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QPR's Doncaster Loss: Slumping Rangers came up against surging Doncaster: And the result was as expected.
MANAGERIAL COMMENTS/Guy Aspin - PA Sport - O'DRISCOLL IMPRESSED BY ROVERS
- Doncaster boss Sean O'Driscoll felt his side's 2-0 victory over QPR at the Keepmoat Stadium exorcised the "demons" of their weekend defeat to Cardiff.
-Rovers slumped to a 3-0 defeat in the Welsh capital, but got back to winning ways courtesy of a comical Damion Stewart own goal and a poacher's finish from Paul Heffernan.
- Stewart headed the ball past stranded stopper Radek Cerny and into his own net after the keeper had come off his line to try and claim a long ball forward from Matt Mills in the 22nd minute.
- Heffernan, returning to the Rovers side after missing the defeat to Cardiff through illness, nodded home a close-range second after Martin Wood's corner had been flicked on at the near post on the half-hour mark.
- The win means O'Driscoll's men are still unbeaten at home since December 20 and now level on points with their opponents.
- "That's more like we've played all season," said O'Driscoll. "I think we've put the demons of Saturday behind us and responded in the right way.
- "We were playing against a wide which arguably should be in a better position than they are but I thought we controlled it from start to finish almost.
- "I thought they didn't really know how to cope with us at times."
- The Rovers back three of Mills, Sam Hird and Adam Lockwood limited Rangers to few clear chances, as the visitors we restricted to trying their luck from range.
- And O'Driscoll was impressed with how the trio dealt with the threat of striker Dexter Blackstock in particular.
- He added: "Dexter Blackstock for me is one of the best players in the league, but I though our back three kept it quiet tonight. I thought we were professional and deserved it."
- The first chance of the game fell to Rangers in the 10th minute, Samuel Di Carmine receiving the ball from Blackstock in the area with his back to goal before turning and flashing a right-footed shot just wide of the near left post.
- The same player saw a goalbound effort expertly tipped over the bar by Neil Sullivan late on, while Blackstock sent his shot too high from the edge of the six-yard box.
- At the other end Heffernan's energy and movement caused the Rangers defence plenty of problems, and he was twice denied by last-ditch tackles from Stewart when he looked to burst through on goal.
Rangers boss Paulo Sousa felt the defeat was harsh on his side, who were let down by individual mistakes.
- He said: "It's not a nice moment for us. It's a difficult moment because each mistake we make we are being penalised for.
- "Until the moment they scored the first goal we controlled the game. And then you get a little bit down, you concede the second goal also with another mistake and then it's difficult.
- "You create, you dominate, you risk, but when it's not a good moment for the team, the ball goes close to the goal, there are great saves from the keeper and it's not an easy moment for us."
- QPR are now without a win in eight games and Sousa feels he will be able to tell a lot about his players' character from how they respond.
- "It's a good moment to see the players' personality and character, looking to the future," he said.
- "If you want to achieve the project of the board - the Premier League - you need players who have a lot of personality. It's a good moment to analyse that." Sporting Life
Daily Mail - Doncaster 2 QPR 0: Heat is on for Sousa the loser
- Paulo Sousa is feeling the pressure at Loftus Road after failing to deliver the results demanded by his Italian bosses.
QPR have not won since the end of January and last night’s defeat leaves them out of touch with the play-off contenders.
- Sousa made three changes from the side that drew with Sheffield United: Peter Ramage, stand-in skipper Gavin Mahon and Matteo Alberti started, with Damien Delaney, who has a foot injury, Jordi Lopez and Liam Miller making way.
- But any hopes the Rangers boss had of a revival were dashed in the 23rd minute by a comical mix-up between Damion Stewart and Radek Cerny.
- A long ball from the back by Matt Mills was intended for the run of Paul Heffernan, but the striker’s intervention was not required as Stewart attempted to head the ball back to his keeper from left of the penalty spot.
- Cerny, though, had come off his line to claim the ball so Stewart succeeded only in
directing it past the stranded keeper.
- Heffernan nodded home the second in the 30th minute from close range after Martin Woods’ left-wing corner had been flicked on.
- Doncaster, who only a few weeks ago looked certainties for relegation, are unbeaten at home since December 20 and are now level on points with their opponents, who failed to score for the third game running. Mail
QPR Official Site
- Rovers moved level on points with the R's in the Coca Cola Championship table courtesy of a 2-0 win at The Keepmoat Stadium.
- A Damion Stewart own goal and Paul Heffernan's close range header sealed it for the hosts, who continued their fine home form against a Rangers side, who for all their endeavours, failed to find a way past Rovers custodian Neil Sullivan.
- Dexter Blackstock, Mikele Leigertwood and Samuel Di Carmine were all unlucky not to find the back of the net, on a night when the R's profligacy in front of goal came back to haunt them.
- Paulo Sousa made three changes for the R's first trip to The Keepmoat Stadium.
- Peter Ramage, stand-in skipper Gavin Mahon and Matteo Alberti all came in to the starting XI, with Damien Delaney (foot), Jordi Lòpez and Liam Miller making way; the latter two dropping to the substitutes' bench.
- The changes also resulted in an alteration in formation, with the R's reverting to an orthodox 4-4-2, with Wayne Routledge and the returning Alberti occupying the wide midfield berths.
- Doncaster skipper Brian Stock missed out with a back injury, with Adam Lockwood coming in to the side at centre-half, in a 3-5-2 formation.
- Striker Heffernan returned after missing out in the 3-0 defeat against Cardiff City at the weekend, partnering James Coppinger in attack.
- There was a welcome sight for the 600 or so travelling R's fans before kick-off, as long-term injury victim Rowan Vine joined in with the pre-match warm-up.
- Vine travelled with the squad as part of his on-going rehabilitation, and is set to feature for the R's second string in the coming fortnight.- After an even opening, it was the R's who fashioned the first chance of note in the ninth minute.
-Effective link-up play involving Leigertwood and Blackstock saw the latter feed Di Carmine, whose fierce right footed drive was deflected inches wide.
- From the resultant corner kick, Blackstock rose tallest to meet Alberti's corner, only for Sullivan to save comfortably at his far post.
- Doncaster were playing some neat stuff of their own too, but with the R's back four on top, Sean O'Driscoll's men were restricted to efforts from range, most notably from Martin Woods, who fired high and wide on the quarter hour.
- Blackstock was a constant threat at set-pieces, rising high to meet another Alberti corner kick in the 20th minute, only to see his latest effort fly wide.
- But despite enjoying the lion's share of territory and possession, disaster struck for Sousa's men midway through the half.
- An innocuous looking long ball from Matt Mills caused panic on the edge of the R's box, and Stewart - under no apparent pressure - inexplicably headed the ball past Radek Cerny and into a vacant net.
- It was a disastrous goal for the R's to concede, and gave an otherwise tepid home crowd an unexpected - and equally undeserved - lift.
- And it went from bad to worse for the R's just eight minutes later.
- Kaspars Gorkss' attempted headed clearance from a Donny corner fell perfectly into the path of Heffernan, who applied the simplest of glancing headers from the edge of the six-yard box.
- To their credit, the R's continued to pose a threat, with Leigertwood firing over from fully 30-yards with a dipping right foot volley.
- The former Sheffield United midfielder went close again five minutes before the break, firing inches wide with a stunning 22-yard strike that just arced away as it appeared destined for the top corner.
- Blackstock's half ended as it had begun with an effort on goal; this time a looping header which hit the top of the crossbar and landed on the roof of the net.
- Sousa didn't take long to ring the changes at the start of the second half, with Lòpez and Romone Rose entering the fray in the 52nd minute at the expense of Gorkss and Alberti. The double substitution saw Rangers match their opponents by switching to a 3-5-2 formation.
- The change nearly had its desired impact three minutes later, but once again Blackstock was denied, this time by a flailing Rovers leg.
- At the other end, Heffernan's fizzing 25-yard drive brought the best out of Cerny, with the R's stopper diving high to his left to keep out the strikers' fierce effort.
- Rangers were soon back on the attack themselves - a neat one-two between Blackstock and Di Carmine saw the latter fire in a near post effort, which Sullivan tipped round.
- Rose was the next R's player to try his luck, firing in from distance, only for Sullivan to smother; before Blackstock fired over from an acute angle.
- Moments after Sousa introduced Miller, Coppinger tested Cerny with a powerful strike, but it was the R's who created the final opportunity of the match, when Sullivan dived full stretch to his right to thwart Di Carmine.
- Doncaster Rovers: Sullivan, Roberts, Mills, Chambers, Lockwood, Heffernan (Hayter 86), Wilson, Woods, Wellens, Hird, Coppinger (Shiels 89).
- Subs: Spicer, Price, Fairhurst. Scorers: Stewart (22 og), Heffernan (29) Bookings: Mills (28)
QPR: Cerny, Stewart, Mahon, Leigertwood (Miller 79), Routledge, Blackstock, Gorkss (Lòpez 52), Ramage, Connolly, Alberti (Rose 52), Di Carmine.
Subs: Hall, Balanta.
Bookings: Leigertwood (60)
Referee: Mr C H WebsterAttendance: 10,223 (616 away) http://www.qpr.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10373~44863,00.html
DONCASTER OFFICIAL SITE
- A cool but fine evening greeted our visitors from London, Queens Park Rangers, for tonight's Championship game. Only three points separate the two sides in the middle of the table and while the were losing at Cardiff on Saturday the Rangers could only get a point from a goalless draw with Sheffield United at Loftus Road. The Rovers made changes for the game, Mark Wilson for the injured Brian Stock, Paul Heffernan, recovered from his weekend illness, for Jason Price and Adam Lockwood reinforcing the defence against the giant s in the Rangers team, with John Spicer making way for him. The Rovers defended the North Stand end in the first half.
- The Rovers got the game going under their new captain, Richie Wellens and gave the ball away to the opposition. However, they soon regained possession and on five minutes Coppinger got in a strike from the edge of the penalty area but it was on the tame side and Cerny saved. Three minutes on and the visitors went on the offensive but Alberti's cross from the left went way ahead of his teammates and out for a goalkick. This was followed by Di Carmine having a shot from the edge of the penalty area being deflected for a corner, which Blackstock headed wide. On the quarter hour Woods had a go from 30 yards but it went high and wide. Two minutes later and Wellens put over a good cross from the left but Chambers, haring into the middle, couldn't get to it. On 20minutes, a corner to the Rangers was headed wide by Blackstock. Then, after 22minutes, a long clearance out of the Rovers defence into the visitors penalty area was headed by STEWART back to his keeper but he had also come out to meet the ball so that the header sailed over him and into the empty net. The Rovers were now enjoying the better of the exchanges and won their first corner five minutes later but nothing came from it. As the half hour came up a teasing cross from the right by Chambers was headed out by Connolly for a corner. Woods' corner kick caused problems in the visitors six yard box and was headed against Hird and reaching HEFFERNAN, who had the simplest of jobs to nod it into the net from close range. Two minutes later a free kick from the Rovers left had Heffernan stretching in the six yard box to tap it in but he didn't connect fully and the ball went wide. As the last seven minutes came up the visitors made strong efforts to get into the game. Leigertwood fired just over from 20yards, Di Carmine was only just past the angle of the goal frame from 25yards and a couple of corners in the last few minutes, the second of which was headed on to the top of the bar by Blackstock, brought them no reward .
Half time - ROVERS 2 Q P R 0
The visitors got the second half underway but the first ten minutes or so of play was scrappy. The first strike of any note of this half came from Blackstock on 56 minutes and was deflected for a corner. Three minutes on and a long high clearance out of defence by Hird was chested down by Coppinger for Heffernan to hit a thunderbolt from 25yards that Cerny could only knock down before collecting. The visitors then got into the Rovers penalty area where Di Carmine, from the right of goal, fired on goal but Sullivan, at the near post, pushed it out for a corner. Rose followed this with a low drive from 30 yards that Sullivan saved comfortably. The Rangers were pushing at this stage and Rose had another thirty yarder saved on 72minutes followed by Routledge cutting in from the right and and hitting a low shot from 25yards but Sullivan saved. The Rovers raised the 'siege' and went on the attack with Woods hitting a 25yard free kick just wide of a post. With 75 minutes on the clock Blackstock burst through the Rovers defence to the right of the penalty area but fired wildly over the bar. Ten minutes to go and good work down the Rovers right, initiated by Wellens, led to the same player gettin in a terrific strike from the right of the penalty area that Cerny could only palm away. Five minutes later and Heffernan muscled his way past a defender and was just ready to strike from 12yards when a well timed last ditch tackle by Stewart saved a certain goal. Then, good inter-play on the edge of the Rovers penalty area by the visitors gave Di Carmine a clear sight of goal but his terrific shot was brilliantly touched away for a corner by a flying Sullivan going to his right. The Rangers battled to the last, with Rose putting wide from 20 yards and forcing a last minute (4th minute) of added-time corner but the Rovers weathered all this to keep a clean sheet and earn a well merited win....Doncaster
TABLE (BBC)
1 Wolverhampton 38 22 71
2 Birmingham 38 12 68
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3 Reading 36 30 64
4 Sheff Utd 37 16 60
5 Cardiff 35 17 59
6 Swansea 37 14 57
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7 Bristol City 38 7 57
8 Preston 38 2 57
9 Burnley 36 0 55
10 Ipswich 37 7 51
11 QPR 37 -2 49
12 Sheff Wed 38 -9 49
13 Doncaster 37 -10 49
14 Crystal Palace 35 3 47
15 Coventry 36 -4 47
16 Derby 36 -3 46
17 Watford 36 -4 45
18 Plymouth 38 -12 43
19 Blackpool 38 -13 43
20 Nottm Forest 38 -13 41
21 Barnsley 35 -12 40
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
22 Norwich 38 -9 39
23 Southampton 37 -16 38
24 Charlton 37 -23 28
BBC
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Welcome to QPR REPORT - A completely unofficial and unaffiliated fan site focusing on G-d's Chosen Team, Queen's Park Rangers (QPR) FC. (Visit also QPR Report Messageboard and Follow on Twitter.) QPR Report accepts no sponsorship, advertising or financial contributions. In 2008, QPR Report was named as one of the top two blogs in the Football League
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Teams: QPR at Doncaster
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Teams: Doncaster vs QPR
Doncaster Rovers: Sullivan, Roberts, Mills, Chambers, Lockwood, Heffernan, Wilson, Woods, Wellens, Hird, Coppinger. Subs: Hayter, Shiels, Spicer, Price, Fairhurst.
QPR: Cerny, Stewart, Mahon, Leigertwood, Routledge, Blackstock, Gorkss, Ramage, Connolly, Alberti, Di Carmine. Subs: Hall, Miller, Balanta, Lòpez, Rose.
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Teams: Doncaster vs QPR
Doncaster Rovers: Sullivan, Roberts, Mills, Chambers, Lockwood, Heffernan, Wilson, Woods, Wellens, Hird, Coppinger. Subs: Hayter, Shiels, Spicer, Price, Fairhurst.
QPR: Cerny, Stewart, Mahon, Leigertwood, Routledge, Blackstock, Gorkss, Ramage, Connolly, Alberti, Di Carmine. Subs: Hall, Miller, Balanta, Lòpez, Rose.
Holloway to Return Rumour
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Evening Standard/Tom Collomosse
Holloway in frame for return to Loftus Road
- Ian Holloway is in the frame to make a surprise return to Queens Park Rangers as the club's wealthy owners run out of patience with manager Paulo Sousa.
- Despite the club's denials, Sousa is understood to be on borrowed time at Loftus Road following a run of seven matches without a win and Holloway, who was sacked by QPR in February 2006, is out of work after spells in charge of Plymouth and Leicester.
- Rangers travel to Doncaster in the Championship tonight looking for their first win since 27 January. Should they lose and fail beat Southampton on Saturday, Sousa risks becoming the fourth managerial casualty since Formula One tycoons Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone took control of the club in November 2007.
- Holloway's stock fell after he took over at Leicester last season and the club were relegated to League One, but he is believed to have been sounded out about going back to Loftus Road and his return would be welcomed by a significant section of the Rangers support. Evening Standard
- Visit the independent QPR Report Messageboard: The combination quasi-blog and messageboard which focuses solely on QPR and football. Comments on blog-posted stories or any QPR matters welcome!
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Evening Standard/Tom Collomosse
Holloway in frame for return to Loftus Road
- Ian Holloway is in the frame to make a surprise return to Queens Park Rangers as the club's wealthy owners run out of patience with manager Paulo Sousa.
- Despite the club's denials, Sousa is understood to be on borrowed time at Loftus Road following a run of seven matches without a win and Holloway, who was sacked by QPR in February 2006, is out of work after spells in charge of Plymouth and Leicester.
- Rangers travel to Doncaster in the Championship tonight looking for their first win since 27 January. Should they lose and fail beat Southampton on Saturday, Sousa risks becoming the fourth managerial casualty since Formula One tycoons Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone took control of the club in November 2007.
- Holloway's stock fell after he took over at Leicester last season and the club were relegated to League One, but he is believed to have been sounded out about going back to Loftus Road and his return would be welcomed by a significant section of the Rangers support. Evening Standard
Iain Dowie Set for Blackpool?
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Daily Mail - EXCLUSIVE: Iain Dowie lined up for Blackpool job
- Iain Dowie is closing in on a return to management after emerging as the leading candidate to step in and save Blackpool from the growing threat of relegation.
- Tangerine dream: Iain Dowie is being considered for the Blackpool job
The former QPR boss was at Bloomfield Road last Saturday, amid suggestions the job would have been his, had caretaker manager Tony Parkes failed to end a run of six games without a win.
- A 2-0 victory over second-from-bottom Norwich earned Parkes a reprieve but, with his struggling side just four points clear of the relegation places, his future remains in doubt.
- When he took on the seventh caretaker role of his career in December, following Simon Grayson's move to Leeds, he was told by Blackpool's board that it could become permanent, depending on results.
- But a return of just three wins from 14 games has caused alarm among Blackpool chiefs and left them considering Dowie's credentials for safeguarding their Championship status.
- Sacked by QPR after only 15 games in charge last October, Dowie has concentrated on media work since but is believed to be keen on returning to management Mail
- Visit the independent QPR Report Messageboard: The combination quasi-blog and messageboard which focuses solely on QPR and football. Comments on blog-posted stories or any QPR matters welcome!
- [Recent posted articles: QPR's Danny Maguire Trialing at Crystal Palace ...Clubs feeling the economic chill as sponsors strip their names off shirts
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Daily Mail - EXCLUSIVE: Iain Dowie lined up for Blackpool job
- Iain Dowie is closing in on a return to management after emerging as the leading candidate to step in and save Blackpool from the growing threat of relegation.
- Tangerine dream: Iain Dowie is being considered for the Blackpool job
The former QPR boss was at Bloomfield Road last Saturday, amid suggestions the job would have been his, had caretaker manager Tony Parkes failed to end a run of six games without a win.
- A 2-0 victory over second-from-bottom Norwich earned Parkes a reprieve but, with his struggling side just four points clear of the relegation places, his future remains in doubt.
- When he took on the seventh caretaker role of his career in December, following Simon Grayson's move to Leeds, he was told by Blackpool's board that it could become permanent, depending on results.
- But a return of just three wins from 14 games has caused alarm among Blackpool chiefs and left them considering Dowie's credentials for safeguarding their Championship status.
- Sacked by QPR after only 15 games in charge last October, Dowie has concentrated on media work since but is believed to be keen on returning to management Mail
Two QPR Publications Shortlisted for Fanzine Awards
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- FOOTBALL FANZINE AWARDS SHORTLIST
Congratulations to Clive Whittingham and Dave Thomas/AKUTRS for their Fanzine Finalist shortlists . (Unfortunately not QPR Report! Congratulations to them both and hopefully both will win; Commisserations to the other QPR sites)
For their Fanzine Finalist Shortlisting
Round 2 - Football Fanzine AwardsAssessment
The final Shortlist has now been published:
“Best Football League - Print”
(Including A Kick Up The Rs)
“Best Football League - Online” Including LoftForWords
“Best Blog - Online”
- (NOT QPR Report!)
“Best Editor - Either Media”
- Including Dave Thomas/AKUTRS
“Best Writer - Either Media”
(None from QPR)
Football Fanzines Awards
- Visit the independent QPR Report Messageboard: The combination quasi-blog and messageboard which focuses solely on QPR and football. Comments on blog-posted stories or any QPR matters welcome!
- [Recent posted articles: QPR's Danny Maguire Trialing at Crystal Palace ...Clubs feeling the economic chill as sponsors strip their names off shirts
.....Concern with Terrorism and Football
- FOOTBALL FANZINE AWARDS SHORTLIST
Congratulations to Clive Whittingham and Dave Thomas/AKUTRS for their Fanzine Finalist shortlists . (Unfortunately not QPR Report! Congratulations to them both and hopefully both will win; Commisserations to the other QPR sites)
For their Fanzine Finalist Shortlisting
Round 2 - Football Fanzine AwardsAssessment
The final Shortlist has now been published:
“Best Football League - Print”
(Including A Kick Up The Rs)
“Best Football League - Online” Including LoftForWords
“Best Blog - Online”
- (NOT QPR Report!)
“Best Editor - Either Media”
- Including Dave Thomas/AKUTRS
“Best Writer - Either Media”
(None from QPR)
Football Fanzines Awards
Tonight: QPR at Doncaster - Preview
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- [Recent posted articles: QPR's Danny Maguire Trialing at Crystal Palace ...Clubs feeling the economic chill as sponsors strip their names off shirts
.....Concern with Terrorism and Football
QPR vs Doncaster tonight: Doncaster Have been Surging in Recent Months are now just three points behind QPR - Current Table --- Doncaster 2008/2009 Results....Doncaster Squad. (Meanwhile, QPR have been slumping: QPR Stats) Doncaster Stats
Doncaster's Results Since Christmas
Dec-08 A Nottingham Forest W 4-2
Dec-08 H Burnley W 2-1
Jan-09 A Southampton W 2-1
Jan-09 A Sheffield United W 1-0
Jan-09 H Norwich City D 1-1
Feb-09 A Blackpool W 3-2
Feb-09 H Sheffield Wednesday W 1-0
Feb-09 H Bristol City W 1-0
Feb-09 A Swansea City L 1-3
Feb-09 H Derby County W 2-1
Mar-09 A Charlton Athletic W 2-1
Mar-09 A Cardiff City L 0-3
- When QPR and Doncaster last met, in August at Loftus Road, when Iain Dowie's QPR won 2-0. QPR's team: QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Mahon, Hall (Connolly 29), Leigertwood, Parejo (Rowlands 77), Blackstock, Ramage, Cook (Balanta 71), Ledesma. Subs: Camp, Di Carmine. Goals: Blackstock (5), Ledesma (28) - Match Reports: QPR 2 Doncaster 0
- QPR's last visit to Doncaster, was when Terry Venable's QPR lost in the FA Cup (of course!) at Doncaster in the Third Round. Head-to-Head Results
Daily Mirror - UNDER-PRESSURE QPR 10/03/2009
- Under-PRESSURE QPR coach Paulo Sousa (above) is facing a rap from his bosses - for being without a left-back at Doncaster tonight.
- Damien Delaney picked up an injury in training yesterday and Rangers are unable to recall Gary Borrowdale after sending him out to Brighton on loan." Mirror
Doncaster Official Site - Stock A Doubt For Rangers
Doncaster Rovers midfielder and captain Brian Stock has been rated as 'extremely doubtful' for Tuesday evening's clash against Queens Park Rangers at Keepmoat Stadium.
- The 28 year-old suffered back spasms on Saturday morning and, despite starting the contest between Rovers and Cardiff at Ninian Park, was withdrawn just after the half-hour mark.
- "Brian Stock was a massive doubt before the Cardiff game and we probably took a chance that didn't come off," said Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll.
- "At this minute in time, he is extremely doubtful. He's always played on and he's always felt alright, because it's one of those backs where he can wake up and it is fine. He was fine but he had a long coach journey and I think that was part of the problem. A game in midweek also didn't help and he's got progressively worse. Normally, he gets progressively better, so unless he wakes up tomorrow morning and he thinks he's fine - which has actually happened before - he won't make it. He's with the specialist at the minute having another look at it. It's one of those where we can get him through until the end of the season and then sort the problem out - but he's got to be fit to play in this league and with the pace and intensity of it; you can't play at half-pace.
- He's a big player for us, but he can be a big liability for us if he's not right. He plays in a position that influences a lot of what we do. So, this has been a lesson learned. It will require a routine operation, which will keep him out for six or so weeks. It's one of those things that can be sorted and it's not like it's one of those things that we don't know about. We're going to try and manage it the best we can and so far, we have been doing that really well - but we didn't on Saturday, I'm afraid."
- Meanwhile, striker Paul Heffernan was back in training this morning (Monday) and could be set to feature against QPR on Tuesday evenining. Doncaster
- See Also:
- LoftforWords' Clive Whittingham: Doncaster vs QPR Preview
- QPRNet/Ron Norris & Simon Skinner - Doncaster vs QPR Preview
- Visit the independent QPR Report Messageboard: The combination quasi-blog and messageboard which focuses solely on QPR and football. Comments on blog-posted stories or any QPR matters welcome!
- [Recent posted articles: QPR's Danny Maguire Trialing at Crystal Palace ...Clubs feeling the economic chill as sponsors strip their names off shirts
.....Concern with Terrorism and Football
QPR vs Doncaster tonight: Doncaster Have been Surging in Recent Months are now just three points behind QPR - Current Table --- Doncaster 2008/2009 Results....Doncaster Squad. (Meanwhile, QPR have been slumping: QPR Stats) Doncaster Stats
Doncaster's Results Since Christmas
Dec-08 A Nottingham Forest W 4-2
Dec-08 H Burnley W 2-1
Jan-09 A Southampton W 2-1
Jan-09 A Sheffield United W 1-0
Jan-09 H Norwich City D 1-1
Feb-09 A Blackpool W 3-2
Feb-09 H Sheffield Wednesday W 1-0
Feb-09 H Bristol City W 1-0
Feb-09 A Swansea City L 1-3
Feb-09 H Derby County W 2-1
Mar-09 A Charlton Athletic W 2-1
Mar-09 A Cardiff City L 0-3
- When QPR and Doncaster last met, in August at Loftus Road, when Iain Dowie's QPR won 2-0. QPR's team: QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Mahon, Hall (Connolly 29), Leigertwood, Parejo (Rowlands 77), Blackstock, Ramage, Cook (Balanta 71), Ledesma. Subs: Camp, Di Carmine. Goals: Blackstock (5), Ledesma (28) - Match Reports: QPR 2 Doncaster 0
- QPR's last visit to Doncaster, was when Terry Venable's QPR lost in the FA Cup (of course!) at Doncaster in the Third Round. Head-to-Head Results
Daily Mirror - UNDER-PRESSURE QPR 10/03/2009
- Under-PRESSURE QPR coach Paulo Sousa (above) is facing a rap from his bosses - for being without a left-back at Doncaster tonight.
- Damien Delaney picked up an injury in training yesterday and Rangers are unable to recall Gary Borrowdale after sending him out to Brighton on loan." Mirror
Doncaster Official Site - Stock A Doubt For Rangers
Doncaster Rovers midfielder and captain Brian Stock has been rated as 'extremely doubtful' for Tuesday evening's clash against Queens Park Rangers at Keepmoat Stadium.
- The 28 year-old suffered back spasms on Saturday morning and, despite starting the contest between Rovers and Cardiff at Ninian Park, was withdrawn just after the half-hour mark.
- "Brian Stock was a massive doubt before the Cardiff game and we probably took a chance that didn't come off," said Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll.
- "At this minute in time, he is extremely doubtful. He's always played on and he's always felt alright, because it's one of those backs where he can wake up and it is fine. He was fine but he had a long coach journey and I think that was part of the problem. A game in midweek also didn't help and he's got progressively worse. Normally, he gets progressively better, so unless he wakes up tomorrow morning and he thinks he's fine - which has actually happened before - he won't make it. He's with the specialist at the minute having another look at it. It's one of those where we can get him through until the end of the season and then sort the problem out - but he's got to be fit to play in this league and with the pace and intensity of it; you can't play at half-pace.
- He's a big player for us, but he can be a big liability for us if he's not right. He plays in a position that influences a lot of what we do. So, this has been a lesson learned. It will require a routine operation, which will keep him out for six or so weeks. It's one of those things that can be sorted and it's not like it's one of those things that we don't know about. We're going to try and manage it the best we can and so far, we have been doing that really well - but we didn't on Saturday, I'm afraid."
- Meanwhile, striker Paul Heffernan was back in training this morning (Monday) and could be set to feature against QPR on Tuesday evenining. Doncaster
- See Also:
- LoftforWords' Clive Whittingham: Doncaster vs QPR Preview
- QPRNet/Ron Norris & Simon Skinner - Doncaster vs QPR Preview
Monday, March 09, 2009
Role Reversal: QPR Player Going to Crystal Palace?...Sousa on Injuries...Blackstock on Being Sub...De Canio Officially Appointed at Lecce
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- Visit the independent QPR Report Messageboard: The combination quasi-blog and messageboard - which focuses solely on QPR and football matters. Comment on stories posted on this blog. Or comment on any QPR matters. All views welcome!
Croydon Advertiser - Exclusive: Palace move for QPR midfielder
- Crystal Palace have taken Queens Park Rangers midfielder Danny Maguire on trial.
Ninteen-year-old Maguire, a product of the Loftus Road youth set-up, put to pen paper on a one-year professional deal at the Championship side last season - but has yet to make his senior debut with the west London club.
- It is understood that the talented midfielder has been told he has no long-term future with Paulo Sousa's side and has already had a trial with League One outfit Stockport County.
- Maguire made his Palace debut this afternoon (Monday) in the Eagles second string's 4-2 win over Millwall reserves. Croydon Advertiser
Teamtalk - Rangers boss rues injury list
- QPR boss Paulo Sousa reckons his side's injury problems have given them a tough task to make the Championship play-offs this season.Rangers have been without striker Rowan Vine all season after he broke his leg in April, while Hungarian playmaker Akos Buzsaky was ruled out for the rest of the campaign in November.
- Skipper Martin Rowlands is also a long-term casualty after suffering a knee injury in January and forward Patrick Agyemang is recovering from a thigh operation.
- "I don't have Vine this season and Vine is very important to us," said Sousa.
- "Buzsaky is also high-quality and one or two players can make a big difference.
- "Martin Rowlands also got injured and Patrick was becoming an important part of the team, so when you lose players like that it's not easy." Teamtalk
London Informer/Paul Wartburton - Dexter Blackstock: 'I'm not QPR supersub'
- Dexter Blackstock does not take kindly to being called 'supersub' as QPR fans have dubbed him.
- In fact, the Rs leading striker has only come off the bench once to hit the winner - and that was against Preston back in December.
- But the out-of-luck forward drew another blank in Saturday's truly boring 0-0 against Sheffield United, and made it plain he needs more time on the pitch if he's to add to his 12-goal tally.
- He said: "I want to play as many games as I can, but if I'm not selected there's not much I can do about it.
- "I imagine people from the outside looking in wondering why I'm not in the team, and it certainly isn't down to training. If they came and watched us at training, they'd know I work very hard.
- "I don't want to be known as supersub - I'm certainly not that.
- But if you come off the bench and do your best and you score a goal, that's what it's about. But like anyone else, I'd prefer to start."
- Blackstock has started the two last games alongside Samuel Di Carmine and had early chances to dent the Blades.
- However, the best chance of the game fell to Matteo Alberti when the sub was left with a wide open goal in the second-half.
- But somehow the young Italian loanee sent his side-foot effort into the top tier of a disbelieving Loft wondering how he had missed from 12 yards. London Informer
FIFA -Strugglers Lecce turn to De Canio(Reuters)
- Second-from-bottom Lecce sacked coach Mario Beretta and handed Luigi De Canio the challenge of keeping the team in Serie A. "Lecce announces Mario Beretta has been relieved of the position of coach," the club said on their website. "Luigi De Canio is the new first team coach."
- Beretta was dismissed after promoted Lecce were held to a 0-0 home draw by bottom club Reggina on Sunday, having lost their four previous games. De Canio's former clubs include Udinese, Napoli, Reggina, Genoa and Siena. His most recent job was as coach of English Championship (second division) side Queens Park Rangers. FIFA
- Visit the independent QPR Report Messageboard: The combination quasi-blog and messageboard - which focuses solely on QPR and football matters. Comment on stories posted on this blog. Or comment on any QPR matters. All views welcome!
Croydon Advertiser - Exclusive: Palace move for QPR midfielder
- Crystal Palace have taken Queens Park Rangers midfielder Danny Maguire on trial.
Ninteen-year-old Maguire, a product of the Loftus Road youth set-up, put to pen paper on a one-year professional deal at the Championship side last season - but has yet to make his senior debut with the west London club.
- It is understood that the talented midfielder has been told he has no long-term future with Paulo Sousa's side and has already had a trial with League One outfit Stockport County.
- Maguire made his Palace debut this afternoon (Monday) in the Eagles second string's 4-2 win over Millwall reserves. Croydon Advertiser
Teamtalk - Rangers boss rues injury list
- QPR boss Paulo Sousa reckons his side's injury problems have given them a tough task to make the Championship play-offs this season.Rangers have been without striker Rowan Vine all season after he broke his leg in April, while Hungarian playmaker Akos Buzsaky was ruled out for the rest of the campaign in November.
- Skipper Martin Rowlands is also a long-term casualty after suffering a knee injury in January and forward Patrick Agyemang is recovering from a thigh operation.
- "I don't have Vine this season and Vine is very important to us," said Sousa.
- "Buzsaky is also high-quality and one or two players can make a big difference.
- "Martin Rowlands also got injured and Patrick was becoming an important part of the team, so when you lose players like that it's not easy." Teamtalk
London Informer/Paul Wartburton - Dexter Blackstock: 'I'm not QPR supersub'
- Dexter Blackstock does not take kindly to being called 'supersub' as QPR fans have dubbed him.
- In fact, the Rs leading striker has only come off the bench once to hit the winner - and that was against Preston back in December.
- But the out-of-luck forward drew another blank in Saturday's truly boring 0-0 against Sheffield United, and made it plain he needs more time on the pitch if he's to add to his 12-goal tally.
- He said: "I want to play as many games as I can, but if I'm not selected there's not much I can do about it.
- "I imagine people from the outside looking in wondering why I'm not in the team, and it certainly isn't down to training. If they came and watched us at training, they'd know I work very hard.
- "I don't want to be known as supersub - I'm certainly not that.
- But if you come off the bench and do your best and you score a goal, that's what it's about. But like anyone else, I'd prefer to start."
- Blackstock has started the two last games alongside Samuel Di Carmine and had early chances to dent the Blades.
- However, the best chance of the game fell to Matteo Alberti when the sub was left with a wide open goal in the second-half.
- But somehow the young Italian loanee sent his side-foot effort into the top tier of a disbelieving Loft wondering how he had missed from 12 yards. London Informer
FIFA -Strugglers Lecce turn to De Canio(Reuters)
- Second-from-bottom Lecce sacked coach Mario Beretta and handed Luigi De Canio the challenge of keeping the team in Serie A. "Lecce announces Mario Beretta has been relieved of the position of coach," the club said on their website. "Luigi De Canio is the new first team coach."
- Beretta was dismissed after promoted Lecce were held to a 0-0 home draw by bottom club Reggina on Sunday, having lost their four previous games. De Canio's former clubs include Udinese, Napoli, Reggina, Genoa and Siena. His most recent job was as coach of English Championship (second division) side Queens Park Rangers. FIFA
QPR Snipppets: Additional Match Reports...Sousa Claim and Denial...Britore on European Championship...Ex-QPR Winger Turns 66
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- Visit the independent QPR Report Messageboard: The combination quasi-blog and messageboard - which focuses solely on QPR and football matters. Comment on stories posted on this blog. Or comment on any QPR matters. All views welcome!
- Account of Sousa's Comments talking to Chris Kamara
- Briatore views on European Championship Games
- De Canio Linked to Lecce
- Ex-QPR Winger, Mike Ferguson Turns Sixty-Six: Profile/Memories
- Flashback "QPR Facing New Crisis"
- Reposts: - The Ince Replacing Sousa Stories: Mail on Ince/Sousa & Mirror on Ince/Sousa followed by the BBC: Ince Not Replacing Sousa Response from Sporting Director, Gianni Paladini
TELEGRAPH/Sam Green - Sheffield United await compensation pay-out as QPR count the cost of poor finishing
- While most neutral observers have found the intricacies of the Carlos Tevez affair an effective cure for insomnia, its denouement a week today could jolt West Ham like the worst of nightmares.
- For Kevin Blackwell, the Sheffield United manager, however, it presents a potential "dream scenario".
- Sheffield may have extended their unbeaten away run to 13 games at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday and kept their promotion challenge on track, but few of their players looked ready for the Premier League.
- So how welcome would £30 million in compensation from Upton Park be this summer?
- "That is the dream scenario, but unfortunately the wheelbarrow is empty at the moment," said Blackwell, theatrically producing two 20p pieces from his pocket to illustrate his transfer funds.
- "I've not spoken about the Tevez money because it was a situation that happened before I came here, but if it happens it's something to look at.
- "The chairman is a wise man and he will not risk the club, and that's why we've had to do some of the things we've done with [selling] players. If the money comes in, I'm sure he'll put it in the right place."
- Blackwell's bosses have demanded £45 million from West Ham, who were found guilty of breaking rules on third-party ownership regarding Tevez's pivotal role in their survival and Sheffield's demotion in 2007.
- West Ham are poised to offer just £5 million, but with an independent Football Association arbitration panel set to rule on the amount next Monday, the clubs could thrash out a settlement before then.
- One position Blackwell does not feel needs strengthening is goalkeeper, having seen Paddy Kenny win a personal duel with Dexter Blackstock at Loftus Road.
- Twice in the first half he foiled Blackstock, before saving the QPR striker's second-half header from point-blank range.
- "Brian Clough said goalkeepers were worth 10 to 15 points a season and I think Paddy is the best in the Championship – and a capable Premier League keeper," Blackwell said.
- Matteo Alberti, QPR's Italian midfielder, fired a glorious chance over the crossbar, but Sheffield also had opportunities, notably when Radek Cerny used his feet to save from Danny Webber.
- QPR have not won in seven matches and with their play-offs hopes receding rapidly, speculation has begun about the future of manager Paulo Sousa, with Paul Ince linked with his position.
- Sousa, the sixth manager since Formula One supremos Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone took over in September 2007, appeared sanguine as he talked of his long-term "project", saying: "Mediterranean men are never patient, but Flavio knows we are in a good way. Next season we will be much stronger."
- It is to be hoped that the charming Portuguese is given that long. Telegraph
Mirror - KENNY IS PUTTING KEVIN UP ON SHILTS 9/03/2009
Kevin Blackwell hailed Paddy Kenny as the Peter Shilton of the Championship after the keeper's heroics kept Sheffield United on course for the play-offs.
The rotund Yorkshireman always gets stick from the opposition fans and was almost shown the door by Blackwell in December after turning up late for training.
Shilton was Clough's last line of defence when Nottingham Forest upset the odds to win the 1978 title.
Shilts was the supreme athlete but Clough had no qualms about giving a fat lad a game as John Robertson's trickery on the wing helped Forest to two European Cups.
And Blackwell, a former keeper himself, reckoned Cloughie might have been impressed by Kenny's Loftus Road display.
He said: "I remember Brian Clough saying he thought his goalkeepers were worth 10 to 15 points a season so that's why he went and got good ones.
"Goalkeepers are muchmaligned but look at the amount of times a good one gets you points - it's the difference between promotion and relegation sometimes.
"Paddy was first-class. If you are on a run in a promotion season you look back at games where somebody did something out of the ordinary."
Kenny ruined Rangers striker Dexter Blackstock's afternoon with two stunning saves.
Rangers still dream of gate-crashing the play-offs but with no wins in seven and none at home since Christmas the pressure is on boss Paolo Sousa.
Paul Ince is rumoured to be waiting in the wings should Flavio Briatore lose patience again.
But defender Matt Connolly said: "We are all behind the gaffer. There are 10 games to go and if we win seven or eight we will be there." Mirror
Daily Mail - Mail QPR 0 Sheffield United 0: Blackwell sights on a Premier cash pile
- Kevin Blackwell looked like a victim of the recession at Loftus Road as he pulled two 20p pieces from his pocket to illustrate the lack of cash available to him at Bramall Lane.
- At least the Sheffield United boss has realistic reasons to be hopeful. Later this month the club will learn whether they are going finally to receive £30million in compensation over the Carlos Tevez affair.
- Then in the summer, if their form continues, United could be dipping into the Barclays Premier League's trough. Blackwell described that double as 'my dream scenario'.
- He added: 'You have to aim high because then if you fall short there is always the chance of going up through the play-offs.'
- The goalless draw with Rangers, which extended United's unbeaten run on the road to 13 games, left Blackwell men's fifth in a Championship table compiled from a League in which weekly results follow no logical pattern and an eight-point gap with Birmingham in second place could be closed.
- Certainly with Irish goalkeeper Paddy Kenny - the best in the League, claims Blackwell - in brilliant form, United have a defence capable of sustaining a late run towards the Premier League.
- The 30-year-old made two early saves from Dexter Blackstock which dampened Rangers' lively start and a third on the hour from the same player when he parried a point-black header. That must have only further dented the confidence of the striker, who has not scored for two months.
- And it took some equally good saves by Radek Cerny to keep United at bay but Rangers, for whom the play-offs now represent a fast-fading target, were never as convincing as the visitors.
- Rangers have not won at home since December, but manager Paulo Sousa is not feeling the pressure despite Italian owner Flavio Briatore's record of hiring and firing. 'We are in a great, great way,' said Sousa, when asked whether Briatore, who watched the game dressed in a pair of shocking purple slippers, was happy despite the club's lack of progress this season.
'Flavio knows we are stronger than we were one year ago and we are identifying what we need for next season. At the moment
At the moment we are finding it difficult to score goals but we are more solid defensively.' Daily Mail
- Earlier QPR vs Sheffield United Match Reports I and Match Report/Managerial Comments
- Offer your views on these or any QPR matters on the QPR Report Messageboard. All views welcome!
- Visit the independent QPR Report Messageboard: The combination quasi-blog and messageboard - which focuses solely on QPR and football matters. Comment on stories posted on this blog. Or comment on any QPR matters. All views welcome!
- Account of Sousa's Comments talking to Chris Kamara
- Briatore views on European Championship Games
- De Canio Linked to Lecce
- Ex-QPR Winger, Mike Ferguson Turns Sixty-Six: Profile/Memories
- Flashback "QPR Facing New Crisis"
- Reposts: - The Ince Replacing Sousa Stories: Mail on Ince/Sousa & Mirror on Ince/Sousa followed by the BBC: Ince Not Replacing Sousa Response from Sporting Director, Gianni Paladini
TELEGRAPH/Sam Green - Sheffield United await compensation pay-out as QPR count the cost of poor finishing
- While most neutral observers have found the intricacies of the Carlos Tevez affair an effective cure for insomnia, its denouement a week today could jolt West Ham like the worst of nightmares.
- For Kevin Blackwell, the Sheffield United manager, however, it presents a potential "dream scenario".
- Sheffield may have extended their unbeaten away run to 13 games at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday and kept their promotion challenge on track, but few of their players looked ready for the Premier League.
- So how welcome would £30 million in compensation from Upton Park be this summer?
- "That is the dream scenario, but unfortunately the wheelbarrow is empty at the moment," said Blackwell, theatrically producing two 20p pieces from his pocket to illustrate his transfer funds.
- "I've not spoken about the Tevez money because it was a situation that happened before I came here, but if it happens it's something to look at.
- "The chairman is a wise man and he will not risk the club, and that's why we've had to do some of the things we've done with [selling] players. If the money comes in, I'm sure he'll put it in the right place."
- Blackwell's bosses have demanded £45 million from West Ham, who were found guilty of breaking rules on third-party ownership regarding Tevez's pivotal role in their survival and Sheffield's demotion in 2007.
- West Ham are poised to offer just £5 million, but with an independent Football Association arbitration panel set to rule on the amount next Monday, the clubs could thrash out a settlement before then.
- One position Blackwell does not feel needs strengthening is goalkeeper, having seen Paddy Kenny win a personal duel with Dexter Blackstock at Loftus Road.
- Twice in the first half he foiled Blackstock, before saving the QPR striker's second-half header from point-blank range.
- "Brian Clough said goalkeepers were worth 10 to 15 points a season and I think Paddy is the best in the Championship – and a capable Premier League keeper," Blackwell said.
- Matteo Alberti, QPR's Italian midfielder, fired a glorious chance over the crossbar, but Sheffield also had opportunities, notably when Radek Cerny used his feet to save from Danny Webber.
- QPR have not won in seven matches and with their play-offs hopes receding rapidly, speculation has begun about the future of manager Paulo Sousa, with Paul Ince linked with his position.
- Sousa, the sixth manager since Formula One supremos Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone took over in September 2007, appeared sanguine as he talked of his long-term "project", saying: "Mediterranean men are never patient, but Flavio knows we are in a good way. Next season we will be much stronger."
- It is to be hoped that the charming Portuguese is given that long. Telegraph
Mirror - KENNY IS PUTTING KEVIN UP ON SHILTS 9/03/2009
Kevin Blackwell hailed Paddy Kenny as the Peter Shilton of the Championship after the keeper's heroics kept Sheffield United on course for the play-offs.
The rotund Yorkshireman always gets stick from the opposition fans and was almost shown the door by Blackwell in December after turning up late for training.
Shilton was Clough's last line of defence when Nottingham Forest upset the odds to win the 1978 title.
Shilts was the supreme athlete but Clough had no qualms about giving a fat lad a game as John Robertson's trickery on the wing helped Forest to two European Cups.
And Blackwell, a former keeper himself, reckoned Cloughie might have been impressed by Kenny's Loftus Road display.
He said: "I remember Brian Clough saying he thought his goalkeepers were worth 10 to 15 points a season so that's why he went and got good ones.
"Goalkeepers are muchmaligned but look at the amount of times a good one gets you points - it's the difference between promotion and relegation sometimes.
"Paddy was first-class. If you are on a run in a promotion season you look back at games where somebody did something out of the ordinary."
Kenny ruined Rangers striker Dexter Blackstock's afternoon with two stunning saves.
Rangers still dream of gate-crashing the play-offs but with no wins in seven and none at home since Christmas the pressure is on boss Paolo Sousa.
Paul Ince is rumoured to be waiting in the wings should Flavio Briatore lose patience again.
But defender Matt Connolly said: "We are all behind the gaffer. There are 10 games to go and if we win seven or eight we will be there." Mirror
Daily Mail - Mail QPR 0 Sheffield United 0: Blackwell sights on a Premier cash pile
- Kevin Blackwell looked like a victim of the recession at Loftus Road as he pulled two 20p pieces from his pocket to illustrate the lack of cash available to him at Bramall Lane.
- At least the Sheffield United boss has realistic reasons to be hopeful. Later this month the club will learn whether they are going finally to receive £30million in compensation over the Carlos Tevez affair.
- Then in the summer, if their form continues, United could be dipping into the Barclays Premier League's trough. Blackwell described that double as 'my dream scenario'.
- He added: 'You have to aim high because then if you fall short there is always the chance of going up through the play-offs.'
- The goalless draw with Rangers, which extended United's unbeaten run on the road to 13 games, left Blackwell men's fifth in a Championship table compiled from a League in which weekly results follow no logical pattern and an eight-point gap with Birmingham in second place could be closed.
- Certainly with Irish goalkeeper Paddy Kenny - the best in the League, claims Blackwell - in brilliant form, United have a defence capable of sustaining a late run towards the Premier League.
- The 30-year-old made two early saves from Dexter Blackstock which dampened Rangers' lively start and a third on the hour from the same player when he parried a point-black header. That must have only further dented the confidence of the striker, who has not scored for two months.
- And it took some equally good saves by Radek Cerny to keep United at bay but Rangers, for whom the play-offs now represent a fast-fading target, were never as convincing as the visitors.
- Rangers have not won at home since December, but manager Paulo Sousa is not feeling the pressure despite Italian owner Flavio Briatore's record of hiring and firing. 'We are in a great, great way,' said Sousa, when asked whether Briatore, who watched the game dressed in a pair of shocking purple slippers, was happy despite the club's lack of progress this season.
'Flavio knows we are stronger than we were one year ago and we are identifying what we need for next season. At the moment
At the moment we are finding it difficult to score goals but we are more solid defensively.' Daily Mail
- Earlier QPR vs Sheffield United Match Reports I and Match Report/Managerial Comments
- Offer your views on these or any QPR matters on the QPR Report Messageboard. All views welcome!
Sunday, March 08, 2009
QPR Deny Any Truth to Ince Replacing Sousa Story
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-BBC - QPR chief dismisses Ince reports
- QPR sporting director Gianni Paladini has denied reports Paul Ince is in line to take over as manager at Loftus Road.
- Rangers, co-owned by Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone, have not won in seven games but Paladini insists Ince will not replace boss Paulo Sousa.
- "There is absolutely, categorically not a shred of truth in it," said Paladini.
- "I have not spoken to Paul Ince and neither have Flavio or Bernie. There is absolutely no way he will take over at QPR and no way it was even discussed."
- Ince was linked with QPR following the departure of coach Luigi De Canio at the end of last season.
- But he was never a frontrunner for the job and eventually left Milton Keynes Dons for Blackburn, with Iain Dowie becoming R's boss.
- Dowie was sacked in October following a series of disagreements with Briatore. His successor, former Portugal star Sousa, is already under pressure after just four months at the club.
- But Paladini says Sousa is not about to be sacked and that Ince, who was dismissed by Blackburn in December, has not been identified as a possible replacement.
- The Italian added: "When I heard what was printed in a newspaper I couldn't believe it. I have no idea where it came from because there is 100% no truth in it whatsoever.
- "It was said that I am a friend of Paul Ince. I am not a friend of his. I admired him greatly as a player and, for what it's worth, I think he's a very good young manager. But we're not friends and we haven't spoken.
- "Even if the thought had occurred to me that he should be QPR's manager - which it didn't - I don't have the power to make that decision.
- "That decision lies with the owners and I know for a fact that they want to keep Paulo Sousa, so nonsense about him having two games left is completely wrong as well." BBC
- Visit the independent QPR Report Messageboard: The combination quasi-blog and messageboard - which focuses solely on QPR and football matters. Comment on stories posted on this blog. Or comment on any QPR matters. All views welcome!
-BBC - QPR chief dismisses Ince reports
- QPR sporting director Gianni Paladini has denied reports Paul Ince is in line to take over as manager at Loftus Road.
- Rangers, co-owned by Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone, have not won in seven games but Paladini insists Ince will not replace boss Paulo Sousa.
- "There is absolutely, categorically not a shred of truth in it," said Paladini.
- "I have not spoken to Paul Ince and neither have Flavio or Bernie. There is absolutely no way he will take over at QPR and no way it was even discussed."
- Ince was linked with QPR following the departure of coach Luigi De Canio at the end of last season.
- But he was never a frontrunner for the job and eventually left Milton Keynes Dons for Blackburn, with Iain Dowie becoming R's boss.
- Dowie was sacked in October following a series of disagreements with Briatore. His successor, former Portugal star Sousa, is already under pressure after just four months at the club.
- But Paladini says Sousa is not about to be sacked and that Ince, who was dismissed by Blackburn in December, has not been identified as a possible replacement.
- The Italian added: "When I heard what was printed in a newspaper I couldn't believe it. I have no idea where it came from because there is 100% no truth in it whatsoever.
- "It was said that I am a friend of Paul Ince. I am not a friend of his. I admired him greatly as a player and, for what it's worth, I think he's a very good young manager. But we're not friends and we haven't spoken.
- "Even if the thought had occurred to me that he should be QPR's manager - which it didn't - I don't have the power to make that decision.
- "That decision lies with the owners and I know for a fact that they want to keep Paulo Sousa, so nonsense about him having two games left is completely wrong as well." BBC
Sousa on The Brink? - Another Paper re Ince Replacing Sousa (And Earlier Sousa Endangered Stories)
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THE DENIAL
-BBC - QPR chief dismisses Ince reports- QPR sporting director Gianni Paladini has denied reports Paul Ince is in line to take over as manager at Loftus Road.
- Rangers, co-owned by Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone, have not won in seven games but Paladini insists Ince will not replace boss Paulo Sousa.
- "There is absolutely, categorically not a shred of truth in it," said Paladini.
- "I have not spoken to Paul Ince and neither have Flavio or Bernie. There is absolutely no way he will take over at QPR and no way it was even discussed."
- Ince was linked with QPR following the departure of coach Luigi De Canio at the end of last season.
- But he was never a frontrunner for the job and eventually left Milton Keynes Dons for Blackburn, with Iain Dowie becoming R's boss.
- Dowie was sacked in October following a series of disagreements with Briatore. His successor, former Portugal star Sousa, is already under pressure after just four months at the club.
- But Paladini says Sousa is not about to be sacked and that Ince, who was dismissed by Blackburn in December, has not been identified as a possible replacement.
- The Italian added: "When I heard what was printed in a newspaper I couldn't believe it. I have no idea where it came from because there is 100% no truth in it whatsoever.
- "It was said that I am a friend of Paul Ince. I am not a friend of his. I admired him greatly as a player and, for what it's worth, I think he's a very good young manager. But we're not friends and we haven't spoken.
- "Even if the thought had occurred to me that he should be QPR's manager - which it didn't - I don't have the power to make that decision.
- "That decision lies with the owners and I know for a fact that they want to keep Paulo Sousa, so nonsense about him having two games left is completely wrong as well." BBC
THE CLAIM
Sunday Mirror/Simon Mullock - Queens Park Rangers line up Paul Ince as manager
- QPR will offer Paul Ince a return to management if Paulo Sousa fails to halt the London club's slide down the Championship table.
- Rangers could only draw 0-0 at home against Sheffield United yesterday and are entrenched in arun of seven games without a win.
- Unless chairman Flavio Briatore sees evidence of an improvement in the next two games, Sousa's five month reign is over.
- Ince turned down an approach last week from Brighton, saying he does not want to drop below the Championship. Sunday Mirror
Daily Mail - Sacked Blackburn manager Paul Ince could make a return at QPR
- Paul Ince is expected to make a dramatic return to management with Championship billionaires Queens Park Rangers.
- Ince, sacked by Blackburn Rovers in December, is the top target for Rangers chairman and good friend Gianni Palladini as the pressure mounts on current boss Paulo Sousa.
- Sousa's job is in jeopardy following a dismal run which, after yesterday's goalless draw with Sheffield United, has seen Rangers take four points out of a possible 21.
- Sousa admitted to friends he fears he is about to lose his job less than four months after arriving at Loftus Road." Daily Mail
- [Posted Earlier:
Dave McIntyre/BBC606 - Down but not out - yet- Paulo
- Sousa is under pressure but still on solid enough ground to keep his job if QPR lose to Sheffield United on Saturday. - Unfortunately, I’ve got plenty experience of seeing Rangers managers in trouble.
- I won’t ever forget telling Ian Holloway I was writing a story that a bloke called Ramon Diaz was being lined up to take his job – a crisis he came through after his players rallied round and produced a sudden winning run.
- Holloway, who was never slow to give me a piece of his mind, showed tremendous dignity and was a gentleman towards me then, as he was 18 months later when I was about to break the news that he was being put on ‘gardening leave’ after a series of bad results and problems behind the scenes.
- It was also tough to write about the impending appointment of John Gregory in place of Gary Waddock, who I liked a lot.
- Then there was Iain Dowie. Like the Ramon Diaz debacle, reports that the manager was in trouble before the season had even started were taken by many as proof of the media’s madness rather than QPR's, and understandably so.
- Dowie made it to the start of the season but was soon gone.
- Even Gareth Ainsworth was replaced at the first sign of problems.
- His caretaker title made the decision to remove him seem less significant than it was.
- But at one stage Ainsworth was very much the board’s man for the job, despite bigger names being linked with it, and he lost that mantle after a home defeat against Burnley.
- One home defeat really is enough to turn the tide against a Rangers manager these days.
- But, having seen a few men in an all-too familiar position to Sousa’s, I don’t think his time will be up until at least the summer and even then, he could emerge intact.
- That of course means Sousa is now bound to be sacked.
- After all, less than a year ago, Gigi De Canio was so adamant I was wrong to suggest he’d be off after the season’s final game against West Brom, I suspended all judgement in an article titled ’QPR double act continues.’
- His position changed after that conversation and once the article was eventually published the following week, De Canio’s ‘double act’ with Gianni Paladini continued for all of 24 hours.
- The stick I got for that continued for considerably longer.
- How much longer Sousa has as Rangers coach remains to be seen.
- He is in the position De Canio and Dowie quickly found themselves in, under pressure from within to stick to a 4-4-2 formation and select certain players.
- But that pressure isn’t as severe, because in crucial ways Sousa is different to his predecessors and so are his prospects – at least in the short term.
- For starters, unlike in the cases of the five ousted Rangers managers in recent years – and I’m including Ainsworth but not De Canio, who quit – there has been no firm move to line up a replacement, which gives the current man some breathing space.
- More importantly, Sousa is different to Dowie in that he is very much Flavio Briatore’s man, whereas Dowie was a recommendation whose appointment was merely rubber-stamped by the co-owner.
- That means Sousa being ditched after just a few months would inevitably reflect badly on Briatore himself – especially in his native Italy, where Sousa is a major star after making his name as a player with Juventus.
- And regardless of who he is and whose choice he was, getting rid of yet another coach would just look so bad at this point there would be little to gain from doing it now, especially as this season is almost a write-off.
- There is also a financial factor. Following a pay-off to Gregory, the quick dismissal of Dowie was expensive and with two years of Sousa’s contact left to run, removing him as well would involve more money being wasted at a time when the club are looking to cut costs.
- At such a volatile club, anything could happen. But for now, it’s likely that the worst fate awaiting Sousa if Rangers’ slump continues is to have his card well and truly marked between now and the end of the season.
- And unless Rangers make a spectacular charge to the play-offs, it’s at the end of the season when matters will come to a head.
- Someone, possibly Sousa, will almost certainly carry the can. BBC606
From Last Week's Daily Mail
Daily Mail/Hatchet Man - QPR owners should give Sousa the time they were promising
- QPR’S owners have a chance over the next few months to prove they are not just trigger happy short-termists.
- After going through managers at a frightening rate, Paulo Sousa was brought in last November claiming that he had been hired for the long term.
Under pressure: Sousa has seen his side go on a poor run
For some reason, the young Portuguese insisted he would be given time to turn Rangers into a force for the Premier League in his first job in club management.
- Like Sousa’s title of first team coach rather than manager, it hardly seemed credible. He seemed naïve or deluded and already he is moving towards crunch time.
Rangers have not won in the last five matches and lots of talk already about hopes for next season must have eroded Sousa’s standing. The best he can aim at now is the play-offs, and that is beginning to look like an outside shot.
- QPR are six points off sixth place (and only nine above the relegation zone) and Sousa and his team must be making the owners’ trigger fingers itchy.
- But if they are not going to continue to be another set of clichéd, super-rich and impatient owners, they have to stand by the rookie they appointed. Daily Mail
Daily Mail/Neil Hallam - Give Sousa a chance, pleads Delaney
- Paulo Sousa's chances of a long managerial reign at QPR can hardly have been enhanced by a barren run that has produced only two wins in 11 League games, but his players are adamant he should be given time to 'get his message across'.
- Half a dozen managers have come and gone at QPR in the last 14 months but Republic of Ireland full back Damien Delaney, who headed in their first-half equaliser, insists he speaks for all the players in hoping the former Portugal star is not added to the disruptive procession of casualties.
- 'All the lads like and respect the manager and want him to be given time to put his ideas and methods into practice,' he said.
- Losing battle: Paulo Sousa is running out of time to convince QPR's bosses that he is the right man to guide them towards the Premier League after another loss
- 'He arrived in mid-season, which is always difficult, and he has had the job of trying to create stability after a lot of upheaval.
- 'This was only our second league defeat since early December and we all feel we are starting to get there as a team.'
- Sousa said he was instructed to build solid foundations in order to challenge for promotion next season but he added:
- 'We still have a chance of the play-offs this year. We have to go for it but it's difficult to be consistent while we are still building for the future.'
Goals from Maltese international Peter Bogdanovic and Brazilian Anderson de Silva eased relegation fears for a cosmopolitan Barnsley side that included seven imports, but it was a Liverpool loan signing, 20-year-old Adam Hammill, who made the biggest impression.
- The youngster, whose pace and searching crosses kept Rangers under pressure, has now played 70 games on loan at Dunfermline, Southampton, Blackpool and Barnsley while trying to persuade Liverpool he is worth a Premier League chance.
- 'I have always dreamed of getting a standing ovation after running myself to a standstill in a red shirt and now it has come true, albeit at Barnsley rather than Anfield,' said Hammill. Daily Mail
- Offer your views on the game; on the match reports; or on any QPR matter.
- Visit the independent QPR Report Messageboard: The combination quasi-blog and messageboard - which focuses solely on QPR and football matters. Comment on stories posted on this blog. Or comment on any QPR matters. All views welcome!
THE DENIAL
-BBC - QPR chief dismisses Ince reports- QPR sporting director Gianni Paladini has denied reports Paul Ince is in line to take over as manager at Loftus Road.
- Rangers, co-owned by Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone, have not won in seven games but Paladini insists Ince will not replace boss Paulo Sousa.
- "There is absolutely, categorically not a shred of truth in it," said Paladini.
- "I have not spoken to Paul Ince and neither have Flavio or Bernie. There is absolutely no way he will take over at QPR and no way it was even discussed."
- Ince was linked with QPR following the departure of coach Luigi De Canio at the end of last season.
- But he was never a frontrunner for the job and eventually left Milton Keynes Dons for Blackburn, with Iain Dowie becoming R's boss.
- Dowie was sacked in October following a series of disagreements with Briatore. His successor, former Portugal star Sousa, is already under pressure after just four months at the club.
- But Paladini says Sousa is not about to be sacked and that Ince, who was dismissed by Blackburn in December, has not been identified as a possible replacement.
- The Italian added: "When I heard what was printed in a newspaper I couldn't believe it. I have no idea where it came from because there is 100% no truth in it whatsoever.
- "It was said that I am a friend of Paul Ince. I am not a friend of his. I admired him greatly as a player and, for what it's worth, I think he's a very good young manager. But we're not friends and we haven't spoken.
- "Even if the thought had occurred to me that he should be QPR's manager - which it didn't - I don't have the power to make that decision.
- "That decision lies with the owners and I know for a fact that they want to keep Paulo Sousa, so nonsense about him having two games left is completely wrong as well." BBC
THE CLAIM
Sunday Mirror/Simon Mullock - Queens Park Rangers line up Paul Ince as manager
- QPR will offer Paul Ince a return to management if Paulo Sousa fails to halt the London club's slide down the Championship table.
- Rangers could only draw 0-0 at home against Sheffield United yesterday and are entrenched in arun of seven games without a win.
- Unless chairman Flavio Briatore sees evidence of an improvement in the next two games, Sousa's five month reign is over.
- Ince turned down an approach last week from Brighton, saying he does not want to drop below the Championship. Sunday Mirror
Daily Mail - Sacked Blackburn manager Paul Ince could make a return at QPR
- Paul Ince is expected to make a dramatic return to management with Championship billionaires Queens Park Rangers.
- Ince, sacked by Blackburn Rovers in December, is the top target for Rangers chairman and good friend Gianni Palladini as the pressure mounts on current boss Paulo Sousa.
- Sousa's job is in jeopardy following a dismal run which, after yesterday's goalless draw with Sheffield United, has seen Rangers take four points out of a possible 21.
- Sousa admitted to friends he fears he is about to lose his job less than four months after arriving at Loftus Road." Daily Mail
- [Posted Earlier:
Dave McIntyre/BBC606 - Down but not out - yet- Paulo
- Sousa is under pressure but still on solid enough ground to keep his job if QPR lose to Sheffield United on Saturday. - Unfortunately, I’ve got plenty experience of seeing Rangers managers in trouble.
- I won’t ever forget telling Ian Holloway I was writing a story that a bloke called Ramon Diaz was being lined up to take his job – a crisis he came through after his players rallied round and produced a sudden winning run.
- Holloway, who was never slow to give me a piece of his mind, showed tremendous dignity and was a gentleman towards me then, as he was 18 months later when I was about to break the news that he was being put on ‘gardening leave’ after a series of bad results and problems behind the scenes.
- It was also tough to write about the impending appointment of John Gregory in place of Gary Waddock, who I liked a lot.
- Then there was Iain Dowie. Like the Ramon Diaz debacle, reports that the manager was in trouble before the season had even started were taken by many as proof of the media’s madness rather than QPR's, and understandably so.
- Dowie made it to the start of the season but was soon gone.
- Even Gareth Ainsworth was replaced at the first sign of problems.
- His caretaker title made the decision to remove him seem less significant than it was.
- But at one stage Ainsworth was very much the board’s man for the job, despite bigger names being linked with it, and he lost that mantle after a home defeat against Burnley.
- One home defeat really is enough to turn the tide against a Rangers manager these days.
- But, having seen a few men in an all-too familiar position to Sousa’s, I don’t think his time will be up until at least the summer and even then, he could emerge intact.
- That of course means Sousa is now bound to be sacked.
- After all, less than a year ago, Gigi De Canio was so adamant I was wrong to suggest he’d be off after the season’s final game against West Brom, I suspended all judgement in an article titled ’QPR double act continues.’
- His position changed after that conversation and once the article was eventually published the following week, De Canio’s ‘double act’ with Gianni Paladini continued for all of 24 hours.
- The stick I got for that continued for considerably longer.
- How much longer Sousa has as Rangers coach remains to be seen.
- He is in the position De Canio and Dowie quickly found themselves in, under pressure from within to stick to a 4-4-2 formation and select certain players.
- But that pressure isn’t as severe, because in crucial ways Sousa is different to his predecessors and so are his prospects – at least in the short term.
- For starters, unlike in the cases of the five ousted Rangers managers in recent years – and I’m including Ainsworth but not De Canio, who quit – there has been no firm move to line up a replacement, which gives the current man some breathing space.
- More importantly, Sousa is different to Dowie in that he is very much Flavio Briatore’s man, whereas Dowie was a recommendation whose appointment was merely rubber-stamped by the co-owner.
- That means Sousa being ditched after just a few months would inevitably reflect badly on Briatore himself – especially in his native Italy, where Sousa is a major star after making his name as a player with Juventus.
- And regardless of who he is and whose choice he was, getting rid of yet another coach would just look so bad at this point there would be little to gain from doing it now, especially as this season is almost a write-off.
- There is also a financial factor. Following a pay-off to Gregory, the quick dismissal of Dowie was expensive and with two years of Sousa’s contact left to run, removing him as well would involve more money being wasted at a time when the club are looking to cut costs.
- At such a volatile club, anything could happen. But for now, it’s likely that the worst fate awaiting Sousa if Rangers’ slump continues is to have his card well and truly marked between now and the end of the season.
- And unless Rangers make a spectacular charge to the play-offs, it’s at the end of the season when matters will come to a head.
- Someone, possibly Sousa, will almost certainly carry the can. BBC606
From Last Week's Daily Mail
Daily Mail/Hatchet Man - QPR owners should give Sousa the time they were promising
- QPR’S owners have a chance over the next few months to prove they are not just trigger happy short-termists.
- After going through managers at a frightening rate, Paulo Sousa was brought in last November claiming that he had been hired for the long term.
Under pressure: Sousa has seen his side go on a poor run
For some reason, the young Portuguese insisted he would be given time to turn Rangers into a force for the Premier League in his first job in club management.
- Like Sousa’s title of first team coach rather than manager, it hardly seemed credible. He seemed naïve or deluded and already he is moving towards crunch time.
Rangers have not won in the last five matches and lots of talk already about hopes for next season must have eroded Sousa’s standing. The best he can aim at now is the play-offs, and that is beginning to look like an outside shot.
- QPR are six points off sixth place (and only nine above the relegation zone) and Sousa and his team must be making the owners’ trigger fingers itchy.
- But if they are not going to continue to be another set of clichéd, super-rich and impatient owners, they have to stand by the rookie they appointed. Daily Mail
Daily Mail/Neil Hallam - Give Sousa a chance, pleads Delaney
- Paulo Sousa's chances of a long managerial reign at QPR can hardly have been enhanced by a barren run that has produced only two wins in 11 League games, but his players are adamant he should be given time to 'get his message across'.
- Half a dozen managers have come and gone at QPR in the last 14 months but Republic of Ireland full back Damien Delaney, who headed in their first-half equaliser, insists he speaks for all the players in hoping the former Portugal star is not added to the disruptive procession of casualties.
- 'All the lads like and respect the manager and want him to be given time to put his ideas and methods into practice,' he said.
- Losing battle: Paulo Sousa is running out of time to convince QPR's bosses that he is the right man to guide them towards the Premier League after another loss
- 'He arrived in mid-season, which is always difficult, and he has had the job of trying to create stability after a lot of upheaval.
- 'This was only our second league defeat since early December and we all feel we are starting to get there as a team.'
- Sousa said he was instructed to build solid foundations in order to challenge for promotion next season but he added:
- 'We still have a chance of the play-offs this year. We have to go for it but it's difficult to be consistent while we are still building for the future.'
Goals from Maltese international Peter Bogdanovic and Brazilian Anderson de Silva eased relegation fears for a cosmopolitan Barnsley side that included seven imports, but it was a Liverpool loan signing, 20-year-old Adam Hammill, who made the biggest impression.
- The youngster, whose pace and searching crosses kept Rangers under pressure, has now played 70 games on loan at Dunfermline, Southampton, Blackpool and Barnsley while trying to persuade Liverpool he is worth a Premier League chance.
- 'I have always dreamed of getting a standing ovation after running myself to a standstill in a red shirt and now it has come true, albeit at Barnsley rather than Anfield,' said Hammill. Daily Mail
- Offer your views on the game; on the match reports; or on any QPR matter.
Compilation of QPR - Sheffield United Reports....QPR Supposed Interest in Spurs Loan (Not Parrett)?
-
- Visit the independent QPR Report Messageboard: The combination quasi-blog and messageboard - which focuses solely on QPR and football matters. Your own views very welcome. [Posted Yesterday: Dave McIntyre Assessing Sousa's Continued QPR Future"]
QPR 0 Sheffield United 0
Brian Glanville/The Sunday Times - QPR grateful for Radek Cerny brillianceQPR 0 Sheffield Utd 0Brian Glanville at Loftus Road
TWO excellent goalkeepers ensured that this match ended goalless. In the first half, Sheffield United’s Paddy Kenny kept the home side at bay and in the second, Rangers’ Radek Cerny, the former Tottenham player, defied a series of efforts from the visitors.
- When the game began, Sheffield United were in fourth position, QPR in 10th. Their ambitions, consequently, are somewhat different. United’s manager, Kevin Blackwell, said afterwards: “Thirteen matches to go” and clearly believed that promotion remained a distinct possibility.
- Paulo Sousa, the QPR manager, once such a gifted Portuguese international, looked optimistically to the future. “We want to build for the future,” he said, “and the future is the Premier League. And of course next season, we are becoming much much better.” Although, he admitted: “It’s not an easy moment for us to score goals.”
- His ambition this season “is to build something solid for next season, to be looking forward to the Premier League. I think this season is starting to get stronger as a team in looking for the first places”.
- Sousa was fully entitled to lament the loss of the Hungarian playmaker, Akos Buzsaky, one of the most talented footballers in the division but out through injury, as well as Rowan Vine and Martin Rowlands. These three, especially Buzsaky, would surely guarantee greater skill and sophistication.
- It was somewhat puzzling, however, to see little Wayne Routledge, who began as so lively and promising a winger at Crystal Palace but sank out of sight at Tottenham, switched at half-time from the right flank, where he had sparkled, to the left, where he failed and saw little of the ball.
- Early in the first half Kenny twice thwarted Dexter Blackstock, first when the striker was far too fast for centre-back Matthew Kilgallon. Two minutes later the goalkeeper - who at one stage had seemed likely to leave the club –turned Blackstock’s fierce left-footer from out of the blue away for a corner. By half-time you wondered when United were going to have a shot on goal.
- The answer was not too long. On 48 minutes Danny Webber turned the ball back to Nick Montgomery, whose drive was kept out by Cerny. Nine minutes later Montgomery returned the favour to his teammate and Cerny resourcefully saved Webber’s shot.
- On a playing surface that Blackwell described as hard and difficult, QPR were not as incisive as they had been before the break, although, when Blackstock crossed accurately from the left, Matteo Alberti should have done better than drive high over the Sheffield United bar.
- That was on 63 minutes and on 65, Cerny turned behind an attempt by the ever-active Kyle Naughton. With 10 minutes left the Czech keeper saved from almost point-blank range at his left post from substitute Craig Beattie, who had been introduced surprisingly late by Blackwell as United’s second striker.
Star man: Radek Cerny (QPR)
Yellow card: QPR: Sterwart
Referee: N Swarbrick
Attendance:13,718
- QPR: Cerny 8, Delaney 6, Steward 7, Leigertwood 6 (Ephraim) 81min, Routledge 6, Blackstock 7, Gorkss 7, Connolly 6, Miller 6 (Alberti 52min, 6), Lopez 6, Di Carmine 6 (Balanta 75min)
- SHEFFIELD UTD: Kenny 8, Halford 6, Naysmith 6, Morgan 7, Kilgallon 6, Henderson 6 (O’Toole 81min), Webber 6 (Beattie 68min), Montgomery 6, Howard 6 (Ward 59min, 6), Quinn 6, Naughton 7 - The Sunday Times
NEWS OF THE WORLD/Steve Goodman - Kevin Blackwell's Blades made to sweat for new record
- SHEFFIELD UNITED took their club record run to 13 consecutive away games unbeaten — but QPR made the Kevin Blackwell's men sweat.
- United keeper Paddy Kenny made a string of saves to deny Dexter Blackstock a first-half hat-trick.
- And Rangers substitute Matteo Alberti missed the chance of the game, firing Blackstock’s cross high over the bar from eight yards out.
- United’s best opening was midfielder Nick Montgomery’s 20-yarder which was well saved by Radek Cerny.
- QPR have not won in seven games — and have scored just twice at home in seven matches. It means their hopes of making the play-offs are all but doomed. News of The World
Sunday Mirror/John Gubba 0 Kenny the hero as Blackwell's record breakers grab point
- The blades extended their club-record run to 13 matches unbeaten on the road-but QPR let themoff thehook as they somehow failed to find the net.
- Dexter Blackstock spurned the best chances to give the Hoops their first home win since December, as Paddy Kenny emerged the Blades herowitha defiant display thatearnedglowing praise from manager Kevin Blackwell.
- "To break a record that is 120 years old takes some doing, and Paddy pulled off two fine saves," said Blackwell, who is delighted his keeper is staying at Bramall Lane.
- "I never wanted him to go anywhere and he's been brilliant for us.
- "I rate him as one of the best goalkeepers around and he's the best in the Championship."
- There was no doubt Blackwell's men were below their best against a side that has forgotten how to win or score.
But it was the visitors' hardworkoff theball that impressed Rangers boss Paulo Sousa.
"They are a very tough team to play against and theyworkhard, especially when they lose the ball," said Sousa, who refuses to throw in the towel in the race for the play-offs but concedes next season is a more realistic bet.
He said: "We have improved in the last year and a half and next season we will be much, much better."
Sousa added he was not feeling the pressure, despite Rangers' Italian owner Flavio Briatore's record of hiring and firing.
"He's a very ambitious person but he knows we are in a good way," he said.
The Yorkshiremen were certainly there for the taking yesterday and Rangers so nearly made the breakthrough on the hour as they squandered two gilt-edged chances.
- Seconds after a chaotic scramble that ended with Kaspars Gorkss failing to beat Kenny, the ball was somehow struck over the bar by substitute Matteo Alberti when it looked easier for him to score.
- Without a win in seven matches that have yielded just four goals and four points, the Hoops badly neededa lift. And it looked like Blackstock would provide it.
- The frontman was too quick for Matt Kilgallon when he outpaced the defenderandtested Paddy Kenny with an early effort.
- Then minutes later the Blades keeper had to be at his best to turn wide a more venomous strike by Blackstock.
- The Blades, beaten just twice in 19 League matches, did not threaten until the half-hour mark, when Kyle Naughton's free-kick saw Blackstock loop a header on to his own crossbar and Chris Morgan slid the follow up into the side-netting.
- But Blackwell's men did have chances to make Rangers pay for their wasteful finishing, with Danny Webber, Naughton and Morgan all going agonisingly close in the second half.
- HOW THEY RATED
QPR SHEFF UTD
7 Cerny Kenny 8
6 Connolly Halford 6
6 Stewart Naysmith 6
7 Gorkss Morgan 7
6 Delaney Kilgallon 6
6 Lopez Howard 6
6 Leigertwood S Quinn 6
6 Miller Naughton 6
6 Routledge Montgomery 7
6 Di Carmine Henderson 6
7 Blackstock Webber 6
SUBSTITUTES
Alberti (Miller) 5,
Balanta (Di Carmine) 5,
Ephraim (Leigertwood) 5
Ward (Howard) 5,
Beattie (Webber) 5,
O'Toole (Henderson) 5
MANAGERS
6 P SOUSA K BLACKWELL 6
MAN OF THE MATCH
8 PADDY KENNY
Solid display by the keeper extended Blades unbeaten run away from home
Referee: N Swarbrick 6 - Sunday Mirror
SHEFFIELD UNITED OFFICIAL SITE - BLACKWELL's VIEW - Well-earned point
- The goalless draw at Queens Park Rangers extended the Blades undefeated away run to thirteen matches and left Kevin Blackwell reasonably satisfied.
- Loftus Road was not an easy prospect, not least because the home team were desperate to climb out of their slump, and the playing surface didn't help either side:
- "The pitch was so bobbly that we realised after the first 45 minutes that there was no way that we could get the ball down and play.- "It just wasn't conducive to good football and their manager, Paulo Sousa, agreed the pitch's tendency to dry out too quickly is one of the problems they have there.
- "But the energy and determination of the lads was first-class and they showed real desire to keep a clean sheet.
- They were resilient, defended when we had to, and when we got the chance to attack we created chances."
-United came under pressure early in the second-half but finished the stronger and it seemed likely that one goal either way would be decisive:
- "We expected a tough game and got one. There were chance at both ends and both goalkeepers make some first-class saves so I suppose that a draw was affair result.
- "It could have ended 2-2 but on the road it is important that if you don't score, you don't get beat, and it is nice to have extended our record to thirteen without loss away from home."
- The United boss had restored Danny Webber and Greg Halford at the expense of Leigh Bromby and David Cotterill and explained that in one case, at least, local knowledge played a part:
- "I left Cotterill out not because he was injured but because we just thought that the pitch would be deadly for him. When you see how a class winger like Wayne Routledge was ineffective for them because he was dealing with the ball round his neck all afternoon I think the decision was justified."
- Blackwell took stock of the situation and remained positive of the shape his squad is in, ahead of a vital two successive home game spell:
- "We have taken seven points from nine this week - Birmingham and two away games - and I would have taken that if I was offered it. That's four tough games in about twelve days and we have done well.
- "Now we have two homes this week and we have to be positive in our approach. The lads and I need Bramall Lane rocking and I appeal for our supporters to get along there and be our twelfth man." Sheffield United
YORKSHIRE POST - QPR 0 Sheffield United 0- Sheffield United pocketed another point towards their promotion bid - but Dexter Blackstock must be wondering how as QPR were held at Loftus Road.
Rangers created a host of chances for Blackstock but each time Blades keeper Paddy Kenny kept the home striker at bay.
- United extended their club-record unbeaten run on the road to 13 matches, and although second-placed Birmingham won this was definitely a point gained.
- Rangers boss Paulo Sousa had his players in for extra shooting practice this week in a bid to boost their flagging play-off hopes, but they drew another blank and have still not won at home since December.
- Wayne Routledge had already blasted a shot high over the crossbar before, in the 10th minute, Blackstock raced onto Mikele Leigertwood's long ball only to fire too close to Kenny.
- Blackstock came even closer moments later when he collected Liam Miller's pass on the edge of the area, turned and shot in one movement and saw Kenny tip an awkward, bouncing ball over the top.
- Routledge then teased Gary Naysmith before crossing for Blackstock to volley at goal, only for Greg Halford to block the shot. The home fans shouted for handball, but Halford's bloody nose suggested otherwise.
- At the other end, Kyle Naughton's free-kick was headed onto the top of his own crossbar by Blackstock, and Chris Morgan slid the loose ball into the side-netting.
- The visitors did liven up after the break and Nick Montgomery's fierce strike from 20 yards forced a smart stop from Radek Cerny in the Rangers goal.
- Cerny was in action again in the 54th minute, beating away Danny Webber's angled shot, but the resulting corner was cleared and from the subsequent Rangers attack, Leigertwood's cross was headed inches wide by Blackstock.
- Rangers then missed two gilt-edged chances within a minute.
- First, Jordi Lopez's mis-hit shot found Samuel Di Carmine on the angle of the six-yard box and his sliced effort back across goal was met by Blackstock.
- But Kenny kept out his header at point-blank range before referee Neil Swarbrick blew for a foul.
- Moments later Blackstock crossed for substitute Matteo Alberti, but the midfielder snatched at his shot from 12 yards and the ball flew over.
- The Blades finished the stronger, with Craig Beattie introduced from the bench, but could not nick a late winner. Yorkshire Post
- See also: QPR vs Sheffield United - Managerial Comments and Match Reports and Updated Championship League Table
News of the World: Spurs Defender, Chris Gunter?
- "....Meanwhile another Tottenham defender, Chris Gunter, is a target for QPR. The 19-year-old has been told he can go out on loan after failing to cement a regular first-team place.
- Welshman Gunter had already fallen down the pecking order with the return to Spurs of Pascal Chimbonda.
- And with Hutton set to return, Redknapp said: “It would do him good to go out on loan but he is a young player who we hope has got a big future here." News of the World
[And a Repost:]
Daily Mail - Sacked Blackburn manager Paul Ince could make a return at QPR- Paul Ince is expected to make a dramatic return to management with Championship billionaires Queens Park Rangers.
- Ince, sacked by Blackburn Rovers in December, is the top target for Rangers chairman and good friend Gianni Palladini as the pressure mounts on current boss Paulo Sousa.
- Sousa's job is in jeopardy following a dismal run which, after yesterday's goalless draw with Sheffield United, has seen Rangers take four points out of a possible 21.
- Sousa admitted to friends he fears he is about to lose his job less than four months after arriving at Loftus Road." Daily Mail
- Offer your views on the game; on the match reports; or on any QPR matter.
- Visit the independent QPR Report Messageboard: The combination quasi-blog and messageboard - which focuses solely on QPR and football matters. Your own views very welcome. [Posted Yesterday: Dave McIntyre Assessing Sousa's Continued QPR Future"]
QPR 0 Sheffield United 0
Brian Glanville/The Sunday Times - QPR grateful for Radek Cerny brillianceQPR 0 Sheffield Utd 0Brian Glanville at Loftus Road
TWO excellent goalkeepers ensured that this match ended goalless. In the first half, Sheffield United’s Paddy Kenny kept the home side at bay and in the second, Rangers’ Radek Cerny, the former Tottenham player, defied a series of efforts from the visitors.
- When the game began, Sheffield United were in fourth position, QPR in 10th. Their ambitions, consequently, are somewhat different. United’s manager, Kevin Blackwell, said afterwards: “Thirteen matches to go” and clearly believed that promotion remained a distinct possibility.
- Paulo Sousa, the QPR manager, once such a gifted Portuguese international, looked optimistically to the future. “We want to build for the future,” he said, “and the future is the Premier League. And of course next season, we are becoming much much better.” Although, he admitted: “It’s not an easy moment for us to score goals.”
- His ambition this season “is to build something solid for next season, to be looking forward to the Premier League. I think this season is starting to get stronger as a team in looking for the first places”.
- Sousa was fully entitled to lament the loss of the Hungarian playmaker, Akos Buzsaky, one of the most talented footballers in the division but out through injury, as well as Rowan Vine and Martin Rowlands. These three, especially Buzsaky, would surely guarantee greater skill and sophistication.
- It was somewhat puzzling, however, to see little Wayne Routledge, who began as so lively and promising a winger at Crystal Palace but sank out of sight at Tottenham, switched at half-time from the right flank, where he had sparkled, to the left, where he failed and saw little of the ball.
- Early in the first half Kenny twice thwarted Dexter Blackstock, first when the striker was far too fast for centre-back Matthew Kilgallon. Two minutes later the goalkeeper - who at one stage had seemed likely to leave the club –turned Blackstock’s fierce left-footer from out of the blue away for a corner. By half-time you wondered when United were going to have a shot on goal.
- The answer was not too long. On 48 minutes Danny Webber turned the ball back to Nick Montgomery, whose drive was kept out by Cerny. Nine minutes later Montgomery returned the favour to his teammate and Cerny resourcefully saved Webber’s shot.
- On a playing surface that Blackwell described as hard and difficult, QPR were not as incisive as they had been before the break, although, when Blackstock crossed accurately from the left, Matteo Alberti should have done better than drive high over the Sheffield United bar.
- That was on 63 minutes and on 65, Cerny turned behind an attempt by the ever-active Kyle Naughton. With 10 minutes left the Czech keeper saved from almost point-blank range at his left post from substitute Craig Beattie, who had been introduced surprisingly late by Blackwell as United’s second striker.
Star man: Radek Cerny (QPR)
Yellow card: QPR: Sterwart
Referee: N Swarbrick
Attendance:13,718
- QPR: Cerny 8, Delaney 6, Steward 7, Leigertwood 6 (Ephraim) 81min, Routledge 6, Blackstock 7, Gorkss 7, Connolly 6, Miller 6 (Alberti 52min, 6), Lopez 6, Di Carmine 6 (Balanta 75min)
- SHEFFIELD UTD: Kenny 8, Halford 6, Naysmith 6, Morgan 7, Kilgallon 6, Henderson 6 (O’Toole 81min), Webber 6 (Beattie 68min), Montgomery 6, Howard 6 (Ward 59min, 6), Quinn 6, Naughton 7 - The Sunday Times
NEWS OF THE WORLD/Steve Goodman - Kevin Blackwell's Blades made to sweat for new record
- SHEFFIELD UNITED took their club record run to 13 consecutive away games unbeaten — but QPR made the Kevin Blackwell's men sweat.
- United keeper Paddy Kenny made a string of saves to deny Dexter Blackstock a first-half hat-trick.
- And Rangers substitute Matteo Alberti missed the chance of the game, firing Blackstock’s cross high over the bar from eight yards out.
- United’s best opening was midfielder Nick Montgomery’s 20-yarder which was well saved by Radek Cerny.
- QPR have not won in seven games — and have scored just twice at home in seven matches. It means their hopes of making the play-offs are all but doomed. News of The World
Sunday Mirror/John Gubba 0 Kenny the hero as Blackwell's record breakers grab point
- The blades extended their club-record run to 13 matches unbeaten on the road-but QPR let themoff thehook as they somehow failed to find the net.
- Dexter Blackstock spurned the best chances to give the Hoops their first home win since December, as Paddy Kenny emerged the Blades herowitha defiant display thatearnedglowing praise from manager Kevin Blackwell.
- "To break a record that is 120 years old takes some doing, and Paddy pulled off two fine saves," said Blackwell, who is delighted his keeper is staying at Bramall Lane.
- "I never wanted him to go anywhere and he's been brilliant for us.
- "I rate him as one of the best goalkeepers around and he's the best in the Championship."
- There was no doubt Blackwell's men were below their best against a side that has forgotten how to win or score.
But it was the visitors' hardworkoff theball that impressed Rangers boss Paulo Sousa.
"They are a very tough team to play against and theyworkhard, especially when they lose the ball," said Sousa, who refuses to throw in the towel in the race for the play-offs but concedes next season is a more realistic bet.
He said: "We have improved in the last year and a half and next season we will be much, much better."
Sousa added he was not feeling the pressure, despite Rangers' Italian owner Flavio Briatore's record of hiring and firing.
"He's a very ambitious person but he knows we are in a good way," he said.
The Yorkshiremen were certainly there for the taking yesterday and Rangers so nearly made the breakthrough on the hour as they squandered two gilt-edged chances.
- Seconds after a chaotic scramble that ended with Kaspars Gorkss failing to beat Kenny, the ball was somehow struck over the bar by substitute Matteo Alberti when it looked easier for him to score.
- Without a win in seven matches that have yielded just four goals and four points, the Hoops badly neededa lift. And it looked like Blackstock would provide it.
- The frontman was too quick for Matt Kilgallon when he outpaced the defenderandtested Paddy Kenny with an early effort.
- Then minutes later the Blades keeper had to be at his best to turn wide a more venomous strike by Blackstock.
- The Blades, beaten just twice in 19 League matches, did not threaten until the half-hour mark, when Kyle Naughton's free-kick saw Blackstock loop a header on to his own crossbar and Chris Morgan slid the follow up into the side-netting.
- But Blackwell's men did have chances to make Rangers pay for their wasteful finishing, with Danny Webber, Naughton and Morgan all going agonisingly close in the second half.
- HOW THEY RATED
QPR SHEFF UTD
7 Cerny Kenny 8
6 Connolly Halford 6
6 Stewart Naysmith 6
7 Gorkss Morgan 7
6 Delaney Kilgallon 6
6 Lopez Howard 6
6 Leigertwood S Quinn 6
6 Miller Naughton 6
6 Routledge Montgomery 7
6 Di Carmine Henderson 6
7 Blackstock Webber 6
SUBSTITUTES
Alberti (Miller) 5,
Balanta (Di Carmine) 5,
Ephraim (Leigertwood) 5
Ward (Howard) 5,
Beattie (Webber) 5,
O'Toole (Henderson) 5
MANAGERS
6 P SOUSA K BLACKWELL 6
MAN OF THE MATCH
8 PADDY KENNY
Solid display by the keeper extended Blades unbeaten run away from home
Referee: N Swarbrick 6 - Sunday Mirror
SHEFFIELD UNITED OFFICIAL SITE - BLACKWELL's VIEW - Well-earned point
- The goalless draw at Queens Park Rangers extended the Blades undefeated away run to thirteen matches and left Kevin Blackwell reasonably satisfied.
- Loftus Road was not an easy prospect, not least because the home team were desperate to climb out of their slump, and the playing surface didn't help either side:
- "The pitch was so bobbly that we realised after the first 45 minutes that there was no way that we could get the ball down and play.- "It just wasn't conducive to good football and their manager, Paulo Sousa, agreed the pitch's tendency to dry out too quickly is one of the problems they have there.
- "But the energy and determination of the lads was first-class and they showed real desire to keep a clean sheet.
- They were resilient, defended when we had to, and when we got the chance to attack we created chances."
-United came under pressure early in the second-half but finished the stronger and it seemed likely that one goal either way would be decisive:
- "We expected a tough game and got one. There were chance at both ends and both goalkeepers make some first-class saves so I suppose that a draw was affair result.
- "It could have ended 2-2 but on the road it is important that if you don't score, you don't get beat, and it is nice to have extended our record to thirteen without loss away from home."
- The United boss had restored Danny Webber and Greg Halford at the expense of Leigh Bromby and David Cotterill and explained that in one case, at least, local knowledge played a part:
- "I left Cotterill out not because he was injured but because we just thought that the pitch would be deadly for him. When you see how a class winger like Wayne Routledge was ineffective for them because he was dealing with the ball round his neck all afternoon I think the decision was justified."
- Blackwell took stock of the situation and remained positive of the shape his squad is in, ahead of a vital two successive home game spell:
- "We have taken seven points from nine this week - Birmingham and two away games - and I would have taken that if I was offered it. That's four tough games in about twelve days and we have done well.
- "Now we have two homes this week and we have to be positive in our approach. The lads and I need Bramall Lane rocking and I appeal for our supporters to get along there and be our twelfth man." Sheffield United
YORKSHIRE POST - QPR 0 Sheffield United 0- Sheffield United pocketed another point towards their promotion bid - but Dexter Blackstock must be wondering how as QPR were held at Loftus Road.
Rangers created a host of chances for Blackstock but each time Blades keeper Paddy Kenny kept the home striker at bay.
- United extended their club-record unbeaten run on the road to 13 matches, and although second-placed Birmingham won this was definitely a point gained.
- Rangers boss Paulo Sousa had his players in for extra shooting practice this week in a bid to boost their flagging play-off hopes, but they drew another blank and have still not won at home since December.
- Wayne Routledge had already blasted a shot high over the crossbar before, in the 10th minute, Blackstock raced onto Mikele Leigertwood's long ball only to fire too close to Kenny.
- Blackstock came even closer moments later when he collected Liam Miller's pass on the edge of the area, turned and shot in one movement and saw Kenny tip an awkward, bouncing ball over the top.
- Routledge then teased Gary Naysmith before crossing for Blackstock to volley at goal, only for Greg Halford to block the shot. The home fans shouted for handball, but Halford's bloody nose suggested otherwise.
- At the other end, Kyle Naughton's free-kick was headed onto the top of his own crossbar by Blackstock, and Chris Morgan slid the loose ball into the side-netting.
- The visitors did liven up after the break and Nick Montgomery's fierce strike from 20 yards forced a smart stop from Radek Cerny in the Rangers goal.
- Cerny was in action again in the 54th minute, beating away Danny Webber's angled shot, but the resulting corner was cleared and from the subsequent Rangers attack, Leigertwood's cross was headed inches wide by Blackstock.
- Rangers then missed two gilt-edged chances within a minute.
- First, Jordi Lopez's mis-hit shot found Samuel Di Carmine on the angle of the six-yard box and his sliced effort back across goal was met by Blackstock.
- But Kenny kept out his header at point-blank range before referee Neil Swarbrick blew for a foul.
- Moments later Blackstock crossed for substitute Matteo Alberti, but the midfielder snatched at his shot from 12 yards and the ball flew over.
- The Blades finished the stronger, with Craig Beattie introduced from the bench, but could not nick a late winner. Yorkshire Post
- See also: QPR vs Sheffield United - Managerial Comments and Match Reports and Updated Championship League Table
News of the World: Spurs Defender, Chris Gunter?
- "....Meanwhile another Tottenham defender, Chris Gunter, is a target for QPR. The 19-year-old has been told he can go out on loan after failing to cement a regular first-team place.
- Welshman Gunter had already fallen down the pecking order with the return to Spurs of Pascal Chimbonda.
- And with Hutton set to return, Redknapp said: “It would do him good to go out on loan but he is a young player who we hope has got a big future here." News of the World
[And a Repost:]
Daily Mail - Sacked Blackburn manager Paul Ince could make a return at QPR- Paul Ince is expected to make a dramatic return to management with Championship billionaires Queens Park Rangers.
- Ince, sacked by Blackburn Rovers in December, is the top target for Rangers chairman and good friend Gianni Palladini as the pressure mounts on current boss Paulo Sousa.
- Sousa's job is in jeopardy following a dismal run which, after yesterday's goalless draw with Sheffield United, has seen Rangers take four points out of a possible 21.
- Sousa admitted to friends he fears he is about to lose his job less than four months after arriving at Loftus Road." Daily Mail
- Offer your views on the game; on the match reports; or on any QPR matter.
Paul Ince Headed to QPR?
-
- For a purely football focus, visit the QPR Report Messageboard. for a combination of quasi-blog and messageboard.
SeeAlso:: Article Assessing Sousa's Job Prospects ....
Daily Mail - Sacked Blackburn manager Paul Ince could make a return at QPR
- Paul Ince is expected to make a dramatic return to management with Championship billionaires Queens Park Rangers.
- Ince, sacked by Blackburn Rovers in December, is the top target for Rangers chairman and good friend Gianni Palladini as the pressure mounts on current boss Paulo Sousa.
- Sousa's job is in jeopardy following a dismal run which, after yesterday's goalless draw with Sheffield United, has seen Rangers take four points out of a possible 21.
- Sousa admitted to friends he fears he is about to lose his job less than four months after arriving at Loftus Road." Daily Mail
- For a purely football focus, visit the QPR Report Messageboard. for a combination of quasi-blog and messageboard.
SeeAlso:: Article Assessing Sousa's Job Prospects ....
Daily Mail - Sacked Blackburn manager Paul Ince could make a return at QPR
- Paul Ince is expected to make a dramatic return to management with Championship billionaires Queens Park Rangers.
- Ince, sacked by Blackburn Rovers in December, is the top target for Rangers chairman and good friend Gianni Palladini as the pressure mounts on current boss Paulo Sousa.
- Sousa's job is in jeopardy following a dismal run which, after yesterday's goalless draw with Sheffield United, has seen Rangers take four points out of a possible 21.
- Sousa admitted to friends he fears he is about to lose his job less than four months after arriving at Loftus Road." Daily Mail
Saturday, March 07, 2009
QPR's Draw With Sheffield United - Match Reports and Managerial Comments
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- For a purely football focus, visit the QPR Report Messageboard. for a combination of quasi-blog and messageboard. - Posted Today: Article Assessing Sousa's Job Prospects .... Jake Cole Marks His Barnet Debut With Win.... Borrowdale made His Brighton Debut Today. Arsenal's Wenger Concerned re Possible Terrorist Attacks Against Footballers.
[Note: If you'd like to comment on any these articles - or on anything to do with QPR - please post them on the new QPR Report Messageboard]
- A crowd of just under 14,000 saw QPR extend their winless streak to 7 games. Updated League Table
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - WE'LL KEEP BELIEVING
- Paulo Sousa praised his side's efforts following the 0-0 draw against in-form Sheffield United.
- Rangers dominated proceedings in W12, only to be denied three points by a mixture of good goalkeeping and profligate finishing in front of goal.
- Sousa told www.qpr.co.uk: "It's not just today that we've been unlucky. This is a difficult moment for us in front of goal, but we are building.
- "This last month or so has been tough, but I am happy with our solid base and we proved today that we are a good, good side.
- "We returned to being a better solid team defensively today and I am pleased with that.
- "At the other end, we created a lot of chances to win the game, but the final important touch was missing."
- Sousa added: "We'll keep believing in ourselves because each game we play I can see us getting stronger.
- "We went very, very close today. One touch here or there can change the game and change the season.
- "We're working very hard on finishing in training, at least 20 minutes per day, and we will continue to strive for it.
- "Until it is mathematically impossible, we will continue to push for it (the play-off's)." QPR
Sporting Life/Andy Simms - PA Sport - KENNY 'BEST KEEPER IN THE LEAGUE'
- Kevin Blackwell branded Paddy Kenny "the best goalkeeper in the Championship" after his saves helped extend Sheffield United's club-record run in the 0-0 draw at QPR.
- Kenny, who was transfer-listed over Christmas after turning up late for training, has buried the hatchet with Blades boss Blackwell and earned his side a point with some fine saves - notably from Rangers striker Dexter Blackstock.
- "I didn't want Paddy to go anyway but, sometimes you have to do certain things within your club," said Blackwell, whose side are now unbeaten on the road in 13 league games.
- "He's been brilliant. I rate him as the best goalkeeper in the Championship and a capable Premier League goalkeeper.
- "If you are going to break records you need everyone to do something and he did."
- The Blades were blunted in the first half with Rangers well on top, but they could not find a way past Kenny.
- In the 10th minute Blackstock raced on to Mikele Leigertwood's long ball only to fire too close to the 30-year-old keeper.
- Blackstock came even closer moments later when he collected Liam Miller's pass on the edge of the area, turned and shot in one movement and saw Kenny tip an awkward, bouncing ball over the top.
- The visitors did liven up after the break and Nick Montgomery's fierce strike from 20 yards forced a smart stop from Radek Cerny in the Rangers goal.
- Cerny was in action again in the 54th minute, beating away Danny Webber's angled shot.
- But Kenny ensured his side pocketed a point towards their promotion bid when he kept out a point-blank header from Blackstock, while Rangers sub Matteo Alberti blazed over.
- United dropped a place to fifth but Blackwell is still targeting a top-two finish and automatic promotion.
- "We had chances at the end so it was a fair result," added Blackwell.
- "We've still go to play teams up there. I think the last 10 games will be exciting.
- "All you can do is keep doing your best. It's all to play for and if we go for automatic promotion and fall just short, we've still got the play-offs."
- Rangers' own play-off bid continues to flag and they have not won at home since December, but boss Paulo Sousa is not feeling the pressure despite Italian owner Flavio Briatore's record of hiring and firing.
- "Mediterranean people are never patient," he admitted. "But he's a very ambitious person but he knows we are in a good way.
- "When I came Flavio asked me to create a consistent, solid team and our aim is the Premier League.
- "We have improved in the last year and a half and next season we will be much, much better." SportinG Life
QPR Official Site - Match Report
- In an entertaining contest, QPR produced a display of real spirit and heart, coupled with fine attacking flair, to hold a lacklustre Sheffield United.
- Dexter Blackstock and Matteo Alberti had the best chances for the home side. The striker nodding wide when well-placed only a few feet out, whilst the Italian midfielder blasted only over with only the keeper to beat from ten yards.
-In fairness, the times the Blades did threaten, they found themselves up against a determined Radek Cerny, who denied Danny Webber superbly at his near post, and Craig Beattie at point-blank range.
- Kyle Naughton and Nick Montgomery also saw shots well saved by the home keeper.
- But ultimately neither side could break the deadlock, and both had to settle for a share of the spoils.
- After impressing on his full debut against Norwich City in the week, Jordi Lòpez retained his starting place in the R's engine room.
- Joining him was Irishman Liam Miller, stand-in skipper Mikele Leigertwood, and the tricky Wayne Routledge.
- With Heidar Helguson missing, Samuel Di Carmine partnered Dexter Blackstock in attack, whilst there was no change at the back. Kaspars Gorkss joined Damion Stewart at the heart of the defence, with Matt Connolly and Damien Delaney protecting the flanks.
- Between the sticks, the usual figure of Radek Cerny could be found, the Czech keeper eager to atone for his error on Tuesday night.
- Within the opening minutes, Routledge had blazed over the bar, picking up the scraps from Blackstock's hold-up play, as the R's raced out of the blocks.
- The home side nearly opened the scoring as early as the eighth minute, as a long ball from Leigertwood caught out Matthew Kilgallon, who in turn lost out to Blackstock in the ensuing foot-race.
- But as the R's hit-man bore down on goal, the recovering United defender just did enough to put him off at the crucial moment and Blackstock's effort lacked enough power to beat Paddy Kenny.
- Kenny thwarted Blackstock again moments later, as Miller's pass found the lanky striker with his back to goal. As he turned, he struck a sweetly-hit shot that bobbled and weaved as it flew towards the Irish international. But Kenny was equal to it, and palmed it over the bar.
-United were playing their part in an intriguing affair, and struck the woodwork on 28 minutes. A Naughton free-kick swung into a crowded box and connected with a head. Whether it was a Rangers or a United head was uncertain, but Cerny was sure it was dangerous and palmed it onto the cross-bar.
- Following up, Chris Morgan blasted the rebound into the side netting.
- As the half wound to a close, there was still time for Blackstock to go close once more. Picking up Di Carmine's flick-on, he raced past Morgan and, as Kenny rushed out to close the angle, the R's striker lifted the ball over him but could only steer it wide.
- In stoppage time, Lòpez sent a 35 yard free-kick swerving towards the Sheffield goal. Having gone one way, Kenny had to think again as the ball changed direction, but it remained a simple save for the United custodian.
- With the second half only three minutes old, United drew a superb stop out of Cerny. Greg Halford played a cross-field pass to the feet of Webber, who in turn rolled the ball into the path of Montgomery.
- The United midfielder took the shot on first time from the edge of the box, but Cerny dived to his right and saved smartly.
- In the 54th minute, Manager Paulo Sousa made his first change. Alberti replaced Miller.
- The visitors went close again through Webber, but after breaking clear on the left of the six-yard box, the Blades striker was halted superbly by home keeper Cerny who raced off his line and smothered the shot.
- The change in personnel almost paid dividends as Rangers, after a United attack collapsed, looked to counter.
- Alberti broke from his own box, drove on and found Delaney rampaging down the left. The full-back worked the ball to Leigertwood who cut onto his right foot and sent a curling cross to the back post. Blackstock was lurking, and rose well but could only nod wide.
- Rangers should've scored minutes later. First, Lòpez's miscued shot struck Di Carmine and looped back across the box where Blackstock rose and somehow headed wide from not three yards.
- Then, Blackstock used his strength to win possession and turned to bore down on goal. However, spying Alberti in acres of space on the right, the forward picked him out but somehow, from ten yards, the Italian blazed high and wide.
- The Blades, let off by Alberti's miss, nearly capitalised instantly, but Naughton's shot from a tight angle was brilliantly turned round the post by a full-stretch Cerny.
- Very much on top however, Rangers threatened again through Di Carmine. Neat build-up play involving Leigertwood, Routledge and Delaney saw the latter of the trio pick out the Italian striker, who played a neat one-two with his countryman Alberti before drifting inside and unleashing a left-footed drive straight at Kenny.
- Sousa made change number two shortly after, with the hard-working Di Carmine making way for Angelo Balanta.
- With ten minutes remaining, Cerny once again came to Rangers' rescue. When Morgan's volley bounced around awkwardly inside the area, it appeared it was going to find Blades substitute Beattie who'd be left with a simple tap-in. But the Czech showed great awareness to fly across his goal and save at his feat.
- Rangers' final change saw Leigertwood be replaced by Hogan Ephraim.
- But even the exciting youngster could not unlock the door and, despite Rangers finishing the stronger of the two sides, they could not find a way past a resolute United defence, and had to make do with a point.
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Leigertwood, Routledge, Blackstock (Ephraim 81), Gorkss, Connolly, Miller (Alberti 54), Lòpez, Di Carmine (Balanta 76). Subs: Mahon, Hall. Bookings: Stewart (27)
Sheffield United: Kenny, Halford, Naysmith, Morgan, Kilgallon, Henderson (O'Toole 81), Webber (Beattie 69), Montgomery, Howard (Ward 59), Quinn, Naughton. Subs: Lupoli, Bromby. Referee: Mr N D Swarbrick Attendance: 13,718 QPR
SHEFFIELD United Official Site
United stretched the record-breaking away run to 13 games without defeat thanks to a battling display at mega-rich Queens Park Rangers on Saturday.
Both goalkeepers - Paddy Kenny and Radek Cerny - were on the top of their games in the stalemate in the capital.
Nick Montgomery and Craig Beattie had United's better chances as Kevin Blackwell's side also made it five games without defeat.
Halford and Webber were recalled after being rested from the starting XI on Wednesday at Coventry, they returned at the expense of Cotterill and Bromby. QPR included former Blade Leigertwood, who captained the home side, but there was no place for big striker Helguson.
Naughton reverted to right-back at Loftus Road and, from right to left, Halford, Howard and Webber supported lone frontman Henderson, allowing Quinn and Montgomery to take up orthodox midfield roles.
Rangers bossed the possession in the first ten minutes but United were the first to record a chance and although Webber's flicked header from Naughton's cross failed to find the target it did cause a nervous moment for Cerny.
The home side's threat, though, was soon clear. Firstly, from Leigertwood's hopeful ball, Blackstock got the better of Kilgallon but shot at Kenny, whilst the United goalkeeper was the equal of the Rangers striker again on 12 minutes, cautiously pushing over a speculative volley.
United scurried a couple of balls away from the penalty area as Rangers applied a little pressure but the home side were on the back foot on 27 minutes when defender Stewart picked up the game's first booking for a foul on Henderson. From the resulting free-kick Connolly's back header looped on to the top of the crossbar and Morgan fired the rebound into the side-netting.
In a scrappy first period, on a pitch not conducive to neat football, Montgomery gave his usual high-energy display, whilst Blackstock was the home side's biggest threat. Kenny picked up a knock in a challenge with Di Carmine, but despite not being able to take the subsequent free-kick, he was OK to continue.
On 44 minutes Blackstock's pace got the better of Morgan and Kenny but he clipped just wide, whilst in the four minutes of added time at the end of the first half, Lopez fired in a 30-yard free-kick, which the Blades goalkeeper comfortably gathered.
Despite the generous injury-time period, both sides were able to break the deadlock but neither manager was tempted into a change at the interval.
Blades fans were making themselves heard at the start of the second period and it almost had the desired effect as the visitors went close on 48 minutes. Halford's crossfield ball was ideal for Webber to lay off for Montgomery to drill a controlled 20-yard shot, which was beaten away continental-style, by Cerny. The QPR goalkeeper was called into action once again soon after, saving with his legs from Webber after Halford flicked on.
Blackstock's flicked header, from Leigertwood's cross, was just wide but it did signify QPR's first opportunity of the half and both managers were soon making changes, with Blackwell introducing a second striker in the shape of Ward, in place of Howard.
Just after the hour mark the tempo was risen, mainly the result of a QPR chance with 63 minutes gone. A miscued shot turned into a perfect cross and Di Carmine, Gorkss and Blackstock were all involved as the home fans thought they had opened the scoring but Kenny, with assistance from his defenders, managed to scramble the ball clear.
Within a minute substitute Alberti fired over a fantastic chance, created by Blackstock, whilst United produced a training ground free-kick routine which ended with Cerny touching Naughton's cross into the side-netting.
Beattie was United's second substitution, taking the place of Webber in a very attacking-looking team, but he was in a defensive position when Di Carmine stung the palms of Kenny on 74 minutes.
As the game entered the closing stages, both sides, to their credit, were still looking for a maximum-point haul. On 80 minutes, after Halford's long-throw was half-cleared, Morgan - a former scorer at Loftus Road - fired in a scissor kick which Beattie almost connected with, but Cerny was out quickly and put his body on the line.
Both managers completed their substitutions and Ward was industrious around the box for United, whilst Kenny was forced into another difficult save from a long Lopez free-kick on 86 minutes.
After linking up well with O'Toole, Beattie's cross, aimed for Ward, was claimed by Cerny late on and three minutes of injury-time gave both sides hope but neither were able to sneak a late winner.
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Leigertwood (Ephraim 81), Routledge, Blackstock, Gorkss, Connolly, Miller (Alberti 54), Lopez, Di Carmine (Balanta 76).
Unused: Mahon, Hall, Ephraim.
Blades: Kenny, Halford, Naysmith, Morgan, Kilgallon, Henderson (O'Toole 81), Webber (Beattie 68), Montgomery, Howard (Ward 59), Quinn, Naughton.
Unused: Lupoli, Bromby. Sheffield United
- For a purely football focus, visit the QPR Report Messageboard. for a combination of quasi-blog and messageboard. - Posted Today: Article Assessing Sousa's Job Prospects .... Jake Cole Marks His Barnet Debut With Win.... Borrowdale made His Brighton Debut Today. Arsenal's Wenger Concerned re Possible Terrorist Attacks Against Footballers.
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- A crowd of just under 14,000 saw QPR extend their winless streak to 7 games. Updated League Table
QPR OFFICIAL SITE - WE'LL KEEP BELIEVING
- Paulo Sousa praised his side's efforts following the 0-0 draw against in-form Sheffield United.
- Rangers dominated proceedings in W12, only to be denied three points by a mixture of good goalkeeping and profligate finishing in front of goal.
- Sousa told www.qpr.co.uk: "It's not just today that we've been unlucky. This is a difficult moment for us in front of goal, but we are building.
- "This last month or so has been tough, but I am happy with our solid base and we proved today that we are a good, good side.
- "We returned to being a better solid team defensively today and I am pleased with that.
- "At the other end, we created a lot of chances to win the game, but the final important touch was missing."
- Sousa added: "We'll keep believing in ourselves because each game we play I can see us getting stronger.
- "We went very, very close today. One touch here or there can change the game and change the season.
- "We're working very hard on finishing in training, at least 20 minutes per day, and we will continue to strive for it.
- "Until it is mathematically impossible, we will continue to push for it (the play-off's)." QPR
Sporting Life/Andy Simms - PA Sport - KENNY 'BEST KEEPER IN THE LEAGUE'
- Kevin Blackwell branded Paddy Kenny "the best goalkeeper in the Championship" after his saves helped extend Sheffield United's club-record run in the 0-0 draw at QPR.
- Kenny, who was transfer-listed over Christmas after turning up late for training, has buried the hatchet with Blades boss Blackwell and earned his side a point with some fine saves - notably from Rangers striker Dexter Blackstock.
- "I didn't want Paddy to go anyway but, sometimes you have to do certain things within your club," said Blackwell, whose side are now unbeaten on the road in 13 league games.
- "He's been brilliant. I rate him as the best goalkeeper in the Championship and a capable Premier League goalkeeper.
- "If you are going to break records you need everyone to do something and he did."
- The Blades were blunted in the first half with Rangers well on top, but they could not find a way past Kenny.
- In the 10th minute Blackstock raced on to Mikele Leigertwood's long ball only to fire too close to the 30-year-old keeper.
- Blackstock came even closer moments later when he collected Liam Miller's pass on the edge of the area, turned and shot in one movement and saw Kenny tip an awkward, bouncing ball over the top.
- The visitors did liven up after the break and Nick Montgomery's fierce strike from 20 yards forced a smart stop from Radek Cerny in the Rangers goal.
- Cerny was in action again in the 54th minute, beating away Danny Webber's angled shot.
- But Kenny ensured his side pocketed a point towards their promotion bid when he kept out a point-blank header from Blackstock, while Rangers sub Matteo Alberti blazed over.
- United dropped a place to fifth but Blackwell is still targeting a top-two finish and automatic promotion.
- "We had chances at the end so it was a fair result," added Blackwell.
- "We've still go to play teams up there. I think the last 10 games will be exciting.
- "All you can do is keep doing your best. It's all to play for and if we go for automatic promotion and fall just short, we've still got the play-offs."
- Rangers' own play-off bid continues to flag and they have not won at home since December, but boss Paulo Sousa is not feeling the pressure despite Italian owner Flavio Briatore's record of hiring and firing.
- "Mediterranean people are never patient," he admitted. "But he's a very ambitious person but he knows we are in a good way.
- "When I came Flavio asked me to create a consistent, solid team and our aim is the Premier League.
- "We have improved in the last year and a half and next season we will be much, much better." SportinG Life
QPR Official Site - Match Report
- In an entertaining contest, QPR produced a display of real spirit and heart, coupled with fine attacking flair, to hold a lacklustre Sheffield United.
- Dexter Blackstock and Matteo Alberti had the best chances for the home side. The striker nodding wide when well-placed only a few feet out, whilst the Italian midfielder blasted only over with only the keeper to beat from ten yards.
-In fairness, the times the Blades did threaten, they found themselves up against a determined Radek Cerny, who denied Danny Webber superbly at his near post, and Craig Beattie at point-blank range.
- Kyle Naughton and Nick Montgomery also saw shots well saved by the home keeper.
- But ultimately neither side could break the deadlock, and both had to settle for a share of the spoils.
- After impressing on his full debut against Norwich City in the week, Jordi Lòpez retained his starting place in the R's engine room.
- Joining him was Irishman Liam Miller, stand-in skipper Mikele Leigertwood, and the tricky Wayne Routledge.
- With Heidar Helguson missing, Samuel Di Carmine partnered Dexter Blackstock in attack, whilst there was no change at the back. Kaspars Gorkss joined Damion Stewart at the heart of the defence, with Matt Connolly and Damien Delaney protecting the flanks.
- Between the sticks, the usual figure of Radek Cerny could be found, the Czech keeper eager to atone for his error on Tuesday night.
- Within the opening minutes, Routledge had blazed over the bar, picking up the scraps from Blackstock's hold-up play, as the R's raced out of the blocks.
- The home side nearly opened the scoring as early as the eighth minute, as a long ball from Leigertwood caught out Matthew Kilgallon, who in turn lost out to Blackstock in the ensuing foot-race.
- But as the R's hit-man bore down on goal, the recovering United defender just did enough to put him off at the crucial moment and Blackstock's effort lacked enough power to beat Paddy Kenny.
- Kenny thwarted Blackstock again moments later, as Miller's pass found the lanky striker with his back to goal. As he turned, he struck a sweetly-hit shot that bobbled and weaved as it flew towards the Irish international. But Kenny was equal to it, and palmed it over the bar.
-United were playing their part in an intriguing affair, and struck the woodwork on 28 minutes. A Naughton free-kick swung into a crowded box and connected with a head. Whether it was a Rangers or a United head was uncertain, but Cerny was sure it was dangerous and palmed it onto the cross-bar.
- Following up, Chris Morgan blasted the rebound into the side netting.
- As the half wound to a close, there was still time for Blackstock to go close once more. Picking up Di Carmine's flick-on, he raced past Morgan and, as Kenny rushed out to close the angle, the R's striker lifted the ball over him but could only steer it wide.
- In stoppage time, Lòpez sent a 35 yard free-kick swerving towards the Sheffield goal. Having gone one way, Kenny had to think again as the ball changed direction, but it remained a simple save for the United custodian.
- With the second half only three minutes old, United drew a superb stop out of Cerny. Greg Halford played a cross-field pass to the feet of Webber, who in turn rolled the ball into the path of Montgomery.
- The United midfielder took the shot on first time from the edge of the box, but Cerny dived to his right and saved smartly.
- In the 54th minute, Manager Paulo Sousa made his first change. Alberti replaced Miller.
- The visitors went close again through Webber, but after breaking clear on the left of the six-yard box, the Blades striker was halted superbly by home keeper Cerny who raced off his line and smothered the shot.
- The change in personnel almost paid dividends as Rangers, after a United attack collapsed, looked to counter.
- Alberti broke from his own box, drove on and found Delaney rampaging down the left. The full-back worked the ball to Leigertwood who cut onto his right foot and sent a curling cross to the back post. Blackstock was lurking, and rose well but could only nod wide.
- Rangers should've scored minutes later. First, Lòpez's miscued shot struck Di Carmine and looped back across the box where Blackstock rose and somehow headed wide from not three yards.
- Then, Blackstock used his strength to win possession and turned to bore down on goal. However, spying Alberti in acres of space on the right, the forward picked him out but somehow, from ten yards, the Italian blazed high and wide.
- The Blades, let off by Alberti's miss, nearly capitalised instantly, but Naughton's shot from a tight angle was brilliantly turned round the post by a full-stretch Cerny.
- Very much on top however, Rangers threatened again through Di Carmine. Neat build-up play involving Leigertwood, Routledge and Delaney saw the latter of the trio pick out the Italian striker, who played a neat one-two with his countryman Alberti before drifting inside and unleashing a left-footed drive straight at Kenny.
- Sousa made change number two shortly after, with the hard-working Di Carmine making way for Angelo Balanta.
- With ten minutes remaining, Cerny once again came to Rangers' rescue. When Morgan's volley bounced around awkwardly inside the area, it appeared it was going to find Blades substitute Beattie who'd be left with a simple tap-in. But the Czech showed great awareness to fly across his goal and save at his feat.
- Rangers' final change saw Leigertwood be replaced by Hogan Ephraim.
- But even the exciting youngster could not unlock the door and, despite Rangers finishing the stronger of the two sides, they could not find a way past a resolute United defence, and had to make do with a point.
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Leigertwood, Routledge, Blackstock (Ephraim 81), Gorkss, Connolly, Miller (Alberti 54), Lòpez, Di Carmine (Balanta 76). Subs: Mahon, Hall. Bookings: Stewart (27)
Sheffield United: Kenny, Halford, Naysmith, Morgan, Kilgallon, Henderson (O'Toole 81), Webber (Beattie 69), Montgomery, Howard (Ward 59), Quinn, Naughton. Subs: Lupoli, Bromby. Referee: Mr N D Swarbrick Attendance: 13,718 QPR
SHEFFIELD United Official Site
United stretched the record-breaking away run to 13 games without defeat thanks to a battling display at mega-rich Queens Park Rangers on Saturday.
Both goalkeepers - Paddy Kenny and Radek Cerny - were on the top of their games in the stalemate in the capital.
Nick Montgomery and Craig Beattie had United's better chances as Kevin Blackwell's side also made it five games without defeat.
Halford and Webber were recalled after being rested from the starting XI on Wednesday at Coventry, they returned at the expense of Cotterill and Bromby. QPR included former Blade Leigertwood, who captained the home side, but there was no place for big striker Helguson.
Naughton reverted to right-back at Loftus Road and, from right to left, Halford, Howard and Webber supported lone frontman Henderson, allowing Quinn and Montgomery to take up orthodox midfield roles.
Rangers bossed the possession in the first ten minutes but United were the first to record a chance and although Webber's flicked header from Naughton's cross failed to find the target it did cause a nervous moment for Cerny.
The home side's threat, though, was soon clear. Firstly, from Leigertwood's hopeful ball, Blackstock got the better of Kilgallon but shot at Kenny, whilst the United goalkeeper was the equal of the Rangers striker again on 12 minutes, cautiously pushing over a speculative volley.
United scurried a couple of balls away from the penalty area as Rangers applied a little pressure but the home side were on the back foot on 27 minutes when defender Stewart picked up the game's first booking for a foul on Henderson. From the resulting free-kick Connolly's back header looped on to the top of the crossbar and Morgan fired the rebound into the side-netting.
In a scrappy first period, on a pitch not conducive to neat football, Montgomery gave his usual high-energy display, whilst Blackstock was the home side's biggest threat. Kenny picked up a knock in a challenge with Di Carmine, but despite not being able to take the subsequent free-kick, he was OK to continue.
On 44 minutes Blackstock's pace got the better of Morgan and Kenny but he clipped just wide, whilst in the four minutes of added time at the end of the first half, Lopez fired in a 30-yard free-kick, which the Blades goalkeeper comfortably gathered.
Despite the generous injury-time period, both sides were able to break the deadlock but neither manager was tempted into a change at the interval.
Blades fans were making themselves heard at the start of the second period and it almost had the desired effect as the visitors went close on 48 minutes. Halford's crossfield ball was ideal for Webber to lay off for Montgomery to drill a controlled 20-yard shot, which was beaten away continental-style, by Cerny. The QPR goalkeeper was called into action once again soon after, saving with his legs from Webber after Halford flicked on.
Blackstock's flicked header, from Leigertwood's cross, was just wide but it did signify QPR's first opportunity of the half and both managers were soon making changes, with Blackwell introducing a second striker in the shape of Ward, in place of Howard.
Just after the hour mark the tempo was risen, mainly the result of a QPR chance with 63 minutes gone. A miscued shot turned into a perfect cross and Di Carmine, Gorkss and Blackstock were all involved as the home fans thought they had opened the scoring but Kenny, with assistance from his defenders, managed to scramble the ball clear.
Within a minute substitute Alberti fired over a fantastic chance, created by Blackstock, whilst United produced a training ground free-kick routine which ended with Cerny touching Naughton's cross into the side-netting.
Beattie was United's second substitution, taking the place of Webber in a very attacking-looking team, but he was in a defensive position when Di Carmine stung the palms of Kenny on 74 minutes.
As the game entered the closing stages, both sides, to their credit, were still looking for a maximum-point haul. On 80 minutes, after Halford's long-throw was half-cleared, Morgan - a former scorer at Loftus Road - fired in a scissor kick which Beattie almost connected with, but Cerny was out quickly and put his body on the line.
Both managers completed their substitutions and Ward was industrious around the box for United, whilst Kenny was forced into another difficult save from a long Lopez free-kick on 86 minutes.
After linking up well with O'Toole, Beattie's cross, aimed for Ward, was claimed by Cerny late on and three minutes of injury-time gave both sides hope but neither were able to sneak a late winner.
QPR: Cerny, Delaney, Stewart, Leigertwood (Ephraim 81), Routledge, Blackstock, Gorkss, Connolly, Miller (Alberti 54), Lopez, Di Carmine (Balanta 76).
Unused: Mahon, Hall, Ephraim.
Blades: Kenny, Halford, Naysmith, Morgan, Kilgallon, Henderson (O'Toole 81), Webber (Beattie 68), Montgomery, Howard (Ward 59), Quinn, Naughton.
Unused: Lupoli, Bromby. Sheffield United
Assessing Sousa's Job Prospects and QPR's Managerial Turnover
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- For a purely football focus, visit the QPR Report Messageboard. for a combination of quasi-blog and messageboard. - Shittu Just Wants to Play.... QPR's Reported Debt Three Years Ago...Crystal Palace's Simon Jordan on Championship....Where Has it Gone Wrong For Rangers?
[Note: If you'd like to comment on any these articles - or on any QPR subject - and your comments are very welcome - please post them on the new QPR Report Messageboard]
Dave McIntyre/BBC606 - Down but not out - yet
- Paulo Sousa is under pressure but still on solid enough ground to keep his job if QPR lose to Sheffield United on Saturday. - Unfortunately, I’ve got plenty experience of seeing Rangers managers in trouble.
- I won’t ever forget telling Ian Holloway I was writing a story that a bloke called Ramon Diaz was being lined up to take his job – a crisis he came through after his players rallied round and produced a sudden winning run.
- Holloway, who was never slow to give me a piece of his mind, showed tremendous dignity and was a gentleman towards me then, as he was 18 months later when I was about to break the news that he was being put on ‘gardening leave’ after a series of bad results and problems behind the scenes.
- It was also tough to write about the impending appointment of John Gregory in place of Gary Waddock, who I liked a lot.
- Then there was Iain Dowie. Like the Ramon Diaz debacle, reports that the manager was in trouble before the season had even started were taken by many as proof of the media’s madness rather than QPR's, and understandably so.
- Dowie made it to the start of the season but was soon gone.
- Even Gareth Ainsworth was replaced at the first sign of problems.
- His caretaker title made the decision to remove him seem less significant than it was.
- But at one stage Ainsworth was very much the board’s man for the job, despite bigger names being linked with it, and he lost that mantle after a home defeat against Burnley.
- One home defeat really is enough to turn the tide against a Rangers manager these days.
- But, having seen a few men in an all-too familiar position to Sousa’s, I don’t think his time will be up until at least the summer and even then, he could emerge intact.
- That of course means Sousa is now bound to be sacked.
- After all, less than a year ago, Gigi De Canio was so adamant I was wrong to suggest he’d be off after the season’s final game against West Brom, I suspended all judgement in an article titled ’QPR double act continues.’
- His position changed after that conversation and once the article was eventually published the following week, De Canio’s ‘double act’ with Gianni Paladini continued for all of 24 hours.
- The stick I got for that continued for considerably longer.
- How much longer Sousa has as Rangers coach remains to be seen.
- He is in the position De Canio and Dowie quickly found themselves in, under pressure from within to stick to a 4-4-2 formation and select certain players.
- But that pressure isn’t as severe, because in crucial ways Sousa is different to his predecessors and so are his prospects – at least in the short term.
- For starters, unlike in the cases of the five ousted Rangers managers in recent years – and I’m including Ainsworth but not De Canio, who quit – there has been no firm move to line up a replacement, which gives the current man some breathing space.
- More importantly, Sousa is different to Dowie in that he is very much Flavio Briatore’s man, whereas Dowie was a recommendation whose appointment was merely rubber-stamped by the co-owner.
- That means Sousa being ditched after just a few months would inevitably reflect badly on Briatore himself – especially in his native Italy, where Sousa is a major star after making his name as a player with Juventus.
- And regardless of who he is and whose choice he was, getting rid of yet another coach would just look so bad at this point there would be little to gain from doing it now, especially as this season is almost a write-off.
- There is also a financial factor. Following a pay-off to Gregory, the quick dismissal of Dowie was expensive and with two years of Sousa’s contact left to run, removing him as well would involve more money being wasted at a time when the club are looking to cut costs.
- At such a volatile club, anything could happen. But for now, it’s likely that the worst fate awaiting Sousa if Rangers’ slump continues is to have his card well and truly marked between now and the end of the season.
- And unless Rangers make a spectacular charge to the play-offs, it’s at the end of the season when matters will come to a head.
- Someone, possibly Sousa, will almost certainly carry the can. BBC606
- For a purely football focus, visit the QPR Report Messageboard. for a combination of quasi-blog and messageboard. - Shittu Just Wants to Play.... QPR's Reported Debt Three Years Ago...Crystal Palace's Simon Jordan on Championship....Where Has it Gone Wrong For Rangers?
[Note: If you'd like to comment on any these articles - or on any QPR subject - and your comments are very welcome - please post them on the new QPR Report Messageboard]
Dave McIntyre/BBC606 - Down but not out - yet
- Paulo Sousa is under pressure but still on solid enough ground to keep his job if QPR lose to Sheffield United on Saturday. - Unfortunately, I’ve got plenty experience of seeing Rangers managers in trouble.
- I won’t ever forget telling Ian Holloway I was writing a story that a bloke called Ramon Diaz was being lined up to take his job – a crisis he came through after his players rallied round and produced a sudden winning run.
- Holloway, who was never slow to give me a piece of his mind, showed tremendous dignity and was a gentleman towards me then, as he was 18 months later when I was about to break the news that he was being put on ‘gardening leave’ after a series of bad results and problems behind the scenes.
- It was also tough to write about the impending appointment of John Gregory in place of Gary Waddock, who I liked a lot.
- Then there was Iain Dowie. Like the Ramon Diaz debacle, reports that the manager was in trouble before the season had even started were taken by many as proof of the media’s madness rather than QPR's, and understandably so.
- Dowie made it to the start of the season but was soon gone.
- Even Gareth Ainsworth was replaced at the first sign of problems.
- His caretaker title made the decision to remove him seem less significant than it was.
- But at one stage Ainsworth was very much the board’s man for the job, despite bigger names being linked with it, and he lost that mantle after a home defeat against Burnley.
- One home defeat really is enough to turn the tide against a Rangers manager these days.
- But, having seen a few men in an all-too familiar position to Sousa’s, I don’t think his time will be up until at least the summer and even then, he could emerge intact.
- That of course means Sousa is now bound to be sacked.
- After all, less than a year ago, Gigi De Canio was so adamant I was wrong to suggest he’d be off after the season’s final game against West Brom, I suspended all judgement in an article titled ’QPR double act continues.’
- His position changed after that conversation and once the article was eventually published the following week, De Canio’s ‘double act’ with Gianni Paladini continued for all of 24 hours.
- The stick I got for that continued for considerably longer.
- How much longer Sousa has as Rangers coach remains to be seen.
- He is in the position De Canio and Dowie quickly found themselves in, under pressure from within to stick to a 4-4-2 formation and select certain players.
- But that pressure isn’t as severe, because in crucial ways Sousa is different to his predecessors and so are his prospects – at least in the short term.
- For starters, unlike in the cases of the five ousted Rangers managers in recent years – and I’m including Ainsworth but not De Canio, who quit – there has been no firm move to line up a replacement, which gives the current man some breathing space.
- More importantly, Sousa is different to Dowie in that he is very much Flavio Briatore’s man, whereas Dowie was a recommendation whose appointment was merely rubber-stamped by the co-owner.
- That means Sousa being ditched after just a few months would inevitably reflect badly on Briatore himself – especially in his native Italy, where Sousa is a major star after making his name as a player with Juventus.
- And regardless of who he is and whose choice he was, getting rid of yet another coach would just look so bad at this point there would be little to gain from doing it now, especially as this season is almost a write-off.
- There is also a financial factor. Following a pay-off to Gregory, the quick dismissal of Dowie was expensive and with two years of Sousa’s contact left to run, removing him as well would involve more money being wasted at a time when the club are looking to cut costs.
- At such a volatile club, anything could happen. But for now, it’s likely that the worst fate awaiting Sousa if Rangers’ slump continues is to have his card well and truly marked between now and the end of the season.
- And unless Rangers make a spectacular charge to the play-offs, it’s at the end of the season when matters will come to a head.
- Someone, possibly Sousa, will almost certainly carry the can. BBC606
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