDER, SAY BRITISH TRANSPORT POLICE
British Transport Police has called on football fans to act responsibly this coming football season, with figures from last season showing a worrying increase in alcohol-fuelled violence by fans using the railway system.
BTP Assistant Chief Constable Operations Alan Pacey said the 2007-2008 season saw a 10 per cent increase in football related anti-social and alcohol-fuelled incidents on trains and at stations across the England, Wales and Scotland.
"The 2007/2008 season was definitely a challenging one for us. Alcohol-fuelled disorder was the most prevalent problem, with an increase from 305 to 337 incidents. We also had 25 police officers assaulted during the season – the highest number ever recorded by BTP," he said.
"We did however get a better grip on organised hooligan elements through increased use of football banning orders on known trouble-makers. Consequently we had a reduction in serious incidents from 83 in the 2006/07 season to 63 last season."
For the eighth season running, football-related arrests have increased - up from 567 to 601.
"In the same time period we secured 122 football banning orders, with many cases still pending.
"This is something we will continue to pursue to ensure that those who engage in disorder are banned from travelling to, or from attending, football matches.
"We will use all the tools at our disposal to rid the railway system of football troublemakers. We know that these people are in the minority but we don’t want them spoiling things for the majority of law-abiding football fans. Our number one concern is ensuring that well-behaved football fans as well as other members of the public who are using the transport system on match days can travel from A to B in safety.
"With the ever expanding list of fixtures, including the creation of the European Champions League, the pressures on us as a force to provide policing for multiple matches in multiple leagues across the country has never been greater.
"A forum which brings together key groups from the railway industry, the FA,Football League and Premier League, supporters associations and BTP has been also been set up to work through any issues that may be causing concern."
ACC Pacey said the forum was eager to ensure that season 2008/2009 was a success.
"We would appeal to fans ahead of the new football season not to over indulge in alcohol. For those coming into London, we would remind passengers to adhere to the ban on consumption of alcohol on the Tube, along with any other "dry train" restrictions which may be imposed by mainline train operators throughout the season.
"Officers will be out in force across the country monitoring fixtures and working with football clubs and colleagues from other forces to ensure each match is policed successfully and with the minimum amount of trouble."
KEY POINTS IN THE SEASON:
- BTP annual Policing Plan targets on football banning orders, applying for post-conviction orders and reducing serious offences were all met.
- The reopening of Wembley, with the FA Cup returning to its traditional home in May 2007, was a significant event. Chelsea and Manchester United fans were there in force with around 85% using the Tube system. More than 500 BTP officers were on duty to meet them and make sure all ran smoothly. Only four arrests were made during the day.
- In the same month, an equally successful football operation was put in place for the UEFA Cup Final at Hampden Park, Glasgow. Sevilla and Espanyol fans were in buoyant mood and no arrests were made amongst the 51,000 crowd. This was in sharp contrast to Glasgow Rangers UEFA Cup visit to Manchester a year later when rioting occurred in the city centre near Piccadilly station.
- In December, officers were involved in the first deployment on the new high speed Channel Tunnel link for a major sporting event. Spurs UEFA cup tie with Anderlecht saw Belgian and BTP officers travelling together on trains as part of international policing from St Pancras International.
- In November 2007, a series of football operations took place across the country, during which 33 people were arrested. On 8 November, a team of 150 BTP and Metropolitan Police officers arrested 14 men in dawn raids across south London, Sussex and Kent. Two more were subsequently arrested. This followed violent football-related disorder at Sydenham station on 1 September. All 16 were charged with violent disorder and ten have so far been convicted, with others yet to face court.
- On 8 November, 10 men were arrested and charged in the North Western Area by BTP and Merseyside officers following disorder on a train between Wrexham and Chester on 7 July. The disorder followed the Wrexham v Liverpool pre-season friendly. All have been given Football Banning Orders.
- In the North Eastern Area, a violent incident on a York bound train between Middlesbrough and Thornaby, following the Middlesbrough versus Chelsea match on 20 October, left several passengers injured. Four men were charged with affray and are due to be sentenced at Teesside Crown Court on Friday this week (August 8). BTP's Chief Insp Jane Townsley will be available for interview outside the court following the sentencing - contact North Eastern Area Media Manager Melanie Hill on 07827 257495 for further details.
- In the Wales and Western Area, a 24-year-old Cardiff City supporter was jailed for a year and given a six-year Football Banning Order for affray. Following a match, a group of about 30 Cardiff City fans began threatening police on the platform at Derby station. The convicted man repeatedly punched one officer in the face then assaulted another who came to his colleague’s assistance.
- Following another prosecution in October 2007, a 43-year-old Leicester City supporter was given a five-month jail sentence and a six-year banning order for an unprovoked attack on an elderly couple. In this case, the man had been on a train with a mixed group of Leicester and Sheffield Wednesday fans. They were rowdy, shouting and singing, and, as the train approached Kettering, the woman asked him and his friends to mind their language. He became aggressive and when her partner protested; he punched him in the head several times. The woman was also assaulted as she tried to protect her partner.
- On 8 January 2008, 11 Shrewsbury Town FC supporters were arrested during early morning raids by BTP in Shrewsbury. Two other men from Shrewsbury were also later arrested and a further two men from Wednesbury, who supported Walsall FC.
- Code-named Operation Highway, the men were charged with Section 4 Public Order (threatening behaviour) in connection with disorder, which took place on Saturday 10 November, 2007, before a football match at Banks’s Stadium (formerly Bescot) outside Tamebridge Parkway railway station, Wednesbury.
- To date eight people have been convicted and six have been given a four-year football banning order, 100 hours of unpaid community work, 20 weeks prison sentence suspended for 12 months and £120 court costs. Two of the men charged received a three-year football banning order, 100 hours of unpaid community work, and £60 court costs with others yet to face court in November 2008.
- Football Banning Orders are an effective weapon against hooligans and, for the first time this year, two were imposed in Scotland. The two St Johnstone fans have been banned from every football ground in the country, as well as from travelling abroad to support Scotland. - British Transport Police
Mahon and Ainsworth Speaking re QPR
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Kilburn Times/Ben Kosky - Gavin Mahon - Rangers need to be nastier on the road
GAVIN Mahon believes QPR must mix it in midfield if they are to reproduce their home form at Bristol City this weekend.
Mahon has featured in all three of Rangers' home matches - all wins - to date and says a steely edge is essential to complement the skills of players such as Daniel Parejo, Lee Cook and Emmanuel Ledesma.
"With the crowd behind us at Loftus Road, we can sometimes not play so well and still get results," said Mahon.
"But away from home if you try and play nice attacking football without earning the right, teams can be all over you. We learned that at Sheffield United.
"You need players who are going to do the horrible work, so to speak, and if we can get that balance right, we'll be a successful team."
Rangers drew 2-2 on their last visit to Ashton Gate, on the opening day of last season. Kilburn Times
Gareth Ainsworth/Kilburn Times - Step on the Gaz
GETTING beaten at Sheffield United gave us a real kick up the backside, but the response on Saturday was exactly what we were after.
There were a lot of positives to take from our performance against Doncaster - a first goal for Emmanuel Ledesma, some tremendous individual efforts, a clean sheet and a new system that worked well.
It could have been a gamble to go with one main striker at home, certainly if we hadn't won the game, but one thing you can be certain of with Iain Dowie is that there's a Plan B in the bag.
With the players we've got here, we always know we can switch it to 4-4-2 or 4-2-4 if we're chasing a game and it's something that keeps everyone on their toes, including the staff.
I can't remember the last time we scored early goals and then didn't concede, but it was encouraging to see time just ticking down, no desperation and ultimately a comfortable win.
The only negative aspect to the day was losing Fitz with a groin injury - but, to balance that, Damion Stewart came in and did really well.
Again, I think the nil in our scoreline against Carlisle was probably more important than the four, whch might seem a strange way to look at it.
But we know we're always capable of scoring goals. We had to give the lads a little bit of reassurance at half-time, but everything went right for us in the second half.
Despite his broken English, Emmanuel's fitted in really well at QPR and he's showing exactly what he can do.
It's great to be in the hat for round three - for the first time since our promotion season, not that I'm superstitious - and maybe this time we can go a bit further.
Of course, the key now is to take our home form on the road, starting with what will be a difficult test at Bristol City on Saturday.
Sometimes teams who lose the play-off final can find the following season something of a hangover, but I can't see that happening with City.
Gary Johnson was my manager at Cambridge many years ago and I know he isn't someone to dwell on the past or let it affect him.
City are a footballing side and they're a well-supported club with the potential to be a massive force in football.
They beat Coventry, who had won all their games up to then and, although they lost in the Carling Cup at Crewe, I know they rested some key players. So we'll certainly be showing them respect.
We should have won at Ashton Gate last season, so we want to put that right this time and, although I think a point would be a good result, we'll be going there for all three. Kilburn Times
Kilburn Times/Ben Kosky - Gavin Mahon - Rangers need to be nastier on the road
GAVIN Mahon believes QPR must mix it in midfield if they are to reproduce their home form at Bristol City this weekend.
Mahon has featured in all three of Rangers' home matches - all wins - to date and says a steely edge is essential to complement the skills of players such as Daniel Parejo, Lee Cook and Emmanuel Ledesma.
"With the crowd behind us at Loftus Road, we can sometimes not play so well and still get results," said Mahon.
"But away from home if you try and play nice attacking football without earning the right, teams can be all over you. We learned that at Sheffield United.
"You need players who are going to do the horrible work, so to speak, and if we can get that balance right, we'll be a successful team."
Rangers drew 2-2 on their last visit to Ashton Gate, on the opening day of last season. Kilburn Times
Gareth Ainsworth/Kilburn Times - Step on the Gaz
GETTING beaten at Sheffield United gave us a real kick up the backside, but the response on Saturday was exactly what we were after.
There were a lot of positives to take from our performance against Doncaster - a first goal for Emmanuel Ledesma, some tremendous individual efforts, a clean sheet and a new system that worked well.
It could have been a gamble to go with one main striker at home, certainly if we hadn't won the game, but one thing you can be certain of with Iain Dowie is that there's a Plan B in the bag.
With the players we've got here, we always know we can switch it to 4-4-2 or 4-2-4 if we're chasing a game and it's something that keeps everyone on their toes, including the staff.
I can't remember the last time we scored early goals and then didn't concede, but it was encouraging to see time just ticking down, no desperation and ultimately a comfortable win.
The only negative aspect to the day was losing Fitz with a groin injury - but, to balance that, Damion Stewart came in and did really well.
Again, I think the nil in our scoreline against Carlisle was probably more important than the four, whch might seem a strange way to look at it.
But we know we're always capable of scoring goals. We had to give the lads a little bit of reassurance at half-time, but everything went right for us in the second half.
Despite his broken English, Emmanuel's fitted in really well at QPR and he's showing exactly what he can do.
It's great to be in the hat for round three - for the first time since our promotion season, not that I'm superstitious - and maybe this time we can go a bit further.
Of course, the key now is to take our home form on the road, starting with what will be a difficult test at Bristol City on Saturday.
Sometimes teams who lose the play-off final can find the following season something of a hangover, but I can't see that happening with City.
Gary Johnson was my manager at Cambridge many years ago and I know he isn't someone to dwell on the past or let it affect him.
City are a footballing side and they're a well-supported club with the potential to be a massive force in football.
They beat Coventry, who had won all their games up to then and, although they lost in the Carling Cup at Crewe, I know they rested some key players. So we'll certainly be showing them respect.
We should have won at Ashton Gate last season, so we want to put that right this time and, although I think a point would be a good result, we'll be going there for all three. Kilburn Times
Dowie Would Like a Striker But Doesn't Much Expect to Get One...Explains QPR's Wage Structure
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Kilburn Times/Ben Kosky - Dowie doesn't expect striking changes
IAIN Dowie admits he needs to sign a striker - but has low expectations of doing so before the transfer window closes on Monday.
With Patrick Agyemang sidelined by a groin problem and Rowan Vine still some weeks away from returning, Dexter Blackstock - who missed Tuesday's Carling Cup win over Carlisle with 'flu - is QPR's only available senior forward.
And since Les Ferdinand left Loftus Road 13 years ago, only one Rangers player - Andy Thomson - has managed to surmount the 20-goal barrier in a season.
"There are a lot of teams that succeed by spreading the goals around, but if you haven't got a 20-goal striker, you need four players to be getting in double figures," said the QPR boss.
"Akos [Buzsaky] got that last year, Rowly can get a few goals and so can Cookie and [Emmanuel] Ledesma. But we want one of our strikers to end up with 20 goals this year, that's the ideal scenario.
"There's no question that it's the one area where we feel we're a little bit light, but it has to be the right one who pops up - someone who's better than what we've got and that's not easy.
"Clearly as we get to the end of the window, some of the Premier League clubs will be looking to loan out players and we'll see how that situation manifests itself.
"Maybe if the right one becomes available, we'll do something."
Dowie has also stressed that, contrary to public perception, QPR do not have a blank chequebook when it comes to transfer fees and players' wages.
Seasoned goalscorer Kevin Phillips, for instance, was available during the close season on a free transfer, but was snapped up by Birmingham City and is already spearheading their push for a Premier League return.
"Kevin's a very good player, but there's a certain structure in terms of wages and because Birmingham have the parachute payments, they can fund a two-year deal," Dowie observed.
"Our wage structure's fairly sensible and that's the proper way to do it, but a team like Birmingham have got that guaranteed payment and they can take a punt on it. It was probably a bit outside our remit."
The Rs manager revealed that he is also on the lookout for a youngster to provide back-up for Damien Delaney at left-back after allowing Chris Barker to leave for Plymouth last month.
But that is some way down Dowie's list of priorities - and, for now, he would prefer to move players out of position or even change formation if Delaney were ruled out by injury or suspension.
"We wouldn't mind an opportunity to look at a young left-back and if a good one comes up, great," added Dowie.
"Matt Connolly can play over on the other side of defence and I've played Mikele Leigertwood there before. Mikele loves to play midfield but if you have to, that's what you do.
"And don't forget, if you've got enough centre-halves, you can always change your system. I think there's enough in the squad to cover." Kilburn Times
Kilburn Times/Ben Kosky - Dowie doesn't expect striking changes
IAIN Dowie admits he needs to sign a striker - but has low expectations of doing so before the transfer window closes on Monday.
With Patrick Agyemang sidelined by a groin problem and Rowan Vine still some weeks away from returning, Dexter Blackstock - who missed Tuesday's Carling Cup win over Carlisle with 'flu - is QPR's only available senior forward.
And since Les Ferdinand left Loftus Road 13 years ago, only one Rangers player - Andy Thomson - has managed to surmount the 20-goal barrier in a season.
"There are a lot of teams that succeed by spreading the goals around, but if you haven't got a 20-goal striker, you need four players to be getting in double figures," said the QPR boss.
"Akos [Buzsaky] got that last year, Rowly can get a few goals and so can Cookie and [Emmanuel] Ledesma. But we want one of our strikers to end up with 20 goals this year, that's the ideal scenario.
"There's no question that it's the one area where we feel we're a little bit light, but it has to be the right one who pops up - someone who's better than what we've got and that's not easy.
"Clearly as we get to the end of the window, some of the Premier League clubs will be looking to loan out players and we'll see how that situation manifests itself.
"Maybe if the right one becomes available, we'll do something."
Dowie has also stressed that, contrary to public perception, QPR do not have a blank chequebook when it comes to transfer fees and players' wages.
Seasoned goalscorer Kevin Phillips, for instance, was available during the close season on a free transfer, but was snapped up by Birmingham City and is already spearheading their push for a Premier League return.
"Kevin's a very good player, but there's a certain structure in terms of wages and because Birmingham have the parachute payments, they can fund a two-year deal," Dowie observed.
"Our wage structure's fairly sensible and that's the proper way to do it, but a team like Birmingham have got that guaranteed payment and they can take a punt on it. It was probably a bit outside our remit."
The Rs manager revealed that he is also on the lookout for a youngster to provide back-up for Damien Delaney at left-back after allowing Chris Barker to leave for Plymouth last month.
But that is some way down Dowie's list of priorities - and, for now, he would prefer to move players out of position or even change formation if Delaney were ruled out by injury or suspension.
"We wouldn't mind an opportunity to look at a young left-back and if a good one comes up, great," added Dowie.
"Matt Connolly can play over on the other side of defence and I've played Mikele Leigertwood there before. Mikele loves to play midfield but if you have to, that's what you do.
"And don't forget, if you've got enough centre-halves, you can always change your system. I think there's enough in the squad to cover." Kilburn Times
Cook Explains His Fulham Injury
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London Informer - Botched op did for Cookie
Aug 14 2008 London Informer
Lee Cook's woes last season go all the way back to a botched operation - that, and his one-and-only selection as a Fulham player.
The popularly-held belief was the QPR winger was desperate to play in the friendly between his old and new clubs in August, 2007.
Cook, back on a year-long loan from Fulham, begs to differ.
In fact, if it hadn't been for an injury to a Fulham player - he's forgotten who - Cook might not have been in the mess that caused him to miss most of the season.
He said: "I was asked by Lawrie Sanchez (then Fulham boss) if I was alright to play- and I said yes. It wasn't me going to him and saying: 'please gaffer, I really want to play against QPR.'
"I felt my knee after the game but thought it was all part of the rehabilitation after my knee operation."
Sadly, it wasn't.
In fact, it was a lump of unwanted cartilage that should have been removed first time, and only got to a second surgeon's bin one more operation down the line.
However, Cook feels that's all behind him.
"I don't blame anyone, but I'm now as fit as I've ever been." London Informer
London Informer - Botched op did for Cookie
Aug 14 2008 London Informer
Lee Cook's woes last season go all the way back to a botched operation - that, and his one-and-only selection as a Fulham player.
The popularly-held belief was the QPR winger was desperate to play in the friendly between his old and new clubs in August, 2007.
Cook, back on a year-long loan from Fulham, begs to differ.
In fact, if it hadn't been for an injury to a Fulham player - he's forgotten who - Cook might not have been in the mess that caused him to miss most of the season.
He said: "I was asked by Lawrie Sanchez (then Fulham boss) if I was alright to play- and I said yes. It wasn't me going to him and saying: 'please gaffer, I really want to play against QPR.'
"I felt my knee after the game but thought it was all part of the rehabilitation after my knee operation."
Sadly, it wasn't.
In fact, it was a lump of unwanted cartilage that should have been removed first time, and only got to a second surgeon's bin one more operation down the line.
However, Cook feels that's all behind him.
"I don't blame anyone, but I'm now as fit as I've ever been." London Informer
Updated - QPR's Carlisle Success - Additional Reports and Comments
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And video of the QPR Goals against Carlisle from last night (originally posted on the QPR fansite Loftforwords messageboard board)
QPR Official Site: LEDESMA: A PERFECT NIGHT
Emmanuel Ledesma failed to hide his delight this morning, as the hat-trick hero made a surprise visit to Loftus Road on his day off.
Still buzzing after his treble against Carlisle United in the Carling Cup second round last night, the Argentinean wonder-kid was brimming from ear to ear.
"I'm so happy," he told www.qpr.co.uk.
"It was a great night and to score three goals in front of the QPR fans is a dream come true.
"I would like to dedicate my goals to those who showed their faith in bringing me here - from the directors - Flavio, Bernie, Lakshmi and Amit - to Gianni Paladini and Iain Dowie."
After providing the all-important assist for the R's breakthrough goal - scored by Damion Stewart - Ledesma ran riot, notching three goals in a 28 minute purple-patch that left the Rangers faithful cheering with delight.
"The fans were fantastic," said Ledesma.
"They are very loud at Loftus Road and the players really appreciate it.
"To score three goals in front of them was amazing and I am very happy we won the tie. It was a perfect night."
The Genoa loanee believes his first goal was the pick of the bunch, explaining: "That is what I like to do most - cut in from the wing and get a shot in on goal.
"It was a good strike and thankfully it hit the back of the net."
Ledesma also revealed, albeit secretively, the thought process behind his strange goal celebration (pictured), in which he appears to point to his nose.
"It's for my friend Matteo Alberti," he said.
"I can't say why though!" QPR
Sporting Life - FLOWERS TARGETS LUCRATIVE RUN
QPR assistant manager Tim Flowers hopes Rangers can emulate his old club Coventry and embark on a giant-killing run in the Carling Cup.
Flowers and Rs boss Iain Dowie were in charge at Coventry last year when the Sky Blues shocked Manchester United, and after Emmanuel Ledesma's hat-trick helped set up a 4-0 thrashing of Carlisle in the second round of this year's competition, Flowers wants a Premier League club in round three.
"I'd like a home draw so our fans can see us play," Flowers said.
"But more than that, I want a big club.
"Coventry beat United last year, then played West Ham. We had a good cup run and generated a hell of a lot of money at the same time."
QPR had to wait to make their breakthrough against the Cumbrians, mainly because of visiting goalkeeper Ben Williams, who was in inspired form in the first half.
But the floodgates opened three minutes after the break when Damion Stewart rose at the near post to head home Daniel Parejo's corner.
Ledesma scored his first of the game seven minutes later, turning Peter Murphy just inside the area before burying a low shot past Williams and into the bottom right-hand corner of the net.
The Argentinian, on a season-long loan from Genoa, made it 3-0 on 63 minutes with another superb strike, playing a clever one-two with Parejo before firing expertly past Williams, this time into the bottom-left corner.
And he completed his hat-trick with five minutes to go, running onto Angelo Balanta's back-heel and lifting the ball over Williams and into the net.
"The fans that paid to come here tonight will have been very pleased with how Emmanuel played," Flowers added.
"He is a very gifted kid - he pops up in areas that can hurt people, he has a decent left peg and he likes shooting when he has a chance.
"But he is still learning his trade, and my only concern is that it might turn out to be a long, arduous season for him."
Carlisle boss John Ward felt his side could have been given a first-half penalty when Gary Madine was felled in the area, but admitted his side were outclassed in the end.
"Gary was hauled to the floor but you either get them or you don't," Ward said.
"The referee said no, and we had to get on with it.
"We knew they were a good team, but we thought if we could pinch a goal we could cause them problems, and up until half-time we gave a good account of ourselves.
"But that changed totally in the second half, and they have given us a tanking.
"It will be a long journey home, but the better team deserved to win, and it is no disgrace to be beaten by a side like that." Sporting Life
DAILY MAIL - Carling Cup round-up: QPR, Leeds and Reading score big wins
Argentinian youngster Emmanuel Ledesma fired a second-half hat-trick as QUEENS PARK RANGERS swept past CARLISLE 4-0 last night. The striker, on loan from Serie A side Genoa, also provided an assist as he emerged as the star of a cosmopolitan side at Loftus Road.
Wealthy Rangers also fielded Daniel Parejo, on loan from Real Madrid, and Samuel Di Carmine, who has switched from Fiorentina for a year, but initially made hard work of their League One opponents.
Damion Stewart eventually broke the deadlock shortly after half-time from Ledesma’s corner before the 20-year-old, who scored his first goal in English football against Doncaster last weekend, took over with a classy treble. Daily Mail
Mirror - Carling Cup: QPR 4-0 Carlisle - Led adds the wowie factor!
Iain Dowie's men turned on the style as Emmanuel Ledesma fired a second half hat-trick.
The Argentinian, on a seasonlong loan from Genoa, had a hot 30-minute spell.
Rangers assistant manager Tim Flowers said: "He is a very gifted kid - he pops up in areas where he can hurt people.
"He is still learning and my only concern is that it might turn out to be a long, arduous season for him." QPR had to wait to make QPR 4 Carlisle 0 their breakthrough, mainly because of in-form Carlisle keeper Ben Williams.
But the floodgates opened three minutes after the break when Damion Stewart rose at the near post to head home Daniel Parejo's corner.
Ledesma scored his first eight minutes later, burying a low shot past Williams.
He made it 3-0 on 63 minutes with another superb strike and completed his hat-trick five minutes from time after running on to Angelo Balanta's back-heel. Mirror
Ben Pearce/Kilburn Times - QPR 4 Carlisle Utd 0
EMMANUEL Ledesma and Iain Dowie both celebrated hat-tricks on Tuesday night as QPR surged into the third round of the League Cup for only the second time in 13 years.
The 18-year-old Argentine prodigy tore through the visitors' defence and found the net on three occasions in a sumptuous, match-winning second half display, each goal better than the last.
And meanwhile, in the dugout, the Rs boss pushed Carlisle through the competition's exit door for the third time in as many seasons, having overseen their demise with both Coventry and Charlton.
Dexter Blackstock, who had been due to start, came down with a flu virus on the morning of the match, giving Samuel Di Carmine his first start for the Hoops.
But it was his strike partner who stole the show and even in a relatively quiet first half the youngster showed touches of class, accentuated with a powerful rising drive and a 20-yard volley which whistled just wide of the top corner.
The opener, when it eventually came two minutes after the break, arrived through a different source as Damion Stewart was first to Daniel Parejo's right wing corner and slammed his header inside the far post.
Ledesma gave Carlisle another shot across the bows two minutes later when he turned and drew a low save from Ben Williams at the near post, but his warning fell on deaf ears and in the 55th minute the visitors paid the price.
Receiving the ball with his back to goal in the corner of the box, the Argentine turned again, opened up an angle and fired low inside the near post.
Seven minutes later he doubled his tally, exchanging passes beautifully with Parejo before deceiving Williams with an early shot stroked into the bottom left corner from just inside the area.
And six minutes from time Ledesma completed his trio, racing onto a clever flick from Angelo Balanta and drawing Williams with a seemingly heavy touch.
But he delicately clipped the ball over the prostrate keeper to send the Rs fans into delirium - and the third round.
"I'd like a draw at home because then the supporters can come and see us in greater numbers, and personally I'd like a Premier League team, why not?" said assistant manager Tim Flowers.
"At Coventry last year we beat Carlisle at the same stage and drew Manchester United away, and then we had West Ham at home.
"So in the end we had a really good cup run and it raised a lot of money, we were on live TV twice. I don't know what Iain would like but I'd like a Premier League team."
QPR: Cerny, Delaney (Gorkss 68), Stewart, Mahon (Bolder 68), Parejo, Rowlands, Ramage, Connolly, Cook, LEDESMA*, Di Carmine (Balanta 70). Kilburn Times
Also: Earlier Match Reports and comments of QPR 4 Carlisle 0
And video of the QPR Goals against Carlisle from last night (originally posted on the QPR fansite Loftforwords messageboard board)
QPR Official Site: LEDESMA: A PERFECT NIGHT
Emmanuel Ledesma failed to hide his delight this morning, as the hat-trick hero made a surprise visit to Loftus Road on his day off.
Still buzzing after his treble against Carlisle United in the Carling Cup second round last night, the Argentinean wonder-kid was brimming from ear to ear.
"I'm so happy," he told www.qpr.co.uk.
"It was a great night and to score three goals in front of the QPR fans is a dream come true.
"I would like to dedicate my goals to those who showed their faith in bringing me here - from the directors - Flavio, Bernie, Lakshmi and Amit - to Gianni Paladini and Iain Dowie."
After providing the all-important assist for the R's breakthrough goal - scored by Damion Stewart - Ledesma ran riot, notching three goals in a 28 minute purple-patch that left the Rangers faithful cheering with delight.
"The fans were fantastic," said Ledesma.
"They are very loud at Loftus Road and the players really appreciate it.
"To score three goals in front of them was amazing and I am very happy we won the tie. It was a perfect night."
The Genoa loanee believes his first goal was the pick of the bunch, explaining: "That is what I like to do most - cut in from the wing and get a shot in on goal.
"It was a good strike and thankfully it hit the back of the net."
Ledesma also revealed, albeit secretively, the thought process behind his strange goal celebration (pictured), in which he appears to point to his nose.
"It's for my friend Matteo Alberti," he said.
"I can't say why though!" QPR
Sporting Life - FLOWERS TARGETS LUCRATIVE RUN
QPR assistant manager Tim Flowers hopes Rangers can emulate his old club Coventry and embark on a giant-killing run in the Carling Cup.
Flowers and Rs boss Iain Dowie were in charge at Coventry last year when the Sky Blues shocked Manchester United, and after Emmanuel Ledesma's hat-trick helped set up a 4-0 thrashing of Carlisle in the second round of this year's competition, Flowers wants a Premier League club in round three.
"I'd like a home draw so our fans can see us play," Flowers said.
"But more than that, I want a big club.
"Coventry beat United last year, then played West Ham. We had a good cup run and generated a hell of a lot of money at the same time."
QPR had to wait to make their breakthrough against the Cumbrians, mainly because of visiting goalkeeper Ben Williams, who was in inspired form in the first half.
But the floodgates opened three minutes after the break when Damion Stewart rose at the near post to head home Daniel Parejo's corner.
Ledesma scored his first of the game seven minutes later, turning Peter Murphy just inside the area before burying a low shot past Williams and into the bottom right-hand corner of the net.
The Argentinian, on a season-long loan from Genoa, made it 3-0 on 63 minutes with another superb strike, playing a clever one-two with Parejo before firing expertly past Williams, this time into the bottom-left corner.
And he completed his hat-trick with five minutes to go, running onto Angelo Balanta's back-heel and lifting the ball over Williams and into the net.
"The fans that paid to come here tonight will have been very pleased with how Emmanuel played," Flowers added.
"He is a very gifted kid - he pops up in areas that can hurt people, he has a decent left peg and he likes shooting when he has a chance.
"But he is still learning his trade, and my only concern is that it might turn out to be a long, arduous season for him."
Carlisle boss John Ward felt his side could have been given a first-half penalty when Gary Madine was felled in the area, but admitted his side were outclassed in the end.
"Gary was hauled to the floor but you either get them or you don't," Ward said.
"The referee said no, and we had to get on with it.
"We knew they were a good team, but we thought if we could pinch a goal we could cause them problems, and up until half-time we gave a good account of ourselves.
"But that changed totally in the second half, and they have given us a tanking.
"It will be a long journey home, but the better team deserved to win, and it is no disgrace to be beaten by a side like that." Sporting Life
DAILY MAIL - Carling Cup round-up: QPR, Leeds and Reading score big wins
Argentinian youngster Emmanuel Ledesma fired a second-half hat-trick as QUEENS PARK RANGERS swept past CARLISLE 4-0 last night. The striker, on loan from Serie A side Genoa, also provided an assist as he emerged as the star of a cosmopolitan side at Loftus Road.
Wealthy Rangers also fielded Daniel Parejo, on loan from Real Madrid, and Samuel Di Carmine, who has switched from Fiorentina for a year, but initially made hard work of their League One opponents.
Damion Stewart eventually broke the deadlock shortly after half-time from Ledesma’s corner before the 20-year-old, who scored his first goal in English football against Doncaster last weekend, took over with a classy treble. Daily Mail
Mirror - Carling Cup: QPR 4-0 Carlisle - Led adds the wowie factor!
Iain Dowie's men turned on the style as Emmanuel Ledesma fired a second half hat-trick.
The Argentinian, on a seasonlong loan from Genoa, had a hot 30-minute spell.
Rangers assistant manager Tim Flowers said: "He is a very gifted kid - he pops up in areas where he can hurt people.
"He is still learning and my only concern is that it might turn out to be a long, arduous season for him." QPR had to wait to make QPR 4 Carlisle 0 their breakthrough, mainly because of in-form Carlisle keeper Ben Williams.
But the floodgates opened three minutes after the break when Damion Stewart rose at the near post to head home Daniel Parejo's corner.
Ledesma scored his first eight minutes later, burying a low shot past Williams.
He made it 3-0 on 63 minutes with another superb strike and completed his hat-trick five minutes from time after running on to Angelo Balanta's back-heel. Mirror
Ben Pearce/Kilburn Times - QPR 4 Carlisle Utd 0
EMMANUEL Ledesma and Iain Dowie both celebrated hat-tricks on Tuesday night as QPR surged into the third round of the League Cup for only the second time in 13 years.
The 18-year-old Argentine prodigy tore through the visitors' defence and found the net on three occasions in a sumptuous, match-winning second half display, each goal better than the last.
And meanwhile, in the dugout, the Rs boss pushed Carlisle through the competition's exit door for the third time in as many seasons, having overseen their demise with both Coventry and Charlton.
Dexter Blackstock, who had been due to start, came down with a flu virus on the morning of the match, giving Samuel Di Carmine his first start for the Hoops.
But it was his strike partner who stole the show and even in a relatively quiet first half the youngster showed touches of class, accentuated with a powerful rising drive and a 20-yard volley which whistled just wide of the top corner.
The opener, when it eventually came two minutes after the break, arrived through a different source as Damion Stewart was first to Daniel Parejo's right wing corner and slammed his header inside the far post.
Ledesma gave Carlisle another shot across the bows two minutes later when he turned and drew a low save from Ben Williams at the near post, but his warning fell on deaf ears and in the 55th minute the visitors paid the price.
Receiving the ball with his back to goal in the corner of the box, the Argentine turned again, opened up an angle and fired low inside the near post.
Seven minutes later he doubled his tally, exchanging passes beautifully with Parejo before deceiving Williams with an early shot stroked into the bottom left corner from just inside the area.
And six minutes from time Ledesma completed his trio, racing onto a clever flick from Angelo Balanta and drawing Williams with a seemingly heavy touch.
But he delicately clipped the ball over the prostrate keeper to send the Rs fans into delirium - and the third round.
"I'd like a draw at home because then the supporters can come and see us in greater numbers, and personally I'd like a Premier League team, why not?" said assistant manager Tim Flowers.
"At Coventry last year we beat Carlisle at the same stage and drew Manchester United away, and then we had West Ham at home.
"So in the end we had a really good cup run and it raised a lot of money, we were on live TV twice. I don't know what Iain would like but I'd like a Premier League team."
QPR: Cerny, Delaney (Gorkss 68), Stewart, Mahon (Bolder 68), Parejo, Rowlands, Ramage, Connolly, Cook, LEDESMA*, Di Carmine (Balanta 70). Kilburn Times
Also: Earlier Match Reports and comments of QPR 4 Carlisle 0
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Dowie Makes it Four Wins Out of Five - Reports and Comments on QPR 4 Carlisle 0
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That's four wins out of five for Ian Dowie's QPR as Emmanuel Ledesma scored a second half hatrick.
QPR Official Site - QPR 4 Carlisle 0
Attendance: 8021
A scintillating hat-trick from midfielder Emmanuel Ledesma capped off a stunning 4-0 victory over League One side Carlisle United.
Rangers left the field to a standing ovation, richly deserved after a performance that blew away the Cumbrian outfit with four goals of the highest quality.
Almost forgotten amidst Ledesma's remarkable achievement, was the opening goal from Damion Stewart before the midfielder grabbed the limelight with both hands and took away the match ball.
After returning to winning ways with a delightful performance at Loftus Road on Saturday, Manager Iain Dowie made three changes to the side that faced Doncaster Rovers. Martin Rowlands returned to the starting line-up where he was joined by Matthew Connolly replacing Fitz Hall, missing with a groin injury, and Samuel Di Carmine making his first start in an R's shirt, in for the ill Dexter Blackstock.
Kaspars Gorkss returned to the subs bench alongside Adam Bolder and Hogan Ephraim, both hoping to make their first appearances of the season.
The visitors Carlisle surprisingly left out top scorers Danny Graham and Danny Carlton but did start with journeyman striker Michael Bridges.
The two forwards had to settle for the bench where they were joined by new signing, centre back Richard Keogh, who made his debut at the weekend.
A decent opening from the home side almost reaped an instant reward as Gavin Mahon volleyed spectacularly towards goal but his shot was well blocked by the Carlisle defence.
Rangers continued to press, and Ledesma, fresh from opening his account against Doncaster, went searching for another goal for his personal tally, as his shot from 20 yards stung the fingers of visiting keeper Ben Williams.
The Superhoops were dominating the opening stages, with Rowlands instrumental in one touch football that was pleasing on the eye. The Carlisle defence was holding firm however but could not get their forwards into the game.
Finally Radek Cerny had something to do as he got down low to his right as Simon Hackney burst into life down the left and tried to curl an effort around the Czech stopper at his near post.
Back came Rangers with Lee Cook opening up from 20 yards but his shot whistled over United's bar.
Stewart then played a wonderful ball over the top for Ledesma to run onto and the midfielder managed to squeeze a shot away under pressure from two defenders and force a good save out of Williams.
Damien Delaney was next to test the Carlisle goalkeeper as, after good build up play from Mahon and Cook released the Irishman on the left and his shot was again well saved by the overworked Williams.
The R's had turned the pressure up a notch and the League One side were struggling to contain the rampant Rowlands and his partners in crime, you guessed it, Daniel Parejo and Ledesma.
The returning skipper then beautifully picked out the onrushing Mahon who had burst into the Carlisle box but he could not guide his header goal-ward.
Seconds into the second half and Di Carmine was released in space but could only shoot across the Carlisle goal.
Then, at last, Rangers got the breakthrough they deserved. Ledesma's inswinging corner was powerfully headed into the top left corner by Stewart.
Di Carmine then tried again after escaping his marker but could only shoot straight at Williams. The Italian was getting closer.
Rangers doubled their lead after 55 minutes and it was that man Ledesma who spun his marker expertly before firing an unstoppable shot past Williams, in off the visitor's left hand post.
Cerny was growing roots during the second half but Marc Bridge-Wilkinson rudely interrupted him with a tame shot from the edge of the area that hardly tested our keeper.
Suddenly Rangers were three up just past the hour mark as Ledesma claimed his second goal of the evening after exchanging a neat one-two with Parejo and firing a low shot that easily beat Williams and nestled into the corner of the net.
To sour the night somewhat, Delaney was forced to withdraw from proceedings, suffering from illness, with the Latvian international Gorkss taking up a position next to Stewart at the back with Connolly taking over left back duties.
Jeff Smith, only just on as a substitute for Carlisle, almost made an instant impact as he pounced on a loose ball in the Ranger's box and his shot was destined for the bottom corner only for Cerny to dive full stretch to his right and turn it round the post.
Back came the R's again and intricate one touch football almost resulted in a fourth as Cook only narrowly missed the top corner with a strike from just inside the area.
There was life still in the visitors as Jeff Smith again tested Cerny with a curling, dipping free-kick that had the R's keeper scrambling across his goal-mouth.
But on the counter attack, the Hoops struck again with Ledesma claiming his third and Ranger's fourth. Quick passing and strong running in midfield fed the diminutive Argentine who repeated his earlier trick, this time receiving the return pass from Angelo Balanta, before bursting forward and clipping the ball over the advancing Williams to claim a remarkable hat-trick.
Ledesma wasn't happy with a mere three goals however and he sent a crashing long range shot high and wide.
And with that, the game was won and it was the home side that marched into Saturday's third round draw.
QPR: Cerny, Delaney (Gorkss 67), Stewart, Mahon (Bolder 67), Parejo, Rowlands, Ramage, Connolly, Cook Ledesma, Di Carmine (Balanta 67).
Subs: Camp, Alberti, Ephraim, Ainsworth.
Goals: Stewart (47), Ledesma (55) (62) (83)
Bookings: Delaney (64)
Carlisle United: Williams, Raven, Horwood, Bridge-Wilkinson, Livesey, Murphy, Thirlwell (J Smith 71), Taylor, Hackney, Bridges (G Smith 73), Madine.
Subs: Howarth, Graham, Carlton, Keogh, Campion.
Referee: Mr K Hill Attendance: 8,021 QPR Official Site
Carlisle Official Site
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Referee:
Manager John Ward went for a new-look attack for this Carling Cup second-round tie at Loftus Road, with 18-year-old Gary Madine and the experienced Michael Bridges coming in for Carlton and Graham up front.
Cleveland Taylor was the only other change to the side that won three of its four opening games as he deputised for the suspended Scott Dobie.
United started well with some neat touches in the centre of the park, as Bridges got himself involved early to link the play. The ball eventually came to Madine, and his cross could only be headed in to the air by Parejo. Hackney went for a first time volley, 16-yards from goal, but it was on his right foot and it flew harmlessly over the bar.
Quick thinking at a throw in created a crossing opportunity for Ramage at the other end, and he drilled it hard across the face of the 18-yard box as Mahon stole some space. His volley was crisp, but Livesey was in the way as he blocked it for a corner.
Emmanuel Ledesma forced Williams in to a parried save in the 7th minute, when he went for the top corner from 30-yards out, but the keeper was equal to it, despite the fact that it was spinning wickedly in the air.
Peter Murphy was next to block as Rowlands exchanged passes, taking him on a run right through the middle of the Carlisle midfield. He went for his shot, 22-yards from goal, but the United central defender had tracked him and put himself in the way.
United started to settle as they broke through the 20 minute barrier, and the move of the game thus far was brought to a halt by the offside flag as Cleveland Taylor came in from the right and dictated things from midfield. His back heeled pass then released Hackney, but the assistant judged that he'd gone too early, and started to wave.
A quick free kick put Horwood in to the box in the 24th minute, and his far post cross was nodded back towards Bridges by Madine. It was an awkward bounce and the Carlisle striker's 8-yard header was never going to trouble Cerny.
Lee Cook tried one from distance as Rangers tried to impose themselves once more, with Livesey getting himself in the way this time, and Bridges sent one right at the keeper as the ball swung from end to end.
Ben Williams made a superb save in the 31st minute when Stewart sent a long pass towards the Carlisle area. Ledesma was on to it like a flash, and his hooked lob needed a touch to take it away for a corner. The big stopper was at full stretch again moments later when Delaney came in wide and angled a shot towards the far corner. Strong hands were enough to turn it away this time.
The Cumbrians were by no means second best, and they had a good shout for a penalty in the 36th minute when Hackney received a cheeky pass from Bridges. His cross was heading for Madine until Parejo appeared to block it with his arm, but Mr Hill showed no interest and waved play on.
A quick break looked promising on 40 minutes when Hackney jinked his way in to the home half, and he fed Bridges in to the area with a slide rule pass. On his left foot, and pushed slightly wide, he went for the first time shot and was disappointed as it screwed well wide of the target.
If United felt aggrieved at not being given anything from their first penalty appeal, they were incensed when they got nothing from the second when Gary Madine was literally hauled to the floor as he tried to get on the end of a Taylor cross, deep in to time added on. All eyes shifted to the Referee, and it was amazement all round as he ignored the appeals and waved play on.
Half Time: QPR 0 - 0 United
Rangers started brightly with a quick break as Ledesma robbed possession from Horwood. Di Carmine ran on, but he was closer to the corner flag than the goal with his dragged and scuffed shot.
United were undone in the 48th minute as Ledesma used his pace to carve a path in to the box and force a corner. That was sent to the near post, and Damion Stewart beat Williams to the ball, getting enough on it to glance it in to the back of the net.
Di Carmine went close 60 seconds later when he ran 20-yards with the ball before shooting through the bodies in front of him in a bid to sneak it in to the near post area. Williams did well to drop on it and gather it at the second attempt.
The home side were lifted by the goal and Ledesma scored a wonderful individual effort, to extend the lead, on 55 minutes when he turned Murphy, 18-yards out, and stroked it in to the bottom corner, via the woodwork.
Bridge-Wilkinson reminded Rangers that Carlisle still had a part to play on 61 minutes when he sent a first time volley right at Cerny, from distance.
The tie was all but closed on 63 minutes when a neat passage of interplay put the dangerous Ledesma in to a clear shooting position. With Williams exposed he had bottom left or right to choose from, and he finished it clinically, finding the corner of the net with aplomb.
Jeff Smith almost made an immediate impact when he came on for Hackney in the 72nd minute and immediately got himself in to the opposition box. His initial volley from a Raven cross was blocked, but he spun to try and guide it in to the bottom corner from the rebound, only to find that Cerny was equal to his shot as he pushed it around the post for a corner.
Lee Cook was a whisker away from making it four for the Rangers when he stayed forward from a corner, and took the pass from Balanta. It was nothing more than a toe poke, but it had power and speed, and it was just millimetres wide of the target.
Jeff Smith tried to catch Cerny unawares with a 25-yard free kick in the 75th minute, but the keeper did enough to get across and protect his near post.
Emmanuel Jorge Ledesma wrapped up a stunning individual display in the 84th minute when he skipped through challenges and exchanged before casually lofting the ball in to the back of the net to the appreciation of the Loftus Road crowd.
Ledesma was flying, and he decided to stay greedy on 90 minutes with a cheeky 23-yard shot that flew just over the bar.
That was the last action of what had been an entertaining encounter, with the difference between the sides a scinitillating second half display from an in form striker." Carlisle
POST MATCH COMMENTS - Tim Flowers/QPR Official Site SIMPLY FOUR-SOME!
Tim Flowers waxed lyrical, as Rangers eased in to the third round of the Carling Cup.
A hat-trick from Emmanuel Ledesma and a Damion Stewart header capped a scintillating second half display, after the Cumbrians more than held their own for the first 45 minutes.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, the R's Assistant Manager said: "At half time we told the lads to pass the ball a lot quicker.
"We weren't quite on top of our game, but the players stepped up a gear or two in the second period and the result was a scintillating display."
Argentine Ledesma was the undoubted star of the show, but Flowers was keen to praise others too.
"Ledesma will get all the plaudits for his hat-trick, but I'm just as pleased with the defensive display," he said.
"That's two clean sheets on the bounce now and we're progressing very nicely in all areas of the pitch.
"When we go ahead we're very dangerous.
"We took a lot of confidence from scoring early in the second half. We were in our rhythm then and the lads looked first class." QPR
That's four wins out of five for Ian Dowie's QPR as Emmanuel Ledesma scored a second half hatrick.
QPR Official Site - QPR 4 Carlisle 0
Attendance: 8021
A scintillating hat-trick from midfielder Emmanuel Ledesma capped off a stunning 4-0 victory over League One side Carlisle United.
Rangers left the field to a standing ovation, richly deserved after a performance that blew away the Cumbrian outfit with four goals of the highest quality.
Almost forgotten amidst Ledesma's remarkable achievement, was the opening goal from Damion Stewart before the midfielder grabbed the limelight with both hands and took away the match ball.
After returning to winning ways with a delightful performance at Loftus Road on Saturday, Manager Iain Dowie made three changes to the side that faced Doncaster Rovers. Martin Rowlands returned to the starting line-up where he was joined by Matthew Connolly replacing Fitz Hall, missing with a groin injury, and Samuel Di Carmine making his first start in an R's shirt, in for the ill Dexter Blackstock.
Kaspars Gorkss returned to the subs bench alongside Adam Bolder and Hogan Ephraim, both hoping to make their first appearances of the season.
The visitors Carlisle surprisingly left out top scorers Danny Graham and Danny Carlton but did start with journeyman striker Michael Bridges.
The two forwards had to settle for the bench where they were joined by new signing, centre back Richard Keogh, who made his debut at the weekend.
A decent opening from the home side almost reaped an instant reward as Gavin Mahon volleyed spectacularly towards goal but his shot was well blocked by the Carlisle defence.
Rangers continued to press, and Ledesma, fresh from opening his account against Doncaster, went searching for another goal for his personal tally, as his shot from 20 yards stung the fingers of visiting keeper Ben Williams.
The Superhoops were dominating the opening stages, with Rowlands instrumental in one touch football that was pleasing on the eye. The Carlisle defence was holding firm however but could not get their forwards into the game.
Finally Radek Cerny had something to do as he got down low to his right as Simon Hackney burst into life down the left and tried to curl an effort around the Czech stopper at his near post.
Back came Rangers with Lee Cook opening up from 20 yards but his shot whistled over United's bar.
Stewart then played a wonderful ball over the top for Ledesma to run onto and the midfielder managed to squeeze a shot away under pressure from two defenders and force a good save out of Williams.
Damien Delaney was next to test the Carlisle goalkeeper as, after good build up play from Mahon and Cook released the Irishman on the left and his shot was again well saved by the overworked Williams.
The R's had turned the pressure up a notch and the League One side were struggling to contain the rampant Rowlands and his partners in crime, you guessed it, Daniel Parejo and Ledesma.
The returning skipper then beautifully picked out the onrushing Mahon who had burst into the Carlisle box but he could not guide his header goal-ward.
Seconds into the second half and Di Carmine was released in space but could only shoot across the Carlisle goal.
Then, at last, Rangers got the breakthrough they deserved. Ledesma's inswinging corner was powerfully headed into the top left corner by Stewart.
Di Carmine then tried again after escaping his marker but could only shoot straight at Williams. The Italian was getting closer.
Rangers doubled their lead after 55 minutes and it was that man Ledesma who spun his marker expertly before firing an unstoppable shot past Williams, in off the visitor's left hand post.
Cerny was growing roots during the second half but Marc Bridge-Wilkinson rudely interrupted him with a tame shot from the edge of the area that hardly tested our keeper.
Suddenly Rangers were three up just past the hour mark as Ledesma claimed his second goal of the evening after exchanging a neat one-two with Parejo and firing a low shot that easily beat Williams and nestled into the corner of the net.
To sour the night somewhat, Delaney was forced to withdraw from proceedings, suffering from illness, with the Latvian international Gorkss taking up a position next to Stewart at the back with Connolly taking over left back duties.
Jeff Smith, only just on as a substitute for Carlisle, almost made an instant impact as he pounced on a loose ball in the Ranger's box and his shot was destined for the bottom corner only for Cerny to dive full stretch to his right and turn it round the post.
Back came the R's again and intricate one touch football almost resulted in a fourth as Cook only narrowly missed the top corner with a strike from just inside the area.
There was life still in the visitors as Jeff Smith again tested Cerny with a curling, dipping free-kick that had the R's keeper scrambling across his goal-mouth.
But on the counter attack, the Hoops struck again with Ledesma claiming his third and Ranger's fourth. Quick passing and strong running in midfield fed the diminutive Argentine who repeated his earlier trick, this time receiving the return pass from Angelo Balanta, before bursting forward and clipping the ball over the advancing Williams to claim a remarkable hat-trick.
Ledesma wasn't happy with a mere three goals however and he sent a crashing long range shot high and wide.
And with that, the game was won and it was the home side that marched into Saturday's third round draw.
QPR: Cerny, Delaney (Gorkss 67), Stewart, Mahon (Bolder 67), Parejo, Rowlands, Ramage, Connolly, Cook Ledesma, Di Carmine (Balanta 67).
Subs: Camp, Alberti, Ephraim, Ainsworth.
Goals: Stewart (47), Ledesma (55) (62) (83)
Bookings: Delaney (64)
Carlisle United: Williams, Raven, Horwood, Bridge-Wilkinson, Livesey, Murphy, Thirlwell (J Smith 71), Taylor, Hackney, Bridges (G Smith 73), Madine.
Subs: Howarth, Graham, Carlton, Keogh, Campion.
Referee: Mr K Hill Attendance: 8,021 QPR Official Site
Carlisle Official Site
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Referee:
Manager John Ward went for a new-look attack for this Carling Cup second-round tie at Loftus Road, with 18-year-old Gary Madine and the experienced Michael Bridges coming in for Carlton and Graham up front.
Cleveland Taylor was the only other change to the side that won three of its four opening games as he deputised for the suspended Scott Dobie.
United started well with some neat touches in the centre of the park, as Bridges got himself involved early to link the play. The ball eventually came to Madine, and his cross could only be headed in to the air by Parejo. Hackney went for a first time volley, 16-yards from goal, but it was on his right foot and it flew harmlessly over the bar.
Quick thinking at a throw in created a crossing opportunity for Ramage at the other end, and he drilled it hard across the face of the 18-yard box as Mahon stole some space. His volley was crisp, but Livesey was in the way as he blocked it for a corner.
Emmanuel Ledesma forced Williams in to a parried save in the 7th minute, when he went for the top corner from 30-yards out, but the keeper was equal to it, despite the fact that it was spinning wickedly in the air.
Peter Murphy was next to block as Rowlands exchanged passes, taking him on a run right through the middle of the Carlisle midfield. He went for his shot, 22-yards from goal, but the United central defender had tracked him and put himself in the way.
United started to settle as they broke through the 20 minute barrier, and the move of the game thus far was brought to a halt by the offside flag as Cleveland Taylor came in from the right and dictated things from midfield. His back heeled pass then released Hackney, but the assistant judged that he'd gone too early, and started to wave.
A quick free kick put Horwood in to the box in the 24th minute, and his far post cross was nodded back towards Bridges by Madine. It was an awkward bounce and the Carlisle striker's 8-yard header was never going to trouble Cerny.
Lee Cook tried one from distance as Rangers tried to impose themselves once more, with Livesey getting himself in the way this time, and Bridges sent one right at the keeper as the ball swung from end to end.
Ben Williams made a superb save in the 31st minute when Stewart sent a long pass towards the Carlisle area. Ledesma was on to it like a flash, and his hooked lob needed a touch to take it away for a corner. The big stopper was at full stretch again moments later when Delaney came in wide and angled a shot towards the far corner. Strong hands were enough to turn it away this time.
The Cumbrians were by no means second best, and they had a good shout for a penalty in the 36th minute when Hackney received a cheeky pass from Bridges. His cross was heading for Madine until Parejo appeared to block it with his arm, but Mr Hill showed no interest and waved play on.
A quick break looked promising on 40 minutes when Hackney jinked his way in to the home half, and he fed Bridges in to the area with a slide rule pass. On his left foot, and pushed slightly wide, he went for the first time shot and was disappointed as it screwed well wide of the target.
If United felt aggrieved at not being given anything from their first penalty appeal, they were incensed when they got nothing from the second when Gary Madine was literally hauled to the floor as he tried to get on the end of a Taylor cross, deep in to time added on. All eyes shifted to the Referee, and it was amazement all round as he ignored the appeals and waved play on.
Half Time: QPR 0 - 0 United
Rangers started brightly with a quick break as Ledesma robbed possession from Horwood. Di Carmine ran on, but he was closer to the corner flag than the goal with his dragged and scuffed shot.
United were undone in the 48th minute as Ledesma used his pace to carve a path in to the box and force a corner. That was sent to the near post, and Damion Stewart beat Williams to the ball, getting enough on it to glance it in to the back of the net.
Di Carmine went close 60 seconds later when he ran 20-yards with the ball before shooting through the bodies in front of him in a bid to sneak it in to the near post area. Williams did well to drop on it and gather it at the second attempt.
The home side were lifted by the goal and Ledesma scored a wonderful individual effort, to extend the lead, on 55 minutes when he turned Murphy, 18-yards out, and stroked it in to the bottom corner, via the woodwork.
Bridge-Wilkinson reminded Rangers that Carlisle still had a part to play on 61 minutes when he sent a first time volley right at Cerny, from distance.
The tie was all but closed on 63 minutes when a neat passage of interplay put the dangerous Ledesma in to a clear shooting position. With Williams exposed he had bottom left or right to choose from, and he finished it clinically, finding the corner of the net with aplomb.
Jeff Smith almost made an immediate impact when he came on for Hackney in the 72nd minute and immediately got himself in to the opposition box. His initial volley from a Raven cross was blocked, but he spun to try and guide it in to the bottom corner from the rebound, only to find that Cerny was equal to his shot as he pushed it around the post for a corner.
Lee Cook was a whisker away from making it four for the Rangers when he stayed forward from a corner, and took the pass from Balanta. It was nothing more than a toe poke, but it had power and speed, and it was just millimetres wide of the target.
Jeff Smith tried to catch Cerny unawares with a 25-yard free kick in the 75th minute, but the keeper did enough to get across and protect his near post.
Emmanuel Jorge Ledesma wrapped up a stunning individual display in the 84th minute when he skipped through challenges and exchanged before casually lofting the ball in to the back of the net to the appreciation of the Loftus Road crowd.
Ledesma was flying, and he decided to stay greedy on 90 minutes with a cheeky 23-yard shot that flew just over the bar.
That was the last action of what had been an entertaining encounter, with the difference between the sides a scinitillating second half display from an in form striker." Carlisle
POST MATCH COMMENTS - Tim Flowers/QPR Official Site SIMPLY FOUR-SOME!
Tim Flowers waxed lyrical, as Rangers eased in to the third round of the Carling Cup.
A hat-trick from Emmanuel Ledesma and a Damion Stewart header capped a scintillating second half display, after the Cumbrians more than held their own for the first 45 minutes.
Speaking exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk, the R's Assistant Manager said: "At half time we told the lads to pass the ball a lot quicker.
"We weren't quite on top of our game, but the players stepped up a gear or two in the second period and the result was a scintillating display."
Argentine Ledesma was the undoubted star of the show, but Flowers was keen to praise others too.
"Ledesma will get all the plaudits for his hat-trick, but I'm just as pleased with the defensive display," he said.
"That's two clean sheets on the bounce now and we're progressing very nicely in all areas of the pitch.
"When we go ahead we're very dangerous.
"We took a lot of confidence from scoring early in the second half. We were in our rhythm then and the lads looked first class." QPR
Teams for QPR vs Carlisle
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Tonight's Teams:
QPR Official Site QPR v CARLISLE - TEAM NEWS
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Mahon, Parejo, Rowlands, Ramage, Connolly, Cook, Ledesma, Di Carmine. Subs: Camp, Bolder, Gorkss, Balanta, Alberti, Ephraim, Ainsworth.
Carlisle United: Williams, Raven, Horwood, Bridge-Wilkinson, Livesey, Murphy, Thirlwell, Taylor, Hackney, Bridges, Madine. Subs: Howarth, Graham, Carlton, Smith, Keogh, Campion, Smith.
Tonight's Teams:
QPR Official Site QPR v CARLISLE - TEAM NEWS
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Mahon, Parejo, Rowlands, Ramage, Connolly, Cook, Ledesma, Di Carmine. Subs: Camp, Bolder, Gorkss, Balanta, Alberti, Ephraim, Ainsworth.
Carlisle United: Williams, Raven, Horwood, Bridge-Wilkinson, Livesey, Murphy, Thirlwell, Taylor, Hackney, Bridges, Madine. Subs: Howarth, Graham, Carlton, Smith, Keogh, Campion, Smith.
Additional Carlisle QPR Previews
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This is London - Dexter's Desperate for Victory Dexter Blackstock goes into tonight's Carling Cup clash with Carlisle determined to build on the victory over Doncaster.
The striker wants Queens Park Rangers to maintain morale after returning to winning ways with a 2-0 victory against Rovers.
Blackstock said: "We don't want to let Carlisle come here and beat us.
"It's all about momentum and continuing to win games and hopefully we will do that."
Watford face Darlington tonight buoyed by the performances of Jon Harley, who has converted to a midfielder since his summer arrival from Burnley.
Harley racked up the 300th game of his career when Watford beat Bristol Rovers in the last round and is relishing his chance to play further upfield.
He said: "But I'm really enjoying playing in the middle hopefully I can now start adding some goals. It's about time because I've only scored about a dozen in my career so far." This is London
News and Star - United stopper ready for battle with QPR superstars
His first league clean sheet safely completed, Ben Williams believes he and his Carlisle United team-mates can attack tonight’s Carling Cup tie against QPR with confidence and a quiet optimism.
On a high: Blues keeper Ben Williams beats Bristol Rovers’ Darryl Duffy during the opening League One clash
Williams’ talents in keeping out Leyton Orient on Saturday will undoubtedly need to show themselves again at Loftus Road tonight, when United collide with one of the richest and most aspiring clubs in the business.
The billions of Briatore and Ecclestone versus the more modest stability encouraged by the new Brunton Park board sounds like a mismatch for the ages.
But Carlisle’s buoyant new goalkeeper points out that the skills gap on the pitch will be anything but a chasm in the capital tonight.
“The expectation is that QPR will turn us over with the millionaire squad they’ve got,” said Williams.
“They will be a very good side, but it might be a good time to catch them at the start of the season when they might not have fully gelled together.
“We can just go there and enjoy ourselves and if we get something out of it, that’s brilliant. We can use it as a test for where we are as a squad. These are the teams we want to be playing, that’s the league the team and the fans want to be in.
“We will probably have our backs to the wall at times in the game, but it’s going to be a good challenge. It’s something the lads should be looking forward to, and relishing.
“I don’t think QPR will go thinking it’s a stroll in the park. There is a giant-killing aspect with us being in a different league, but we are probably closer to them than most people would give us credit for.”
If Iain Dowie’s men catch Williams in similar mood to Saturday, when he successfully repelled Orient’s best efforts in a demanding 0-0 draw, that giant-killing may not be such a far-fetched idea.
The former Manchester United and Crewe ‘keeper responds modestly when asked about his starring role at the Matchroom Stadium, but does not deny that he is settling happily into life with the Blues.
“I didn’t have that much to do but what I did I was quite pleased with,” said Williams. “I would have preferred a clean sheet last week at home, but I’m happy with how things went and how the team played.
“I thought we defended really well, particularly in the second half when it was backs to the wall.
“We weren’t as clinical with our chances as we have been in the previous games, but as a defensive unit we can be happy with a clean sheet, our second in four games.
“Once you start getting to the last 15-20 minutes, if you can’t nick it, the important thing is not to lose it. The lads were disappointed not to win it because of the way we played in the first half, but with possession Orient had in the second half, we’ve got to be happy with a good point away from home and another clean sheet.
“We’ve had a difficult start to the season with so many away games, and to still be unbeaten gives us a great unity and something we can build on.”
A settling-in period for any new goalkeeper is inevitable, particularly after the sustained spell between the posts enjoyed by Keiren Westwood in previous years.
But Williams believes he is steadily forging a successful relationship with the men in front of him.
“People have to be a little bit patient - it’s a new face and the goalkeeper is a big part of the defensive unit,” he said.
“For the defenders it’s a big change from having Keiren for the last four years. But we are getting better with every game. We’re cutting out the mistakes and learning each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
“I’ve said before that moving clubs is a bit like changing schools.
“But I’m getting used to it, the lads and the staff have been brilliant and having Timmo (goalkeeping coach Dave Timmins) around is giving me the chance to improve every day and every game. That’s what I want.” JON COLMAN News and Star
News and Star/Jon Colman - QPR
Birthday boy Gary Madine is set to tackle moneybags QPR tonight with Blues boss John Ward insisting the teenage striker is on the brink of becoming a first-team regular.
Gary Madine
Madine turned 18 on Sunday and is likely to be rewarded for his progress with a role in tonight’s Carling Cup clash at Loftus Road (kick-off 7.45pm).
Ward plans to rotate his squad for the second round showdown in the capital, which will mean either a start for Madine or a key role coming off the bench.
And the Carlisle chief said the youngster is breathing down the necks of his established strikers for a regular place in the United attack.
“We think very highly of Gary at the football club,” said Ward.
“He is learning from people like Michael Bridges and Scott Dobie, who have been around, seen it and done it.
“Gary is getting better all the time and at some stage is going to force his way through that group. He is not far away from doing that.
“I’m aware we’ve got to look after him but at the same time he’s champing at the bit and telling me he wants to play.”
Ward said the likes of Bridges and Madine “come into the reckoning” for their first starts of the season against Iain Dowie’s team tonight, with Cleveland Taylor also set to start in place of the suspended Scott Dobie on the right wing.
Midfielders Grant Smith, Luke Joyce and Jeff Smith are also pushing to be involved against the Championship side although there is likely to be few alterations in defence with new boy Richard Keogh not yet deemed ready to start.
“Richard isn’t far away but it might be too much for him getting a start,” said Ward. “Centre-half is a big position, he might be ok for half-an-hour but probably not to start.”
The manager added: “If some of the lads need a breather and others need an opportunity, I’ll happily do that.
“But make no mistake - I want to win this game. I’m not treating the game lightly. The guys who will come in are first team people. I have said from day one that we will need the full squad this season and you will see evidence of that tonight.” News and Star
This is London - Dexter's Desperate for Victory Dexter Blackstock goes into tonight's Carling Cup clash with Carlisle determined to build on the victory over Doncaster.
The striker wants Queens Park Rangers to maintain morale after returning to winning ways with a 2-0 victory against Rovers.
Blackstock said: "We don't want to let Carlisle come here and beat us.
"It's all about momentum and continuing to win games and hopefully we will do that."
Watford face Darlington tonight buoyed by the performances of Jon Harley, who has converted to a midfielder since his summer arrival from Burnley.
Harley racked up the 300th game of his career when Watford beat Bristol Rovers in the last round and is relishing his chance to play further upfield.
He said: "But I'm really enjoying playing in the middle hopefully I can now start adding some goals. It's about time because I've only scored about a dozen in my career so far." This is London
News and Star - United stopper ready for battle with QPR superstars
His first league clean sheet safely completed, Ben Williams believes he and his Carlisle United team-mates can attack tonight’s Carling Cup tie against QPR with confidence and a quiet optimism.
On a high: Blues keeper Ben Williams beats Bristol Rovers’ Darryl Duffy during the opening League One clash
Williams’ talents in keeping out Leyton Orient on Saturday will undoubtedly need to show themselves again at Loftus Road tonight, when United collide with one of the richest and most aspiring clubs in the business.
The billions of Briatore and Ecclestone versus the more modest stability encouraged by the new Brunton Park board sounds like a mismatch for the ages.
But Carlisle’s buoyant new goalkeeper points out that the skills gap on the pitch will be anything but a chasm in the capital tonight.
“The expectation is that QPR will turn us over with the millionaire squad they’ve got,” said Williams.
“They will be a very good side, but it might be a good time to catch them at the start of the season when they might not have fully gelled together.
“We can just go there and enjoy ourselves and if we get something out of it, that’s brilliant. We can use it as a test for where we are as a squad. These are the teams we want to be playing, that’s the league the team and the fans want to be in.
“We will probably have our backs to the wall at times in the game, but it’s going to be a good challenge. It’s something the lads should be looking forward to, and relishing.
“I don’t think QPR will go thinking it’s a stroll in the park. There is a giant-killing aspect with us being in a different league, but we are probably closer to them than most people would give us credit for.”
If Iain Dowie’s men catch Williams in similar mood to Saturday, when he successfully repelled Orient’s best efforts in a demanding 0-0 draw, that giant-killing may not be such a far-fetched idea.
The former Manchester United and Crewe ‘keeper responds modestly when asked about his starring role at the Matchroom Stadium, but does not deny that he is settling happily into life with the Blues.
“I didn’t have that much to do but what I did I was quite pleased with,” said Williams. “I would have preferred a clean sheet last week at home, but I’m happy with how things went and how the team played.
“I thought we defended really well, particularly in the second half when it was backs to the wall.
“We weren’t as clinical with our chances as we have been in the previous games, but as a defensive unit we can be happy with a clean sheet, our second in four games.
“Once you start getting to the last 15-20 minutes, if you can’t nick it, the important thing is not to lose it. The lads were disappointed not to win it because of the way we played in the first half, but with possession Orient had in the second half, we’ve got to be happy with a good point away from home and another clean sheet.
“We’ve had a difficult start to the season with so many away games, and to still be unbeaten gives us a great unity and something we can build on.”
A settling-in period for any new goalkeeper is inevitable, particularly after the sustained spell between the posts enjoyed by Keiren Westwood in previous years.
But Williams believes he is steadily forging a successful relationship with the men in front of him.
“People have to be a little bit patient - it’s a new face and the goalkeeper is a big part of the defensive unit,” he said.
“For the defenders it’s a big change from having Keiren for the last four years. But we are getting better with every game. We’re cutting out the mistakes and learning each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
“I’ve said before that moving clubs is a bit like changing schools.
“But I’m getting used to it, the lads and the staff have been brilliant and having Timmo (goalkeeping coach Dave Timmins) around is giving me the chance to improve every day and every game. That’s what I want.” JON COLMAN News and Star
News and Star/Jon Colman - QPR
Birthday boy Gary Madine is set to tackle moneybags QPR tonight with Blues boss John Ward insisting the teenage striker is on the brink of becoming a first-team regular.
Gary Madine
Madine turned 18 on Sunday and is likely to be rewarded for his progress with a role in tonight’s Carling Cup clash at Loftus Road (kick-off 7.45pm).
Ward plans to rotate his squad for the second round showdown in the capital, which will mean either a start for Madine or a key role coming off the bench.
And the Carlisle chief said the youngster is breathing down the necks of his established strikers for a regular place in the United attack.
“We think very highly of Gary at the football club,” said Ward.
“He is learning from people like Michael Bridges and Scott Dobie, who have been around, seen it and done it.
“Gary is getting better all the time and at some stage is going to force his way through that group. He is not far away from doing that.
“I’m aware we’ve got to look after him but at the same time he’s champing at the bit and telling me he wants to play.”
Ward said the likes of Bridges and Madine “come into the reckoning” for their first starts of the season against Iain Dowie’s team tonight, with Cleveland Taylor also set to start in place of the suspended Scott Dobie on the right wing.
Midfielders Grant Smith, Luke Joyce and Jeff Smith are also pushing to be involved against the Championship side although there is likely to be few alterations in defence with new boy Richard Keogh not yet deemed ready to start.
“Richard isn’t far away but it might be too much for him getting a start,” said Ward. “Centre-half is a big position, he might be ok for half-an-hour but probably not to start.”
The manager added: “If some of the lads need a breather and others need an opportunity, I’ll happily do that.
“But make no mistake - I want to win this game. I’m not treating the game lightly. The guys who will come in are first team people. I have said from day one that we will need the full squad this season and you will see evidence of that tonight.” News and Star
QPR Snippets: Carlilse, Bowles and Masson...Looking Back on Saturday's Match
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Carlisle Tonight:
QPR play Carlisle tonight at Loftus Road in the Second Round of the Carling Cup. Games against Carlisle always evoke memories of one of QPR's greatest-ever players Stan Bowles, who QPR signed from Carlisle in September 1972 for a then-record fee of 110,000 pounds. Recall Bowles playing for Carlisle at Loftus Road a few months before signing for QPR. Playing in the pooring rain on a mud field, Bowles was brilliant for Carlisle, even though QPR won the game 3-0.)
Carlisle Travel to QPR: - Journal Live/Mark Douglas - Bridges in line for first start at QPR
MICHAEL Bridges will make his first start since returning to Carlisle as the Cumbrians take on Championship high rollers QPR tonight, writes MARK DOUGLAS.
After impressing in a handful of appearances from the bench, the striker gets a chance to make an impact from the start alongside striker Gary Madine, who turned 18 on Sunday. Manager John Ward does not intend to weaken his side significantly at Loftus Road in a game he sees as a “fantastic opportunity” for his promotion hopefuls to prove their pedigree, but he will reshuffle.
“We’ll be looking to make one or two changes for the game – not in terms of weakening the team because we’ve got a lot of guys who aren’t starting games who could be considered first team players,” he said.
“It’s a smashing game for us against a top 10 side in the Championship. Loftus Road is a great ground to go to and a great pitch to play on, and I know that Iain Dowie will have QPR playing football the right way. I’m sure that will suit us because we like to get the ball down and knock it around too.
“It’s a fantastic experience for our team and it’s a great opportunity for them to prove that they can handle their own against a team who have spent heavily and will hope to be in the promotion mix come the end of the season.”
The trip to Loftus Road is Carlisle’s second journey to the capital within a few days, coming after Saturday’s goalless draw at Leyton Orient. A point apiece was a fair return from a game overshadowed by Scott Dobie’s controversial sending-off for violent conduct.
Dobie misses the next three games, starting with the Loftus Road clash, but fellow forward Danny Graham is fit despite suffering an ankle injury in the second half of the Orient game.
Cleveland Taylor may also get a chance to stake his claim, while the chance to name seven subs may also see Ward give youngsters Jeff Smith and Darren Campion a place in his squad. The Carlisle manager is looking to build on Saturday’s battling performance: “I was pleased with it – it was a reasonable point at a ground that is not an easy place to play.” Journal Live
QPR Official Site - MATCHDAY PREVIEW: CARLISLE
Carlisle United make the long journey down to Loftus Road tonight thanks to a stunning free-kick from Peter Murphy that knocked out Shrewsbury Town in Round One.
The Cumbrians have made a fantastic start to their league campaign, with a goalless draw at Leyton Orient on Saturday cementing their place in the top three of the League One standings, after victories over Bristol Rovers and Crewe Alexandra.
It comes as no surprise though, as the Club showed they could mix it with the best of them last season with impressive results over Leeds United, Nottingham Forest and Doncaster Rovers. Not only that, but the Cumbrians reached the Quarter Finals of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.
Danny Graham, the ex-Middlesbrough striker was in imperious form last season, netting 17 times, and the Cumbrian outfit will look to him again for the goals to fire them up the League.
After losing highly-thought-of striker Joe Garner to Nottingham Forest, a ready-made replacement was needed. Step up crowd favourite Michael Bridges.
The ex-Leeds and Sunderland forward spent a very successful spell at Brunton Park, scoring 15 goals, as Carlisle gained promotion to League One in the 2005/06 campaign. He has returned on loan from Premiership new-boys Hull City.
After highly-rated goalkeeper Kieron Westwood left for Coventry City, Manager John Ward was quick to snap up Ben Williams from Crewe on a free. Ex-Man United keeper Williams will look to have a solid season after inconsistency and injuries have so far blighted his career.
Manager Ward, a former forward for Clubs including Lincoln City, is a more than capable Manager who has learnt his trade from some of English football's well known figures, most notably his time as Assistant to Dave Jones at Wolverhampton Wanderers and Graham Taylor at both Watford and Aston Villa. It was Ward who guided former Club Cheltenham Town into League One before signing on to manage the Cumbrians.
With a free-scoring opening to the season, Ward will need to continue to get the best out of the Danny's - Graham and Carlton - should Carlisle wish to be playing sides like Rangers week in, week out next season. QPR
Don Masson: And speaking of Stan Bowles, a fellow-team member of Bowles 1975/76 "Championship" side, Don Masson turns 62 today. Born August 26, 1946.
Midfielder, Don Masson, bought by Dave Sexton in December 1974 from Notts County for 100,000 pounds. Playing alongside Gerry Francis, Masson played an integral part in QPR's 1975/1976 "Championship side." Scottish International, Masson also played an integral part in QPR's European campaign and League Cup the following season. In October 1977, new manager Frank Sibley sold Masson to Derby County in a straight swop for Derby's winger, Leighton James. See: Don Masson/Wikipedia -- Masson's Playing Record -- QPR Net's Ron Norris Interview with Don Masson - Masson Q&A --- QPR Official Site Profile of/Q&A With Don Masson --
Masson speaking about Stan Bowles "'Bowlesy' was the most talented footballer I ever played with." QPR official Site. And from the QPR Net-)"...QPRnet.com: Who was the best player you played with at QPR? - Don Masson -DM: Definitely Stanley, just for the natural ability he had. Gerry Francis was a good player too, mind you they were all good players! The things Bowles used to do though were unbelievable. I remember him scoring a goal against Sunderland on the television. He picked up the ball on the right wing, beat about three or four players and chipped the goalkeeper. Nowadays they would be in the crowd, ripping their shirts off – he just shrugged his shoulders as if to say “I could do that anytime”. And he could that was the thing! That left foot was fantastic. He was better than Dailglish in my opinion..."
Looking Back on Saturday
Dowie Praise for Ledesman and Parejo
Goal.com - 25/08/2008 - Loan Rangers Delight Dowie
Queens Park Rangers manager Iain Dowie was delighted with the contribution of youthful loan signings Emmanuel Ledesma and Daniel Parejo as his team got back on the winning trail by beating Doncaster Rovers 2-0 in the Coca-Cola Championship on Saturday.
Spanish midfielder Daniel Parejo, on loan from Real Madrid, set up Dexter Blackstock for Rangers’ opener, while Argentine Emmanuel Ledesma, on loan from Genoa, scored a cool second to secure victory over newly-promoted Doncaster. Parejo (pictured) was outstanding, especially in the first half.
Dowie enthused: "Emmanuel is a very good player. It's wonderful to watch him, he makes your eyes open wide with some of his tricks but he can also do the simple things well.
"He played his position very well. He played a bit off the cuff last week but he has responded with a very disciplined display - and he makes the ball talk.
"Daniel has got everything in his locker. For one so young he has got great talent and he's also learning about the physicality of the game.
"They are good lads. We've finished the game with five under-20s on the pitch, there aren't many teams who do that. But we have to give them time to develop.
"They are not going to become superstars overnight. Because Daniel is from where he is from, everyone expects him to be [a superstar]. But he is improving and Emmanuel's discipline was miles better than in his first game.
"They are settling in but it takes time."
Dowie was pleased with the way his side bounced back from last week’s 3-0 mauling by Sheffield United.
"The attitude, application and desire of the players to embrace what we are trying to do has been terrific," he said.
"Doncaster are a very good side, one of the best passing sides in the division, and we nullified that and we had a creativity.
"We were first to everything. The defeat at Sheffield United hurt and we spoke openly and brutally about that in the week and put it to bed. The response was a clean sheet today."
Doncaster had defender Matthew Mills taken to hospital with a suspected broken jaw during what proved to be their first defeat of the season.
"You have to give credit to QPR," said their manager, Sean O'Driscoll.
"They learned from that defeat at Sheffield United and were much more solid today, they made it difficult for us.
"Eight of their players are over 6ft 2ins so it's not rocket science to say you have to defend properly at set-plays, so we're disappointed with that.
"It's the first physical test we have faced in this division and we struggled to find a way to get a result. Goal.com
Doncaster Perspective: - Doncaster Official Site: SEAN - CREDIT TO THE HOME SIDE
Doncaster Rovers manager Sean O'Driscoll was understandably disappointed with his side's 2-0 defeat at the hands of Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road last Saturday.
Goals from Dexter Blackstock and Eduardo Ledesma were enough to condemn the Rovers to defeat, despite the away side playing some neat football against the side tipped for promotion to the Premier League.
However, the thoughts on the minds of every Rovers fan was that of the condition of centre-half Matt Mills, who had to leave the pitch looking dazed following a collision to the face.
Play-Button Sean O'Driscoll speaks to Rovers World following 2-0 defeat at QPR
"He's got a suspected fracture of the jaw, so he was taken to hospital for an x-ray," explained Sean following the defeat in the capital.
"Hopefully, the results will show that it was only suspected and he can get a clean bill of health. He took a nasty knock and we were worried that it may have been something more serious than a bang to the chin."
Sean then gave DoncasterRoversFC.co.uk his verdict on his side's first defeat in the Championship this season.
"I felt for the boys, to be honest," admitted the Rovers boss.
"Once we had given the goal away so early from the set play, they are the team with the personnel of which the majority is over 6'2'', we knew that defending from set plays was going to be crucial. To give the goal away, like that, it was disappointing."
"I thought we rallied and we had enough possession to cause them problems, but didn't really cause them that many problems. You have to give credit to the home side - they bounced back from a bad result against Sheffield United and I think that they were probably a bit more determined and organised."
"We found it difficult to break them down; we couldn't launch long balls into the box because their superior physical strength, which would mean we couldn't score cleanly. We tried to maneuver the ball and credit to them; they worked hard to stop us doing that." Doncaster
Doncaster Official Site - COPPS - BIGGEST TEST SO FAR
Doncaster Rovers suffered defeat for the first time in the League this season, following a 2-0 loss against a Queens Park Rangers side that are tipped by many for being in or around the promotion spaces come the end of the season.
The Rovers played some lovely football throughout the course of the game; however the height and strength of the QPR side shone through as Dexter Blackstock and Eduardo Ledesma both scored for the home side from set plays.
Play-ButtonCoppinger speaks to Rovers World on 'test' provided by QPR.
"It was tough, physically," admitted Rovers midfielder James Coppinger following the encounter.
"The first goal changed the game I think. When you score early doors, especially at home, it's a massive advantage. I though that the lads stuck in, though and we played some good football at times - but there was no end product today."
"I think that this was the biggest test for us so far this season. We are only three games in, but we knew that this lot had spent a lot of money and are tipped to do well - and today showed why. They have a lot of quality up front and they did very well."
"They changed their shape to go three in the midfield to match our three, which we didn't expect. They did their homework and identified our strengths and tried to nullify them - and it worked for them. I totally think that the early goal totally changed the game." Doncaster
Eurosport - View from the Terraces: QPR
Our man at Loftus Road gives his verdict on how the new Championship season is shaping up for Queens Park Rangers.
After another home win at the weekend, what are your expectations for the season?Mid-table: our strikers do not have enough goals in them to reach the play-offs. We should beat teams like Barnsley and Doncaster at home with little trouble; you saw what happened when we had a real test against Sheffield United [QPR lost 3-0]. And we've conceded six goals in four games including the League Cup this season.
Which member of the team would you drop in a second?
Kaspars Gorkss. It was his fault that Barnsley scored at the start of the season and apparently he had a 'mare at Bramall Lane. His positioning is poor and he doesn't seem up to it. We'll have to drop one of the midfielders to get Martin Rowlands back in - maybe Daniel Parejo.
Who would you like the Hoops to sign?
A striker, definitely: an out-and-out goalscorer. I'd have liked Kevin Phillips, but I don't know if that was realistic. We've got the players to make the goals, but forwards like Patrick Agyemang and Dexter Blackstock - although that boy works very hard - aren't going to get you 20 to 25 goals. Maybe a Freddy Eastwood- or Robert Earnshaw-type player.
Who are your main men?
Martin Rowlands (pictured): he works hard, is great at passing, and as our captain, is a real leader on the pitch. He is not the biggest but he has got so much intelligence. He's been suspended for the first three games. Akos Buzsaky was our other star last year and when he gets fit, he could be key again. Emmanuel Ledesma is a good football player but I'm not sure if he's strong enough: he might not like visiting places like Blackpool. Lee Cook can be a big player again - we sold him for big money so he's obviously very good - but he's got to get fit first after he didn't play much last season.
Which club do you really dislike?
I don't dislike anyone. A typical QPR hatred is Brentford and Luton, but I feel sorry for them because they're rubbish! It's harsh to dock anyone 30 points. And Chelsea is another one our fans don't like, although we might end up a bit like them with the new owners..." - Paul Conway / Eurosport - Eurosport
Carlisle Tonight:
QPR play Carlisle tonight at Loftus Road in the Second Round of the Carling Cup. Games against Carlisle always evoke memories of one of QPR's greatest-ever players Stan Bowles, who QPR signed from Carlisle in September 1972 for a then-record fee of 110,000 pounds. Recall Bowles playing for Carlisle at Loftus Road a few months before signing for QPR. Playing in the pooring rain on a mud field, Bowles was brilliant for Carlisle, even though QPR won the game 3-0.)
Carlisle Travel to QPR: - Journal Live/Mark Douglas - Bridges in line for first start at QPR
MICHAEL Bridges will make his first start since returning to Carlisle as the Cumbrians take on Championship high rollers QPR tonight, writes MARK DOUGLAS.
After impressing in a handful of appearances from the bench, the striker gets a chance to make an impact from the start alongside striker Gary Madine, who turned 18 on Sunday. Manager John Ward does not intend to weaken his side significantly at Loftus Road in a game he sees as a “fantastic opportunity” for his promotion hopefuls to prove their pedigree, but he will reshuffle.
“We’ll be looking to make one or two changes for the game – not in terms of weakening the team because we’ve got a lot of guys who aren’t starting games who could be considered first team players,” he said.
“It’s a smashing game for us against a top 10 side in the Championship. Loftus Road is a great ground to go to and a great pitch to play on, and I know that Iain Dowie will have QPR playing football the right way. I’m sure that will suit us because we like to get the ball down and knock it around too.
“It’s a fantastic experience for our team and it’s a great opportunity for them to prove that they can handle their own against a team who have spent heavily and will hope to be in the promotion mix come the end of the season.”
The trip to Loftus Road is Carlisle’s second journey to the capital within a few days, coming after Saturday’s goalless draw at Leyton Orient. A point apiece was a fair return from a game overshadowed by Scott Dobie’s controversial sending-off for violent conduct.
Dobie misses the next three games, starting with the Loftus Road clash, but fellow forward Danny Graham is fit despite suffering an ankle injury in the second half of the Orient game.
Cleveland Taylor may also get a chance to stake his claim, while the chance to name seven subs may also see Ward give youngsters Jeff Smith and Darren Campion a place in his squad. The Carlisle manager is looking to build on Saturday’s battling performance: “I was pleased with it – it was a reasonable point at a ground that is not an easy place to play.” Journal Live
QPR Official Site - MATCHDAY PREVIEW: CARLISLE
Carlisle United make the long journey down to Loftus Road tonight thanks to a stunning free-kick from Peter Murphy that knocked out Shrewsbury Town in Round One.
The Cumbrians have made a fantastic start to their league campaign, with a goalless draw at Leyton Orient on Saturday cementing their place in the top three of the League One standings, after victories over Bristol Rovers and Crewe Alexandra.
It comes as no surprise though, as the Club showed they could mix it with the best of them last season with impressive results over Leeds United, Nottingham Forest and Doncaster Rovers. Not only that, but the Cumbrians reached the Quarter Finals of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.
Danny Graham, the ex-Middlesbrough striker was in imperious form last season, netting 17 times, and the Cumbrian outfit will look to him again for the goals to fire them up the League.
After losing highly-thought-of striker Joe Garner to Nottingham Forest, a ready-made replacement was needed. Step up crowd favourite Michael Bridges.
The ex-Leeds and Sunderland forward spent a very successful spell at Brunton Park, scoring 15 goals, as Carlisle gained promotion to League One in the 2005/06 campaign. He has returned on loan from Premiership new-boys Hull City.
After highly-rated goalkeeper Kieron Westwood left for Coventry City, Manager John Ward was quick to snap up Ben Williams from Crewe on a free. Ex-Man United keeper Williams will look to have a solid season after inconsistency and injuries have so far blighted his career.
Manager Ward, a former forward for Clubs including Lincoln City, is a more than capable Manager who has learnt his trade from some of English football's well known figures, most notably his time as Assistant to Dave Jones at Wolverhampton Wanderers and Graham Taylor at both Watford and Aston Villa. It was Ward who guided former Club Cheltenham Town into League One before signing on to manage the Cumbrians.
With a free-scoring opening to the season, Ward will need to continue to get the best out of the Danny's - Graham and Carlton - should Carlisle wish to be playing sides like Rangers week in, week out next season. QPR
Don Masson: And speaking of Stan Bowles, a fellow-team member of Bowles 1975/76 "Championship" side, Don Masson turns 62 today. Born August 26, 1946.
Midfielder, Don Masson, bought by Dave Sexton in December 1974 from Notts County for 100,000 pounds. Playing alongside Gerry Francis, Masson played an integral part in QPR's 1975/1976 "Championship side." Scottish International, Masson also played an integral part in QPR's European campaign and League Cup the following season. In October 1977, new manager Frank Sibley sold Masson to Derby County in a straight swop for Derby's winger, Leighton James. See: Don Masson/Wikipedia -- Masson's Playing Record -- QPR Net's Ron Norris Interview with Don Masson - Masson Q&A --- QPR Official Site Profile of/Q&A With Don Masson --
Masson speaking about Stan Bowles "'Bowlesy' was the most talented footballer I ever played with." QPR official Site. And from the QPR Net-)"...QPRnet.com: Who was the best player you played with at QPR? - Don Masson -DM: Definitely Stanley, just for the natural ability he had. Gerry Francis was a good player too, mind you they were all good players! The things Bowles used to do though were unbelievable. I remember him scoring a goal against Sunderland on the television. He picked up the ball on the right wing, beat about three or four players and chipped the goalkeeper. Nowadays they would be in the crowd, ripping their shirts off – he just shrugged his shoulders as if to say “I could do that anytime”. And he could that was the thing! That left foot was fantastic. He was better than Dailglish in my opinion..."
Looking Back on Saturday
Dowie Praise for Ledesman and Parejo
Goal.com - 25/08/2008 - Loan Rangers Delight Dowie
Queens Park Rangers manager Iain Dowie was delighted with the contribution of youthful loan signings Emmanuel Ledesma and Daniel Parejo as his team got back on the winning trail by beating Doncaster Rovers 2-0 in the Coca-Cola Championship on Saturday.
Spanish midfielder Daniel Parejo, on loan from Real Madrid, set up Dexter Blackstock for Rangers’ opener, while Argentine Emmanuel Ledesma, on loan from Genoa, scored a cool second to secure victory over newly-promoted Doncaster. Parejo (pictured) was outstanding, especially in the first half.
Dowie enthused: "Emmanuel is a very good player. It's wonderful to watch him, he makes your eyes open wide with some of his tricks but he can also do the simple things well.
"He played his position very well. He played a bit off the cuff last week but he has responded with a very disciplined display - and he makes the ball talk.
"Daniel has got everything in his locker. For one so young he has got great talent and he's also learning about the physicality of the game.
"They are good lads. We've finished the game with five under-20s on the pitch, there aren't many teams who do that. But we have to give them time to develop.
"They are not going to become superstars overnight. Because Daniel is from where he is from, everyone expects him to be [a superstar]. But he is improving and Emmanuel's discipline was miles better than in his first game.
"They are settling in but it takes time."
Dowie was pleased with the way his side bounced back from last week’s 3-0 mauling by Sheffield United.
"The attitude, application and desire of the players to embrace what we are trying to do has been terrific," he said.
"Doncaster are a very good side, one of the best passing sides in the division, and we nullified that and we had a creativity.
"We were first to everything. The defeat at Sheffield United hurt and we spoke openly and brutally about that in the week and put it to bed. The response was a clean sheet today."
Doncaster had defender Matthew Mills taken to hospital with a suspected broken jaw during what proved to be their first defeat of the season.
"You have to give credit to QPR," said their manager, Sean O'Driscoll.
"They learned from that defeat at Sheffield United and were much more solid today, they made it difficult for us.
"Eight of their players are over 6ft 2ins so it's not rocket science to say you have to defend properly at set-plays, so we're disappointed with that.
"It's the first physical test we have faced in this division and we struggled to find a way to get a result. Goal.com
Doncaster Perspective: - Doncaster Official Site: SEAN - CREDIT TO THE HOME SIDE
Doncaster Rovers manager Sean O'Driscoll was understandably disappointed with his side's 2-0 defeat at the hands of Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road last Saturday.
Goals from Dexter Blackstock and Eduardo Ledesma were enough to condemn the Rovers to defeat, despite the away side playing some neat football against the side tipped for promotion to the Premier League.
However, the thoughts on the minds of every Rovers fan was that of the condition of centre-half Matt Mills, who had to leave the pitch looking dazed following a collision to the face.
Play-Button Sean O'Driscoll speaks to Rovers World following 2-0 defeat at QPR
"He's got a suspected fracture of the jaw, so he was taken to hospital for an x-ray," explained Sean following the defeat in the capital.
"Hopefully, the results will show that it was only suspected and he can get a clean bill of health. He took a nasty knock and we were worried that it may have been something more serious than a bang to the chin."
Sean then gave DoncasterRoversFC.co.uk his verdict on his side's first defeat in the Championship this season.
"I felt for the boys, to be honest," admitted the Rovers boss.
"Once we had given the goal away so early from the set play, they are the team with the personnel of which the majority is over 6'2'', we knew that defending from set plays was going to be crucial. To give the goal away, like that, it was disappointing."
"I thought we rallied and we had enough possession to cause them problems, but didn't really cause them that many problems. You have to give credit to the home side - they bounced back from a bad result against Sheffield United and I think that they were probably a bit more determined and organised."
"We found it difficult to break them down; we couldn't launch long balls into the box because their superior physical strength, which would mean we couldn't score cleanly. We tried to maneuver the ball and credit to them; they worked hard to stop us doing that." Doncaster
Doncaster Official Site - COPPS - BIGGEST TEST SO FAR
Doncaster Rovers suffered defeat for the first time in the League this season, following a 2-0 loss against a Queens Park Rangers side that are tipped by many for being in or around the promotion spaces come the end of the season.
The Rovers played some lovely football throughout the course of the game; however the height and strength of the QPR side shone through as Dexter Blackstock and Eduardo Ledesma both scored for the home side from set plays.
Play-ButtonCoppinger speaks to Rovers World on 'test' provided by QPR.
"It was tough, physically," admitted Rovers midfielder James Coppinger following the encounter.
"The first goal changed the game I think. When you score early doors, especially at home, it's a massive advantage. I though that the lads stuck in, though and we played some good football at times - but there was no end product today."
"I think that this was the biggest test for us so far this season. We are only three games in, but we knew that this lot had spent a lot of money and are tipped to do well - and today showed why. They have a lot of quality up front and they did very well."
"They changed their shape to go three in the midfield to match our three, which we didn't expect. They did their homework and identified our strengths and tried to nullify them - and it worked for them. I totally think that the early goal totally changed the game." Doncaster
Eurosport - View from the Terraces: QPR
Our man at Loftus Road gives his verdict on how the new Championship season is shaping up for Queens Park Rangers.
After another home win at the weekend, what are your expectations for the season?Mid-table: our strikers do not have enough goals in them to reach the play-offs. We should beat teams like Barnsley and Doncaster at home with little trouble; you saw what happened when we had a real test against Sheffield United [QPR lost 3-0]. And we've conceded six goals in four games including the League Cup this season.
Which member of the team would you drop in a second?
Kaspars Gorkss. It was his fault that Barnsley scored at the start of the season and apparently he had a 'mare at Bramall Lane. His positioning is poor and he doesn't seem up to it. We'll have to drop one of the midfielders to get Martin Rowlands back in - maybe Daniel Parejo.
Who would you like the Hoops to sign?
A striker, definitely: an out-and-out goalscorer. I'd have liked Kevin Phillips, but I don't know if that was realistic. We've got the players to make the goals, but forwards like Patrick Agyemang and Dexter Blackstock - although that boy works very hard - aren't going to get you 20 to 25 goals. Maybe a Freddy Eastwood- or Robert Earnshaw-type player.
Who are your main men?
Martin Rowlands (pictured): he works hard, is great at passing, and as our captain, is a real leader on the pitch. He is not the biggest but he has got so much intelligence. He's been suspended for the first three games. Akos Buzsaky was our other star last year and when he gets fit, he could be key again. Emmanuel Ledesma is a good football player but I'm not sure if he's strong enough: he might not like visiting places like Blackpool. Lee Cook can be a big player again - we sold him for big money so he's obviously very good - but he's got to get fit first after he didn't play much last season.
Which club do you really dislike?
I don't dislike anyone. A typical QPR hatred is Brentford and Luton, but I feel sorry for them because they're rubbish! It's harsh to dock anyone 30 points. And Chelsea is another one our fans don't like, although we might end up a bit like them with the new owners..." - Paul Conway / Eurosport - Eurosport
Monday, August 25, 2008
Ian Holloway Talking About QPR's Prospects, Managing His Clubs and Future
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From the man to whom QPR owe so much: Ian Holloway
Skysports - No regrets for Ollie
Ollie reflects on life at Leicester, Plymouth and QPR
When Ian Holloway moved from Plymouth to Leicester last season, many people were surprised by his decision.
Last November, Argyle looked like contenders for a place in the Championship play-offs and Holloway was seen as a hero around the town, while Leicester were scrapping it out at the wrong end of the table and had been through three full-time managers in less than a year.
However, Holloway decided to move to the Midlands and was ultimately unable to improve Leicester's fortunes as the club were relegated to the third tier of English football for the first time in their history.
Despite the benefit of hindsight, Holloway insists he made the right decision to leave Plymouth because of behind-the scenes problems, most notably the fact that many of his players were out of contract at the end of the season.
"There were other things off the field that people didn't really know about," Holloway told Soccer Extra.
"At this precise moment in time I feel I made the right decision. I didn't want to do what Paul Sturrock is trying to do, which is rebuild a team.
"We started last season with a good team, but by the end of the season 13 players would be out of contract.
"We kept talking about who we were going to keep and how much we were going to give them. They had them on such small contracts, which is great management, but the players had started to win in the Championship and other teams had seen that so they were going to be sought after.
"They were going to walk out on Bosman rulings. We'd had it happen the year before when Tony Capaldi went to Cardiff and he told some of his mates how much he was getting.
"We inherited a problem at Plymouth and I realised the more we were talking about it the more we couldn't solve it and I didn't want to do that any more."
Devastated
Holloway admits he was "devastated" by Leicester's relegation and his subsequent departure from the club, but feels just one goal in their final few games of the season might have saved them from the drop.
However, he says the club has reached its lowest point and will bounce back under new manager Nigel Pearson.
"Even now I still can't believe how we didn't get one goal in any one of 10 games," he said.
"Bristol City at home or even Stoke on the last day of the season... we just needed one goal. The chances we missed were unbelievable.
"I believe they're in a better place now and I believe Nigel's going to take them forward.
"The players that they have got there are going to be strong in that division and they're building. Every club needs to bottom out and I think they bottomed out last summer.
"It was devastating for me because life's all about timing and that was wrong as it was proved.
"But I wish them all the very best. Their supporters are absolutely outstanding."
Experience
Holloway also chatted about his experience at QPR, whom he managed for five years with relative success considering the difficult financial position the club was in during his reign.
Things are very different at Loftus Road these days following a takeover by multi-millionaires Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore, but Holloway insists money won't necessarily guarantee success.
However, he believes that Iain Dowie is the right man to win promotion for QPR, as long as he is allowed to do things his way.
"At the end of the day if Iain Dowe's given the chance to spend money, he's got a proven record of taking a team to the Premier League. I hope it works for him.
"You're talking about new directors and new owners and with the greatest respect to them, they have to learn that this is a different business and you have to trust people who know what they're doing.
"It must be difficult for them because they've got all the money in the world, but it's about building a spirit within the squad that is strong. Sometimes that doesn't happen no matter how much money you've got.
"I believe Iain will do it and I'm very proud that I was left holding that baby at a time when no-one else wanted to.
"I had five different boards at that football club. They were on about merging with Wimbledon, which would never have worked, and I'm proud of what every one of us achieved at that club - the players and Kenny Jackett when he joined me. We were in administration and we literally couldn't buy a bar of soap without asking the administrators.
"It's a great club and I hope their fans are given what they want, which is top-flight football again."
Holloway says he is keen to return to football management when a job comes along, despite the difficulties and the frustrations of working in professional football.
"It's the politics that kills you in management, it really does," he added.
"You can never really make a decision. You've always got to get it through other people. You've got your players and you've got your squad, but you're never totally and utterly in control.
"It's everywhere. Any manager can try to make decisions - you can buy a player, but if he gets injured then before you know it you've lost your main striker. You're not really in control.
"What you do is you learn to firefight and you get on with it. The clubs I've been at I've always had to do that because I've had limited budgets." SkySports
From the man to whom QPR owe so much: Ian Holloway
Skysports - No regrets for Ollie
Ollie reflects on life at Leicester, Plymouth and QPR
When Ian Holloway moved from Plymouth to Leicester last season, many people were surprised by his decision.
Last November, Argyle looked like contenders for a place in the Championship play-offs and Holloway was seen as a hero around the town, while Leicester were scrapping it out at the wrong end of the table and had been through three full-time managers in less than a year.
However, Holloway decided to move to the Midlands and was ultimately unable to improve Leicester's fortunes as the club were relegated to the third tier of English football for the first time in their history.
Despite the benefit of hindsight, Holloway insists he made the right decision to leave Plymouth because of behind-the scenes problems, most notably the fact that many of his players were out of contract at the end of the season.
"There were other things off the field that people didn't really know about," Holloway told Soccer Extra.
"At this precise moment in time I feel I made the right decision. I didn't want to do what Paul Sturrock is trying to do, which is rebuild a team.
"We started last season with a good team, but by the end of the season 13 players would be out of contract.
"We kept talking about who we were going to keep and how much we were going to give them. They had them on such small contracts, which is great management, but the players had started to win in the Championship and other teams had seen that so they were going to be sought after.
"They were going to walk out on Bosman rulings. We'd had it happen the year before when Tony Capaldi went to Cardiff and he told some of his mates how much he was getting.
"We inherited a problem at Plymouth and I realised the more we were talking about it the more we couldn't solve it and I didn't want to do that any more."
Devastated
Holloway admits he was "devastated" by Leicester's relegation and his subsequent departure from the club, but feels just one goal in their final few games of the season might have saved them from the drop.
However, he says the club has reached its lowest point and will bounce back under new manager Nigel Pearson.
"Even now I still can't believe how we didn't get one goal in any one of 10 games," he said.
"Bristol City at home or even Stoke on the last day of the season... we just needed one goal. The chances we missed were unbelievable.
"I believe they're in a better place now and I believe Nigel's going to take them forward.
"The players that they have got there are going to be strong in that division and they're building. Every club needs to bottom out and I think they bottomed out last summer.
"It was devastating for me because life's all about timing and that was wrong as it was proved.
"But I wish them all the very best. Their supporters are absolutely outstanding."
Experience
Holloway also chatted about his experience at QPR, whom he managed for five years with relative success considering the difficult financial position the club was in during his reign.
Things are very different at Loftus Road these days following a takeover by multi-millionaires Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore, but Holloway insists money won't necessarily guarantee success.
However, he believes that Iain Dowie is the right man to win promotion for QPR, as long as he is allowed to do things his way.
"At the end of the day if Iain Dowe's given the chance to spend money, he's got a proven record of taking a team to the Premier League. I hope it works for him.
"You're talking about new directors and new owners and with the greatest respect to them, they have to learn that this is a different business and you have to trust people who know what they're doing.
"It must be difficult for them because they've got all the money in the world, but it's about building a spirit within the squad that is strong. Sometimes that doesn't happen no matter how much money you've got.
"I believe Iain will do it and I'm very proud that I was left holding that baby at a time when no-one else wanted to.
"I had five different boards at that football club. They were on about merging with Wimbledon, which would never have worked, and I'm proud of what every one of us achieved at that club - the players and Kenny Jackett when he joined me. We were in administration and we literally couldn't buy a bar of soap without asking the administrators.
"It's a great club and I hope their fans are given what they want, which is top-flight football again."
Holloway says he is keen to return to football management when a job comes along, despite the difficulties and the frustrations of working in professional football.
"It's the politics that kills you in management, it really does," he added.
"You can never really make a decision. You've always got to get it through other people. You've got your players and you've got your squad, but you're never totally and utterly in control.
"It's everywhere. Any manager can try to make decisions - you can buy a player, but if he gets injured then before you know it you've lost your main striker. You're not really in control.
"What you do is you learn to firefight and you get on with it. The clubs I've been at I've always had to do that because I've had limited budgets." SkySports
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