Lofty Heights - Paddy Kenny's Having a Party...

It's The League That Mata's The Most...

2012-01-28T16:12:00.011Z

QPR 0-1 Chelsea

With QPR in rare territory, an FA Cup 4th Round Cup game, a controversial second half penalty saw Chelsea through to the next round, in what was a scrappy game at Loftus Road this lunchtime.

I could write this entire report on the build up to this game, but the media have done more than enough with the Ferdinand/Terry stuff, for me to just ramble on more about it. My own opinion on the matter is - you know what you said!! But a lot was said of the 'will he/won't' he shake his hand matter. Again, personally, I was in full support of Anton not shaking his hand. However, with the media again having a field day with this issue, Club Officials and the Football Association decided there would be no pre-match handshake, in an attempt to defuse further tensions. So, in the old fashioned way, the teams simply just ran out onto the pitch.

The gang all assembled as usual, unfortunately missing Lee and Jess who were very sadly, priced out by this one. Lee's seat was taken by the lovely Lorna, so many corners were shouted and appealed for this afternoon! The Club's decision to hike up the prices for a game not long after Christmas and before many peoples pay days was shocking and I can only hope that they took notice of the empty seats around the Stadium for a game that should have been sold out within hours of going on sale.

After all this, there was indeed a game of football to be had and both sides played out, what has to be said was a poor first half, with Terry getting booed whenever the ball went anywhere close to him. Mata had the only clear chance, forcing Paddy Kenny into a low save from the edge of the box after taking advantage of Luke Young's slip. There were half chances for Rangers but the final ball was always lacking. But defensively, Rangers were excellent and have looked so much more organised in recent weeks.

Onto the second half and Chelsea were looking much brighter. Rangers had replaced Helguson with Macheda. On the hour, Rangers had their best chance when Mackie was inches away from connecting with Wright-Phillips low, powerful cross. From there, Chelsea broke away and a cross from Mata was far too deep for Sturridge, who decided to fling himself to the floor as he received the slightest touch from Hill. Referee Mike Dean had a long look and then unbelievably pointed at the spot. At the time it seemed dubious and I am sure AVB will say it was nailed on. By text, Lee actually described the incident as - Sturridge went down quicker than Kerry Katona on a night out and on arrival home, this video clip says all we need to know...

http://www.joe.ie/football/videos/video-one-of-the-softest-penalties-youll-see-all-season-0020150-1

But a penalty it was and Mata sent Kenny the wrong way to put Chelsea 1-0 up. In truth the game really just fizzled out from there on in, but Rangers had a chance in injury time to set up a replay at Stamford Bridge - Luke Young's fierce low drive was well saved by Cech, the ball found it's way to Wright-Phillips on the edge of the box who shot harmlessly over.

QPR: Kenny, Hill, Hall, Mackie, Buzsaky (Hulse 79), Barton, Young, Smith, Helguson (Macheda 46), Wright-Phillips, Ferdinand. Subs: Cerny, Orr, Derry, Ephraim, Onuoha.

Man of the Match - just three contenders for this one with Anton Ferdinand getting the nod from Sam and Corp. Jess gave her customary Luke Young vote, but with five votes from Jenson, PK, Luke, myself and Lee, today's winner was R's skipper, Joey Barton. Lee has asked for a Special mention to go to R's substitute, Rob Hulse who did extremely well when he came on for Buzsaky.

So, a bit later than normal, we are out if the FA Cup, but I think most R's fans will agree that Premier League survival is the priority and we did make a very good account of ourselves once more. It's just a shame that a poor decision has ultimately settled the tie. With that comment, Chelsea fans will no doubt point back to the league game. In fact, Chelsea Manager Andre Villas-Boas is STILL going on about it now. In a Radio 5 interview, he was asked if he was pleased to be through to the next round? His reply - I was pleased to finish here with 11 men. When asked if he thought it was a penalty? His reply - at least we didn't have nine men. When asked again if he thought it was a penalty? His reply - I don't wish to comment on that. In true twitter style, I will finish this paragraph with a hashtag #helmet!

LH are off to Villa on Wednesday where hopefully we will see one, two and hopefully a few more debutants? See you then....

Come on You R'ssssssssssss!!!

Onuoha His Way To The R's

2012-01-26T01:36:00.007Z

The R's completed their third signing of the transfer window, as Nedum Onuoha completed his move from Man City to Loftus Road.

The fee is believed to be in the £3-4million bracket and Onouha has signed a four and a half year deal with the club.

Onuoha, 25, primarily plays as a centre back but has also filled the right and left back positions competently for Manchester City and also whilst on loan at Sunderland last year.
With Onuoha's versatility in defence this makes the fee paid for him seem relatively small, especially if he performs to his full potential which has seen him represent England at U21 level on 21 occassions, whilst also appearing in a Man City shirt 92 times in the last seven years.

Onuoha told the Official QPR website :-

"This was the right time for me to join a Club like QPR.

"The Manager obviously played a massive factor in my decision to come here. I've worked with him before and he always wants players around him who are open and honest.

"He wouldn't have come here if he didn't believe that there was a squad of players here that can achieve the goals he has.

"The ambition of the owners was really appealing.

"This is my Club now and I'll give everything to help us succeed."

Mark Hughes spoke of his latest capture, also to the Official QPR website :-

"He did very well for me at Manchester City and played a number of games, probably more than under any other Manager.

"He is very versatile. He can play centre back or right back, and has good pace. He is a very good addition to the squad."

"It's important that we are able to attract good players here.

"Nedum had other options but his experience with myself and the other guys here was a big factor in why he has come to us. I am pleased about that."

Welcome to QPR Nedum, we wish you every success during your time with us here at Loftus Road.

U R'SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

R's Taye up Taiwo.

2012-01-24T00:07:00.003Z

Today the R's announced the loan signing of AC Milan left back Taye Taiwo on a six month loan deal.

Taiwo, 26, signed for AC Milan from Marseille in the summer for a fee believed to be in the £6-8 million pound bracket.
Taiwo was nominated in the Ligue 1 team of the year during three of the last four seasons and has gained a reputation of being a dead ball expert with a lethal left foot that has bust the net on many occasions.

Taiwo can also operate at left wing, so it will be interesting to see where Taiwo and Traore will be playing once the latter returns from International duty at the African Cup of Nations with Senegal. One would assume that Taiwo will play at left back whilst Traore operates on the left wing, a position that he has played in on a few occasions already this season and looked very much at home playing there.

Taiwo told the Official QPR Website :-

"It's a new challenge for me.
"I don't know too much about QPR, but I'm learning a lot already.
"I know the Premier League and it's a very exciting division.
"It has always been a dream of mine to play in this league.

"Wherever you go in the world, people always talk about the Premier League and it will be nice to play in a country that speaks the same language as me."

"The Chelsea tie is a big one, but the league matters most.
"We need to stay in this division this season - and that is the objective."

Taiwo will wear the number 34 shirt.

Welcome to QPR Taye, we wish you all the success during your time here at Loftus Road.

U R'SSSSSS!!!!!!!

Sparky Gets The Buz Back At The R's.

2012-01-21T11:44:00.004Z

With the R's winning their first FA Cup tie in 11 years on Tuesday night with a dogged and scrappy performance at Loftus Road, we turned our attention to the league and a massive six pointer against Wigan. This was Mark Hughes first Premier League game in charge so could Mark put the spark into the R's climb up the table?
We are about to find out.

On Tuesday there was a massively depleted gang in attendance but today we were back to full strength and ready to roar the lads onto victory.
With a lot of focus being on Joey Barton lambasting Neil Warnock in the press yesterday, a lot of the talk during the pre-match centred around our hopes that he would do a lot more talking on the pitch today rather than on his Twitter account. As long as we see full commitment from our captain and performances that we know he is capable of then what his does on Twitter is completely irrelivant to what he does on the pitch.

There were three changes to the side that won against MK Dons. Danny Gabbidon missed out through injury whilst Jay Bothroyd and Freddy Macheda dropped to the bench.
Their replacements were Fitz Hall, DJ Campbell and Heidar Helguson.

Wigan has the first change of the game within the first two minutes. A Wigan free kick from the left found Rodelega in acres of space in the box and his sidefoot creeped just wide of the post.
After a nervy fifteen minutes the R's started to find a rhythm and a battling quality that has been lacking of late. With SWP beginning to see more of the ball and running at defenders we looked the more threatening going forward without creating many clear cut chances.
In the 33rd minute the R's had a corner that was floated in from the left and as the ball reached the Wigan box an arm flew out, handball! The referee's assistant, linesman, whatever they are called these days, signalled the infringement and the R's seemingly had a decision go their way for once.
Heidar Helguson stepped up and sidefooted the penalty into the right corner with Al-Habsi not far away from getting a fingertip to it.
Minutes later Buzsaky lined up a free kick just outside the box and Al-Habsi saw it late and pushed it past the post for a corner.
Not to be deterred, a minute before half time Buzsaky had a free kick in a similar position and this time he curled it onto the left hand post before flying across goal into the opposite side of the net. Definitely a goal we will all enjoy watching on Match of the Day tonight.

The half time huddle on the concourse with us all including Michael and Jack was the most positive atmosphere at a home game since the Chelsea half time talk a few months ago. The buzz was coming back to us and all hoping for another half of commitment, energy, movement and commitment from Sparky's troops.

There was a change at half time with DJ Campbell coming off and being replaced by Tommy Smith.
The second half started with the R's looking bright but again no clear cut chances were being created.
On 65 minutes Wigan drew level. A free kick was awarded for what looked to be a nothing challenge about 25yards outside the R's box.
Hugo Rodelega stepped up and curled the free kick up and over the wall into the top right corner with Paddy Kenny rooted to the spot. The 30 Wigan fans in attendance would have definitely enjoyed watching that fly into the back of the net.
Rangers' were given a great chance to stretch their lead once more in the 73rd minute when we were awarded a somewhat fortuitous penalty.
Helguson was clearly fouled by Caldwell but from where we were standing the foul clearly outside the box, however the referee pointed to the spot for our second penalty of the day.
Helguson stepped up and this time sidefooted it to the left but Al-Habsi guessed right and pushed the penalty out before Wigan cleared their lines.
Minutes later Helguson nearly claimed his second of the game. The ball bounced just outside the left corner of the 18 yard box and Helguson attempted a lobbed volley that went over Al-Habsi and bounced just centimetres past the post.
Just as it seemed the R's where in for a difficult final ten minutes we broke away with SWP down the left and he squared it to Tommy Smith, he took a touch and unleahsed a shot from a full 25-30yards out that flew into the top corner with Al-Habsi having no chance! Another great goal to watch on tv tonight!
The goal killed the game off as a contest and with Rangers' creating a few more chances before the final whistle was blown and we were savouring our second home win of the season in Mark Hughes first home game in charge of us in the Premier League.

The performance was one of commitment, organisation and energy. We looked to grow in confidence more and more as the game went on and to close the game out with a superb goal from Tommy Smith really was the icing on the cake!
Rangers' are back? I certainly hope so!

On to our Man of the Match. It was a two horse race for this one, Helguson received two of the votes but with a massive six votes our unanimous winner and scorer of the fantastic second goal is Akos Buzsaky.

Cup Upset....

2012-01-17T23:11:00.005Z

QPR 1-0 MK Dons

QPR caused a major cup upset as, for the first time in 11 years, they finally won an F.A.Cup tie, but only just - as a late Danny Gabbidon header saw of the challenge of a spirited MK Dons side at a cold Loftus Road this evening.

With it being a Cup game, midweek, extra money, on TV and extremely cold, many of the gang decided to give this one a miss, with only myself, Jenson, Trevor and California Hoop in attendance. Unfortunately, CH wasn't aware the Upper Loft was open and with 9 workmates, sat in South Africa Road.

After a quick visit to the Club Shop and then the Springbok, we were in our seats in plenty of time to welcome the new Manager, Mark Hughes. That itself, turned into a non event as with photographers aplenty, the Gaffer just came out of the tunnel and took his place in the dugout, very low key indeed.

Onto the game and MK made a very bright start as Rangers continued to look nervous and lacking confidence. Following an MK half chance, it was the 12th minute before the R's created their first chance with a decent effort from Bothroyd. The game continued and MK were certainly having the better of things with chances falling to Smith and top scorer, Macdonald.

Against the run of play, Rangers had the ball in the net on the half hour, Derry heading home Buzsaky's corner, only for the referee to call a foul on the keeper. A text from Lee confirmed that the Rangers midfielder was all over the Dons keeper and it was a clear foul.

From there, the visitors should have taken the lead, but Macdonald dragged his shot wide when it seemed certain he would score. Just before half time and Rangers missed the best chance of the game - Buzsaky played Wright-Phillips through on goal with a cutting through ball, but the keeper saved brilliantly from the Rangers wide man.

Onto the second half which I now believe was completely jinxed by Trevor. At half time, he lumped money on Macheda and Buzsaky to score the first at 6/1 and 14/1 respectively. Cue 62 minutes and the impressive Macheda was replaced by Tommy Smith and on 72 minutes, on the back of a blistering free kick, well saved by the Dons keeper, Buzsaky was replaced by Heidar Helguson. If the first change was confusing, the second was just baffling as both were having very good games. The Buzsaky change also led to some booing at the new Manager from a fair amount of the home crowd.

But low and behold, the boos were soon replaced by cheers as the resulting corner, taken by Shaun Wright-Phillips was headed home by Danny Gabbidon and it came at a time when in all honesty, the only team who looked likely to score were the MK Dons.

Rangers then looked so much more confident, kept the ball well and closed the game out to set up a home tie against Chelsea in 2 weeks time.

QPR: Kenny, Hill, Derry, Gabbidon, Bothroyd (Orr 86), Mackie, Buzsaky (Helguson 72), Young, Wright-Phillips, Macheda (Smith 62), Ferdinand. Subs: Cerny, Hall, Campbell, Ephraim.

Man of the Match - a few choices again for this one as the gang not in attendance were kind enough to text them through. Myself, went for Heidar Helguson who looked every bit a class act when he came off the bench - Macheda and Buzsaky were well in the running before the changes. Jenson and Corp went for Wright-Phillips and Lee and Jess chose Buzsaky. But tonight's winner with 3 votes, from Sam, Luke and PK, was R's goalscorer - Danny Gabbidon

I am going to refrain from being too negative as most of you will agree, this was not great viewing at all and it is clear to see the lack of confidence amongst the players. However, a win is a win and let's keep our fingers crossed that this will help us push forward in the weeks ahead, starting with the massive game against Wigan this coming Saturday.

And finally, I will finish with expressing my disappointment of the Clubs decision to hike up the prices for the Chelsea cup tie a week on Saturday - £50, £40 and £30 is a bit much considering the hike we all had with the season tickets and I am sorry Tony Fernandes and Co, although the vouchers were a nice gesture, it didn't really count for much seeing as they were to be spent at the Club. I along with many others no doubt feel there was no need to do this after everything...

That is all

Come on You R'sssssssss!!!

Nothing But The Best....

2012-01-15T21:19:00.010Z

Newcastle 1-0 QPR

Mark Hughes's first game in charge of QPR ended in a narrow defeat - Leon Best scoring the only goal in what was overall, a disappointing match at St James Park.

Well for the 2nd time this year, this was a different kind of football day as myself and Jenson decided to take the opportunity to fly to the North East before Christmas - something I personally had never done and wanted to do. So with flights all booked up, Jenson contacted me earlier in the week to inform me that due to a friend he knows in Newcastle, we would be joining Rob and friends in a corporate box... and why not indeed.

So, after meeting at Terminal 5 and having breakfast with Lee and Richard Butler, we boarded the plane and arrived ahead of schedule, in Newcastle at 11am. The V.I.P. treatment then continued as instead of taking a taxi, we were picked up by Rob himself in a gleaming white Bentley and whisked into St James Park shortly after.

The rest of the gang travelled by car, including Lee who passed a late fitness test and made the trip after a nasty bout of tonsilitus. We were in touch throughout via text and it seemed after an early arrival, they had managed to find their way into a bar of which strippers were the lunchtime entertainment...

After some superb hosting and a great lunch, we took our seats just outside the box for the game...

Rangers started extremely positively and looked to make their mark for their new Manager and the woodwork saved the home side on two occasions - with Jay Bothroyd's curling effort hitting the post and Shaun Wright-Phillips smashing the cross bar.

Newcastle then responded with chances of their own and Coloccini and Gutierrez both headed over from Taylor crosses, before Taylor himself fired just wide. But on 37 minutes, Leon Best provided the moment of magic that turned out to be the moment that won the game - Guthrie found best on the edge of the area, who showed very quick feet to skip inside Luke Young and shoot low into the far corner - a fine goal!

Onto the second half and Rangers should really have been on level terms - but Bothroyd blazed his effort wildly over the bar following a clever nod down from Helguson and later saw a fierce drive comfortably saved by Krul at his near post.

As Rangers pressed, Newcastle began to expolit the gaps and if anyone was going to score the next goal, it was the home side with Santon, Gutierrez and Best all seeing good chances go begging. The home side then played to close the game out with Rangers, sadly, offering little in return in the late stages.

QPR: Kenny, Hill, Derry, Gabbidon, Bothroyd, Mackie, Buzsaky (Macheda 76), Young, Helguson (Smith 65), Wright-Phillips, Ferdinand. Subs: Cerny, Orr, Hall, Campbell, Ephraim.

Man of the Match - until we got back to the airport and bumped into Corporate, everyone chose different, with votes for Derry, Young, Gabbidon, Ferdinand and Mackie. There was even a vote from Sam for more beer and more strippers... but today's winner, voted for by Corp and Jenson, was Shaun Wright-Phillips.

In summary, it was again, quite simple. Plenty of positives from QPR but lacklustre up front and we all hope this going to be addressed during this latest transfer window.

So after the game there were a few more beers and a bit of banter with Rob and friends, who I must say, made us very welcome today despite supporting the other team. We left for the airport at approximately 4.15pm and we followed the QPR team coach, which led us to think that we were on the same flight home. They were obviously on the later one, but instead we had Ray Wilkins, who kindly described QPR's performance as sh*t! But then also offered some wise words on Premier League survival - 'if you don't score goals, you don't win games'. Obviously an absolute tactical genius....

Mark All Set to Make Sparks Fly at QPR...

2012-01-10T19:09:00.005Z

QPR have moved swiftly since Sunday's departure of Neil Warnock and have appointed Mark Hughes as the new Manager on a two and a half year deal.

With half the season gone and the transfer window open, a swift appointment was essential and after two days of talks, the news was announced by QPR earlier today.

Mark Hughes's Career to date;

•Playing career takes in spells at Manchester United (twice), Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Everton, Blackburn, Southampton and Wales

•Scores 163 goals in 606 club appearances. Wins 72 caps for Wales, scoring 16 times

•Appointed part-time Wales manager in 1999

•Becomes Blackburn manager in 2004

•Appointed manager of Manchester City in 2008

•Sacked by Manchester City in December 2009

•Appointed Fulham boss in July 2010, leads them to eighth in Premier League

•Announces resignation from Fulham in June 2011

•Appointed QPR boss in January 2012

The stats speak for themselves and I personally feel this appointment is extremely positive as his successes at Blackburn and Fulham, bode well for a club of similar stature.

On his appointment, Hughes told the Official QPR Website;

"It's a great feeling to be back in football and to be the Manager of QPR. I'm fully aware of the challenge in the short and long term and I am genuinely excited about the ambition of the owners.

Nobody can doubt the history of this great Football Club and the passion of its fantastically loyal supporters. Now the immediate priority is to consolidate our place in the Barclays Premier League, but beyond that, the future is very bright and fills me with great enthusiasm."

Mark also brings with him an experienced backroom team of Mark Bowen(Assistant Manager), Eddie Niedzwiecki(1st Team Coach) and Kevin Hitchcock(Goalkeeping Coach).

All of us here at Lofty Heights would like to wish Mark Hughes and his team, all the very best of luck in their new roles and a massive WELCOME to QPR!!!

Come on You R'ssssssssssssss!!!

In Warnock We Trusted....

2012-01-08T19:40:00.006Z

With the rumours continuing to spread today, just after 6.30pm this evening, QPR announced that they had parted company with Manager, Neil Warnock.

Before I add my opinions, I will post the statement from the Official QPR Website;

Queens Park Rangers Football Club has today (Sunday 8th January 2012) parted company with Manager Neil Warnock.

Warnock joined the Club in March 2010, overseeing 84 matches in charge, winning 33, drawing 27 and losing 24. Last season, he successfully guided the Club back to the Premier League for the first time in 15 years.

The Board's commitment to retaining our Premier League status ultimately led to this decision. QPR Assistant Manager Mick Jones and First Team Coach Keith Curle have also left the Club.

The Board's QPR Chairman, Tony Fernandes, said: "This decision has been made in the best interests of the Club and I can assure everyone that this is not a decision that was made lightly.

"Sadly, our recent run of poor form has seen us slip alarmingly down the table and the Board felt it was the right time to make a change.

"Neil has acted with honesty, professionalism and integrity throughout his time at the Club, and I would personally like to thank him for his significant contribution to QPR over the last 22 months.

"I genuinely wish him all the very best for the future and he will always be welcome back at Loftus Road."

QPR Vice-Chairman, Amit Bhatia, added: "It is with a very heavy heart that we make this announcement.

"I played a key role in bringing Neil to Loftus Road and consider him to be a close personal friend and a great professional.

"I would like to place on the record my thanks to him for transforming us from a Championship Club to a Premier League Club.

"As a Club we have gained enormously from Neil's wisdom, experience and leadership. He has always performed his managerial duties to the very highest of standards.

"I wish Neil every success going forward and he will always be welcome at QPR.

"I now look forward to the future and the rest of the season as we work towards stabilising our position in the Premier League."

Neil Warnock said: "Obviously I'm very disappointed, but having achieved so much, I leave the Club with a great sense of pride.

"I have enjoyed my time here more than anywhere else and the QPR fans have been brilliant with me - they deserve success.

"My biggest regret is that the takeover didn't happen earlier, because that would have given me the opportunity to bring in the targets I'd pinpointed all last summer and probably given us a better chance to succeed in the Premier League."

He added: "The board at QPR are hugely ambitious and I wish them every success for the future.

"I've been involved in the game a long time and I will be spending the immediate future with my family and friends before deciding my next career move."

The Club will now begin its search for a new Manager and will make a further announcement in due course.

I really do not know what to say to this one as I am absolutely gutted. Neil Warnock did an amazing job for us and made all our dreams come true by returning us to the promised land. The only thing is with that, is that the Premier League brought supporters out of the woodwork and when all is not going well, they begin to call for the Manager's head. No doubt, the people I am referring too will be delighted with tonight's news!

Yes, we are on a bad run, but we have had an awful lot of bad luck along the way. Mr Warnock referred to Heidar's last minute equaliser at MK Dons yeterday, as something that could kick start our season. It's just a shame that he now won't be around to find out...

On behalf on everyone involved with Lofty Heights, I would like to thank Neil Warnock for everything and I mean, everything... and for making our dreams come true.

A QPR LEGEND!!!

Sources tell me that Mark Hughes is to be announced as Neil's replacement tomorrow and with Keith Curle and Mick Jones also leaving today, I expect Tony Fernandes and co have already sourced a new Manager? However, this is QPR we are talking about...

Come on You R'sssssssssssss!!!

It's Chelsea!

2012-01-08T18:09:00.002Z

Today the FA Cup 4th Round draw was completed at Wembley.

With MK Dons and the R's still being in the draw after yesterday's 1-1 draw at Stadium MK, we entered the draw as ball number 10.

Number 10 was drawn out as a home tie against................ CHELSEA!!

First of all the R's have to get through the replay against the Dons at Loftus Road on the 17th January.

If we successfully defeat MK Dons then we will play Chelsea on the weekend of the 28/29/30 January.

U R'SSSSS!!!!!!!

Slowly Faurlin Apart.

2012-01-07T19:05:00.004Z

Today the R's went to StadiumMK for their first ever visit against MK Dons in the Third Round of the FA Cup.
Could Rangers' progress through for the first time in eleven years or would we suffer even more disappointment?

With Jess pulling out through illness and PK refusing to step foot inside the MK Dons stadium due to his Wimbledon connections the gang were slightly depleted for today's trip. Sam, Luke and myself set off at 12.30 on our journey across to Buckinghamshire in what was an easy and uneventful journey. The only thing to make us laugh was a dopey comment from Luke as we passed the Domino's warehouse opposite StadiumMK and Luke thought it was a massive shop...... bless him!
Upon getting to the entrance for the away fans I met up with Jenson and Lofty, who had brought along little Coral to her first away game and hoping that she would be a lucky charm for us today!
As we got onto the concourse we briefly met up with Michael for a quick catch up before bumping into Tony and Alan who had also made a short trip over to MK.

Five changes were made after last weeks Norwich game. Radek Cerny, Fitz Hall, Tommy Smith, DJ Campbell and Federico Macheda came into the starting line up for Paddy Kenny, Anton Ferdinand, Joey Barton, Adel Taarabt and Heidar Helguson.

The first half started brightly as the R's created chances through DJ Campbell and Jamie Mackie both going close.
After the fifteen minute mark the game turned into a non contest and if I'm honest not a lot of interest was taken in the game by us as it really was a dire game of football.
On the 20 minute mark MK Dons thought they had broken the deadlock as Powell bundled the ball home from close range only to see that he had been flagged for offside.
Minutes later MK Dons were denied a clear penalty as Clint Hill slid to block a cross in by Powell and the ball clearly hit the outstretched arm of Hill, no penalty said referee Michael Oliver! Me, Sam and Luke all looked at each other admitting that we had got away with that, it would be interesting to see if we had got away with it in a Premier League fixture.
Just before the break DJ Campbell had a goal chalked off for offside.

At half-time we took a walk around the concourse and bumped into none other than our favourite QPR Press Officer Matt and its safe to say that he had drunk a drink or two! he general feeling at half time was that we were awful and really needed to buck our ideas up if we were going to win the game.

We got back to our seats just in time for kick off, I'm surprised we even bothered!
Things got slightly better and we really should of grabbed a goal when Macheda crossed from the left hand side and Campbell headed wide from three yards out.
With things not getting any better from our perspective, Helguson replaced Campbell on the in the 61st minute.
Three minutes later it was the hosts that took the lead.
Helguson tried to chest down and control a cross from the MK Dons right hand side, only to be dispossessed by Bowditch and the Dons striker struck home to give the home side the lead. It's fair to say that it was probably what the home side deserved.
Jay Bothroyd and Akos Buzsaky entered the game and as the game progressed into the 80th minute I can honestly say that the R's faithful were at a point where they had given the game away and were getting more pessimistic about proceedings.
If things could get any worse, they did on 81 minutes.
Alejandro Faurlin collapsed on the floor after putting his foot in on a challenge and landed awkwardly. You could tell that this was a serious injury as the R's stand in skipper was on the floor with his hands over his face and quite clearly in a lot of pain. Early indicatons that this could be a cruciate knee ligament injury and if confirmed then this could be the end of the season for Faurlin. Massive blow for us!
With Faurlin being stretchered off and all three substitutions being made, it meant that the R's had nine minutes plus injury time to try and get an equaliser with just ten men on the field.
Against all odds the miracle happened!
Helguson run onto a long clearance from defence, beat the Dons goalkeeper to the ball and headed it past him before taking control of the ball and turning before rolling the ball into the net! 1-1 and we really did not deserve it!

The replay of this game has been announced as being on the 17th January, just two days after our trip to Newcastle.

As you can tell by the lack of enthusiasm in this report, this was truly a terrible game and MK Dons failed to take advantage of what was a poor performance by the R's.
The performance lacked energy, enthusiasm and urgency. It was almost as if this was supposed to be an easy game for what was effectively our best eleven that we could pick. Last year we hassled teams an put them under pressure whilst creating so many chances as we were quick to break away and really damaged teams. The team we currently have lacked pace from the one we had last year. We played 4-2-3-1 all of last season and the three behind Helguson all had creativity and pace about them and we scared defences, this year the only pace in our side is that of Shaun Wright-Phillips and he does not get to play in his best position of right wing and is played either behind the striker or on the left.
In the second half Macheda was moved to the left wing which was very baffling and meant that we changed or formation from 4-4-2 to 4-2-3-1 and in all fairness it worked because he managed to find himself in more space and put in two or three brilliant crosses that just lacked the finishing touch in the six yard box.
It's evident to me that we need a quick, pacey winger like Junior Hoilett (who we have been linked with today) who will scare defences and create space for our other creative players. An out and out goalscorer is a must also, look at Yakubu of Blackburn. He's had 20 shots at goal this year and 12 of them have resulted in goals and thi s someone that was signed on a free transfer! Why not even look at Jordan Rhodes? A young striker with lots of flair and possesses the goalscoring ability that we lack currently and more importantly we can get many years of goals from him so why not try a £4-5million bid and tempt one of the countries best young prospects?
Defensively I feel that the targets being mentioned are exciting and if we can land two or three of them then we will certainly have a greater chance of keeping clean sheets in this half of the season.
Jay Bothroyd certainly isn't the answer to our need for goals, the lack of effort put in by him today when he come on was abysmal! He slowing jogged back when we were being hit on the counter attack and showed no attempt to help the teams cause and his only effort came when the ball was within two or three yards of him. When he did receive the ball his control was awful and the ball ended up three yards in front of him! He may as well play football in his uggs as he will probably be able to play a lot better then!
We need to get that team spirit and Warnock guile back into the team. We bust a gut to close people down and you could always see 110% was being given by the players yet currently you cannot see that and a few of them really need a kick up the backside!

As for hearing fans call for Warnock's head, I think that is a lot of rubbish and very fickle.
Warnock came in nearly two years ago and had a team that was struggling to fend off relegation to League 1 and just a year later we won the Championship and were clearly the best team in the Championship. We all knew this year would be a struggle with the players we took up with us and we would've all happily taken 17th place come the end of our first Premier League season.
Yet now all the money has been made available to the club our fans expectations have risen so much so that we are almost expected to be world beaters. We made a few good signings in the previous transfer window and will make another four or five more in this one that will (hopefully) preserve our status in the world's best league. In Warnock we should trust and if e do then we know we are in the safe hands of one of the best English managers in the country.

Moving onto Man of the Match. This was as tricky as its been all season due to the performance being so lacklustre. Only three votes cast as Luke refused to vote for this one. I pitched my vote for Mackie because of a hard working display and he never stopped trying. However with two votes from Lofty and Sam the winner today is Shaun Derry for he non stop running and effort towards the team cause.

QPR: Cerny, Young, Hill, Hall, Gabbidon, Derry (Buzsaky, 77), Faurlin (84), Mackie, Smith, Campbell (Helguson, 61), Macheda (Bothroyd, 71).

Subs: Murphy, Connolly, Andrade, Orr.

Goals: Helguson (87)

MK Dons: Martin, Smith, Lewington, Mackenzie (Kouo-Doumbe, 46), Gleeson, Potter, Bowditch, Williams, Powell, Ibehre, Chadwick.

Subs: McLoughlin, Flanagan, O'Shea, Lobjiot, Alli, Collins.

Goals: Bowditch (64)

Referee: Michael Oliver

Attendance: 19,506 (*Stadium record)

I will return with my report from our game at St. James' Park on Sunday and hopefully I will be able to be a lot more positive on the game!

U R'SSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A Corporate View of a R'Effing Disgrace...

2012-01-02T20:09:00.007Z

QPR 1-2 Norwich

A much labelled, 'must win' game for QPR, ended in defeat as Norwich took all 3 points in a mixed game for R's skipper, Joey Barton.

It was a very different day of watching the R's for me today. Jenson, had won a competition from Apex Rentals, via Twitter, of 2 x VIP Box tickets for today's game and I was lucky enough to be chosen as his guest. So myself and Jenson met up at 1pm and took our place in Box Number 10 to meet the Apex staff and other guests, in what was just about the best Executive Box in the Stadium, right on the half way line. Unfortunately it meant we didn't see the rest of the gang today, although we were constantly in touch via text etc.

Former Rangers Centre Back, Steve Wicks then came into the box to say hello and I must say, what a lovely guy he is and very much, a Ranger! He discussed the old days and the new, along with his thoughts on future signings, more on that later. Also joining us for the game, was Marc Bircham who was accompanied by his two sons. I also must say, what a top, top guy he is too. We were then treated to a superb four course meal of butternut and apple soup, peppercorn steak, rhubarb crumble and cheese and biscuits. The mini half time pies served up were also, to die for!!

Putting all this excellent hospitality aside, there was also a very important game going on and after a shaky start, the R's were ahead on 11 minutes - Barton fired a low shot past Ruddy after some neat play between Alejandro Faurlin and Clint Hill down the left side and all was going to plan, until the 36th minute. As Rangers were moving forward after clearing a Norwich corner, Barton tangled with Whitbread on the half way line and the pair of them flung arms at eachother, then Bradley Johnson got involved by deliberately sticking out a leg to catch Barton with the intent to wind him up. Barton responded by going face to face with Johnson, who moved his head back implying he had been butted. By this time, Paul Lambert was throwing a proper hissy fit in the dugout as the play went on... Bennett then needlessly tripped Barton to stop the play. A melee followed, Neil Swarbrick discussed the issue with the Max Branning lookalike linesman, neither of whom had stopped the play or flagged leading up to Bennett's trip - the result, a red card for Joey Barton.

To me and no doubt QPR supporters as a whole, the fact that the referee nor linesman not flagging any initial incident at the time speaks volumes. If indeed it was a sending off offence that the referee saw, he would have stopped the game immediately surely, not give the team of the offending player the advantage to carry on attacking?? This in my opinion, was pure guess work and intimidation from the players and officials from Norwich - as referee's throughout the leagues keep stating, if they are not sure, they can't give it? Needless to say, Bennett's cynical trip on Barton went completely unpunished.

So Barton was dismissed and three minutes before the break, Norwich equalised - Pilkington's left-footed shot nestled in the corner with Paddy Kenny well beaten - a great finish it has to be said.

Onto the second half and Wright-Phillips replaced the unusually quiet, Jamie Mackie and it almost brought instant reward as he tested Ruddy with a low drive. Adel Taarabt then forced a fine save from the Norwich keeper, who pushed his free kick onto the post - just how unluicky has Taarabt been with the post this season?

With Rangers holding Norwich in midfield and slowly gaining the upper hand, Norwich threw on 3 subs, Fox, Hoolahan and Morison and went 3-4-3 as they went for the win. Rangers responded by throwing on new signing, Macheda for the last ten minutes, replacing Helguson and had we had a bit more luck, he could well have scored with his first touch as Ruddy only just beat him in the air to Wright-Phillips cross.

But on 83 minutes, disaster struck as substitute, Steve Morison smashed home from close range unchallenged.

QPR: Kenny, Hill, Derry, Gabbidon, Taarabt (Campbell 85), Faurlin, Mackie (Wright-Phillips 46), Barton, Young, Helguson (Macheda 80), Ferdinand. Subs: Cerny, Orr, Connolly, Hulse, Macheda.

Man of the Match - just 2 contenders tonight but a storming winner - myself and Jenson went for Anton Ferdinand, but Lee, Sam, Luke, Corp, Jess and PK, all went for Adel Taarabt who is today's winner!

Make no mistake, this was the worst possible result for us today and I am sure all R's fans, like me, are gutted. No one said the Premier League was going to be easy, but whoever plays for you and however good you are, you cannot beat the referee. Neil Swarbrick was diabolical today and his linesman no better. Heidar Helguson was kicked, pushed, had his shirt tugged, you name it, he received it and what did he get from Swarbrick? - Absolutely nothing!! I went into great detail with the Barton incident but he got just about every other decision wrong. It didn't help that the 4th official, Phil Dowd had Paul Lambert moaning and whineing in his earhole all afternoon, I know this as it was right under my own nose. It also doesn't help when you get players like Grant Holt, who has enough bulk on him to cope with most, hitting the floor with the slightest of touches.

In summary, it was a sour end to what was a great day out. After some interesting chats with the likes of, Steve Wicks, I can also reveal that 2 of Neil Warnock's targets are Darren Gibson and Christopher Samba... fingers crossed.

It's a break from the Premier League next weekend as R's, followed by 6,000 plus supporters, travel to MK Dons. Lofty Heights will be well represented and Lee will return with one of his entertaining awayday reports...

Thank you once again to Jenson and Apex Rentals for a superb day's hospitality!!

Finally, it seems a bit odd me saying this after today, but all of us here at Lofty Heights would like to wish you all a very Happy New Year!!

Come on you R'ssssssssssssssss!!!

Mach Here To Attack

2012-01-02T13:43:00.002Z

Today the R's aanounced their first signing of the winter transfer window, Federico Macheda on a 6 month loan deal.

The Manchester United striker made an instant impact at Old Trafford when he scored an injury time winner against Aston Villa in just his second substitute appearance for the club.
Since then the Italian striker, 20, has struggled to break into the first team.

Macheda told the Official QPR website "I am here to train hard firstly and then I hope to play a big part in the games.

"I want to play more but I know this won't be easy. But I will work very hard for this."

We hope Kiko enjoys his spell here at the R's and scores many goals in the blue and white hoops.

U R'SSSSSSSS!!!!!!

Defeat Is Ref Justice For R's.

2011-12-31T20:13:00.004Z

In the final game of 2011 the R's faithful travelled to Arsenal to see if we could preserve our unbeaten run at The Emirates, obviously we've never played there before but its a positive fact to open up this report with.

Myself, Jess, Sam, Luke and PK left from deepest, darkest Henley just past lunchtime and made our way to Cockfosters tube station, what a great name for a tube station, and parked up there before heading south on the Piccadilly Line to Arsenal station.
Once we arrived we took a short walk to the site of the former home of the Gunners to see the posh flats that have been built in the place of Highbury, we then turned back on ourselves and made our way to the Drayton Park pub were Iceman and Lorna were awaiting our arrival so we could pass on their tickets for the game.
We then meet up with Lofty outside the away end, having made the trip up from South Harrow and passing through 30 stations along the way.
Having rounded up the troops, we made our way in to what was a very compact and cramped concourse upon entry which was quite surprising and disappointing seeing as this is a new ground and very impressive from the outside, surely they would've made a concourse that would be able to hold more than 50 people comfortably on it?
Anyway, enough of my moaning. The stadium as you walked down the steps to your seat was impressive to say the least and definitely holds a wow factor to it. As we got to our seats the teams made their way out onto the pitch.

Neil Warnock made five changes from the side that drew 1-1 with Swansea on Wednesday. Radek Cerny, Matt Connolly, Danny Gabbidon, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Jay Bothroyd came in for Paddy Kenny, Fitz Hall, Clint Hill, Shaun Derry and Heidar Helguson.

Rangers' started the game brightly and even managed to get the first real effort on goal when Bothroyd run at the Arsenal defence hit one from 25 yards out which was just within the reach of Szczesny.
Wright-Phillips just moments later was presented the opportunity to break the deadlock as Taarabt's magical pass found Wright-Phillips on the left edge of the penalty area and SWP took a touch before trying to lift the ball over Szczesny but the Arsenal keeper rushed out early enough to block the shot and Arsenal cleared the danger.
Arsenal's tactics were pretty predictable in all fairness, give the ball to Van Persie and if you cant pass to him then pass to Walcott and let him run at Traore. If those two options failed then Arsenal really did not know what to do apart from give it to the impressive Alex Song and let him try and create something for the home side.
With Arsenal having very little success at attacking the R's goal it was the turn of the officials to take centre stage and award some really baffling decisions. The corners and throw in's that were blatantly QPR goal kicks and throw in's were somehow awarded in the home teams favour and we were lucky that Arsenal failed to capitalise on the clueless refereeing performance being put in.
Arsenal's best chance of the half came from a cleared corner when the ball dropped to Arteta and his half volley was cleared off the line by Barton just before half time.

The gang tried to assemble on the concourse again at half time and after ten minutes of squeezing through the crowds, who were in fine voice singing "we're gonna win away...". Finally we all got together for five minutes before we had to fight our way back to our seats. Most of our conversation revolved around the questionable officials and their decisions. We were issued with a three minute warning before kick off, obviously that was when Martin Atkinson had finished hs half time cup of tea with Arsene Wenger.

The second half started and there was no difference to the second half, the R's were pressing and looking threatening whilst Arsenal looked to Van Persie and Walcott, whilst that was not working the same didgy decisions were being made by the match officials.
Arsenal had the best chance of the half within ten minutes of the restart.
Ramsey played Walcott clean through on goal with just Cerny to beat, Walcott scuffed his shot well wide of the R's goal.
The R's won a corner, well so we thought on 60 minutes, only for the linesman to award a goal kick!! Absolute joke!
From the goal kick Rangers' won the ball back before Wright-Phillips loose pass found Ramsey, who in turn fed in Van Persie (shock) and the in form Dutchman slid the ball home past Cerny to finally get the Arsenal fans on their feet and away from their prawn sandwiches.
This did not dampen the spirits of the R's players and we continued to press on and try to get back in the game.
Taarabt forced a superb fingertip save from Szcznesy when he tried his luck from 25 yards out.
The R's kept believing and kept on attacking the Arsenal full backs but none of the crosses were reaching any Rangers' players in the box. Even with the substitutions of Campbell, Smith and Orr we just were not able to breakthrough the Arsenal back four.
Gervinho's introduction for Arsenal provided a threat that they never had before his entrance to the game and if they had his attacking threat then the game could've been very different.
Szcznesy's inciting of the crowd minutes from the end of the game really did not help the mood of the travelling fans as he shouted towards the R's fans "Arsenal.... blah blah blah", I'll be honest I cannot remeber his exact words but it definitely riled many of the travelling fans.......... idiot!

As you can probably see by the summary that there is a lot of frustration from this "performance" by the referee Martin Atkinson. He and his assistants were poor and biased towards the "bigger team". These kind of refereeing performances are often spoken about where the smaller teams visiting one of the "top 4 clubs" and receive nothing at all whilst favouring the big club. However there was not only that bias towards Arsenal but also the amount of dodgy decisions given to Arsenal when we had clearly won corners and throw in's is unbelievable! None of them were even close and just shows how corrupt things can be at times.
Today was a great day out and enjoyed by us all, its a shame that with 60,000 people in a stadium that not much atmosphere is created by the home side, it really is like a library in there and in all fairness our away support was not the best I've ever heard, maybe because there were quite a few people that got tickets that meant other fans that usually travel away missed out on getting tickets. I wonder if there will be such a high demand for tickets when we travel to Aston Villa, Blackburn and Bolton?? Probably not!
The stadium is fantastic and even walking around it at the end was impressive and definitely sets the standard to other new grounds out there being built.

As we finished looking around the stadium and were about to leave after taking our final photos, Lofty was stopped by an Arsenal fan that had clearly never been to The Emirates before and asked for his photo to be taken with the ground behind him. After kindly obliging to this the fan had the cheek to tell Lofty that he wanted his photo re-taken as he did not like it, cheeky git!
Having finally given the tourist fan the photo he was after, we made our way to the bridge only to be obstructed by even more tourist fans looking for their picture of the day that they visited The Emirates for the first (and probably last) time.
I just hope that in a few years time and we have a new ground that we will be proud of, we never get that kind of following, it's inevitable that it will happen but I hope the hardcore base that we do have amongst us will make up the majority of the crowd.

Our Man of the Match was again very closely contested between three players.
One vote went to Armand Traore who was superb on his return to Arsenal, he defended excellently and his attacking presence was always troubling Arsenal. With two votes was Adel Taarabt. Taarabt was superb all game, he tracked back and was a constant thorn in Arsenal's side all afternoon. However with three votes and gaining the majority vote is Shaun Wright-Phillips. Despite his one error that cost us the gosl (even though it came from us not being awarded a corner), the rest of the game he showed his class and this came from us actually passing the ball to his feet rather than lumping high balls up to him. If we can continue to use SWP to his strengths then we will see the best of him in 2012.

Arsenal: Szczesny, Mertesacker, Vermaelen (Coquelin 54), Koscielny, Arteta, Van Persie, Walcott (Gervinho 74), Ramsey, Song, Djourou, Arshavin (Rosicky 67).

Subs: Almunia, Oxlade-Chamberlin, Chamakh, Benayoun.

Goals: van Persie (60)

Bookings: Vermaelen (37), Djourou (40)

QPR: Cerny, Gabbidon, Taarabt, Bothroyd (Campbell 74), Faurlin, Mackie (Smith 64), Traore (Orr 77), Connolly, Barton, Young, Wright-Phillips.

Subs: Murphy, Hill, Derry, Helguson.

Bookings: Barton (27), Young (54)

Referee: Mr M Atkinson

Attendance: 60,076

Happy New Year to You All!!!! Hope you have a great 2012!!!!!

U R'SSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mackie stops the Swans from flying away

2011-12-27T23:36:00.003Z

After suffering the disappointing defeat to Sunderland just five days ago the R's were aiming to bounce back against Swansea at the Liberty Stadium.
The R's have never won or even scored a goal at the Liberty so getting any kind of result looked to be an uphill task.
As always the Lofty Heights gang were in attendance.

The day started early for myself and Jess as we hit the road at 11 in Surrey as we made our way to pick up Sam and Luke from Henley and finally got onto the M4 at 2pm. It was at this time that we realised that the kick off was at 5pm and not at 5.30pm as we all thought! Uh-oh!! Now we was in a race against time to get to Swansea in time for kick off as the traffic in Bristol was a nightmare! With Jenson, Lofty and Smithy ahead of us on the motorway we were provided with the updates needed to ensure we arrived in time.
We finally arrived at our destination with 25 minutes to spare and a 15 minute walk to the stadium ahead of us and a poor Lorna who was awaiting our arrival as we had her ticket with us, we were only an hour late!
We promptly made our way into the ground and straight up to our seats just in time to see the players walk out onto the pitch.

There were three changes from the side that lost on Wednesday. Fitz Hall, Clint Hill and Adel Taarabt took the place of Danny Gabbidon, Matt Connolly and Shaun Wright-Philips.

Rangers' started the game strongly with Taarabt pulling the strings early on. It wasn't long until the R's fashioned their first chance of the game with Mackie forcing a fine save from Vorm in the Swansea goal.
However our defensive frailties were soon exposed with the R's midfield and defence allowing Swansea to waltz towards Paddy Kenny's goal and with their first real effort on goal.
Routledge was allowed to run down the Swansea right and his ball was controlled by Graham, who with his back to goal managed to turn before curling in an accurate shot into the bottom corner with Kenny having no chance. Having seen the replays there are obvious shouts for handball as Graham controlled the ball from Routledge. Thats just the way its going for us at the moment!
Just moments after the restart Swansea had a chance to make it 2-0 when Williams headed just over from a corner.
Apart from a Barton shot that was expertly tipped over by Vorm on the 20 minute mark, there was a lack of pace and urgency about the R's. We seemed to be content with Swansea running at us and seemingly having not learned from the Carrick goal a few weeks ago we still allowed this to happen. However despite this, Hall was keeping tabs on Graham and did not give him much chance to crate many more problems.

At half time he gang got together to find out what goodies we all received for Christmas as well as discuss our views on what was not great viewing from those of us in the stands. Some inspiration, energy and movement was badly needed if we were going to cause any sort of problem for the Swansea defence.

Buoyed made what must've been a good talking to by Mr Warnock, the R's came out for the second half posing a lot more threat, urgency and even created some good chances.
Taarabt had the first chance of the half s he run at the Swansea defence before seeing his shot deflected just wide of the post.
However on 56 minutes the R's were back on level terms.
Kenny's long kick was headed backwards by Britton and past the Swansea central defenders into the path of Jamie Mackie. Mackie took control of the ball before side-footing the ball through Vorm's legs into the back of the net!
Finally the R's fans found their voices having previously been drowned out by what was a buoyant home crowd over in the corner by our fans.
Mackie was determined to grab some of the morning headlines himself as he run through two Swansea defenders and just as he was going to pull the trigger he had theball nicked off of him.
On 73 minutes Swansea had very strong calls for a penalty, well I say strong calls, I mean a definite penalty waved away. Traore clumsily clattered into the back of Graham and flattened him, how a penalty was not given I will never know. But it wasn't and we have to be very very grateful of that!
Just after the penalty incident Faurlin and Taarabt combined with Taarabt unleashing an effort from 25 yards out which looked to be heading for the bottom corner but Vorm out stretched his left arm and just managed to tip the ball around the post.
The final 10 minutes went a bit stale with the R's looking to settle for an away point when we seemingly had Swansea on the ropes and we were looking to deliver the killer blow and become only the second team to take all three points away from the Liberty this season.

I must say that I walked away from the game today feeling quite disappointed that we did not try to take a much needed three points as we really looked as we had the opportunity to take advantage of a Swansea side that looked slightly short of confidence in the second half. Scott Sinclair was awful in my opinion and with Nathan Dyer being left on the bench until late in the second half, this was a chance to get a confidence boosting win under our belts ahead of our next "easy" game at Arsenal.
I just hope that this point proves to be a much needed one rather than two points that we should have gone searching for.

Man of the Match proved to be a difficult one for the gang as there were three players that received tonight's eight votes. Faurlin got two of those votes for a much improved second half performance and managed to have a greater influence on the game. Adel Taarabt got three votes for his majestic performance, creating much of the R's attacking threat and completed 51 of his 52 passes in the game. However getting the nod ahead of Taarabt despite also getting three votes but a "special mention" from a gang member swayed the decision in the favour of Sam's favourite player Fitz Hall, for his great performance in a back four that was previously shaky, Hall and Hill shored up the defence and restricted Swansea to few chances.

Swansea City: Vorm, Williams, Caulker, Britton, Graham, Sinclair, Routledge (Dyer 57), Rangel (Moore 57) Allen, Agustien, Richards.

Subs: Tremmel, Dobbie, Monk, Lita, Gower.

Goals: Graham (14)

Bookings: Richards (42)

QPR: Kenny, Hill, Derry, Hall, Taarabt, Faurlin, Mackie, Traore, Barton, Young, Helguson.

Subs: Cerny, Orr, Gabbidon, Bothroyd, Connolly, Smith, Wright-Phillips.

Goals: Mackie (57)

Bookings: Hill (35), Barton (65), Taarabt (90)

Referee: Mr L Probert

Attendance: 19,570

On our way back to the car we said goodbye to Lorna who was staying in South Wales for the evening and we made our way to a grub van in the industrial park.
As we were all waiting for our food to be cooked we were joined by Paddy Kenny's mum in the queue who herself had the same idea as us ahead of a long journey home. Having been introduced, Jess took centre stage and showed Mrs Kenny a signed photo that she has of him on her wall and even managed to say that she knew what car he drove whilst trying not to sound too stalker like. Mrs Kenny was very pleasant and very easy to talk to and hopefully we will be bumping into her at a few more away games this season, she will remember Jess that is for sure!

I will be back on New Years Eve(ish) for our report on the trip to the Emirates.

I will wish you all a Happy New Year now and I hope 2012 is as great as 2011 was for us all! Take care and be happy!

U R'SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wes Leaves Rangers Feeling Brown-ed Off...

2011-12-22T01:02:00.007Z

QPR 2-3 Sunderland

Sunderland threw away a two goal lead, before Wes Brown struck in the last minute to give the Black Cats, a not so lucky win at Loftus Road last evening.

With Rangers seemingly free falling towards the bottom three in the Premier League, many were calling this the biggest game of the season so far and there was no doubt, that three points would be vital for both sides.

A bit of a change to the routine for me personally. As I was off work, I took up Jenson's offer of a few beers in Paddington beforehand and joined him, plus Mark Banks, Paddington Trev and Craig. From there we hit the White Horse on the Uxbridge Road before making our way to the ground and arriving just before kick off. On arrival, we found that the rest of the gang were somewhat depleted with Corp and PK surprisingly missing, reasons unknown. California Hoop, out on an Xmas work do, somehow ended up in the School End Lower Tier for this one.

Onto the game and two changes were made from Sundays defeat against Man United - Shaun Derry came in for Bothroyd and Paddy Kenny returned to the R's goal, in place of Radek Cerny - the R's reverting back to the 4-2-3-1 system.

Rangers had the first chance of the game, but Shaun Derry headed harmlessly over from a corner. From there on in, the first half belonged to Sunderland as, inspired by the impressive Sessegnon, they completely over ran Rangers in the midfield - Bendtner hit the post early on with a header when in truth he really should have scored. But on 19 minutes, he made amends as he headed home unchallenged from a corner and the visitors were in front.

Just one minute later, Kieron Richardson went close with a 20 yard drive and Sessegnon's goalbound effort was blocked by Gabbidon on 37 minutes.

Onto the second half and Adel Taarabt was brought into the action, but somewhat surprisingly in place of Shaun Wright-Phillips, who was one of the few who starred for the R's in the first half. Rangers first real clear cut chance came on 51 minutes, when Helguson's close range header was cleared off the line. The missed chance proved extremely costly just a minute later - Sessegnon got on the end of Bendtner's flick on, went through on goal, easily sold Paddy Kenny a dummy before tapping home into an empty net.

Just as R's fans were giving up all hope, Rangers pulled a goal back and very much against the run of play - excellent work from Traore, found Faurlin who's dangerous low cross was bundled into the net by R's top scorer, Heidar Helguson.

The R's crowd were alive once more and just 4 minutes later, absolutely erupted - Faurlin's ball into the box was headed back across by Helguson, into the path of Jamie Mackie who's diving header flew into the net for his first goal of the season.

There was only one winner in this game now, or so it seemed...

The impressive, Adel Taarabt went close with a low drive on 68 minutes, but from there, Sunderland were starting to exploit the gaps and were breaking with pace as they had been throughout the evening - Gardner bringing the best out of Paddy Kenny on two occasions.

But just as the game was petering out into draw, which after the first half, R's fans would surely be happy with? - Wes Brown's near post header from a corner in the 89th minute found it's way into the roof of the net and Sunderland had stolen the victory.

QPR: Kenny, Derry, Gabbidon, Faurlin, Mackie, Traore (Hall 80), Connolly (Bothroyd 90), Barton, Young, Helguson, Wright-Phillips (Taarabt 46). Subs: Cerny, Hill, Campbell, Smith.

Man of the Match - with some extra voters this evening, we had single votes for Mackie, Helguson, Faurlin and Kenny. But with a massive 6 votes, it was in the end a landslide victory and a well deserved acolade for Adel Taarabt, who made such an impact when he came on in the second half.

Heartbroken? Frustrated? Disappointed? Either one of them led to R's fans feeling very flat after the result and dare I say, performance. It all led to the rest of the evenings festivities falling a bit flat as shortly after a very nice curry in the Goldhawk Road, we all headed for home. Shepherds Bush closing for business at midnight also didn't help matters...

Anyway, with two away games on the horizon, this is the last you will hear from me until the New Year now and the home game v Norwich. So I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS and a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Come on You R'ssssssssssss!!

The Devils Own Job for Rangers...

2011-12-18T18:00:00.003Z

QPR 0-2 Man United

Manchester United, temporarily went back to the top of the Premier League, after what I am sad to say, was a pretty comfortable 2-0 win at Loftus Road this lunchtime. At the time of writing, Man City have just beaten Arsenal and are back on top again.

With the lunchtime kick off, it was an unusually early start this morning and I left for Loftus Road at around 9.30am. Thankfully, it's also a pretty local game for Man United fans so at least they didn't have far to travel either.

The gang slowly but surely assembled, unfortunately minus Jenson today as a foot injury kept him home and watching in the warm. California Hoop, who has seemed to have gone awol, was also missing. But after missing out at Liverpool last week, it was great to see Sam making her first appearance at home since the birth of her twin boys. It has to be said that Motherhood is fully agreeing with Sam who was absolutely glowing!!

With it being so early and indeed, cold, having a drink wasn't a major priority and we were all in our seats in good time for kick off. The R's crowd were loud and proud and were out to try and unsettle the Champions, the 'Channel 5 on a Thursday night' chant particularly amusing.

Personally, I had a gut feeling that Rangers could turn cause an upset today, but after just 52 seconds of the game, I was thinking that maybe this gut feeling was something dodgy I had eaten as Man United took the lead - Wayne Rooney lost his marker in the box and headed home Valencia's cross. He didn't make the best of connections with the header and perhaps his new, expensive hair transplant, weave or whatever it is, helped the ball on it's way past Cerny in the R's goal.

United were well on top early doors as Rangers seemed nervous and maybe in awe of their formiddable opponents, but Rangers were slowly starting to dig in. Wright-Phillips shot over the bar and maybe Helguson should have done better with Barton's set piece delivery, heading just wide. On 18 minutes, Mackie teed up Bothroyd who again, should have done better but fired over.

On 28 minutes, Johnny Evans struck the Rangers bar with a close range header and two minutes later, Evans was through on goal but Cerny was equal to the task once more, saving superbly. As United piled on the pressure, Cerny had to be at his best once again and pulled off a quite astonishing save, denying Danny Welbeck.

Rangers responded and Helguson saw his shot saved by the legs of De Gea and Bothroyd blasted the rebound over. More frustration followed just before half time as Bothroyd's cross was just that little bit to quick for the on-rushing Jamie Mackie, who had a superb half.

Onto the second half and it was an almost carbon copy of the first, but this time Rooney fired straight at Cerny. Unfortunately, on 55 minutes, it was 2-0 and practically, game over - Michael Carrick intercepted Barton's awful pass and advanced unchallenged towards the area before scoring with a low drive.

It was simply all United now and Neil Warnock made the changes - Taarabt replacing SWP and DJ Campbell, replacing Helguson, much to the annoyance of the home crowd who for the first time this season, showed their displeasure at one of Warnock's decisions.

United continued to press and Jones smashed the Rangers post on 65 minutes, but Rangers were slowly getting back into things with Taarabt looking extremely hungry. It was Taarabt thar provided the R's best chance on 70 minutes, crossing superbly to find Campbell, who put the ball over from 6 yards out when it seemed easier to score.

Despite a late half chance from Clint Hill, United remained in control and cantered over the line to a victory that put the Champions back to the top of the league.

QPR: Cerny, Gabbidon, Bothroyd, Faurlin, Mackie, Traore, Connolly, Barton, Young, Helguson (Campbell 66), Wright-Phillips (Taarabt 66). Subs: Kenny, Orr, Hill, Derry, Smith.

Man of the Match - wasn't overly difficult today and despite a few half shouts for Mackie, Gabbidon and Young, everyone was firmly agreed on Radek Cerny, for another superb display in the R's goal.

In summary, although it's a defeat to the current Premier League Champions, I can't help but feel a little bit flat as I feel we didn't really get in their faces much, like in previous matches against Chelsea and Man City - and as mentioned, at times we seemed in awe of Man United. But some of the visitors play was quite superb at times and at the end of the day, we were well beaten by a much better team.

I will return shortly after Wednesday's important game at home to Sunderland, but in the meantime....

Come on You R'sssssss!!!

Luis the Rat Hits Back.

2011-12-11T00:45:00.002Z

Today the Lofty Heights gang took to the road on the long trip to Merseyside for the second time this season, this time to visit Anfield. Would Warnock's charge's bounce back from last weeks frustrating draw against West Brom? Or would it be Liverpool that bounced back from their 1-0 defeat at Fulham on Monday night?
We were about to find out.

The gang left in two cars this morning with Luke, Jess and the returning Sam, making her comeback just over two weeks after giving birth to Noah and Louie, in my car. Joining Jenson was Lofty, PK, Smithy and Jo G.
The trip to Liverpool started off very smoothly up until we reached the final hour of the journey when the M6 became very stop/start and quite frustrating. However I arrived at Anfield with Jess, Sam and Luke at about 1.30 and claimed the final parking space in the Stanley Park car park.
We made our way to the Lower Anfield Road Stand and met up with Iceman, Lorna, Jack and Zack for a catch up and arriving with Sam came as a complete surprise to them as no-one had expected her to make the comeback s quickly.
Jenson and the gang finally arrived at Anfield on time, however the two parties never got a chance to meet up before kick off.

Neil Warnock was dealt with a huge blow before the game as Heidar Helguson completely missed the game with no-one really aware as to why the in-form R's striker was not even on the bench. Tommy Smith returned to the starting line up for the first time since the Wigan game at the end of August.
On a more positive note, both DJ Campbell and Matt Connolly returned to the bench after both overcoming injuries that have plagued them for the last few months.

At the start of proceedings the traditional Liverpool 'You'll Never Walk Alone' rendition was sung out by the home faithful, it was quite something to experience............... however where the Liverpool fans went after singing that is a mystery! The game was to be played in a library with 3,000 QPR fans doing everything they could to wake up the scousers and ruin their afternoon nap.

The first half was not the greatest spectacle in the world and as you would expect the R's were taking no risks and playing a safe game. Very few chances were created by the visitors so it was up to Liverpool to make the most of things.
Some of the passing by the home team was impressive at times and with some one touch football created a lot of space in the final third.
Suarez was guilty of missing three fantastic opportunities in the first half as he headed straight at Cerny, scuffed a shot wide when it was harder to miss the target and then again proving to be wasteful when put through on goal.
Maxi wasted Liverpool's best chance of the game as he was put through one on one with Cerny but the 37 year old veteran managed to oil down his joints with WD40 before the game and get down very quickly to push the ball wide before Traore cleared the danger.

As we enjoyed half time in a cramped concourse for a brief period of time, I seeked the opinion of a Liverpool fan that I previously worked with and knew that they were in attendance. He said to me that the R's fans were great, very noisy and very funny! Especially with the banter being hurled at Jonjo Shelvey, who was a sub warming up for Liverpool in front of the R's fans, with the R's fans singing "Jonjo Shelvey, he looks like ET". Jamie Carragher enjoyed it almost as much as what we did and ust showed the good humour being shared by the travelling R's fans.

The second half started and for the first time in the afternoon the R's fans sat down and just as everyone had sat down it was the Liverpool fans that were getting out of their seats.
Rangers' cleared a Charlie Adam corner only as far as the Scottish International and his second cross found Luis Suarez unmarked and four yards out to finally hit the target and put the hosts in front. For the first time since 14.59 we heard the Liverpool fans actually sing, it only lasted 3 minutes but at least they bothered to make an effort!
The R's were dealt with yet another blow as Anton Ferdinand limped off just two minutes after the goal. Ferdinand appeared to be clutching his hamstring as he left the field. The injury came as he skipped over a challenge from Adam and then fell to the floor as the tweak occurred. In all fairness it did look as if he had been taken out by a sniper at the back of The Kop.
Rangers' pushed Liverpool after the goal and with DJ Campbell coming on for Tommy Smith, we finally had a front man to link up with Jay Bothroyd.
The R's enjoyed their best spell of the game yet not creating any clear cut opportunities. There were two half hearted penalty appeals by the R's when Bothroyd appeared to be tripped and then right at the end Skrtel kicked Faurlin in the chest, from our angle, yet we were awarded nothing and Skrtel aggressively stood over Faurlin yelling at him whilst the ref allowed him to do so. Obviously the Liverpool players and fans have short memories as it was Suarez and Johnson that went down in the box very easily in the first half in a desperate attempt to break the deadlock. Suarez continuously fell to his knees during the game, in fact I think he spent more time getting on his knees than one of the girls down the local scouse brothel.

All in all you have to say that Liverpool were deserving of their victory because some of their play at times was superb. Cerny was in fine form and pulled off a number of fantastic saves, including one in the second half were he was going one way and had to dive in the opposite direction to tip the ball onto the post and keep the R's in the game.

Onto Man of the Match. This was a completely unanimous vote amongst everyone in the gang with Radek Cerny gaining a clean sweep for his fantastic performance in the R's goal.

Liverpool: Reina, Johnson, Agger, Skrtel, Enrique, Downing, Adam, Henderson, Maxi (Bellamy 78), Kuyt, Suarez.

Subs: Doni, Carroll, Coates, Carragher, Kelly.

Goals: Suarez (47)

Bookings: Bellamy (85)

QPR: Cerny, Gabbidon, Bothroyd, Faurlin, Mackie (Hill 78), Traore, Barton, Young, Smith (Campbell 66), Wright-Phillips, Ferdinand (Orr 50).

Subs: Putnins, Derry, Buzsaky, Connolly.

Referee: Mr L Mason

Attendance: 45,016

The gang all departed in there two groups and unfortunately never managed to hook up at any part of the afternoon. I'm sure that the other car do have some separate stories that are well worthy of sharing on here. The only thing I will show you from Jenson's car is the view that Jo G had in her severely restricted view seat during the first half when all of the R's fans were standing up, one piece of advice............... NEVER buy thiese tickets if you ever get the chance to........

Lofty will be back next week for the next easy fixture we have.... Man United at home!

It's ta'ra fromme until after Christmas now so I wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and I will be back for the Swansea fixture.

U R'SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A Game of What If's....

2011-12-03T23:34:00.011Z

QPR 1-1 West Brom

QPR were denied their second home win of the season by a Shane Long goal 9 minutes from time, in a game that should have been long put to bed beforehand at Loftus Road.

This report is brought to you in association with Stadium Wireless ;)

It's been a month since our last home game and it was great to get back to Loftus Road. Myself and Jenson were the first on the scene but were soon joined by PK, Luke and Corp at the Springbok for our pre match. Unfortunately, we didn't see Lee and Jess as they were bringing in last season's lucky charm, Little Jack for his first taste of Premier League football.

We were all in the ground and in our seats in good time to pay our respects to the late Gary Speed, following his tragic death last week. A minutes applause was a very fitting tribute, as well as around the other grounds in the country - Rest in Peace, Gary Speed.

It was obvious from the players on the field that a good few of them had endorsed new boot deals, as well as a certain member of the Upper Loft close to us who had obviously endorsed a certain mens hair product, which caused much amusement to us all...

Onto the game and although Rangers started the brighter, Albion had the first chance but Morrison's effort was easily claimed by Cerny. Rangers hit back immediately with half chances for Wright-Phillips and Barton.

On 22 minutes, the R's were in front - Jamie Mackie wriggled into the box but was blocked by the Albion defence. The ball fell kindly to Joey Barton who chipped to the far post to find Heidar Helguson, who headed home his 6th of the season.

Three minutes later and Loftus Road erupted again - Wright-Phillips collected Faurlin's superb pass and smashed home an unstoppable drive on the half volley, only for the linesman to flag for offside. I deliberately delayed writing this report until I had seen it on Match of the Day, which proved that SWP was clearly onside and the goal should have stood.

Although West Brom were playing some neat football, Rangers were defending superbly and went in at the break deservedly in front. At half time, myself and some of the gang went down to the Lower Loft concourse to check on the half time scores as we had been unable to do so during the game, due to it being impossible to gain internet access in the Stadium, as it is with most of the grounds in this country. Hopefully, this will soon be a thing of the past due to (another shameless plug), Stadium Wireless. Visit www.stadiumwireless.co.uk for more details...

Onto the second half and following a pretty weak penalty appeal from Albion, Rangers could and should have made it two. Joey Barton battled hard to win the ball which fell to Helguson, who then teed up Barton, who side footed the ball agonisingly wide with Foster beaten and the goal gaping.

The chances continued to come for the R's and another golden chance went begging - Traore managed to nick the ball from a hesitant Foster, to get past the Albion stopper and at the byline, teed up Shaun Wright-Phillips who hit the shot into the ground and again, agonisingly wide with the goal gaping. In fairness to SWP, the ball from Traore wasn't the best. At this point, you just couldn't help but wonder if the missed chances were going to cost us and Albion were certainly beginning to get more and more into the match.

Chris Brunt's long range drive went just wide, but on 81 minutes, the Baggies were level - the Albion defence broke down a Rangers attack and broke away like lightning - Morrison fed Odemwingie on the left, who crossed to the far post to find Shane Long who tapped the ball home and earned Albion a point which in honesty, they really shouldn't have got.

QPR: Cerny, Gabbidon, Bothroyd (Buzsaky 74), Faurlin, Mackie, Traore, Barton, Young, Helguson, Wright-Phillips, Ferdinand. Subs: Putnins, Orr, Hill, Derry, Taarabt, Smith.

Man of the Match - once again, divided amongst the gang. Corp and Lee went for the once again impressive, Traore, whilst there was one vote apiece for Jamie Mackie and Luke Young, from Jenson and Jess respectively. But with 3 votes from myself, PK and the casting vote going to Little Jack, today's winner is Heidar Helguson.

In summary, you just couldn't help but be disappointed not to win this game and had the linesman got the Shaun Wright-Phillips decision correct, I'm sure it would have been 3 points. But it was not to be and it was again a reminder of the harsh lessons you have to learn if you don't take your chances in the Premier League. West Brom are now a well established Premier League team and battled hard for their point, credit to them for that.

Lofty Heights will be in strong force for next weeks much awaited trip to Anfield as the R's take on Liverpool. Lee will return with one of his legendary away reports as per usual but until then...

Come on You R'sssssssssss!!!!!

Stadium Wireless....

2011-12-01T22:30:00.007Z

Lofty Heights is delighted to recommend to you, our very own, Jenson's latest venture... I talk from experience when trying to log on to the internet, to check on accumulators and other scores etc. whilst watching my beloved R's this season, has been a complete nightmare. This could all change as today, Stadium Wireless has gone live....

From the website: http://www.stadiumwireless.co.uk/

Sports Fans, now enjoy the ability to use your Smartphone to share your passion, catch up on other scores, keep track of and place bets on game outcomes and stream video - all in an instant through a powerful Wi-Fi service installed in participating Stadiums throughout the UK. Stadium Wireless gives you the ability to enjoy all this freedom, in all participating stadiums, from just £2 per month.

Stadium Owners, give your loyal fans the tools they need to maximise their enjoyment factor from attending matches are your stadium. Stadium wireless offers stadiums free installation and no additional costs. We will even give you and your staff free access. Our bespoke Wi-Fi solution is fully supported requiring no involvement on your behalf.

Basic Package : Get standard wifi on your device and up to 500Mb of download allowance. Get instant access to your social media websites and betting websites for fast in-play betting.

Premium Package : Get premium, faster wifi on your device and an unlimited download allowance. Gain full access to all your favourites websites, download videos in an instant and enjoy live video streaming from Sky Go and ESPN Goals.

A great idea I am sure you will agree. Check out the above website. Stadium Wireless can also be found on facebook - http://www.facebook.com/stadiumwireless

and twitter - @stadiumwireless

Lofty Heights wishes Jenson every success with this new, exciting venture!!

Can Holt be any more annoying?

2011-11-26T20:23:00.003Z

Today the R's travelled to Norwich in search of a second away win on the spin. Could we beat our fellow promoted side or would we carry on our terrible record at Carrow Road.
The Lofty Heights gang were there as always.

The journey started at 10.40 in a cold Henley as we took to the road and had the three hour journey ahead of us.
The most exciting part of the drive, apart from the three pitstops we made, was as we approached Snetterton Race Track and a pheasant run out into the middle of the road, upon realising that it would not reach the other side it decided to run back but before it could make it back there I was going at 80mph to make the tackle and create a mass pile of feathers and a lovely dinner for any roadkill lovers. In my defence I had no-where else to go as a car was alongside me, the pheasant had to go.
Also on our journey, Sam sent all of us a picture of her beautiful newborn twins Noah and Louie. Congratulations Sam and we can't wait to have you back on the road with us asap.
We arrived in Norwich just before two and made our way on the ten minute walk down the Carrow Road.
We met Lofty, Jenson and Trevor at 2.30 and promptly made our way into the ground, grabbing a quick word with Michael and also Matt before we went on the uphill trek to the back of the Jarrold Stand.

Rangers' were rocked with the news that Paddy Kenny is now going to be missing for eight weeks due to a calf injury. Radek Cerny, the R's third choice goalkeeper, made his first start of the season.
Joey Barton missed out through suspension, his replacement was Shaun Derry.
These were the only two changes from last weeks starting eleven.

One word can sum up the first half, rubbish.
The game had 0-0 written all over it until Russell Marton popped up to put the ball home after the R's failed to clear Norwich's corner from the left side.
The R's lacked movement and urgency throughout the half but in all fairness Norwich really did not do anything to take advantage of that.

At half time the group gathered downstairs and all shared the same views that Rangers' were poor and we needed a creative touch to link up the midfield and front line because it just wasn't happening for us.

The R's took to the field in the second half with an air of authority and started the half the more positive of the two teams.
Rangers had a stonewall penalty turned away when Shaun Wright-Phillips was pulled down in the area not once but twice as he attempted to turn and get away his shot, which eventually dribbled a mile wide of the target. How this was not given I do not know! Maybe pay back for getting away with a definite penalty that should have been given for Stoke last week?
On 57 minutes Jay Bothroyd entered the fray, replacing Clint Hill.
This meant Armand Traore returned to his usual position of left back, Wright-Phillips went to the left wing and Bothroyd joined Helguson up front.
Within two minutes the change produced a goal.
Bothroyd flicked the ball onto Mackie and the Scottish International charged at the Norwich defence before unleashing a low drive that evaded the outstretched Ruddy, only to see the ball cannon off the inside of the post and back into play where Luke Young was on hand to coolly stroke the ball home. Such a composed finish by the right back for his second goal in two games.
Rangers' were in the ascendancy and there only looked like one side where going to get the next goal, however that was not to be!
Grant Holt and Wes Hoolahan were introduced to spice things up for Norwich and within a minute there was an earthquake in Norwich............Grant Holt hit the deck when he wasn't even touched.
Seconds later Morison somehow danced through the R's defence with incredible ease and lofted a cross to the unmarked Grant Holt and he thought he'd put the hosts in front, however Luke Young was on hand to clear off the line and keep the scores level.
Just a minute later and Norwich once again found so much space on the right hand side and Hoolahan's cross was met by Grant Holt, who bundled the ball in off his belly. Having said that Holt did sneak inbetween Ferdinand and Gabbidon to put the ball away. Cerny could've quite easily claimed the ball on his six yard line, all round poor marking by our defence.
Rangers' went on to make two further changes with Buzsaky and Smith coming on for Derry and Wright-Phillips.
The R's continued to be the more dominant side and had a whole host of chances to draw level with Buzsaky and Faurlin skying their efforts and Helguson missed the best chance of the lot when he headed wide from a few yards out at the back post.

This is a game we could easily of won had we played better in the first half and defended better for both the Norwich goals.
Bothroyd made a great difference when he came on and linked up the midfield and front line superbly. This enabled Mackie to have more of an influence on the game and we created our best chances when that substitution was made.
Luke Young has to be singled out once again for a great goal when he found himself in a position you really would not expect him to be in. He attacked the right wing with Mackie and created all sorts of trouble for Norwich. Not only that, he defensively played well and cleared one off the line when it seems a certainty that Holt would make it 2-1.

We move onto Man of the Match. Jay Bothroyd received one vote from myself for his contribution and movement that gave us added impetus throughout the second half when he was on the pitch. One vote went to Luke Young, Jess nominated him for all of the reasons given above and also for the second week in a row she won £18 for placing an each way bet on Young to score, is this the way forwards?
However with four votes this weeks Man of the Match award goes to Jamie Mackie. His work rate and the way he constantly harassed the Norwich defence just epitomised what he is all about. He was unlucky not to score but can claim the assist to our equaliser today.

Norwich City: Ruddy, R. Martin, Johnson, Morison, Crofts, Jackson (Holt 70), Surman, Pilkington (Hoolahan 70), Barnett, Tierney, De Laet (Naughton 58).

Subs: Rudd, Fox, Bennett, Wilbraham.

Goals: Martin (15), Holt (73)

Bookings: Naughton (87)

QPR: Cerny, Hill (Bothroyd 57), Derry (Buzsaky 78), Gabbidon, Faurlin, Mackie, Traore, Young, Helguson, Wright-Phillips, Ferdinand.

Subs: Putnins, Orr, Hall, Puncheon.

Goals: Young (59)

Referee: Mr M Clattenburg

Attendance: 26,781

Helguson Drives Stoke Potty.

2011-11-19T20:47:00.005Z

Today the R's got back on the road after the International break and faced a tricky trip to Stoke. Stoke were coming back after a heavy 5-0 defeat at Bolton last time around, whereas Rangers' were returning after a fantastic couple of performances against Chelsea, Spurs and Man City. A fantastic game was in prospect and the Lofty Heights gang took to the road in full force.

Jenson, along with Lofty and Smithy took to the road at roughly the same time as Jess, PK, Luke and myself as we headed north to the Potteries.
Just 35 minutes into the journey up the M40, Jenson's unmistakable Black car was whizzing up behind my car at about 130mph, I took evasive action and promptly got out of his way before taking my place in the following car as Jenson lead the way on what was a smooth journey for the remainder of the M40, M42 and M6 before arriving at the Britannia Stadium just before 2pm.
On the short walk to the ground we all checked on the progress on Lofty's Movember 'handlebar'tache, its all for a good cause and he has raised over £500 for charity, great work by Lofty!
After a quick burger outside the ground we made our way in and picked up a few more refreshments, it was a rare occasion that no-one from the gang enjoyed a light alcoholic refreshment. A few cheeky bets were placed as we all shared views with Michael and Debbie before Iceman made his entrance in the Britannia and enlightened us with his usual light humour. Richard and Sophie were the last of the gang to arrive before we all took our seats ahead of kick off.

When we received the team news there were a few shocks that arose, both of which were unexpected.
Jay Bothroyd missed out through injury, Clint Hill was his replacement. Due to this change Armand Traore took his place at left wing and Shaun Wright-Phillips supported Heidar Helguson up front.
Also, in the warm up the R's were rocked as Brian Murphy picked up an ankle injury and was stretched off the field, leaving the R's with no substitute goalkeeper for this fixture.

As the game started the Britannia erupted into their usual rendition of 'Delilah'. I must say it was very impressive and the atmosphere on the back of this made for what could've been an intimidating day in Stoke.
After eight minutes the R's found themselves a goal behind after a nervy start to the game.
Joey Barton was dispossessed in midfield by former R's striker Peter Crouch. Crouch then played a perfect through ball to Jonathan Walters and the former Ipswich striker placed his shot beautifully into the opposite bottom corner, with Paddy Kenny having no chance of reaching the shot.
Walters run off to the far corner to celebrate with the Stoke fans with his rather impressive Movemeber 'handlebar' tache that he has grown.
Stoke were having the better of the exchanges but the R's were slowly beginning to get a hold of the game and on the 22nd minute the balance of power evened out.
Armand Traore put in a perfectly flighted ball into the penalty area and the giant 5ft 10 Heidar Helguson expertly rose and put a bullet header into the top corner of the net! You wont see a better header for quite some time!
This settled Rangers' and the smart pass and move flowing football that we are becoming used to under Neil Warnock.
the R's kept pushing and probing Stoke's defence and got their just rewards a minute before the break.
Mackie and Wright-Phillips played a great one-two with each other which let Mackie free and he drove into the Stoke penalty area with a seemingly great opportunity to shoot and force a save out of Sorensen in the Stoke goal, instead Mackie unselfishly cut the ball back to the advancing Luke Young and his shot hit the roof of the net!
Cue the mad celebration from all the R's fans, especially Jess! Jess placed an each way bet on Young to score first at 50/1, hence why she was ecstatic to see her favourite player, marginally behind Paddy Kenny, score his first goal for the R's.

Rangers' entered the half time interval worthy of their 2-1 lead and the 1,300 travelling support went into the break extremely with how the half went and looking forward to a second half of a similar kind of outcome.
Just before we returned to our seats we had a quick catch up with Jo(who had missed the R's second goal) and Matt and then got to our seats two minutes into the half.

Rangers' started the half just as they finished the first and within nine minutes of the restart a third goal arrived.
Barton's corner was cleared but only as far as the R's captain and Barton's left wing cross was gratefully received by Helguson, who in turn poked home his second goal of the game.
Four minutes later Helguson thought he had grabbed a hat-trick. Young's shot was blocked and fell into the path of Wright-Phillips and his shot hit the post before Helguson tapped home the rebound. Unfortunately for the Iceland International he was adjudged to be offside.
By now the Stoke fans were extremely riled by a refereeing performance that in all fairness was very poor but this was clearly affecting the team, Tony Pulis was moaning about everything including time wasting, despite at one point his own player taking an extended amount of time over a free kick.
Stoke grabbed a second goal on 64 minutes.
Etherington's corner was met by Crouch and Shawcross was on hand to apply the finishing touch from a yard out.
From that moment on Stoke huffed and puffed, moaned and groaned but just could not break the R's defence despite creating some good chances in what was a nail biting final ten minutes.

The final result was well deserved as the R's controlled two thirds of the match, with Stoke enjoying a good 20 minute spell at the start and the end of this fixture.
The concentration and quality of the R's play was a joy to watch at times and you can really see this team gelling and maturing with every game. Paddy Kenny only had one save to make all game and the only other contributions from Kenny were clearances and picking the ball out of the net twice.
Helguson was immense up front, with Traore unplayable down the left wing and causing all sorts of trouble for the Stoke defence. Mackie's work rate was also second to none and it will only be a matter of time before he returns to the scoresheet for the R's.

We make our way onto Man of the Match now. We have several nominations for this one today. Jess has put forward Luke Young for a great display and goal before being off due to injury. Mackie and Barton were superb, they worked and battled throughout the whole ninety minutes.
Heidar Helguson was superb once again and was deserving of his two goals, the header was an absolute peach!
However our Man of the Match today is a unanimous decision in the camp with Alejandro Faurlin claiming the title with an fantastic controlling performance in the R's midfield. Faurlin has really matured and is enjoying life in the Premier League and is controlling the R's midfield in a Xavi like way, Faurlin rarely gives the ball away and is always at the heart out most of the R's play. What a brilliant player!

After queuing for about half an hour to get out of the car park, we finally got on the road and had a really easy drive home. Both cars arrived home safely at their destinations at 7.45 this evening.

Bring on the next trip to Norwich next Saturday!!

U R'SSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rangers and City Light The Fuse for Fireworks at Loftus Road...

2011-11-05T22:22:00.013Z

QPR 2-3 Man City

League Leaders, Man City's unbeaten start to the season continued, but they were pushed all the way by a superb performance, full of heart, passion and desire from QPR and edged a thrilling encounter at Loftus Road this evening.

I have to be honest, out of our last 3 games, this was the one I dreaded the most. Make no mistake, Multi Million Pound Man City are an awesome team and formidable opposition as many teams have found out already this season with City also, averaging 4 goals per game. I think even the most optimistic of R's fans could see nothing but a heavy defeat this evening. The views were also shared by the gang that assembled at the Springbok, including friends of Jenson, Mark and Greg. At this point, may I just thank everyone who generously sponsored me in my efforts to grow a moustache for the very worthy, 'Movember' Charity. As you could see, there was not much on display today after just 5 days growth, but I am fully expecting some mickey taking come the Stoke away game in 2 weeks time.

Onto the game and Rangers started superbly. Playing in the same 4-4-2 formation that gave Spurs so many problems in the second half last week, Rangers attacked from the off and showed no fear of their high flying opponents. There were half chances for Helguson, before Anton Ferdinand perhaps should have done better from Helguson's superb header across the face of goal.

Rangers were deservedly ahead on 28 minutes, after a dubious free kick decision went our way, Joey Barton delivered a pin point cross onto the head of Jay Bothroyd that gave Hart no chance in the City goal - cue massive celebrations in 3 sides of the ground and also led to a moment I will never forget at football. After the initial goal celebrations, myself, Jenson, Mark, PK, Corp and Lee all turned around to face the other way, put our arms around eachothers shoulders and bounced up and down -doing the Poznan - a celebration that Man City fans have adopted following their Europa League tie with Lech Poznan a couple of seasons ago. Great fun and a light hearted dig at the Man City fans after taking the lead. Minutes later, thousands of others in had joined us and was a great sight to see.

Everyone thought this would prompt a response from City but it was Rangers that continued to attack - Joe Hart saved Jamie Mackie's long range shot and Helguson's headed follow up - although the latter was offside - before Bothroyd hit the post with another header.

But these missed chances proved costly as City drew level 2 minutes before the break - Milner found Dzeko, who cut inside, remained patient, before firing a low drive into the corner of the net. Unfortunately, we now were seeing the Poznan in full effect from City's fans. But during the interval, R's fans were buzzing about the game as a whole and just how well the team were playing.

Rangers started the second half brightly with Barton forcing a decent save from Joe Hart. But it was City that made the second half breakthrough - City broke like lightning and Dzeko's low ball into the centre, found Silva who's superb first touch took him past two R's defenders, before lashing the ball home.

Dzeko and Aguero both had great chances as City looked to put the game to bed. But on 69 minutes, it was the R's fans that were celebrating once more - Traore's low cross was miscued by Savic into the path of Bothroyd, who's goalbound bullet header was helped on it's way by Helguson on the goal line, as the ball hit the back of his head and flew in.

Sadly, just 5 minutes later, Yaya Toure put City back in front, beating Anton Ferdinand to Kolarov's dangerous ball in.

Despite the setback, Rangers still refused to lie down and were almost level again on 82 minutes - Barton's free kick was met by a great leap from Helguson, who saw his header come back of the bar and cleared to safety. Rangers continued to press in the final stages and it was a great compliment, that Mancini sacrificed a striker for a defender as Toure came on to help City stand firm and hold on for the 3 points.

QPR: Kenny, Gabbidon, Bothroyd (Puncheon 77), Faurlin, Mackie (Smith 84), Traore (Hill 90), Barton, Young, Helguson, Wright-Phillips, Ferdinand. Subs: Murphy, Orr, Derry, Andrade.

Man of the Match - Unanimous in the end but not without plenty of contenders. I opted for Anton Ferdinand, Mark chose Joey Barton with Jenson going for Shaun Wright-Phillips. Jess's choice was Heidar Helguson and to be honest, you couldn't argue with any of the above. But with 3 votes from Lee, PK and Corp,this weeks award goes to Ali Faurlin, who absolutely bossed the midfield!!

I could try and summarise this game in depth but would still be writing at this time tomorrow. It was a sensational game of football, the best I have seen this season and despite defeat, Rangers best performance of the season and dare I say, we look so much more like a team when Adel Taarabt doesn't play. That of course is open for discussion. As already mentioned, Man City are an awesome side but we more than matched them, their extensive firepower the only difference between the sides.

This performance led to Rangers gaining some much deserved credit. Man City striker, Edin Dzeko stated after the game on ESPN :

"I must say, they are the best team we have played against this season and I want to pay compliments to Queens Park Rangers."

Also, on tonight's Match of the Day, Alan Hansen said in his summary of the game:

'I feel sorry for QPR, because they were brilliant!!'

Finally, due to the lack of TV camera action today, Jenson turned his attention to radio and had a brief chat with Stan Collymore on Talksport after the game.

Lee will return in 2 weeks time as we travel to Stoke but in the mean time...

BELIEVE!!

And Come on You R'sssssssssssssssssss!!!!

Rangers' show plenty of Hart at the Lane.

2011-10-30T21:08:00.002Z

The R's faithful made the short trip up to North London for the trip to Spurs today in what was our second London Derby in a week. Could Rangers' spring another upset? We were about to find out.

The day started very early for some on the R's fans as they completed a walk from Loftus Road to White Hart Lane for the Tiger Cubs, a fantastic bit of charity work by the fans and hopefully they raised plenty of money for the cause.
For the Lofty Heights gang though we took to the road at 12.15 with myself and Jess driving to PK's house to meet with him and Jenson. We met shortly after 12.30 and made our way to Wembley were we met up with Lofty at the Ace Cafe on the North Circular and then begun our journey along the roadwork filled North Circular and A10.
We arrived in Tottenham at roughly 2pm and parked along the red routeway, quite a lucky spot by PK and Jenson as that meant we could avoid paying the extortionate parking fee of £15 in one of the matchday car parks.
We made the 10 minute walk down to the ground and as we reached the road of the supporters entrance we had two lots of Sky cameras flashed on the gang as we walked past, Jenson gave the camera a fist pump and Lofty shouted "Come on you R's" as we walked past, little did we realise that an hour later as the build up was being aired on Sky Sports that we would be shown on live tv doing this! As people recognised us the texts, tweets and facebook notifications came flooding in to the gang along with a few of the mug shots, here they are for your enjoyment.

Jenson giving the fist pump

Me and Lofty with Jess' head hiding behind me.

We made our way to our seats, myself and Jess were just six rows behind Lofty, PK and Jenson and we were ready to roll.

Neil Warnock made one change to the starting eleven that beat Chelsea last Sunday.
Armand Traore replaced Clint Hill. Danny Gabbidon took his place on the bench as he makes his comeback from the knee injury that has sidelined him since the game at Wigan.

Spurs started the game with real purpose and within the first five minutes Paddy Kenny was forced into three fantastic saves and keeping the R's in touch at 0-0.
10 minutes in and Rangers' were forced into a substitution. Yes it was Fitz Hall that had picked up the injury, no shocks there, he was replaced by Danny Gabbidon.
Soon after that, Taarabt run at the Spurs defence before mis-hitting his shot which Helguson managed to stick his foot on, only to see the ball fly over the bar.
On 21 minutes we had our first goal of the game.
Friedel's goal kick was nodded by Adebayor into Lennon's path. Lennon run at the R's defence with his lightening pace and no-one got near him before he slid a perfect through ball in the path of Bale, who hit a low drive past Paddy Kenny into the bottom corner.
For the first time we actually heard the Spurs fans celebrate, but that was short lived as they soon sat down quietly and resumed watching football in their library.
Spurs continued to give us all sorts of problems and it really should've been 2-0 when Bale arrived unmarked in the area but he put his effort over the bar.
On 33 minutes it was 2-0.
Van Der Vaart was quickest to react to Ledley King's deflected shot and Van Der Vaart was there to turn and place the ball home from 12 yards out.
Rangers' were all over the place and just looking completely out of sorts. Taarabt was not getting into the game and was proving to be a hindrance to his team mates. To be fair there were not to many players out there that could be proud of the first half as we went in feeling lucky to only be 2-0 down.

The gang gathered on the concourse at half time wondering if this could be another Fulham. I made the shout that maybe if we took off Taarabt and Barton, replacing them with Mackie and Buzsaky we'd be better off attacking wise. The interval seemed to fly by and we were soon back in our seats.

Two substitutions were made at half time, one of them being a suggestion of mine.
Taarabt and Derry made way as Bothroyd and Mackie were introduced.
Rangers' started the half much better and began to give the Spurs defence a lot more to worry about.
Bothroyd gave us more options in the space behind Helguson and was able to hold the ball up more so that we could get Wright-Phillips more involved in our attacks and get Jamie Mackie hassling Assou-Ekotto down the R's right hand side.
Faurlin was able to put his foot on the ball and pick out his team mates with a lot more ease. We began to look like a team that were fighting for each other and could create problems for Spurs.
After a good 15 minute spell the R's got the goal they deserved.
Barton's corner has headed goal wards by Helguson and Jay Bothroyd nodded home from 3yards out to claim his first R's goal since his transfer in the summer.
This woke Spurs up and on 72 minutes Spurs got their 3rd.
Lennon and Bale played two one-two's with each other before Bale sidefooted past Paddy Kenny, just as it looked as if Rangers' had rattled Spurs.
Rangers' still created chances, the best falling to Luke Young as his header was cleared off the line from Barton's corner.

At half time we feared this might turn into a rout but the second half performance was one of pride and really showed that we could compete with teams in this division.
When Taarabt came off I feel we look more together as a team and really fight for the cause. Hopefully over the coming weeks we will see others that will fight for the shirt get a chance to stake their claim for Taarabt's position. Bothroyd was exceptional in the second half and helped create a different dimension to our attack with Helguson in front of him. I'm hoping that Buzsaky gets his run soon as well as we really lack quality at dead ball situations, if Buzsaky is taking our free kicks and corners then we will create more chances and inevitably score more goals.

Today's Man of the Match was an easy choice for the gang with everyone voting for Paddy Kenny. Kenny kept the score very respectable in the first half and even made his fair share of great saves in the second half.

The gang went their separate ways just after 6.30pm and made the shortish journey to our two destinations.
Jess got very excited as we drove through Tottenham and spotted some Jewish people in the streets and tried taking photos of them to share a joke with one of her friends, unfortunately they all hid away before she managed to get a photo.

All in all we all had a great day out and we still have many more enjoyable trips to come.

Lofty will return next week for the visit of Man City, another easy game!

U R'SSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!

I've Never Felt More Like Singing The Blues...

2011-10-23T20:06:00.008Z

QPR 1-0 Chelsea

If there was anyway to record your first home Premier League win of the season, then this was it, as the R's beat local rivals, Chelsea at Loftus Road, in a derby that had just about everything this afternoon...

In many ways, this is a report I have been dreading writing. Mainly as at some point, I would have to refer to our local rivals, as a quality side, which undoubtedly they are and proved it this afternoon. Testament to this would come amongst the gang who assembled at the Springbok to whom none, including myself, predicted anything much positive, especially after Sam had texted through the line ups. My personal attitude was that win, lose or draw, if Rangers played with heart and passion in a game that means so much to the supporters, I would be more than happy. But as we all know, in a game of football, anything can happen... and it certainly did...

We all took our seats nice and early to take in the atmosphere and be there for when the teams came out.... and when they did, it was something I had never witnessed before at Loftus Road. As the P.A. announcer read out the Chelsea line up, it resulted in 15,000 R's fans all booing as one and must have been so initimidating, especially for the many foreigners in the Chelsea side.

As the game kicked off, it looked as though the R's fans had their wish come true, with Rangers chasing down everything giving Chelsea little time on the ball. They did however have the first chance of the game but Sturridge badly scuffed his effort well wide.

On 9 minutes, we were in dreamland as Helguson chased and collected a long ball, Luiz barged him over and referee Chris Foy didn't hesitate in pointing to the penalty spot. After a tug if war with Taarabt for the ball, Helguson stepped up and made no mistake to cue absolute bedlam amongst the R's fans.

There were half chances for Lampard and Drogba as the R's were forcing the visitors into long range efforts. More good play from the R's saw Taarabt put Wright-Phillips away on the left on 33 minutes. The Rangers winger was then bundled to the ground by Boswinga when through on goal and when the referee raised the red card aloft to the Chelsea right back, it was celebrated like it was a second goal by the jubilant R's fans. The resulting free kick saw Cech make a fine save from Taarabt.

Things went from bad to worse for Chelsea on 41 minutes as the referee's red card made another appearance - Didier Drogba this time getting his marching orders for a quite awful two footed lunge on Taarabt. It was party time at Loftus Road!!

Despite being down to 9 men, Chelsea started the second half the better with Frank Lampard seeing a header deflected wide only a minute after the restart. But on 52 minutes, Rangers started finding the gaps and Taarabt found Luke Young on the right, who perhaps should have done much better than firing wide of Cech's goal. Shortly after it was Barton's turn as he ran half the length of the pitch before firing just wide.

Chelsea had a penalty claim of their own turned away by Foy as Hall looked to have bundled over Lampard on 67 minutes and 5 minutes later, the Chelsea end were crying again as Foy waved away a second protest, this time as Luiz claimed he was held by Helguson.

With the lack of numbers, Rangers always looked dangerous when breaking away and as Taarabt was felled on the edge of the box on 77 minutes, the resulting free kick from Barton was blasted over by Helguson from close range. A goal that surely would have sealed it and calm R's fans nerves.

It was hearts in mouth time on with 9 minutes to go when Ivanovic swung in an superb pinpoint ball on to the head of Anelka, but thankfully his effort was straight at Paddy Kenny. Chelsea then increased the hostility in the crowd - as the ball was kicked out for Shaun Derry's injury, they unsportingly played on instead of giving the ball back and it nearly led to an equaliser - Luiz hit an overhead kick, but Lampard, placed in front of the goal, deflected the ball over the bar.

The Chelsea frustrations boiled over in injury time with Meireles, Luiz, Cole and Terry all being booked and that lovely, charming man that is Ashley Cole, would surely had seen his marcing orders after bundling over Mackie - but Foy instead chose to blow the final whistle and cue the celebrations amongst the Loftus Road faithful.

QPR: Kenny, Hill, Derry (Mackie 82), Hall, Taarabt (Smith 62), Faurlin, Barton, Young, Helguson, Wright-Phillips, Ferdinand Subs: Murphy, Orr, Bothroyd, Buzsaky, Puncheon.

Man of the Match - could quite easily be given to the entire team today. Sky gave it to Faurlin, Joey Barton had his best game in a QPR shirt to date and Taarabt was causing Chelsea plenty of problems. Jess picked out Heidar Helguson as her choice and a good shout it was too. However, unfortunately for her, the rest of the gang went for the same player, making it unanimous for an awesome display from Anton Ferdinand.

Well how can I begin to summarise that? A magical day for all involved at QPR. The tactics were spot on, the players to a man, were magnificent, as were the supporters who so deserve a day like this!! As Andres Villas-Boas already has, Chelsea will criticise the referee and Terry, Lampard and Cole were in his face all afternoon. But this was QPR's day and no one can take that away from us!!

The gang will be well represented once more at White Hart Lane next Sunday but until then, let's keep the smiles firmly on our faces!!!

Come on You R'ssssss!!!!!

It's Samba Time at Loftus Road as R's Held at Home Again...

2011-10-15T20:02:00.006Z

QPR 1-1 Blackburn

The search for their first home Premier League win of the season continued as the R's were held at home by struggling Blackburn, in what was a disappointing game at Loftus Road.

Again, the gang arrived and assembled at various different times and locations and when walking past the Club Shop, saw a HUGE queue to get in, with people obviously wishing to spend the their vouchers received from the club during the week in compensation for the season ticket increase set down from the previous owners. I really don't know what to spend mine on yet, but there was no way I was getting into the shop today...

From there I ventured to the Springbok, of which was again, a sweatbox due to this ridiculous no drinking outside the pub rule that came into force at the tail end of last season. This really has killed the pre match atmosphere for me personally and I caught up with the gang outside the pub, which included Sophie and Birthday Boy, Richard, as well as my dear friend Laura and Dad, Graham. I later bumped into newly weds, Corinne and Mark White who were married earlier this month in the South of France. Many congratulations guys!!

For those that were in the pub, they would have seen the new Rangers owner, Tony Fernandes who was on what was a popular, meet and greet walk around and was very refreshing to see the guy wanting to meet the R's supporters. Well done that man!

Onto the game and it was a changed line up from the last time out at Fulham with Traore returning to left back, Helguson coming in for Bothroyd and the first start in 10 months since breaking his leg, ironically against Blackburn, for Jamie Mackie, at the expense of Adel Taarabt who dropped to the bench. News had also filtered through that sadly, DJ Campbell, had suffered a broken metetarsal during the week and faces a spell on the sidelines. We wish him a VERY speedy recovery!!

Following a scrappy opening 10 minutes, Blackburn almos took the lead when Ferdinand sliced Olsson's cross onto his own bar and over. But on 17 minutes, it was Rangers that took the lead - Helguson's header from a corner was blocked and poorly cleared with the ball falling back to to the feet of Helguson, who chipped into the top corner. Other reports are saying it was a cross come shot, but I would like to think he meant it as it looked one hell of a smart finish.

Rangers almost added a second moments later when Helguson was inches away from Mackie's low cross from the left. Joey Barton also went close, before the match drew level on 24 minutes - a Blackburn corner was headed home by Samba with embarrasing ease. Shaun Wrght-Phillips long range shot went just wide, but the Blackburn goal saw them up their game a great deal and the impressive Junior Hoilett saw his effort cleared off the line by Ferdinand.

Onto the second half and Rangers started brightly - Wright-Phillips cross was just out of reach for the on rushing Shaun Derry. Taarabt joined proceedings on 64 minutes and could have made an instant impact, but miscued his shot terribly after being put through by Wright-Phillips.

Inside the last ten minutes and Rangers had a penalty appeal turned away after having his legs being taken by Samba, but referee Clatternburg was having none of it. Just when it seemed Blackburn were holding on, they broke away and Olsson's effort from the left forced a fine save from Paddy Kenny.

QPR: Kenny, Derry, Hall, Faurlin, Mackie (Taarabt 64), Traore, Barton, Young, Helguson, Wright-Phillips (Smith 83), Ferdinand. Subs: Murphy, Orr, Bothroyd, Buzsaky, Puncheon.

Man of the Match - a difficult one for so many reasons with myself and Lee going for Heidar Helguson and California Hoop going for Anton Ferdinand. But with 3 votes from Corp, PK and Jenson, today's award goes to Alejandro Faurlin.

To summarise, personally I am disappointed with this latest outing from the R's. With respect, if we are going to stay in the Premier League, we have to be beating teams like Blackburn at home. But like in so many other games this season, Rangers lacked a cutting edge and the need for another striker becomes more evident.

Blackburn at home has now completed our induction to the Premier League and in the next 3 weeks, Chelsea and Man City visit Loftus Road and in between that, a visit to White Hart Lane. But hey, these are the games we are here for isn't it??? Bring them on!!!

Come on You R'ssssssss!!!!

Handy Andy Makes An R's Out Of Us

2011-10-02T17:12:00.003Z

Today over 3,000 R's fans make the short walk from Loftus Road to Craven Cottage for the first West London vs South West London derby in over 10years against Chelsea's little brother, Fulham.

After clawing our way to getting tickets a few weeks ago, Jess, Tony, Alan and myself left Henley just after 11 and made our way to Loftus Road so we could park up and catch the tube down to Hammersmith and then walked from Hammersmith to Craven Cottage.
On our way down to the Cottage we stopped off at the Distillers for a cheeky beer on what was a glorious day.
We were all in high spirits and were all highly confident that we would take something away for the game, 2-0 and 3-0 predictions were the most popular choices amongst us.
Having made the final part of the journey by foot and got to Craven Cottage at about 2ish.
Inside the ground we enjoyed another beer, albeit a tad warm, and then met up with Luke and Phill before making our way to our seats.
Jenson and Lofty were in attendance as well but we didn't get a chance to catch up with the boys.

There was one forced change from the side that drew against Villa last week. Armand Traore missed out through suspension, he was replaced by Bradley Orr.
Apparently we lost Matt Connolly through injury on Saturday and Fitz Hall tweaked a hamstring in the warm up to the game but Hall still took his place in the starting line up as Bruno Perone was the only back up defender left in the squad, and let's face it he's no-where near up to Premier League standards.

Rangers started the game brightly and fashioned the first chance of the game, which ended up going safely into Schwarzer's hands.
After the first minute had passed it all went downhill from there.
Paddy Kenny got a firm hand onto Dembele's shot but could only palm the ball out to the six yard box and Andy Johnson was there to pick up the scraps and give Fulham a 1-0 lead on 81 seconds, nightmare!
Within ten minutes it should have been 2-0. Dempsey found himself unmarked with a near open goal from 12 yards out but luckily Orr was there to stick a leg out and save the R's blushes for a while longer.
On 19 minutes thing went from bad to worse.
Fitz Hall had a routine clearance and concede a throw in when Andy Johnson was breathing down his neck. Hall must've got a call from Kenny to leave it and the usually reliable R's keeper made a right mess of things and ended up conceding a penalty as he took Johnson down and gave away a needless penalty.
Danny Murphy stepped up and coolly put the penalty away and the celebrations were so tame that it was expected that they were to beat us, gits!
The R's faithful kept on singing and even after Johnson bagged Fulham's third after even more slack defending, it was still the R's fans that could be heard singing above the 10 fans that were singing in the stand opposite. This was quite easily the quietest home support I have ever come across, maybe its because you cant teach tourists songs in an afternoon, maybe soon they will start handing out song sheets on entrance to the ground to try and drum up an atmosphere.

At half time we made our way to the fully packed out concourse that you could barely breathe in, let alone let out a sneaky fart! We quickly made our way back to our seats and sat down to endure the second half.

Shaun Derry and Adel Taarabt made way at half time with Tommy Smith and DJ Campbell taking their places.
Apparently Taarabt stormed out in a huff and left the ground upon the decision, it'll be interesting to see what happens to him now after another hissy fit.

The R's enjoyed a good ten minute spell after the break but full service was resumed on 60 minutes as Johnson bagged his hat trick with a tidy finish.
Five minutes later Dempsey made it 5-0.
Then came the R's best moment of the game...................... Jamie Mackie coming on for Jay Bothroyd to mark his comeback from his broken leg that he suffered at Blackburn in January.
However two minutes later it was 6-0 as Zamora joined in on the fun.
Mackie was clean through and clearly got pulled back when through on goal yet we had another blind referee and linesman and we were denied another penalty to deny us a consolation goal to go away with.

The R's fans were superb today, the noise they created and really stayed behind the team even though we were thoroughly outclassed by Fulham today. If we can carry on that kind of away support then the R's players will enjoy playing away from home this season.
Its a shame that some people completely lose the faith so quickly and slag the team off when they have one bad game. We've played Newcastle, who are third, off the park a few weeks ago and then controlled large amounts of the game against Aston Villa last week. Today we played against a team that are playing in Europe and have plenty of experienced Premier League footballers at their disposal. They have two decent strikers who know how to score goals in this league, something that we are lacking severely. It's still early days in our Premier League journey and days like this will provide key in our learnings and really help us become stronger as a team as we look on gaining Premier League survival.

Now onto the hard part, Man of the Match. Jamie Mackie is the only player that really sticks out to me and gets the players mention but for me the undoubted people of the match were the R's fans and that deserves rewarding, so the Man of the Match goes to the travelling fans that stuck with the R's throughout the entire game.

Fulham: Schwarzer, Riise, Sidwell, Hangeland, Baird, Johnson (Ruiz 75), Murphy (Etuhu 83), Dempsey, Zamora, Grygera, Dembele (Sa 87).

Subs: Etheridge, Kelly, Senderos, Duff.

Goals: Johnson (2, 39 & 60), Murphy (pen 20), Dempsey (65), Zamora (74)

Bookings: Sidwell (5), Hangeland (69)

QPR: Kenny, Orr, Derry (Smith 46), Hall, Taarabt (Campbell 46), Bothroyd (Mackie 72), Faurlin, Barton, Young, Wright-Phillips, Ferdinand.

Subs: Murphy, Buzsaky, Perone, Helguson.

Bookings: Faurlin (68), Wright-Phillips (82)

Referee: Mr M Marriner

Oliver Gives Villa More

2011-09-25T21:00:00.005Z

QPR returned to Super Sunday for the first time since we were promoted back to the top tier.
Today's visitors were Aston Villa.

The gang were in near full attendance this afternoon, only California Hoop missed out but was able to catch the game whilst being at home looking after the family.
Lofty, Jenson and Sophie were already sat outside the Springbok when PK, Jess and myself arrived after our mini shopping spree in the clubshop and PK running down South Africa Road chasing after Joey Barton to sign a birthday card for Sam as she celebrated her birthday today. With the pace and the way he managed to skip between people in the road, I suggest Neil Warnock look into signing him on a short term contract as there are some defenders that wouldn't know how to keep him quiet.

There was only one change to the team that won 3-0 at Wolves last week. Fitz Hall came in for Danny Gabbidon.
Heidar Helguson took the vacant place on the bench.

The R's crowd were in fine voice at the start of the game and really made a great atmosphere inside Loftus Road.
Rangers controlled the first half and created so many shooting opportunities but if it wasn't for some good Villa blocking and being fortuitous that the R's couldn't make the most of the chances.
Taarabt came the closest to breaking the deadlock in the first half. His turn and beautiful curling effort from 25 yards out had beaten Given but just the outside of the post denied the magical Morroccan of his first Premier League goal.
Jay Bothroyd was the culprit of missing the next R's chance. Joey Barton floated in a beautiful free kick from the right hand side and Bothroyd jumped highest but could only glance the header wide instead of powering his effort on target.
R's were flowing and Villa were looking very ordinary and very physical, some may say dirty, I would say very dirty!
On the half hour mark you began to see Villa's negativity begin to come to light as Shay Given began time wasting and continued to do so all the way through until the half time whistle.
Fitz Hall and Anton Ferdinand had Gabby Agbonlahor in their back pockets and it was evident that the little front man was getting frustrated with the lack of service.

At half time the gang gathered around on the concourse in a very positive mood. The way the R's were playing shows how far we've come since the transfer market has closed and the brand of football being played is a joy to watch......... we just need to score that all important goal to get the confidence rolling.

The second half started and Villa seemed to have a different, more attacking approach that actually made the R's work a lot harder than they had to in a very one sided first half.
On 57 minutes controversy hit Loftus Road.
Warnock crossed in from the left hand side and Agbonlahor was stretching at the back post to reach it and tumbled to the floor and the ball went out for a goal kick.
However the referee, Michael Oliver, pointed to the spot! Much to the bemusement to most of the players on the pitch, the entire 16,000 people in attendance and however million watching at home, how was it a penalty?
The texts came flooding in saying how much of a joke the decision it was and even after seeing it at home tonight I'm baffled! Minimal contract and no appeal from any Villa fans or the players, that just shows you how much of a joke it was.
Barry Bannan stepped up and only just managed to slide it past Paddy Kenny to give the visitors an unworthy and very contraversial lead.
It just didn't seem as if Rangers could buy a decision off of a ref that didn't seem to want to give anything to the home team.
There were two handball appeals, one of them a stonewall penalty as Hutton pretty much tipped the ball around the post. The second shout was a hopeful one but they have been given before.
A number of challenges worthy of yellow cards and in some cases a second yellow were continuously overlooked by a ref clearly wanting to have the spotlight whilst being on tv.
As we entered injury time Traore clumsily clattered into Albrighton and received his second yellow. His first yellow was for the Villa penalty awarded earlier in the half so we now have Traore suspended against Fulham next Sunday.
This however did not deter the R's searching for an all important equaliser right at the end.
In one final attempt, a hopeful ball was aimed at DJ Campbell and his flick found Heidar Helguson who in turn drove a cross along the six yard box and deflected off a Villa defender onto Richard Dunne and into the back of the net.
JUSTICE!

Overall you have to say that scoring a last minute equaliser is pleasing but there is the sense that we really were a lot better than Villa and deserved the three points based on the entire game.
Its just a case of needing to take our chances and if we can have a striker that is always in and around the six yard box then we will score more goals. DJ Campbell needs to start games, he's a little live wire and now he's looking to be back to full fitness you can be sure a starting place is only just around the corner.

We go onto Man of the Match.
There are a few contenders for this. Jenson selected Paddy Kenny for his superb stop from Bannan's free kick in the first half, how he kept that out I really don't know.
PK selected Shaun Wright-Phillips for his effort and work rate getting up and down the by-line. Surely its only a matter of time until he gets his first R's goal.
Jess selected Luke Young for another strong performance in defence. It was also Young that was sliding in at the end that caused the Villa defender to kick the ball onto Dunne for the own goal.
However, the Man of the Match goes to Adel Taarabt. He looks to be getting back to his best and now he seems to be passing the right balls at the right times he's looking to be a class above once again.

We will return next week when we travel to Fulham!

U R'SSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!

Rangers Hungry for the Wolves...

2011-09-17T20:14:00.008Z

Wolves 0-3 QPR

On the back of last Monday's excellent performance against Newcastle, QPR followed it up with another superb performance, but this time, we got the goals we deserved and ran out comfortable, 3-0 winners at Molinuex.

Again and unfortunately, it was a depleted gang on route to Molinuex this morning and with Jenson facing late travel problems returning from Cyprus, it was like the old days with just PK and myself heading off and we did so just after 11am, with myself taking the wheel once more. A relatively trouble free journey, with the exception of the usual delay on the M6, we parked up at about 1.30pm, but we had a slight scare on route...

Just as we hit the M42, we were nattering away when Talksport announced there was a Premier League game in doubt and it was, at Wolves. There had been a power cut across the City and the game was definitely, at risk of being postponed. This news was backed up by a text from Smithy, who stated whilst having his breakfast, all the lights went off and he was now in a pub in total darkness!! Thankfully, by the time we reached Wolverhampton, normal service had been resumed and the game was to go ahead as planned... and thank goodness it did!!

After a pint and a pie, we took our seats to see an unchanged R's take the field and Rangers started the game like a train!! After 2 minutes, Gabbidon's cross found Shaun Derry in the box, who's header was top corner bound, but was superbly saved by Hennesey in the Wolves goal and even at this early stage, the worry that it may be 'one of those games' was on our minds. But those worries were shortly erased...

On 8 minutes, Shaun Wright-Phillips was given plenty of room on the right and laid on the ball for Barton, who despite seeming to scuff his shot, got enough on the ball to get it past the Wolves keeper and the R's fans went bananas at the other end! Just 2 minutes later and we were in dreamland when, after some decent build up play, the ball fell to Faurlin who lashed in a 20-yard left-footed shot into the bottom corner - 2-0 to the Superhoops!!

Rangers continued to dominate the half and Wright-Phillips, Joey Barton and Adel Taarabt both had good chances and Anton Ferdinand saw his header cleared off the line. But some of the football the R's were playing was quite superb and the only real disappointment was that we were only two nil up, with Wolves offering very little in return, much to the home fans annoyance.

Onto the second half and Wolves made a couple of changes and most expected an onslaught. But although more competative, Wolves rarely threatened and the games momentum slowed down somewhat. But when Rangers came forward, they always looked dangerous and Wright-Phillips saw his shot rebound off the post and into the arms of the grateful Hennesey and Rangers were now in total control.

The icing on the Rangers cake, came in the 87th minute - Wright-Phillips played in the very impressive Traore, who teed up DJ Campbell to poke the ball home, much to his delight and the travelling R's contingent.

Before the final whistle, there was some fun and games as Joey Barton went down in front of the Wolves fans, who took great delight in giving him a bit of stick. Barton completely lapped it up and responded with a 3 fingered salute, which strangely, didn't go down awful well with the home support, but was extremely entertaining all the same. Barton and Stephen Hunt later exchanged words after the game had ended, before the R's Captain, joined his team mates in celebrating an excellent away win in front of the R's faithful.

QPR: Kenny, Derry, Gabbidon (Hall 84), Taarabt, Bothroyd (Campbell 74), Faurlin, Traore, Barton, Young, Wright-Phillips, Ferdinand. Subs: Murphy, Buzsaky, Connolly, Puncheon.

Man of the Match - again, with such a great team performance, is so difficult to pick out an individual. But both myself and PK both agreed, that todays award should go to Armand Traore. Who, was not only outstanding defensively, but outstanding coming forward also and rounded his day off by assisting the third Rangers goal.

Myself and PK were joined by Smithy on the way home, for what was a very happy and trouble free journey back as we all look forward to reliving an awesome day out on Match of the Day later....

Lee will be returning the favour next weekend as the R's take on the currently, unbeaten Aston Villa at Loftus Road on Sunday.

Come on you R'ssssssssssssss!!!

Everything But The Goal....

2011-09-13T19:32:00.008Z

QPR 0-0 Newcastle

Despite dominating proceedings, the new look QPR, had to settle for a point in what was one of the best 0-0's you will see all season, in front of the Sky Cameras at Loftus Road last night.

In what seemed like an eternity since our last outing, R's fans were eagerly awaiting this fixture after being extremely active in the transfer window. Unfortunately, just myself, Lee, Corp, California Hoop and Steve, were in attendance as various reasons kept the remainder away and with the excitement building before kick off, we were all in our seats way before kick off with much anticipation.

Although the news was put out on Twitter, the sight of Jude the Cat returning to the Loftus Road pitch shortly before the teams came out, was great to see. As you probably remember, Jude lost his place as QPR's Mascot during the past ownership regime, when a black cat was deemed to be unlucky for Italians. He was replaced by Spark the Tiger, who was also in attendance last night but it remains to be seen if there is still room for two big cats in the Stadium. A very warm welcome back, Jude!!!

As the teams entered the field shortly after, Rangers had 6 debutants in the squad, 5 of whom were starting - interestingly named Captain, Joey Barton, Armand Traore, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Anton Ferdinand and Luke Young, all lined up in the Blue and White Hoops, with Jason Puncheon having to make do with a place on the bench. There had been a lot of press and such building up to the game with Barton facing his old club of course and many thought the decision to give him the Captaincy was to calm him down a bit, but further rumblings amongst the R's faithful, seem to suggest he is the new, QPR Captain for the season.

Onto the game and despite all the euphoria, Newcastle had started the season extremely well and this was always going to be a tough match. But the R's started brightly with Adel Taarabt forcing a low save out of Tim Krul, while Shaun Wright-Phillips headed over Armand Traore's cross. Minutes later, Newcastle had what was there best chance of the game and Leon Best brought a fine save from Paddy Kenny.

Rangers continued to bombard Newcastle goal and created chance after chance. Jay Bothroyd was a bootlace away from Wright-Phillips low centre and later had a header cleared off the line. Faurlin was then denied by a brave defensive block which deflected his effort over the bar. Wright-Phillips was back amongst the action yet again and thought he had given QPR the lead just before the break when he latched onto Taarabt's ball and delightfully chipped the ball over the advancing Krul, only to be see Taylor clear off the line - it was ALL Rangers and the home stands were rocking!!

Moving down to the concourses ah half time and the main topic amongst everyone, was how on earth were we not winning? I did what I had to do very quickly and was soon to be back in my seat awaiting the second half.

After a 100 mph first half, the match dropped tempo a little and as time ticked on, it seemed more and more that Newcastle were more than happy with a point. But Rangers continued to press hard for that all important goal - Shaun Derry saw two headed chances go wide and Bothroyd was unlucky not to get a better connection on yet another Wright-Phillips teasing cross. Wright-Phillips himself saw a decent effort go just wide late on, but the Magpies held on to gain, what Alan Pardew claimed was a very good point.

QPR: Kenny, Derry, Gabbidon, Taarabt, Bothroyd (Campbell 80), Faurlin, Traore (Connolly 51), Barton, Young, Wright-Phillips (Puncheon 88), Ferdinand. Subs: Murphy, Hall, Buzsaky, Smith, Puncheon.

Man of the Match - so pleasing to have so many contenders with ALL of the debutants having extremely good games. Joey Barton was probably the quietest of the new boys in what, understandably, must have been a very difficult game for him. Adel Taarabt looked back to best and really played for the team and Shaun Derry was once again, immense in the R's midfield. But in the after match debate, Jo came in with her contender, which actually clinched the result. Myself and Lee went for Shaun Wright-Phillips, but Corp, California Hoop and Jo, all went for Alejandro Faurlin who was outstanding!!

In summary, well, the ONLY disappointment was the Rangers didn't win, but on leaving the ground, there were smiling faces aplenty with the R's fans proud of their teams performance and there is genuine excitement building for the season ahead. With all due respect of course, it was amazing to see the R's line up tonight with such extra quality in the squad and there is now true belief that the R's are serious about taking their place in the Premier League.

The R's now look forward to an away trip to Wolves this coming Saturday. Sadly, Lee is unable to make this one so you will have to make do with another ramble from me, possibly late Saturday night or Sunday morning.

Come on You R'sssssssssssssss!!!!

QPR 25 Man Squad Announced!!

2011-09-02T21:02:00.002Z

Tonight the 25 man squad list was released by the Premier League.

The omissions from the squad include :- Rob Hulse, Danny Shittu and Hogan Ephraim.

The players selected are as follows :-

1 Kenny, Patrick
2 Orr, Bradley
3 Hill, Clinton
4 Derry, Shaun
5 Hall, Fitz
6 Gabbidon, Daniel
7 Taarabt, Adel
8 Dyer, Kieron
9 Campbell, Dudley Junior
10 Bothroyd, Jay
11 Faurlin, Alejandro
12 Mackie, James
13 Traore, Armand
14 Buzsaky, Akos
15 Caldini Perone, Bruno
16 Connolly, Matthew
17 Barton, Joseph
18 Young, Luke
19 Smith, Thomas
20 Helguson, Heidar
21 Cerny, Radek
22 Murphy, Brian
23 Wright-Phillips, Shaun
24 Ferdinand, Anton
25 Puncheon, Jason

The list of players not needed to be listed because they are Under 21 are as follows :-

Adekunle, Oluwatobi Aliu
Andrade, Bruno Miguel Carvalho
Balanta, Angelo Jasiel
Brown, Ben
Buck, Jordan Winston Bryan
Daly, James Christopher
Deane, Gareth Ivan
Doughty, Michael Edward
Downs, Jake Louis
Ehmer, Maximilian Andreas
Fitzpatrick, David Hugh Aborlo
Francis, Adam Royston Lawrence
Gibbons, Jordan Leon Chidubem
Harriman, Michael Grant
Henry-Francis, Marcel Laurel
Hewitt, Troy Roger
Hubble, Conor Stephen James
Koeris, Justin Vernon
Lennox, Aaron Keith
Lumley, Joseph Patrick
McDonnell, Daniel Michael
Nguemkam Monthe, Emmanuel Gaetan
Olley, Luke Stephen
Parmenter, Taylor Louis
Putnins, Elvijs
Sendles-White, Jamie Alexander
Shariff, Abdalla Mohamed
Simmonds, Bradley Michael
Sutherland, Frankie Jay
Trani, Tommaso
Walker, Jordan

Rangers Add a Bit More 'Punch'

2011-09-01T15:49:00.004Z

QPR today announced that Southampton forward, Jason Puncheon, has joined on loan until January 2nd 2012. Unfortunately, the deal was done too late for us to announce anything last night, but has been officially confirmed by the Club today.

Puncheon was a close season target for the R's, with a deal that would have seen Kaspars Gorkss go the other way, but for one reason or another, the deal never materialised. But R's Gaffer, Neil Warnock has finally got his man...

Puncheon, 25, joined Southampton from Plymouth in 2010 but spent much of last season on loan at Millwall and the Premier League new boys, Blackpool. Puncheon has also had loan spells at MK Dons and also played for Barnet for two seasons.

On his latest aquisition, Neil Warnock told the Official QPR Website;

"It just made sense to give him an opportunity to come in until January and show us what he can do.

"This all happened very late in the day so I am very pleased we got him in.

"Jason is a good acquisition because he brings pace and plenty of desire.

"To be perfectly honest, he was so keen to come to QPR I think he would have paid us!

"He is desperate to do well, and that really impressed me."

All of us here at Lofty Heights would like to offer a warm welcome to QPR, Jason and wish you all the very best during your time in W12!!

Come on You R'sssssssssssss!!!

Anton Ferdinand Signs

2011-08-31T12:21:00.006Z

Due to Ferdinand's arrival delayed by heavy traffic in London, the paperwork was sent through at 22.59, but the R's latest summer signing has now been confirmed...

Anton Ferdinand becomes the latest established Premier League player to join us here at Loftus Road.

Ferdinand has cost the R's in the region of £4 million from Sunderland and has signed a 4 year deal.

Ferdinand exploded onto the scene at West Ham as a youngster and played his part in a fantastic centre back partnership with current QPR defender Danny Gabbidon.
Ferdinand fell out of favour and joined Sunderland when Steve Bruce was looking for defensive reinforcements but again Ferdinand found himself fall down the pecking order when Michael Turner and John Mensah forged a good partnership together.

Ferdinand, who can play at right back or centre back, told the Official QPR website :-

"The Club's moving forward and things seem to be buzzing around here at the moment.

"I came down from London on Wednesday and spoke to the gaffer, and was impressed with his thoughts on where the Club is going to go.

"I've heard good things about the Manager and, after speaking with him, it's clear that he wants the best for me and wants me to do well.

"As soon as I came out of the meeting with him, I knew that QPR was the Club for me."

Welcome to QPR Anton, we wish you all the best during your time here at QPR!

U R'SSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Shaun Is The Wright Choice For R's

2011-08-31T09:33:00.008Z

On this transfer deadline day R's fans finally had reason to be excited as we would actually be involved for the first time in many years.

The first signing, albeit approaching 11pm on this deadline day, is Shaun Wright-Phillips!

Wright Phillips joins for a fee believed to be around the £6.5 million region and has signed a 3 year deal.

The 29 year old found himself surplus to requirements during his second spell at Eastlands and has opted to head back to West London and pull on the blue and white hoops and turn down offers from Stoke, Bolton and Wigan.

Wright-Phillips will be looking to rejuvinate his career in W12 and try and force his way into Fabio Capello's thoughts ahead of the Euro 2012 Championships next summer.

He spoke to the Official QPR website :-

"I'm delighted - I can't wait to kick-start my QPR career," Wright-Phillips said.

"Once I spoke to the Manager and saw the direction that the Club was going in, I wanted to be a part of that.

"I'm here now. Get behind me as best as you can, just like the City fans did, and I'll give you a hundred and ten per-cent every time I go on to the pitch.

"It's exciting times for QPR. With the new signings and the squad that we've got, the Club is heading in the right direction."

This is yet another fantastic addition to the R's and shows the ambition we have as a club and continue to not only settle for survival but to reach safety with a lot more comfort.

Welcome to QPR Shaun! We hope you have a successful time whilst you are here in W12!

Come on You R'ssssssssssssss!!!!

Armand Is R Man

2011-08-29T18:09:00.005Z

Finally after waiting the weekend for his signature, Armand Traore becomes the R's latest summer signing. The 21 year old left back penned a 3 year deal at Rangers this lunchtime.

Traore was made to wait for the move due to Arsenal being down to their bare bones at Old Trafford and was on the wrong end of the 8-2 battering to Man United. Traore seemed to keep himself out of harms way and didn't do anything to jeopardise his move to West London.
Its safe to say that he would eight two be an Arsenal player for any longer than he would have to be. Excuse the poor joke!

Traore began his career in the youth ranks at Racing Paris and Monaco before moving to Arsenal in 2005 and going on to sign a professional contract in 2006. In his five year spell playing for Arsenal he wasn't given much game time and only managed to make 13 goalless appearances. In 2008 he was loaned out to Portsmouth to gain first team experience where he made 19 appearances playing as left midfielder, scoring his only Premier League goal against Sunderland. In 2010 he was once again loaned out but this time to Italian side Juventus for the season where he spent the majority of his time on the bench, subsequently only making 10 appearances in his time there. Traore has been capped by France at U19 and U21 level before making a single appearance for his native Senegal in 2011.

Traore told the Official QPR Website :-

"When I talked to Neil Warnock he was very passionate about what I could bring to the Club.

"He was very motivated about playing me week in, week out, and that's what I need at this stage of my career.

"I've not been able to prove and show what I'm all about because I've been at two big, big Clubs like Juventus and Arsenal.

"I'm looking forward to coming here and playing regular football.

"The ambition of the new owners and the calibre of players they are signing is something that really attracted me to the Club."

Traore will wear the number 13 shirt.

Welcome to QPR Armand, we wish you every success in the famous blue and white hoops!!

U R'SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That's Not Di Way It Was Supposed To Go

2011-08-27T21:23:00.003Z

Today the R's fans made the 200+ mile journey to Wigan in the early hours of the morning hoping that the positive news of the signings of Joey Barton and Luke Young would help inspire the R's to a win ahead of the two week International break.
The Lofty Heights gang made the trip to the DW Stadium.

Once again we were in two cars with myself driving Jess, Sam and Luke and Lofty took to the wheel with PK and Steve as his passengers.
Lofty's journey started extremely early as he had to travel from Hemel down to Burnham and then head north to Wigan. In my car we had a slightly longer lay in, till 6.15, before taking to the road. In a highly uneventful journey (not counting Sam's bout of morning sickness on the side of the M6) we then pulled off the M6 to the inevitablilty of a few clangers being dropped. Firstly upon seeing the sign for Wigan Pier Luke immediately asked if we were near the coast which cracked everyone up. The second one to make everyone laugh was my apparent excitement of seeing an Asda and a Sainsbury's in the same retail park, in my line of work its rare to see so I did get slightly more carried away than I should've, this prompted the gang to goad me for the duration of the journey (luckily it was short) every time we passed a supermarket, gits!
We all arrived in Wigan just 15 minutes apart at 10.30 ish and parked at the Red Robin pub only to find that it was not due to open until 11am, so we made our way over to the Frankie and Benny's joint just opposite.
During our time in Frankies we all had a good catch up and everyone was feeling very positive about the game. We were even treated to some Spanish lessons everytime we went to the toilet, if anything I think it made us all want to go in there more often than we usually would!
Come 12:00 we all made the short walk over to the DW Stadium and got pretty wet in the process.

When we got inside the stadium we queued up for what seemed to be a lifetime for our drink and sample of the famous Wigan pies, that in all fairness weren't all that they were hyped up to be, we then made our way to our seats just in time to see the teams emerge from the tunnel.

Only one change was made to the side that won at Everton last weekend. Bradley Orr sat out through injury and was replaced by Bruno Perone. This meant the R's defence was make shift with all four being central defenders. This meant that Danny Gabbidon played at right back, Bruno Perone and Fitz Hall paired up in the centre and Matt Connolly took up his role at left back.
With the virus still rife in the squad, DJ Campbell once again didn't travel and Jay Bothroyd stayed on the bench as he still isn't 100% fit.

Starting 11 :- Kenny, Derry, Hall, Gabbidon, Taarabt, Faurlin, Buzsaky, Perone, Connolly, Agyemang, Smith.

The game got off to a pretty lively start and was fairly level even though it was Wigan that were creating the more threatening attacks.
Emerson Boyce strolled from right back all the way through the R's defence until he reached the edge of the penalty area before laying the ball off to Victor Moses who took aim from six yards out you thought that the deadlock was about to be opened, luckily for us his shot (or was it a cross?) evaded everybody in the box and ended up nearly going out for a throw in.
Straight from that the R's broke away and Derry found himself 25 yards out with the goal at his mercy. The evergreen midfielder unleashed a fantastic drive and Ali Al-Habsi in the Wigan goal had to be at full stretch to deny Derry his first QPR goal.
The R's seemed to grow in confidence from this and just a few minutes later came even closer.
Buzsaky fed Taarabt the ball on the left edge of the penalty area as we looked at it and the R's captain curled a sublime effort that seemed to be curling in at the far post, all the travelling R's thought it was in, but it cannoned off the post only for Agyemang to pick up the rebound and promptly pass it back to Al-Habsi.
Rangers came close again when a corner was only cleared as far as Buzsaky and his cross found Perone at the back post, but the Brazilian could only put his header into row Z and another chance went begging.
The R's were made to pay for their missed oppurtunities on 41 minutes.
Figueroa passed to Di Santo on the edge of the R's penalty area while the R's appeared to back off and invite Wigan to attack. Di Santo hit a decent shot towards goal that took a slight deflection and spun into the top corner of Paddy Kenny's goal. A well taken goal but the deflection definitely wrong-footed the R's goalkeeper.
Just before the half time whistle Taarabt had a free kick from 35 yards out. He decided to take it Ronaldo styli and hit it as hard as he could with a toepunt. The free kick took a wicked deflection and Al-Habsi scrambled across his goal line to tip the free kick onto the post before Wigan cleared their lines.

We may of been 1-0 down at half time but the sprits in the camp were still high. We should have gone in level and definitely played well enough to be going in at 0-0. You can rue the chances and having hit the post twice its fair to say that we were unlucky to be losing.

It was more of the same again in the second half with the R's pressing Wigan but also with Wigan hitting us on the counter attack with Rodallega and Moses.
On 61 minutes the R's make shift back line were dealt with another blow with Fitz Hall being forced off through injury and was replaced by Michael Harriman who was making his Premier League debut. This meant Harriman moving to right back and Danny Gabbidon reverting to his more familiar role of centre back alongside Bruno Perone.
Just five minutes later the R's were dealt with an even bigger blow.
Rangers relinquished possession far too easily and Di Santo found himself in possession 25 yards out and took aim, unfortunately for Bruno Perone the shot flicked up off the end of his boot and found the top corner of Kenny's goal once again. Two goals, two deflections, too harsh on Rangers.
Shortly after the goal Jay Bothroyd come on for Akos Buzsaky.
Bothroyd's introduction gave the R's more attacking impetus and made us look a lot more threatening, in fact Bothroyd done more in two minutes than Agyemang had done for the previous 70!
The R's last notable chance went to Perone. His header cannoned off the Wigan bar and out to safety.
It was then that you just knew it wasn't going to be our day!
Bruno Andrade came on for the final eight minutes in the place of Tommy Smith.
Andrade looked to be a real livewire down the left wing and looks to be one to look at for the future. Andrade was unlucky not to be able to claim an assist on his Premier League debut when his mazy run resulted in him sliding a great ball across the Wigan six yard box but no R's striker was on hand to tap into an empty net.

The scoreline was harsh on us today. Two deflected goals, we hit the woodwork on three separate occasions and had to play a weakened side due to the virus still lingering in the club. Perone looks to be well out of his depth in my opinion and looked to be a rabbit in headlights a lot of the time. His team mates did all they could to help him along the way but that only got him so far. For me Taarabt just doesn't look comfortable in the Premier League at the moment. Every time he ran at the Wigan defence in the first half he just ran into a defender and lost possesion. He appears to be getting knocked off the ball far too easily and is seriously lacking match fitness.
Faurlin also seems to be looking a shadow of the player that we saw in the Championship last season too. I think he's fallen over more times than he has successfully passed to a team mate this season. Having said that he did seem to improve in the final 15 minutes but he really need to improve the physical side to his game asap.

On to Man of the Match and there are plenty of positives for this. The gang were split with this today and it just goes to show how we all viewed the performance. Steve voted for Shaun Derry and another great battling display. Jess and PK opted for Tommy Smith and his energetic performance. Lofty opted for Matt Connolly who put in another good show when being played out of position again. The winner however with three votes from me, Luke and Sam is Danny Gabbidon. Gabbidon played extremely well at right back and when switching to centre back he looked extremely comfortable. He didn't put a foot wrong and read the game very well today.

Wigan Athletic: Al Habsi, Caldwell, Watson, Di Santo (Sammon 68), Moses (McArthur 68), Gomez (Stam 86), Boyce, Rodallega, Diame, Lopez, Figueroa.

Subs: Kirkland, McCarthy, Thomas, Jones.

Goals: Di Santo (41 & 66)

Bookings: Lopez (33)

QPR: Kenny, Derry, Hall (Harriman 61), Gabbidon, Taarabt, Faurlin, Buzsaky (Bothroyd 72), Perone, Connolly, Agyemang, Smith (Andrade 80).

Subs: Murphy, Helguson, Ephraim, Hewitt.

Referee: Mr M Oliver

Attendance: 17,225

After the game we made our way back to the cars and got very wet once again! It's just typical that we travel up north with the weather looking good at home but as soon as you go north of Birmingham the weather is always grey and miserable. Its safe to say we were all very glad to get away from Wigan and get home in time to relax with a curry in front of the tv at a decent hour!

Young Hearts Run Free

2011-08-26T20:13:00.005Z

The second new signing of the Fernandes/Bhatia era has been announced and its yet another former England International, Luke Young.

Young joins the R's from Aston Villa for a fee believed to be rising up to £2 million.

Luke Young started his career at Spurs in 1997 and made his name as a full back but never managed to hold down a regular first team slot. He made 58 appearances before moving to Charlton for £4 million in 2001.
Young was very popular at the Addicks and established himself as one of the best right backs in the country. In 2005 Young won the first of 7 England caps.
In 2007 following Charlton's relegation from the Premiership Young moved to pastures new and to one of the most northern clubs, Middlesbrough. Young cost Boro £2.5 million and signed a four year contract. However after just a season in the North-East, Young was on the move again, this time to Aston Villa for a fee rising up to £6 million and signing a three year deal in 2008.
Young has made 73 appearances for Villa but fell out of favour under Martin O'Neill and in 2010 Liverpool and Villa agreed a £2.5 million fee but Young turned the move down stating that he had more chance playing for Villa and would only be a back up for the Scousers.

Young told the Official QPR website :-

"I am ready for a new challenge," he said. "There are big things that are going to happen at this Football Club and I am really pleased to be a part of it.

"Myself and Joey signing here shows the intent of the Club.

"I am really looking forward to getting started and pulling on the blue and white shirt."

Young brings a wealth of experience and will be yet another fantastic addition to the squad and further strengthen our back line. To be able to sign a player of this calibre just shows the ambition that the new regime have and really want to establish ourselves as a Premier League club and bringing in these types of players makes the start of this journey even more exciting!

Welcome to QPR Luke, we wish you every success during your time here at Loftus Road.

U R'SSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

R's Go For A Barton As Kaspars Exits

2011-08-26T15:08:00.004Z

This afternoon QPR have announced that the R's have bagged their first big name in the Fernandes/Bhatia era as we unveiled Joey Barton as the newest addition to the R's revolution.

Barton joins on a four year deal and with no fee being paid to Newcastle, this really could be the bargain of the season!

Barton, often surrounded by controversy, has not had the quiestest of careers its safe to say and his off-field antics have often hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons but there is no doubting the ability of the man. Had he stayed clear of trouble previously then its safe to say that Barton could've been a multi capped England International as he is a sensational player when all that is put aside.
The most entertaining moment of the charismatic midfielder is during the time of his England call up which was just after he openly critisised the 2006 England teams failure and as he sat down for breakfast on his first meeting Frank Lampard got up and moved elsewhere, Barton's response was pure genius "I'm not going to steal your breakfast you fat prick", just say it how it is Joey, I like that style!

What I am personally looking forward to is having Barton in a team with Adel Taarabt and Joey trying to tell Adel that he's done wrong. Could it be a potential for another on field brawl between team mates or will Joey provide Adel the kick up the backside that Taarabt sometimes needs? All I know is that the leadership and battling qualities being brought into the club by Barton will be a massive positive for this club.

Barton told the Official QPR Website :-

"It's been quite a whirlwind, so to get things finally sorted and draw a line under it all is a great relief.

"The ambition of the Club really impressed me.

"There's obviously a great set of lads here already and that's why they had such a great season in the Championship.

"The gaffer is talking about adding two or three more bodies and that, combined with the potential of the Club and the new owners' ambitions, bodes really well for the future."

Bringing Barton in really does signal our intentions to not only survive in the Premier League but to also go on and establish ourselves in the top flight for many years to come.

Barton will wear the number 17 shirt.

Welcome Joey, we hope you provide much inspiration and have a very successful time in the Blue and White Hoops!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

On to a more downbeat note.

On Wednesday Kaspars Gorkss swapped the Blue and White Hoops for the blue lines on a white t-shirt and joined Reading for an undisclosed fee.

Gorkss has been a fantastic servant to this football club since his 250k move from Blackpool three years ago.
Gorkss was undoubtedly the best back up we had for the first choice partnership of Fitz Hall and Danny Gabbidon so why was he sold? Was it to balance the books? Was it because we've tied down Shittu and Ramage to year long contracts on decent wages under the previous regime and now we need to balance up the wages? All I know is that if we do get an injury to either Hall or Gabbidon then we currently only have Matt Connolly that is capable of taking their place and beyond that we would struggle.
Tuesday nights performance against Rochdale showed that Perone and Shittu are not up to scratch and would need vast improvement if they are to stand a chance against any Premier League strikers.

Its sad to see Kaspars go but we wish him well and hopefully soon he will get the crack at the top flight that he deserves, I just hope its not with Reading!

Some Things Never Change...

2011-08-23T22:03:00.003Z

QPR 0-2 Rochdale

The curse of a Cup Competition struck again at Loftus Road, as Rochdale ran out 2-0 winners in the Carling Cup this evening against an under strength, but more than capable, QPR.

With the R's now in the Premier League, we were spared the agony of the First Round this year, with tha agony being delayed slightly for the second round. Like most of the early rounds, they are hardly a big draw, attendance wise and myself, Jenson and California Hoop were all that were there from the troops tonight, for one reason or the other. But I have to say, the ones that stayed away made a VERY wise decision.

With a low attendance expected, our normal seats in the Upper Loft were not available tonight, so we were shifted over to the South Africa Road stand for an uncomfortable first half - and that doesn't mean what was going on on the pitch! Anyone near or over 6ft tall is going to struggle in this stand and I spent the first half with my knees firmy wedged into the seat in front of me.

When the half time whistle blew, I stood up and let the blood start to re-circulate back into my lower legs and feet and we decided to move to the sparcely populated lower loft for a bit more comfort - and after managing to sweet talk a very understanding steward, we were kindly let through the gate and into a stand with much more leg room.

Anyway, onto the game...

Rochdale deservedly won 2-0...

QPR: Murphy, Orr (Harriman 31), Taarabt, Bothroyd, Perone, Connolly, Ephraim, Shittu, Andrade, Cook (Hewitt 73), Rowlands (Derry 71). Subs: Cerny, Buzsaky, Gibbons, German.

Man of the Match - it was unanimous between the three of us - the very kind steward that let us pass into the Lower Loft at half time, takes tonights vote.

To summarise, I must first give Rochdale the credit they deserve for their win. They were bang up for the challenge and took their goals very well - the second being a delightful chip from Gary Jones. We wish you all the very best in the next round and all the best of luck for the rest of the season.

But this was so disappointing in so many ways from a QPR perspective. It is blatantly obvious, with 8 team changes from Saturday, that the Premier League is the priority this season - and rightly so. But Rangers just didn't look at all interested and this game seemed to be used as a run out for a good few of the players and nothing more. In my opinion, the line up was stronger than anticipated and more than capable of beating Rochdale, with all due respect of course. Lee Cook and Martin Rowlands were extremely poor and I expected better from two players that you think would be out to prove a point. It must also be mentioned of just how unfit and out of shape Lee Cook looked. Bruno Andrade was the one shining light for me personally tonight.

Anyway, come Saturday I am sure this will all be forgotten about as we travel ridculously early to Wigan. Lofty Heights will be well represented at the game once more and Lee will return with what will no doubt be another unique away report.

Come on You R'ssssssssssssss!!!!

Tommy Leaves Toffees In A Sticky Situation

2011-08-20T20:01:00.006Z

Today the R's faithful hit the road for their first Premiership away game in 15 years and hoping to put in a good performance on the back of last weeks defeat against Bolton.
As always the Lofty Heights gang were in attendance.

The gang were travelling in two cars today as there were so many of us were attending this fixture. In one car was me, Jess, Sam and Luke and in the second car was Jenson, Lofty, PK, Jo, Smithy and an Everton fan.
The journey was very smooth for both parties and we both arrived in Liverpool just 20 minutes apart.

We all met at the entrance of the Bullens Road Stand where we were due to be taking our seat and all had a good catch up on the street discussing the past few days at Rangers'. Its fair to say we all have renewed optimism now that Tony Fernandes has bought out the poison dwarf and the man from the you've been tango'ed adverts, to join forces with the Mittal family and Amit Bhatia returning to boardroom level.
One rumour we did hear outside the ground was that in the near future an announcement will be made in regards to the Club Crest. Apparently we will be reverting back to the old crest. One of the reasons behind this is because the majority shareholders want rid of anything that represents the former majority partnership so that we can begin the new era with a fresh, clear approach that has the fans and the communication to the fans a lot clear and not the smoke and mirrors approach of old.
All of the gang entered the ground at about 2 but myself and Jess had to hang around outside until Iceman arrived as we had his ticket for the game and also for next weeks game at Wigan. Whilst we were waited for him we bumped into Michael and Debbie before Jack then walked by with his family members.
Finally at 2.30 Iceman arrived so we could get an reunite with the gang before kick off. Lorna had arrived and was already with the gang before we all met up and took our place in our seats.

As we were waiting for Iceman the team news broke, all we saw was that Jay Bothroyd and DJ Campbell weren't in the starting line up, the latter not even on the bench.
It wasn't until I saw a tweet from Amit Bhatia saying "gonna be v diff day, some bug hit the camp - DJ hasn't travelled, Jay sick, Adel sick but starting, Matty C sick but we need him. OUCH!!"
Explaining why we were starting with just Patrick Agyemang up front.

Starting 11 - Kenny; Orr, Hall, Gabbidon, Connolly; Derry, Faurlin; Buzsaky, Taarabt, Smith; Agyemang.

Rangers started off looking to impress and put together the passing football that made them such a force in the Championship last season.
Within five minutes we had our first chance.
Connolly and Taarabt combined down the left side before Connolly crossed for Tommy Smith in the centre and he side-footed his effort just past the left hand post.
Even though we were the away side we were finding our feet and growing in confidence and putting together string of great passing football before Taarabt got fouled on the edge of the Everton box.
Taarabt dusted himself down and swing in a wicked free kick that curled just wide of Tim Howard's goal.
Everton began to work their way back into the game and were awarded a soft free kick just outside the R's box.
Leighton Baines stepped up and curled his free kick over the wall and onto the bar before Rangers cleared their lines.
Minutes later and we had the opening goal.
After great passing, coupled with a great interception from Shaun Derry, Buzsaky found himself in possession and fed Tommy Smith the ball just inside the Everton box, he turned and had enough time to pick his spot and curl the ball around Tim Howard and into the bottom right corner. Cue jubilant and wild celebrations by us all in the away end!!!
For the remainder of the half Everton tried turning the screw and put more pressure on the R's defence.
On 40 minutes Everton had by far their best chance of the game. Beckford crossed to the back post to Cahill who was unmarked and he somehow missed the target from three yards out.
When the half time whistle blew you can easily say that the 2,000+ travelling fans were extremely happy with the slender lead that in all fairness we deserved for all the hard work, movement and fantastic passing that we were putting together.
Fitz Hall and Danny Gabbidon were immense at the heart of the defence whilst Shaun Derry was putting in a determined and gritty performance as he guarded the space just in front of the back four.

Everton must have had a bit of a talking to before they came out for the second half as they came out all fired up and had the first chance of the half.
Rodwell found space down the Rangers' left and his shot was safely gathered by Paddy Kenny.
On the hour mark Agyemang looked as if he landed heavily when challenging for a header and he was down getting treatment for five minutes before being stretched off to a warm applause from the R's fans and a minority of the Everton fans booed him as he was taken off. The ill Jay Bothroyd replaced him.
Everton fans were getting restless and 10 minutes into the half David Moyes tried playing his first trump card as he took Jack Rodwell off and Mikel Arteta replaced him.
Ten minutes later and the home fans were booing even more as they showed their disapproval of striker Jermaine Beckford being replaced my midfielder Fellani (I'm not even going to pretend to know how to spell his first name!)
Everton continued to pile on the pressure and the resilience of the R's defence as well as Shaun Derry marshaling the rearguard and making challenges all over the pitch.
Rangers still looked to break but they were spending large parts of the remainder of the game in their own half. When Louis Saha came on with 15 minutes to go you just hoped that time would fly by and hope that the final whistle would hurry up and arrive!
When the board went up with the injury time on it we found out we had five more minutes to hold on, FIVE!
Everton just carried on trying to break down the R's defence but despite their best efforts they could not deny us of our first away win in the Premier League since we won at Hillsborough in 1996 (thanks Iceman for that fact!)

What a fantastic few days for everyone at the R's this week! The Tony Fernandes/Mittal era began on Thursday and just two days later we go to Everton with a squad badly affected by illness and we go and fight our way to a 1-0 victory, it just does not get any better!
Some of the football we played in the first half was fantastic and if we continue to knock the ball around in that manner and then get a few bodies in the box to cause defenses more problems then we will fair really well this year.
The names being linked to the club are very exciting and this really is a great time to be a QPR fan.

Man of the Match today was a unanimous decison. There were brilliant performances from Danny Gabbidon, Fitz Hall and Akos Buzsaky(considering he's not played 90 minutes for quite some time). However our decision went to the charismatic, battling and evergreen Shaun Derry for his determined display, putting his foot in on everything and working tirelessly through the game.

Everton: Howard, Baines, Heitinga (Saha 74), Jagielka, Distin, Beckford (Fellaini 64), Cahill, Neville, Barkley, Osman, Rodwell (Arteta 55).

Subs: Mucha, Hibbert, Vellios, Anichebe.

Booked: Osman (81)

QPR: Kenny, Orr, Derry, Hall, Gabbidon, Taarabt, Faurlin, Buzsaky, Connolly, Agyemang (Bothroyd 57), Smith (Ephraim 66).

Subs: Murphy, Gorkss, Perone, Vaagan Moen, Andrade.

Goals: Smith (31)

Bookings: Hall (39)

Attendance: 35,008

On our way home in the car, Jess marked the predictions across the leagues made by Luke, Lofty, PK, Jenson, Jo and myself.
It was a close contest but Luke marked his first prediction win as he won on 27points, PK and myself shared 2nd place on 25points, Jo came fourth with 23 points, Jenson 5th on 22 points and Lofty picked up the wooden spoon (usually owned by Jenson) with 17points.
The gang all arrived safely home at 8.40 and all in time to enjoy our performance on Match of the Day.

New Era Begins As Fernandes Completes Takeover

2011-08-18T17:44:00.003Z

This afternoon the fantastic news broke that Tony Fernandes has bought out Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore and start a new era in the clubs history.

At 2pm the press conference was broadcast live on Sky Sports News.
Amit Bhatia introduced himself and Tony Fernandes, stating that Fernandes had now bought out Bernie and Flavio to attain a 66% majority shareholding in the club.
Tony Fernandes will be taking up the role of Chairman of the club, replacing Gianni Paladini in the role and effectively ending the Italian's eight year involvement with the club.
The Mittal family retain their 33% holding in the club and Amit Bhatia will be resuming the Vice Chairman that he left at the end of last season.
Bhatia resigned from the role due to disagreements over the release of Ishan Saksena as QPR Chairman and the decisions made over season ticket pricing. Even though Bhatia left the role he still had the support of the R's faithful as we hoped that the Mittal family would oust the former regime.

The Fernandes and Mittal partnership will be joined by Phil Beard of the Anschutz Entertainment Company (subject to Premier League approval) and he will bring vital business experience into the club as we look to continue to grow as a club and progress to bigger and better things.
Beard was an instrumental part of helping the successful bid for the London 2012 Olympics, transferring the Millennium Dome into to multipurpose arena and helped to turn it into the O2 Arena. Beard was also part of the management team that created the Air Miles loyalty programme.
Its safe to say that there are exciting times ahead for the R's!

Tony Fernandes and Amit Bhatia wasted no time at all in stating that manager Neil Warnock has the full backing of the shareholders and that they would provide the manager with what he wants as the ambition this year is to stay in the Premier League before progressing on to higher heights.
Fernandes described QPR as "a raw diamond that he hopes to contribute to turning it into a diamond".

As well as supporting the manager in the transfer market, Fernandes has longer term plans ahead for the R's.
He wants to improve training facilities and also develop our academy so that we can bring through more of our own players and give the fans a team that they can be proud of.

Finally Amit Bhatia concluded by stating that he and Fernandes will be discussing ticket prices in the near future and an announcement will be made in due course.

Fernandes grow up on the Uxbridge Road and the first live game he attended was at Loftus Road so his surroundings are very familiar and he will very quickly feel at home at QPR.

Welcome aboard Tony and welcome back Amit!! We look forward to enjoying your successful partnership and will enjoy the journey we are about to embark on with you.

U R'SSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

R's on the Road.............. To Everton.

2011-08-17T16:56:00.003Z

On Saturday the R's fans hit the road in the Premier League for the first time in 15 years. The destination of this momentous occasion is Everton.
Will the R's bounce back from last weeks unfortunate 4-0 loss against Bolton or will Everton benefit from starting the season a week later.

Here are some club details and hints and tips for you on your visit to Goodison Park.

Club History.

Name : Everton FC

Founded : 1878 (as St Domingo's FC)

Nicknames : The Toffees, The Blues, The School of Science, The People's Club

Stadium Name : Goodison Park

Honours :

First Division
Champions: (9) – 1890–91, 1914–15, 1927–28, 1931–32, 1938–39, 1962–63, 1969–70, 1984–85, 1986–87
Runners-up: (7) – 1889–90, 1894–95, 1901–02, 1904–05, 1908–09, 1911–12, 1985–86

Second Division
Champions: (1) – 1930–31
Runners-up: (1) – 1953–54

FA Cup
Winners: (5) – 1906, 1933, 1966, 1984, 1995
Runners-up: (8) – 1893, 1897, 1907, 1968, 1985, 1986, 1989, 2009

Football League Cup
Runners-up: (2) – 1977, 1984

FA Charity Shield
Winners: (9) – 1928, 1932, 1963, 1970, 1984, 1985, 1986 (shared), 1987, 1995
Runners-up: (2) – 1933, 1966

Full Members Cup
Runners-up: (2) – 1989, 1991

Super Cup
Runner-up: (1) – 1985–86

European Cup Winners' Cup
Winners: (1) – 1985

The Stadium.

Current capacity - 40,569 (all seated)

The away end the R's will be housed in is the Bullens Road Stand.
This is split into two areas, the Paddock which has the best view of the two. This can hold 1,700 fans. Then you also have the Upper Tier which can house a further 1,300 fans but this is restricted view! If you are near the back of this stand then you will have two supporting pillars to contend with and could get quite frustrating.
The seating in the Upper Tier is also very dated and there are basic facilities available to the travelling fans. Supporters in the Paddock will enjoy a much better view of the game and will also have newer seats to perch themselves on.

Just a side note; if you do notice flowers lying around the perimeter of the pitch, this is because the ashes of a number of supporters (over 800) have been interred around it.

The History between the teams.....

At Everton (22)

Everton 14
QPR 4
Draw 4

This is the first meeting between the clubs since the R's were relegated in 1996.
The game at Goodison Park that season ended in a 2-0 victory for the Toffees courtesy of goals from Graham Stuart and Paul Rideout.
The R's last victory at Everton was on 20th November 1993. It was a 3-0 victory for all to enjoy. I couldn't find out the goalscorers for that day unfortunately.

How to get there.

By Car :- The post code being used for todays journey is L4 4EL.

From the South follow the M40 until you reach the M42 and then join the M6. Carry on up the M6 until you reach the junction for the M62 (junction 21A).
Follow the M62 until you reach the end of the motorway (beware of a 50mph speed camera about a 1/4 of a mile from the end of the motorway). Then follow the A5058 towards Liverpool. After three miles turn left at the traffic lights into Utting Avenue. Proceed for one mile and then turn right at the corner of Stanley Park into Priory Road. Goodison is at the end of this road.

If you arrive early then there is street parking to be found around Walton Lane. Otherwise park over towards Anfield or in Stanley Park itself. The entrance to the car park which costs £8, is in Priory Road.

By Train :- Kirkdale station is the closest to the ground(just under a mile away).

However, it may be advisable to go to Sandhills station as this has the benefit of a bus service to the ground, which runs for a couple of hours before the game and around 50 minutes after the final whistle. The bus will drop you off within walking distance of Goodison.

Both Sandhills and Kirkdale stations can be reached by first getting a train from Liverpool Lime Street to Liverpool Central and then changing there for Kirkdale.

The main railway station in Liverpool is Lime Street which is over three miles from the ground, although it is mostly downhill on the way back to the station, so either jump on a train to Kirkdale station or jump in a taxi, which will cost about £6.

Pubs 'n' Grub

There are an array of pubs to choose to visit.
There is the Thomas Frost on Walton Road. This is a Wetherspoons and will host both home and away fans.
The pub close to Lime Street Station called the Head of Steam, this is also a Wetherspoons and will play a good host for travelling R's supporters.
There are plenty of pubs around the City Centre to choose from so take a wander and enjoy the sights of Liverpool.
Around the City Centre you will find many food outlets to choose from so find your favorite restaurant/take-away shop and fill yourself up.
Catering inside the ground includes amongst other things; a Scouse Pie £2.30, Steak Pie £2.50, Cheese and Onion Pie £2.30, plus Sausage Rolls £2.30. They also offer a huge meat pie for £3.

No One Said It Was Going To Be Easy...

2011-08-13T19:49:00.005Z

QPR 0-4 Bolton

Welcome back to the start of a brand new season and after a 15 year absence and a Lofty Heights first, I am writing a report from a QPR match in the Premier League. A game which saw the R's get off to the worst possible start to what will no doubt be, a very tough campaign, with Bolton trotting out 4-0 winners, but things aren't always what they seem....

After what seemed a very long summer, I woke this morning with the football buzz and literally, could not wait to get back down to HQ to catch up with the gang again. After I literally was driving everyone mad at home, I left earlier than normal and arrived at the ground at around 12.30ish...

I first bumped into Jenson who, suited up, was spending the day in an Executive Box and was making an early challenge to Corporate Gordon's crown. The scores will be level next week as Gordon will be sampling the Corporate Hospitality at Goodison Park. Also in attendance were Tony and Dad, Mick and at this point, I, along with all of us at Lofty Heights, would like to Congratulate Tony and Wife, Mel, on the birth of their gorgeous baby daughter, Jessica Jane!!

I took a slow walk then to the Spingbok pub and to my delight, saw R's fans outside drinking in the lunchtime sunshine. The delight was shortlived as as soon as I arrived, the doorman was shuffling people in as the 1pm, drinking in the street curfew had arrived and I soon found myself inside what was an absolute sweatbox. After a very rushed pint, I sat outside, drinkless, but much more comfortable with Sophie, Mick and Tony and slowly but surely, the rest of the gang duly arrived.

After another drinkless 15 minutes, we were inside the Stadium, where we COULD have a beer in the fresh air and were eagerly awaiting the kick off. We made our way to our seats at ten to three and in good time for the kick off. All the seats in the Loft Upper Stand had been replaced and were now a more shiny blue plastic material and not with the cushions many of us had hoped for after a massive price increase for said seats. It was the kind of plastic that if anyone was to fart, it would make a racket and everyone and anyone would hear it, so sneaky ones are definitely out of the question...

Onto the game and the two teams took the field and Rangers were finally parading the brand new home shirt of thinner and more traditional blue and white hoops. New signings, Kieron Dyer, Jay Bothroyd, Danny Gabbidon and DJ Campbell were all making their QPR debuts. We almost made the perfect start when on 2 minutes, Taarabt's cross was flicked on by Bothroyd, for DJ Campbell to prod home from close range, only for the goal to be ruled out by the offside flag. More disappointment followed five minutes later when Kieron Dyer, probably the most unluckiest man in football, went down awkwardly after a tackle and was stretchered off, with a suspected broken metatarsal. Later X-Rays have proved in fact there is no break so we wish Kieron, who has worked tirelessly pre-season, a very speedy recovery!!

Despite the setback, Rangers pressed hard and had much the better of the first half, with Bothroyd seeing a header cleared off the line. There were further chances for Smith and Taarabt but the R's were caught with the classic sucker punch, five minutes before the break - Arsenal target, Gary Cahill collected the ball 25 yards out and curled a superb effort into the top corner. Bolton had demonstrated with style, that you need to take your chances in the Premier League.

The Trotters started the second half the brighter and Klasnic forced a fine save from Paddy Kenny before Kevin Davies headed just wide. Rangers replied and Adel Taarabt curled an effort just wide. But on 67 minutes, Bolton doubled their lead - Chris Eagles free kick was turned into his own net by Danny Gabbidon, who had been having a fine debut for the R's. It all went a bit flat from here as the players all looked very down and a section of the R's support starting directing their frustrations at Flavio Briatore.

Three minutes later, it was 3-0 as Klasnic's deflected effort beat Paddy Kenny and Muamba made it four with ten minutes remaining giving Bolton a somewhat flattering scoreline it has to be said, but on their second half performance, a deserved victory all the same. More abuse was aimed at Flavio Briatore and rightly so, when, after the fourth goal, he and his entourage made for the exit. Not the sort of behaviour you would expect from the owner of the Club, especially with potential investor, Tony Fernandes sitting beside him.

And just to rub salt into the open wounds, Clint Hill was sent off in stoppage time for allegedly, headbutting Petrov. By all accounts, it was nothing of the sort but nevertheless, stupid of Hill to get so involved so late in the game.

QPR: Kenny, Hill, Derry, Hall, Gabbidon, Taarabt (Buzsaky 72), Dyer (Orr 7), Campbell, Bothroyd, Faurlin, Smith (Helguson 72). Subs: Murphy, Connolly, Agyemang, Ephraim.

Man of the Match - was divided amongst the gang with Shaun Derry, Fitz Hall and Danny Gabbidon all in the running. But today's award, with 3 votes amongst us, goes to Jay Bothroyd.

In summary, anyone looking at this result will think it was a thumping and QPR are surefire favourites for the drop. But in all honesty, I am not overly disappointed and I enjoyed the match immensly, really, I did. For an hour we were as good as Bolton and more than held our own. But a moment of quality and two fortunate goals made it an extremely difficult afternoon.

The Lofty Heights gang are in strong force and on the road to Everton next Saturday and Lee will return with one of his legendary away reports, from Goodison Park.

Come on You R'sssssssssssss!!!!

Last Chance To Join The Lofty Heights Fantasy Football League

2011-08-12T19:59:00.003Z

This is your last chance to compete in the Lofty Heights Fantasy Football League.

Simply register a team on www.fantasy.premierleague.com and then select to join the Lofty Heights league, just enter the code 62681-23735 when prompted and see if you can become the 2011/12 champion.

Good Luck!!!

League Cup Round 2 draw

2011-08-11T21:45:00.002Z

Having successfully got past the First Round of the League Cup this week, we drew our attention to tonight's Second Round draw.

The R's were the last team out of the bowl and were given a home tie against Rochdale.

The game will take place on the week commencing 22nd August.

Murphy Joins

2011-08-10T16:43:00.002Z

This morning the club announced the signing of former Ipswich goalkeeper Brian Murphy on a free transfer.

The 28 year old has put pen to paper on a two year deal that will see him provide competition for Radek Cerny and current R's number 1 Paddy Kenny.

Murphy joined the club on trial during the clubs tour of Cornwall and impressed enough to be given the nod to travel to Italy and try to further impress the R's hierarchy and in the final of the Trofeo Bortolotti and saved the final two spot kicks to secure yet more silverware for the R's, this time on European territory against Atalanta and SG Braga.

Murphy started his career at Manchester City in 2000 yet made no first team appearances in his three year spell at the club. Murphy was drafted out on loan to Oldham and Peterborough in 2003 yet only made one appearance for the latter.
In 2003 Murphy moved to Swansea and in his three years there he only managed to get 13 appearances before he moved back to his native Ireland and Bohemians in 2007.
In 2008 Murphy was named the Irish Goalkeeper of the year and in the summer of 2010 he moved back to England and to Championship side Ipswich Town having made 97 appearances for Bohemians between 2007-2009.
Murphy made 20 appearances for Ipswich last year and decided not to extend his stay and pursue a move elsewhere and that's where we stepped in.

Murphy told the Official QPR Website :-
"It is great to be here. I am really looking forward to the new season and working with the goalkeepers.

"Since I have been here I have enjoyed it, and I think I have done okay. The Manager and the coaching staff seem pleased so I am just delighted to have my future sorted out.

"I am here to work hard, and anything extra will be a bonus. I want to be in that 18-man squad every week, but I know every player here wants the same thing.

"It is going to be a massive season for the Club and one that I am looking forward to being a part of."

Welcome To QPR Brian, we hope you enjoy your stay here!

U R'SSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!

Lu-sing Is Not Such A Dyer Thing

2011-08-05T23:02:00.004Z

Tonight the R's travelled to Luton Town to play the final pre-season friendly ahead of the brand new Barclays Premier League season.

The journey started off when I travelled to pick Jess up in sunny Caterham and proceeded to hit the M25 at 3.30 as we looked to avoid the rush hour traffic.
Just 15 minutes into the trip we found ourselves diverting off the M25 due to major delays and we hit the back roads in hope that we could save ourselves a lot of time by avoiding everything. After over two hours weaving around Reigate, Dorking, Guildford, Woking, Staines, Windsor, Slough, Beaconsfield, Amersham and Rickmansworth we finally re-joined the M25 to see nice clear roads to be able to put our foot down to try and arrive with a decent amount of time to spare so we could find a good parking space.
Shortly after reaching Hemel Hempstead and having a quick pit-stop, we were contacted by Lofty and Jo G informing us of the traffic that lay ahead and gave us directions to an ideal parking space that was cleverly being reserved by Lofty until we arrived.
Shortly after 7 the 4members of the travelling party were united and made the way to the ground via someones front door and climbing through a bedroom window to access the seating area of the stadium.

Neil Warnock named probably his strongest starting 11, which included yesterday's new signing DJ Campbell.
Kieron Dyer started in an unorthodox right back position as Warnock looked to experiment in the last opportunity he had.

Kenny; Dyer, Hall, Gabbidon, Hill; Derry, Faurlin; Smith, Taarabt, Campbell; Bothroyd.

Subs:- Cerny, Orr, Connolly, Perone, Ephraim, Buzsaky, Vaagen Moen, Doughty, Andrade, Helguson, Agyemang, Hewitt.

The R's got off to the best possible start, scoring in the opening 29 seconds.
Taarabt's cross was poorly dealt with by the Luton defence as DJ Campbell found himself free inside the 18 yard box and superbly finished to bag his first goal in a QPR shirt.
Rangers' were soon on the back foot and if it wasn't for a superb sliding block by Gabbidon and a brilliant reflex save from Kenny then the R's could have been pegged back quite quickly.
Luton were enjoying large amounts of possession and the R's defending was holding up to the challenge but if Luton's shooting in front of goal was a lot more accurate then it could have been a different story.
Gabbidon looked good in the heart of the R's defence, putting in many great challenges and blocks when it was needed. He seemed to read the game very well and sniffed out a lot of decent looking Luton attacks.
Bothroyd and Smith had some half decent chances to double the R's lead but both men saw their efforts flash just past the post.
Taarabt had the R's final chance of the half when his free kick from 25yards out stung the palms of Tyler in the Luton goal and when behind for a corner.

In terms of how the team played in the first half I would say that when we went forward we looked dangerous but we did give away possession very cheaply and defensively we did look shaky at times. However what I would say is that we had four new squad members on show in the first half and they will need time to gel.
What worried me the most is that Taarabt was supposed to be playing down the left side and left Clint Hill exposed on too many occasions. My personal opinion is that we cant play two strikers as well as Taarabt, if he plays then we can only afford to play with one of Bothroyd or Campbell and I can't see much point on having one of our quality signings this summer sitting on bench.

Nine changes were made during the interval as many of the fringe players and potential starters were given a chance to shine.
The line up was as follows :-
Cerny; Orr, Perone, Connolly, Hill; Dyer, Buzsaky; Agyemang, Vaagen Moen, Ephraim; Helguson.

Subs remaining :- Doughty, Andrade, Hewitt.

The R's started the half much the better of the two sides and really got some crisp passing together. Dyer and Buzsaky looked excellent in the centre of midfield and looked as if they have forged a real understanding together.
The R's were really threatening but if it wasn't for many poor first touches from Agyemang then we may have had even more opportunities to extend the lead on four or five occasions.
Rangers' did have the ball in the back of the net on a second occasion through Heidar Helguson finishing off with a sweet drive from 18 yards but the offside flag was raised and it didn't count.
Kieron Dyer, who was fantastic throughout the second half in midfield, was taken off on 72 minutes and was replaced by Michael Doughty.
Two minutes after Dyer was taken off, Luton drew themselves level.
Luton broke away down the left side and Morgan-Smith crossed for Barnes-Homer to head home from 6 yards out.
The Luton fans went crazy when they scored, anyone would have thought that they has won the FA Cup and not scored the equalizer in a pre-season friendly, was very funny from where I was standing.
Two minutes later and Luton came close to adding a second.
A swift breakaway saw Dance smash his effort on to the crossbar and how it stayed out I will never know.
Rangers' made their last two changes of the evening when Hill and Helguson made way for Andrade and Hewitt.
A minute after the substitution Luton put themselves in front.
Morgan-Smith chased Orr's back pass to Cerny and Cerny's clearance hit Morgan-Smith before bouncing into the empty net.
Five minutes later and Luton made sure of victory as Watkins shot took a deflection and found it's way into an empty net.
By now the Luton fans were swinging their shirts above there head and getting ready to celebrate with a street party down the dingy roads that lead to Kenilworth Road.
When the final whistle was blown the smug announcer said to everyone "Blue Square Premier Luton Town 3 Barclays Premier League QPR 1, I never realised pre-season friendlies meant so much to people these days. Next we'll find out that they are producing DVD's as a collectors item for the one and only time they beat Premier League opposition, in a friendly.
Fair play to them though, they did look good in the final 15 minutes of the game.

In summary, we had some positives to come out of the game. Firstly no-one was injured so we now have a full squad with a clean bill of health ready for Saturday's kick off. Secondly, Kieron Dyer in midfield tonight looked superb and we need to use him in a similar role if we are to get the best out of him. His class did show and he looks like a class act and if he stays fit we will benefit greatly from it. Coincidentally all three goals went in just after he came off.
Thirdly, I look like like of Gabbidon, he reads the game well, has a fair amount pace and can be a great signing for us. He could however be prone to the odd mistake but I hope I am wrong.
Lastly, the acquisition of DJ Campbell looks to be the perfect signing and is sure to become a real fans favorite almost instantly.

All I'm hoping for is that we find a system that will work for us and that can accommodate our best players in and not leave us so vulnerable at the back. We do look good going forward but its the defensive side that gives me the most cause for concern. If we do sign Ryan Bertrand on loan from Chelsea and the possibility of Jason Puncheon and Jermaine Jenas coming to Loftus Road then we do have a good chance of putting up a good fight on our return to the Premiership.

Luton Town: Tyler, Gleeson (Watkins 64), Osano, Keane, Beckwith, Antwi (Asafu-Adjaye 64), Lawless (Lacey 90), Dance, O'Connor (Morgan-Smith 72), Crow (Barnes-Homer 64), Howells (Poku 90).

Subs: Elder, Pilkington.

Goals: Barnes-Holmer (74), Morgan-Smith (83), Watkins (88)

QPR: Kenny (Cerny 46), Dyer (Doughty 72), Hill (Andrade 82), Derry (Ephraim 46), Hall (Orr 46), Gabbidon (Trialist), Taarabt (Vaagan-Moen 46), Smith (Connolly 46), Campbell (Helguson 46) (Hewitt 82), Bothroyd (Agyemang 46), Faurlin (Buzsaky 46).

Goals: Campbell (1)

Attendance: 3,170 (621 QPR)

DJ in the mix for the R's

2011-08-02T21:06:00.006Z

Today QPR announced there first cash summer signing ahead of the start of the new season as DJ Campbell joins from Blackpool.

The fee for the Hammersmith born striker is believed to be £1.25million, the release fee clause that was inserted into his contract when he joined Blackpool.

Campbell started off his career as a youngster in the R's youth ranks before moving to the West Midlands to play for Aston Villa's youth team.
He was not offered a professional contract at Villa and left to ply his trade in the lower echelons of English Football, with the first stop being at Chesham United.
After a successful season there, scoring 16 goals in 29 games, DJ then moved on to Stevenage Borough.
An unhappy time was endured there for two season and eventually Campbell moved on to Yeading.
Campbell impressed during an FA Cup game against Newcastle United in front of the BBC cameras and this paved the way for a £5,000 move to Brentford in 2005.
In January 2006 DJ was on the move back up to the West Midlands as Birmingham agreed to pay Brentford £500,000 for the strikers services.
Campbell helped the Blues' achieve promotion back to the Premier Leaugue in 2007 and scored 9 goals in 43 goals for the club, this attracted he attention of Leicester and they in turn spent £1.6 million on the striker.
Campbell struglled to hold down a regular starting position for Leicester and in 2009 he moved to Bloomfield road for the first of two loan periods at the Seasiders, the second one being in February 2010.
On the 31st August 2010 Campbell became Blackpool's record signing, a £1.25 million fee was paid by the newly promoted Premier League team.
He scored 13 goals from 31 appearances last season, an impressive return considering Blackpool's defensive frailties.

Now Campbell returns to London and is looking to impress, this is what he told the Official QPR Website -

"It's a Club that I supported as a kid," an excited Campbell told www.qpr.co.uk.

"I grew up around here and QPR have played a massive part in my life.

"This was my first Club, from 6-16, so to finally be back here at the age of 29 is really special."

He added: "It's a massive Club and it means a lot to me to be back here where it all began.

"There were other Clubs in the Premier League that showed an interest but when I heard QPR were in for me it was an offer I couldn't refuse - this is my Club."

What a great signing this will be for the R's!

We hope you have a very successful time in the Hooped shirt DJ!!!!!

U R'SSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

QPR in Free Transfer Signing Shock

2011-07-25T15:27:00.002Z

This afternoon the most shocking news came out of Loftus Road, QPR had broken the bank once again and signed another 'International' player for a massive fee of zero.

The QPR owners have really excelled in the transfer market during the close and pre-season by bringing in three players so far on massive transfer fees, really stating their intent for the club, spend nothing and pocket everything.
Having released a statement over the weekend stating that Adel Taarabt would not be sold to PSG and that we were never looking to sell him really does stink and just shows that you really cannot trust these two idiots that once again have had to state the claim that they saved our club, well thanks very much you saved us, well done but now you think you can fleece us of every penny and treat us like morons whilst you make a fortune out of our club, just do us a favour and sell the club to someone how actually cares about the football club and go and play with your toy cars.

Anyways, back to the real news.....

QPR announced this afternoon that Danny Gabbidon was signing on a free transfer on a one year deal.

Gabbidon was available on a free transfer having left West Ham at the end of last season.
Gabbidon spent a troublesome six years at Upton Park and made just 92 appearances due to a number of injury problems .

Before joining West Ham, Gabbidon was at Cardiff City for five years after he arrived in South Wales from West Brom.

Gabbidon spoke to the Official QPR Website and said the following.
"I'm delighted to be here.

"It's a good Club. Hopefully I can learn more about it in the coming weeks.

"I had a good week with the lads in Cornwall and I'm pleased to have signed.

"My agent spoke to the Manager and he said to come down and train for a week. It went from there.

"He was a big part in me joining the Club. I've been quite impressed by him.

"He's straight talking, which I like. If you're doing something right I think he'll be the first to tell you and, if you're not, he'll be the first to tell you again.

"As a player, that's what you want. I was impressed with what he had to say about the Club and what he wants to do this season.

"I think we can do well. The lads showed last season that they're already confident and hungry to do well in the Premier League."

Having heard good reviews from his time with us during the tour of Cornwall hopefully we have got ourselves a decent defender to be part of the team.

Welcome Danny, we hope you have a successful spell here at QPR.

U R'SSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!

Lofty Heights Fantasy Football League

2011-07-21T19:01:00.002Z

With pre-season well underway its the time of year that the fantasy football season begins for all us wannabe managers.

Lofty Heights has set up its own league on www.fantasy.premierleague.com
Simply register a team and then select to join the Lofty Heights league, just enter the code 62681-23735 when prompted and see if you can become the 2011/12 champion.

Good Luck!!!

Kumba-ya My Lord.

2011-07-16T00:00:00.005Z

Friday evening saw our beloved R's take to the field for our pre-season friendly and get us on the road to the start of the Premiership season.
A few of the Lofty Heights gang made the trip to check out how things were shaping up.

For me it all started with a journey from Staines down the M25 to pick Jess up before heading back up the M25 and battle the nightmare rush hour traffic and make our way up to Harrow Borough.
Having arrived in good time, Jess and I made our way to the bar to meet up with Lofty, Jo and Charlotte for a pre match drink and catch up. We were later joined by the Bowen family, who at the last minute decided to make the long trip from Wales to see the game(that's dedication for you!).

The starting 11 were - Cerny, Orr, Hall, Trialist(Bruno Peroni), Hill; Derry, Faurlin; Trialist(Danny Webber), Vaagen Moen, Smith; Helguson.

The first half wasn't a great spectacle to watch but then again they never are during pre-season.
Harrow Borough looked the more threatening team to score and carved out five or six decent opportunities to opening the scoring but Cerny was proving difficult to beat and near the end of the first half he pulled off a truly fantastic save, flying to his left hand side to tip the ball around the post.
Rangers' barely threatened in the opening 45minutes and only had Vaagen Moen's dipping volley that flew over and a Tommy Smith curler from outside the box that got close but on the whole Rangers' would've gone in happy at 0-0 and look to press of when the substitutions were made at half time.
One shining light of the first half was the arrival of Sam and Luke fresh from a hospital visit which they were told they were going to be the parents of very healthy twin boys that are due to arrive in December.
Congratulations to them both!!!

At half time we made our way back to the bar for a distraction from the football and another excuse to have a quick drink.

We arrived for the second half about ten minutes late but luckily we had not missed a thing.

The second half team was - Cerny; Orr, Shittu, Gorkss, Trialist(Kumba), Ephraim, Connolly, Vaagen Moen; Trialist(Danny Webber), Hulse, Agyemang.

The first piece of action we saw as we reached our destination in the stand was a crunching tackle by Kumba right in front of us.
About 10 minutes later we witnessed our first goal, and what a cracker it was!
Rangers' were awarded a free kick about 35 yards from goal and the Trialist Kumba.
Kumba put his arm up as if he was setting up for a set piece rehearsed in the training ground but as he approached the ball he unleashed a thunderbolt that was only going in one place, the top corner! The 'keeper had no chance at all and didnt even move.
Rangers' did create a few more chances with Agyemang missing two relatively easy looking chances and Rob Hulse missing a chance or two also.
Peter Ramage and Michael Doughty came on for the final 10-15 minutes to stretch their legs.

All in all this was a good work out for the first pre-season friendly.
Harrow looked like a very decent team and in the first half they really did look like a good passing side and did create opportunities that troubled us at the back.
It's easy to see how Harrow have produced some really talented players over the last few years that have progressed on to play at Football League clubs.
It's early days yet and there's plenty more work to be done before the season begins.

Kumba looked like a decent left back and it well worth another look at when we are in Cornwall. He's got plenty of pace, is not afraid to get stuck in and has a mean free kick on him, watch out for the highlights on QPR World when they become available.

Harrow Borough: Jupp, Frempong, Marsh-Brown, Walters, Leech, Ijaha, Constant, McGonigle, Morlese, Orphanu, Delgado.

Subs: Fraser, Hall, Pither, Lawrence, Rowe, Chanda, Fenton, Mensah, James.

QPR: Cerny, Orr, Hill, Derry, Hall, Peroni, Webber, Vaagan Moen, Helguson, Smith, Faurlin.

Subs: Putnins, Gorkss, Ephraim, Ramage, Connolly, Hulse, Kumba, Agyemang, Shittu, Doughty.

Goals: Trialist (62)

Attendance: 1,688

Dyer Decision Or Great Investment?

2011-07-13T15:56:00.004Z

An even bigger shock this afternoon as a second arrival is announced, no surprise that its a free transfer, but the player in question definitely raises a few eyebrows.

Kieron Dyer signs for the R's on a one year deal having been released by West Ham.
Dyer has been working hard over the summer to prove his fitness and has been rewarded with Neil Warnock having enough faith to offer him a one year contract which makes the deal somewhat appealing given the amount of injuries Dyer has had over the last few years.

An hour before the news became official I received a text from Lofty Heights very own Lofty saying that the Dyer deal was sealed and was about to be delivered, low and behold just an hour later the news had broken. Well done Mr Lofty for the scoop.

Neil Warnock told the Official QPR Website -

"When a player of Kieron's ability becomes available, you'd be crazy not to be interested.

"As far as I'm concerned it's a gamble worth taking. He really impressed me in training and it looks like he has been working hard on his fitness throughout the summer.

"I instantly liked him when we met. You get feelings like that as a Manager.

"He's had a lot of problems, but he's got something to prove. He's a hell of a good player and I still think he's got an opportunity to impress with us."

Dyer started off his career at Ipswich and spent three successful years at Portman Road before moving to Newcastle for £6 million, which was a record fee received by the club (until this summer when Connor Wickham moved to Sunderland for £8 million).
In 2004 Dyer was famously had an on pitch fight with team mate Lee Bowyer which resulted in them both being sent off.
In 2007 Dyer moved back down south to West Ham for an undisclosed fee.
10 days after making a successful debut against Birmingham, Dyer broke his leg in two places following a challenge by Joe Jacobsen of Bristol Rovers in a League Cup match.
Having only made 22 appearances in three years at West Ham Dyer went out on loan for a month to former club Ipswich, where he made four appearances.
Dyer has also won 33 England caps during his career.

I feel that if Dyer can stay fit and get games under his belt for the first time in four years then this could prove to be a great signing for us and a real bargain.
With there only being a one year deal in place the club are not tied down to paying him to sit on the sidelines keeping our physios occupied. With this deal in place I believe we could see the Kieron Dyer that used to be exciting to watch and hopefully the promise that Dyer showed as a youngster can be brought back to life during his time here at Loftus Road.

Welcome to Loftus Road Kieron, we hope you have an enjoyable stay here.

U R'SSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jay walking into Loftus Road.

2011-07-13T09:50:00.005Z

Finally after a long wait the R's have finally made a signing, yes its true!

After months of being linked with big money signings and high profile loanees possibly arriving like Joe Cole, Jermaine Jenas, Robbie Keane and Fabio Cannavaro, just to name a few.

Well today its finally happened, we have signed a striker, however no transfer fee is involved. Hardly a shock with the owners we have but let's get excited anyway shall we.

Jay Bothroyd becomes the first official summer signing for the R's and signs a 3 year deal with the club.

Bothroyd returns to the R's having been part of the clubs centre of excellence as a youngster before moving onto the Arsenal youth team.

Bothroyd moved to Coventry in 2000 and had 3 seasons there before moving to Italy and had a two year spell at Perugia before Blackburn came in and took him on loan in 2005.
Spells at Charlton, Wolves and a loan term at Stoke followed as Bothroyd struggled to settle at a club.
In 2008 Cardiff was the next destination for Bothroyd as they paid 300k for the strikers services.
It was this season that Bothroyd begun to show all the promise he showed as a youngster and had his best season to date.
With 20 goals to his name and an England call up in October behind his back in what was an eventful season in South Wales now Bothroyd is once again back in London and back home.

With Bothroyd back at his roots and now hitting the prime of his career we can be certain that Bothroyd will be doing all he can to let his talent be tested in the Premiership and hopefully add to the England cap he won last season.

Neil Warnock spoke to the Official QPR website and said the following.
"In bringing Jay in, we have managed to secure an excellent player which augers well for the forthcoming campaign.
"We have been chasing him for a number of weeks and it has been frustrating at times.
"We have had to have a lot of patience with this but, as the saying goes, good things come to those who wait."

Bothroyd is also the first England International that the R's have signed since Tony Currie in 1979.

Welcome to Loftus Road Jay and we hope you have a very successful time with us here!

U R'SSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We're back in business!

2011-07-13T09:42:00.003Z

Welcome back to Lofty Heights!
We are back after a nice relaxing break away from proceedings and now we return with just four and a half weeks until the start of the first R's Premiership campaign in over 15 years.

Myself and Lofty will do our best to keep up to date with all that is going on at Loftus Road and guide you through the pre-season until the big day when Bolton arrive at the R's on 13th August.

We hope you are ready for another rollercoaster ride and hopefully we will have more stories from our journey through the season and we hope you continue enjoying our views on all what is going on.

As always your views are always appreciated and you can share these by commenting on our page here or on our Facebook or Twitter pages.

U R'SSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A Champion Day...

2011-05-08T20:31:00.007Z

QPR 1-2 Leeds

Queens Park Rangers and their fans finally celebrated confirmation of their status as Championship Winners despite a final day defeat by Leeds - and what a day this turned out to be...

The much publicised, FA Hearing, of which I am sure you are all aware of, had stressed us all out to the absolute maximum last week, made even worse by the fact that the decision, originally intended to go out on Friday, had been delayed until, well, who knew...

QPR themselves had been given permission to recieve the well deserved trophy and had said quite openly, that they intended to party, but could we really celebrate properly with all this hanging over us??

With all this in mind, the gang fully intended to continue with the plans to celebrate and the car was left behind as I made an early start of 9am to get the bus and train to Loftus Road. I met with PK and Jenson about 10.30, amidst rumours there was to be an announcement from the FA at 11.00am. This came and went and we had a couple of pints before the lovely Metropolitan Police, forced us off the Springbok balcony and back into what felt like a sauna, so we soon finished our drinks, assembled outside and were soon to be on the move to the Blue and White bar. Bumping into a few old friends held us up briefly, before at approximately, 11.30, something happened and I don't think I will ever forget it as long as I live...

A huge roar went up from inside the Springbok and to be honest, had us all a bit confused as it was far too early for any other matches to be being played. I was then greeted by R's nut, Paul 'Wig' Moore running towards me, donning his blue and white wig and a painted face, he stopped and yelled - 'BBC have just announced there is 'NO POINTS DEDUCTION!!!'. Before I could utter a response, people were literally sprinting out of the pub, cheering and hugging anyone they could get hold off, tears in many an eye. After all the shit we had all been through - WE HAD DONE IT, WE WERE CHAMPIONS and WE WERE NOW, PREMIER LEAGUE!!!!!

We then made our way outside the Stadium to join more jubilant R's fans in serious party mood!! Some of the gang headed into the bar whilst myself and Jenson hung around a bit longer to wait for a chap Jenson had to give a ticket too and in the mean time, were lucky enough to be confronted by Clem and his cameras from the Football League show to ask our reaction. At around midnight, my phone actually went bananas with friends and family texting me to tell me we had been on the telly on this momentus day, happy days!!!

We joined the gang once more for a pre match beer - yes, there was a match going on, but in truth, I don't think any of us much cared about it and wanted to start the party. But we went to our seats shortly before the kick off to welcome the Champions and join the sea of blue and white...

Loftus Road was soon jumping as after just 26 seconds. Helguson found the back of the net from about a yard after Schmeichel failed to hold on to Faurlin's shot. Leeds were level seven minutes before the break when Richard Naylor's long ball into the area was met first by Gradel, who nudged it past a hesitant Cerny. Despite this, the singing and celebrating went on as the gang went down to the very busy bar at half time.

For one reason or another, I didn't make it back to my seat until very late in the second half, by which time, Leeds were in front - McCormack surged into the area and let fly with a shot that took a deflection off Peter Ramage, giving Cerny no chance. Tommy Smith forced Schmeichel to tip over his header before the Smith again brought out another great block from the Leeds stopper. Gorkss then headed a foot wide from the resulting corner. But the equalising goal did not come and the final whistle blew on a fantastic season and the celebrations, officially began.

QPR: Cerny, Orr, Hill (Ramage 66), Derry, Helguson (Shittu 72), Buzsaky (Taarabt 55), Faurlin, Gorkss, Routledge, Connolly, Smith. Subs: Putnins, Agyemang, Vaagan-Moen, Ephraim.

It would have been nice to end the season with a win, especially over the self acclaimed, 'Champions of Europe', in our Cup Final, but when that trophy was lifted high by Adel Taarabt, I'm sure the game was soon forgotten...

We all then descended into Shepherds Bush, which was like a carnival, with the streets a sea of blue and white and every pub having hundreds of fans partying. We started our celebrations in our own haunt, the British Queen, before a more relaxed but enjoyable jaunt to Shepherds Bush Green, then was onto the Goldhawk before settling at O'Donohues for a couple of hours, before the gang started to go their seperate ways and into the night. An absolutely amazing day and one of, if not the best footballing experience I have ever lived!! I hope all R's fans had as an enjoyable time as I did, which thinking about it, is a pretty stupid statement and I am sure there were sore heads aplenty this morning.

As I bring the curtain down on Lofty Heights season, I would like to thank you all once again for your continued support of these pages and hope you will return next season for what is a Lofty Heights first... Reports from QPR in the Premier League!!!

CHAMPIONES!!! COME ON YOU R'ssssssss!!!!!

Sweet FA decided for now.........

2011-05-05T18:10:00.004Z

So this evening us Rangers' fans heard that the FA's decision on the Alejandro Faurlin transfer was being delayed until at least 4pm tomorrow and a decision will be announced anytime after that time. Who knows whether an announcement will be made before or after the Leeds game on Saturday afternoon.
Here is my view on it all.

So what is it they are actually investigating?

Rangers' have been charged with seven breaches of FA rules that include the alleged existence of an agreement between them and a third party in respect of Faurlin's economic rights, and the alleged failure by the club to notify the FA of that agreement before the player was registered to play for them in England.
The club has also been charged with allegedly using or seeking to pay an unauthorised agent as part of the Faurlin deal, while both the club and chairman Gianni Paladini have further been charged with allegedly submitting false information in documents provided to the FA relating to a contract extension signed by Faurlin in October.

When Rangers' signed Faurlin the alleged paperwork in question was actually looked at and the FA gave the R's to go ahead and finalise the signing of Faurlin from the third party owners and not from the club that he was playing for the previous season, Instituto.
Instituto did in fact have an agreement to sign Faurlin up for the following season but could not afford the £1 million price that his owners had put on him, so when an established English Championship club like QPR comes along with interest in the player their price was inflated. The club stated on the Official QPR Website that the fee was worth up to £3.5 million, an inflation of the actual fee paid but this is often done by clubs to make the fans think that the club has extra ambition and have spent more on playing staff than they actually have.
A £500,000 fee was paid to Inter Milan as they had first option on Faurlin and this was included in the transfer fee.
Have any rules been broken when they did this? No.

Another offence is the use of a FIFA agent which didnt have the required FA licence to make the transfer all legit and above board.

My opinion on that is what does an FA registered agent have more power on than a FIFA registered agent? FIFA are the governing body of the beautiful game so surely he has more right to deal with International transfers than anyone else?
Just another way of showing the farcical running thats the English way of things, always thinking they are bigger than everyone else.

Then comes the alleged false documentation of Faurlin's contract extension which took place during the International break in September after the game against Ipswich at Portman Road, a game Rangers' won 3-0.
Had the documents in question been false and under scrutiny then surely Faurlin would not of played for the R's until the issue was resolved. Faurlin was actually injured whilst the papers were being investigated so the R's cannot even be guilty of fielding an illegal player because when Faurlin returned the FA were happy with all the documentation and started an investigation on the whole transfer saga.

This leads us to where we are now.

During the course of this week Simon Jordan spoke to talkSPORT and stated the following :-
"Rangers have no case to answer, as Faurlin was bought by the club before the FA brought in new third-party ownership rules following the much-publicised Carlos Tevez saga."
“The case they have got is flimsy. The FA and the Football League approved this transaction and were very well aware of what it was."
“The reason why this transaction has gone a little bit bandy is because QPR did something rather silly. It is often the case football clubs do this, they big up the cost of the player to appease their fans that they’re spending a load of dough.
The FA cleared the money, the FA received the money, but when QPR start going out saying they spent £3.5million on a player and none of that has been spent that’s when the FA came along and said ‘hang on a second, where’s this other money gone?’. That’s where the investigation came from."
“Now the third-party rule that they’re trying to apply was not in operation at the time they signed this player. They’ve got nothing. QPR are not going to get anything besides a slap across the wrist. I don’t think they did anything wrong.”

Now Simon Jordan wasn't highly thought of by many people but one thing you can be sure of that he knows all about the rules and regulations of transfers within the English game, so him saying this just shows that Rangers' standing at the hearing and pleading not guilty to everything just shows that the club are confident of clearing their name and making the FA look like the idiots that they truly are.

So after the three days what have the FA decided? Nothing.
Have they found any wrong doings by the club? You can bet your house that if QPR were guilty of anything that the charges and punishment would have been dealt out already and we would now be talking about what is a good or bad outcome of this hearing.

After making such a massively publicised fuss about this that if QPR were found not guilty of all the charges then the FA would look extremely silly and many people would question the actual running of the governing body of English football.
You can expect that this delay means that the FA are looking for something to punish Rangers' of and deal a sizable punishment, more than likely to be a big fine to show that they have exercised their authority on proceedings.

Whilst this is all going on there is allegations of further third party involvements going on at Cardiff City yet because they don't adhere to the English FA rules they don't have to come under question and if they did benefit from our unfortunate punishment then you would have to say their promotion is not only a joke but also a complete farce.
All the details are on this link :-

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/may/05/cardiff-city-qpr-third-party-ownership?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=mpulsefootball

All the information above just shows what a farce all of this is and how stupid the FA look after all of this as its they who gave the green light on every aspect of the transfer and contract extension papers, are QPR in the wrong? You decide.....

The Lofty Heights Awards - 2010/2011...

2011-05-03T20:05:00.006Z

Good evening all and coming hot on the heels of the Official awards, comes the Lofty Heights version which is very much in celebration of a wonderful season, to lift the gloom of the FA hearing from our minds for a short while and to mark the milestone of the 600th post on these pages...

But, firstly, as we approach the end of the season, a few personal thanks of my own - to Lee, for masterminding my comeback on these pages and for his continued support and hard work. I'm sure you will agree, his awayday reports are legendary and unique, along with the R's on the Road and any latest news from the Club itself, that we think is worth reading. Also, bringing the site to the Social Network pages which has brought in a much wider and now, worldwide audience. Thanks mate!

To Lee once more and Jenson, for organising all of the away travel and tickets etc for the away travellers amongst the gang this season. To the rest of the gang of whom it is an absolute pleasure to be in their company and make going to QPR, not only very social, but extremely enjoyable - I thank you.

And last but by no means least, to all of our readers/fans who continue to read and enjoy our work here. The viewing figures have been staggering this season, so much so that Lee and myself have talked about making Lofty Heights a website in it's own right. But for us, it has never been about money and these pages will remain where they are and where you continue to read and enjoy - again, we thank you!!

Anyway, before I make you all sick, I will continue with the awards...

In no particular order...

Player of the Year - Paddy Kenny

Runner Up - Shaun Derry

Young Player of the Year and give him something unless he throws a strop - Adel Taarabt

Home Match of the Season - Swansea (4-0)

Away Match of the Season - Derby/Watford (2-2) and (0-2)

Goal of the Season - Adel Taarabt's 2nd v Swansea at home

Celebration of the Season - well, Watford has come in as a late contender for obvious reasons, but the award goes to Derby and Jamie Mackie's late leveller saw us end up 4 rows down from where we started with plenty of man love along the way. Myself and PK realised that we were getting old on this day....

Drive of the Season - Jenson, for Leeds away, when he got us all home safely in the snow after a mammoth 8 hour journey. The trip was also memorable for the banter between us all - myself, Sam, Lee, Pk and Jenson himself and the onboard TV's certainly helped some...

Nomad of the Season - Lofty, for sitting in the most different amount of seats at home games

Predictor of the Season - goes to Lee, for 4 successful prediction contest victories this season, closely followed by PK and myself.

The 'I know Nothing' Award - for again, predictions, goes to Jenson

Supporter of the Year - goes to Lee for a complete clean sweep of all R's games this season, including all friendlies - a great effort, WELL DONE. Runners up are Sam with just 2 misses and myself, with 3

Individual Celebration of the Season - goes to Sam, Reading away and celebrating our 1-0 win, please see below...

Sam, herself has nominated the next award, for the Porn King and Queen of the Season - PK and Jo

Good Luck Charm at Loftus Road - Jo - missed the Watford game and is undefeated at LR this season.

Good Luck Charm Away from Loftus Road - Jess - Scunthorpe aside, has not seen us lose away from home and was brought in for the run in.

Young Good Luck Charm - Little Jack who is yet to see the Rangers lose

Corporate Supporter of the Year - Who else, with another outstanding season of 3 Corporates, plus visits to White Hart Lane and Wembley, is Coporate Gordon

Quotation of the Season - to PK, who left a group of fancy dressed, Crawley fans, absolutely gobsmacked, when asking them, whist on their way to Old Trafford to face Man United in their very much publicised FA Cup tie- 'who are you boys playing today?'

Pies of the Season - Burnley - where just one, was certainly not enough for myself, Lee and Jenson - Chicken Balti

The Arrive Late at a Game Award - one that I thought would never be beaten - but California Hoop has shattered his own record by rolling in on 83 minutes, v Derby at home.

The Bono Award for wearing Sunglasses everywhere - to Lofty and I really don't know what they all mean ;)

And Finally....

The Evacuation Award - goes to PK and I will describe the scene... On the way home from Leeds, lost 2-0 and stuck in the snow on the M1, PK announces to the rest of us -

'sorry, I've just sh*t'.

At first, the windows were slowly being opened before myself, Lee and driver, Jenson, in mad panic, spilled out of the car, onto the M1 and into heavy snow and I will never forget, poor Sam sitting in the bootspace, wondering how on earth she was going to get out, thankfully, Jenson soon opened the back of the car to let Sam breath the cold, but fresh air...

Many thanks for all the nominations and CONGRATULATIONS to ALL THE LUCKY WINNERS!!!

QPR Player of the Year goes to..........

2011-05-01T21:28:00.003Z

Tonight was the QPR Player of the Year Awards at The Metropole in London.
The Lofty Heights gang were out in force tonight, in fact only Lofty, Jess and myself were unable to attend for numerous reasons.

I hope there are many stories that we may or may not be able to report on later on in the week.

Here are a full list of all the awards:-

Supporters' Player of the Year - Paddy Kenny

Supporters' Player of the Year Runner Up - Adel Taarabt

Supporters' Player of the Year 3rd Place - Shaun Derry

Ray Jones Players' Player of the Year - Paddy Kenny

Supporters' Young Player of the Year - Bruno Andrade

Kiyan Prince Goal of the Season - Adel Taarabt 's 2nd vs Swansea

QPR Community Award for Services to QPR in the Community Trust - Peter Ramage

Fan of the Year - Ian Stenning

Massive well done to Paddy Kenny on his double award tonight, fully deserved!!
Apparently a certain player walked out after the announcement, I will let you guess who.....

Later in the week is the Lofty Heights Awards so we will announce our own choices once all the votes are in.

We're the Champions (for now......)

2011-04-30T14:04:00.003Z

Today the R's faithful travelled to Watford hoping that Rangers' would finally seal promotion (albeit maybe for a week only) and really get the champers flowing.

The Lofty Heights gang were in full force as Sam, Jess and Lorna travelled in my car, Lofty travelled alone, Jenson travelled with Smithy and PK drove Corp and California Hoop, yes you heard correctly, California Hoop attending an away game from the first time since the Boxing Day at Charlton a few years ago. Corp and California Hoop had to sit in the home end but its still a damn good effort by them.
The majority of the gang assembled in The Oddfellows pub for a few pints and shared our views on The Sun's article yesterday on next weeks hearing, mixed views were shared and the nervousness has cerainly unsettled a few of us but I remain calm and hope for a positive outcome and that its them just stirring a few leftovers outta a dirty toilet.

Neil Warnock was forced into one change before naming the line up, Clint Hill missed out through injury and was replaced by Matt Connolly. However in a late twist one more change was forced on the R's boss, Paddy Kenny was injured in the warm up so he had to be replaced by Radek Cerny, who was making his first appearance of the season.

As we made our way to our seats Phill was in place alongside his Dad and a whole load of inflatables for us to blow up and surf to the crowd. Jess got hold of a shark and kept hold of it as what could hopefully be a lucky charm for us.
The first half wasn't really a spectacle to be fair and it was a tale of three offside goals dissallowed. Taarabt and Routledge had goals chalked off, Helguson's looked very tight from where we standing. Watford had one chalked off for a clear offside as our female linesman definitely knew what the offside rule was throughout the half.
Danny Graham headed narrowly wide and Alejandro Faurlin sidefooted over after great work by Taarabt down the left.
Fitz Hall had to be replaced midway through the first half due to injury, his replacement was Danny Shittu.

At half time I continued with my tradition of starting this write up whilst the gang got refreshments and had their respective breaks before getting back in their seats in time for the second half to kick off.

Rangers' again started the half well but did not manage to forge any clear cut chances.
As the half got older the R's were not getting the roll of things and Watford came more and more into the game. Rangers' fans were sweating as Watford managed to make the R's defend deeper and deeper but Cerny remained untested in the R's goal as we entered the final fifteen minutes of the game.
It looked as if one moment of brilliance or one mistake would come between the two teams and two minutes later we found out what it would be......
Tommy Smith attacked down the left hand side and managed to get a cross in that seemed to strike a Watford arm along the way but as we appealed for it our magical captain Taarabt stole in at the near post and flicked the ball past Scott Loach and the R's end erupted!!
The gang in our row went crazy as plenty of love went around and the shark was waved around in absolute delight.
The next 13 minutes seemed to last a lifetime but eventually the board with the additional minutes on it........... FIVE MINUTES????? Where did they come from??????
As we stand more anxious than ever waiting for the minutes to tick down there was time for one final goal.
Tommy Smith was fed the ball on the edge of the box and he drilled the ball into the bottom corner past the despairing Scott Loach and Rangers' fate was sealed.
This was Smith's 100th league goal of his career and what a time to grab it!
The celebrations were ones of relief, jubilation and just ecstasy. Iceman started to cry, phones from the row behind us were being lost and plenty of hugging was shared amongst us all.
FINALLY RANGERS ARE BACK 'ELLO 'ELLO!!!!!!!

I must say that after all the hard work this season that today was the day we as R's fans have waited for and have finally got after 15 years out of the big time.
Today was not the best footballing contest but with a lot of patience and some solid defending we got what we deserved, something that should've been sealed weeks ago, the Championship title.
Words cant describe what today is, all I can say is that it is a very special day that all members will all remember for the rest of our lives, even Corp and California Hoop who managed to get on the pitch from the Rookery End and came down to the away end to celebrate with all the R's fans.

Jess, Lofty, PK, Corp, California Hoop and myself made our way to the Breakspear Arms in Ruislip. We toasted the Championship title in a reserved style but with plenty of laughs and banter along the way, the company could not of been better.

Today's Man of the Match was settled by one vote. As we left the pub Danny Shittu edged the votes with five votes to Tommy Smith's three but after receiving Sam, Luke and Lorna's votes by text it was Tommy Smith that won today's award with six votes to Shittu's five.

Watford: Loach, Hodson, Eustace, Taylor (Bennett 54), Mariappa, Cowie, Deeney, Graham, Buckley (Murray 78), Doyley, Sordell (Whichelow 73).

Subs: Gilmartin, Mingoia, Drinkwater, Assombalonga.

QPR: Cerny, Orr, Derry, Hall (Shittu 23), Taarabt (Ramage 90), Helguson, Faurlin, Gorkss, Routledge (Buzsaky 75), Connolly, Smith.

Subs: Agyemang, Hulse, Vaagan Moen, Ephraim.

Goals: Taarabt (77), Smith (90+3)

Referee: Mr N Swarbrick

Attendance: 15,538 (2171 QPR fans in the away end, numberous others elsewhere.)

Tomorrow the gang will be attending the Player of the Year dinner and dance (minus myself and Jess) so I wish everyone a great night ahead.

Lofty will be back during the course of the week with the Lofty Heights Awards 2010/11 and then again next weekend for our final report of the season.

I sign off this season with a massive thank you to everyone for all their support and hope you all continue to enjoy our ramblings next season....... as a Premier League club!!

U R'SSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!

R's on the Road................. To Watford.

2011-04-28T18:40:00.002Z

On Saturday Rangers' travel to Watford to see if they can finally seal promotion and the Championship title. After weeks of guessing when it will happen this is finally the day we know that a draw will clinch promotion and a win will bring the title to Loftus Road.
Will we finally have a good memory of a trip to the glory hornet boys????

The Stadium.

Current Capacity – 19,900

Watford have been at home at Vicarage Road since 1922. From 1922-2001 the ground was owned by Benskins Brewery and they bought the ground from its freehold outright and owned the stadium for the first time in its history. However due to the clubs poor financial state in 2002 they had to sell the ground and agreed a £6m deal but agreed a £7m buy back clause in the future. This option was taken up in 2004 and once again owned the ground.
Redevelopments at Vicarage Road have been prominent for the last two years as improvements are made to the ground. The South-West corner has been the main focal point of this and when it is finished it will house the new dressing rooms and a new media centre. The East Stand will be the next subject of redevelopment and they hope all work will be completed by 2011.

Away fans are housed in the Vicarage Road end for this fixture. The stand holds 2,200 people and offers a great view of proceedings on the pitch. The concourses however are the tightest you will ever come across and will struggle to breath down there. There is a betting facility down there also.

The History between the teams.

At Watford (54)

Watford 21
QPR 22
Draw 12

Vicarage Road hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for Rangers. Since 1988 the R’s have once won once in eight attempts, the solitary win coming two seasons ago during the Christmas period with a fantastic display of football and ending up 4-2 victors.
In the last six meetings at Watford the home side have won five of the matches, with the outcome being either 3-0 or 3-1. This game promises goals and lets hope they end up in the right net as far as Rangers are concerned

How to get there.

By Car:- The post code for today is WD18 0ER.
There are many ways to enter Watford. Via the M1 you should come off at junction 5 and take the A4008 into Watford town centre. Via the M25 you should come off at junction 19 and get onto the A41 towards Watford and once again head towards the town centre. On reaching Watford you will be greeted by the inner ring road. For the easiest parking I would suggest the Church Street multi storey car park as it is open for 24hrs and will only cost you £2.50 for 4hours. The ground is a 5 minute walk from there.

By Train:- The overground station at Watford is the Watford Junction train station and is a 20 minute walk to the ground. You can catch the Metropolitan Line down to Watford High Street or alternatively walk for the 20minutes if you choose. The directions should you decide to take the walk are as follows. Leave the station & take main road straight opposite (Clarendon Road) all the way (over Ring Road at lights) up to the High Street. Turn left and go past Wetherspoons (Moon under Water) on your right and then take the first right after 100 yards into Market Street. Continue along again crossing Ring Road to T junction & then left at chip shop. Vicarage Road is the next right turn.
Watford High Street tube station is on the Metropolitan Line and is a short walk away from the ground. Come out of the tube station and take a left onto the High Street. A short way up the High Street is King Street on the left hand side, go up there and follow it up to the end of the road (Lady’s Close) turn right and this will lead you onto Vicarage Road. At the start of Vicarage Road take a left and then follow the road into the away end.

Pubs 'n' Grub.

With the ground being only a 5-10 minute walk from the High street you have a full array of food and drinking outlets to take advantage of. Everything you could possibly want is here and needs no build up.

They Think It's All Over.... Not Just Yet...

2011-04-26T14:18:00.003Z

QPR 1-1 Hull

The Promotion Champagne was once again put on ice yesterday as QPR were held at home by a determined Hull City at Loftus Road.

There were all sort of perms and if's and buts before the game, but overall, it was quite simple. QPR win and they go up and as Champions. But it was not to be as yet another late goal from Norwich at home to Derby, gave the Canaries the win that will take it into another week. Rangers, with a 6 point lead over 3rd, 5 over second, are all but there of course and just one point is needed to rubber stamp the title. But a few weeks ago, it looked like the R's would cross the finish line like a Formula One car, but instead are crossing like a winkle barge drifting by Southend Pier....

Earlier in the day, a what is, much divided gang these days, headed to the upstairs balcony in the Springbok for pre match drinks and chats. But as mentioned before, the regulations meant that the balcony was closed at 2pm, so instead of standing in what was a sweatbox, we made our way to the blue and white bar, where we were able to stand and soak up the sunshine whilst having a refreshing pint.

Onto the game and there were early half chances for both sides, but in the 9th minute, Loftus Road went literally beserk - Taarabt's clever ball set Routledge speeding ahead of the Hull defence and the winger cracked a right foot drive past the keeper and into the net. It was just what the expectant R's fans wanted and maybe settled the early nerves a bit. The rest of the first half was all Rangers with Heidar Helguson heading over and also forcing a fine save from Duke, and Clint Hill seeing an effort scrambled off the goal-line.

Hull, who don't forget, boast one of the best away records in the league and had everything to play for to get into a play off position, had to go for it and get back into the game - and they certainly did that. The Tigers closed Rangers down well in midfield and the chances were certainly afew as R's fans watched the clock tick down.

On 55 minutes, Taarabt sent a free kick just over, before Fitz Hall came to the R's rescue with a superb block tackle on Matt Fryat as the Hull striker was about to let fly. But the danger signs were certainly there for the R's. Taarabt again had a chance to seal it, but his powerful effort flew just wide.

Instead, Rangers were stunned with nine minutes remaining when substitute Amoo latched on to a hopeful ball over the top and crashed a superb 20-yarder past Kenny to level the scores. QPR substitute Patrick Agyemang did have a late chance to hit what would have been a glorious winner, but he overhit a lob when well placed to score, before Alejandro Faurlin's left-foot free-kick was quite superbly pushed away by Duke.

The final whistle then went and the R's fans poured onto the pitch thinking that a point was enough to secure our return to the Premier League. But the news soon started filtering through of Norwich's late, late winner and as mentioned, we are all but promoted, but nothing will now be confirmed until next week.

QPR: Kenny, Orr, Hill, Derry, Hall, Taarabt, Helguson (Agyemang 77), Faurlin, Gorkss, Routledge, Smith (Ephraim 68). Subs: Cerny, Buzsaky, Connolly, Hulse, Shittu.

Man of the Match - again, probably due to us being a tad deflated, there was no discussion after the game, so will go with my own personal choice this time, which was Fitz Hall.

As we descended on the British Queen after the game and still in the sunshine, it was obvious that many R's fans had arranged to stay out and party. But the best way I could summarise the feeling around Shepherds Bush after the result, is to state how our own Corporate Hoop described the events...

'It was like, pulling a bird with DD breasts, only to later find that'.... well, I will leave the rest to your imagination....

Come on You R'sssssssssssssssssss!!!!!

Dave Jones left feeling sheepish.

2011-04-23T17:09:00.010Z

Today the R's faithful traveled to Cardiff hoping that the R's could secure three points that would mean that automatic promotion and gain sweet revenge for 2003. Could all our dreams come true in one day? We were about to find out.

The Lofty Heights gang were travelling in numbers once again with two car loads of us making our way to Wales. Jess, Sam, Luke and Iceman all jumped in with me and in Jenson's car was Lofty, PK and Lorna.
My party left at 8.45 and headed straight for a McDonald's for a nice greasy breakfast before hitting the M4 and Wales bound. Jenson's party left slightly later, albeit a tad hungover after a Jenson BBQ ran into the early hours.
After paying the £5.70 toll over the Severn Bridge we stopped at the first available services for a toilet break and then getting back on track and completing our final leg of the journey, getting stuck in traffic just as we were getting off the motorway and waiting just behind the four coach loads of R's fans that had left at 7.30am.
Having rolled up the away car park with an hour to spare before kick off, we had to park just outside of the caged area it had just filled up as we arrived. We waited around outside the ground and bumped into Nik, Gobi and Phill as me and Jess awaited the arrival of the second car as I had Lofty and Jenson's ticket. Luckily enough the gang rolled up to the ground with just under 10 minutes left before kick off.

Neil Warnock named an unchanged side after the team drew 0-0 against Derby on Monday.

From the very start the R's fans were in fine voice and singing loud and proud as we looked to gain our dream result.

Rangers' and Taarabt came out of the traps flying and Taarabt's opening effort only helped liven up an already excited R's following.
However on six minutes the opening blow was dealt..... by Cardiff.
Bothroyd had a first effort blocked from just outside the 18 yard box but his second was superbly curled into the far corner leaving Paddy Kenny with no chance whatsoever of reaching it as the ball hit the post and rustled into the back of the net.
Rangers' went up the other end and continued to pressure the Cardiff defence and were soon on level terms.
Taarabt's corner was only cleared as far as the magical Moroccan and he beautifully curled it over to the far post and found the top corner. Cue mental celebrations!!! The gang went crazy when the goal went in and there was plenty of love being shared amongst us all.
The game then went into deadlock as Cardiff used the exact same tactic as they had previously at Loftus Road, playing in behind Faurlin and off the shoulder of Matt Connolly and the tactic was creating plenty of trouble for Connolly and Gorkss.
It was a deep cross that was the undoing of the R's once more.
Bothroyd crossed from the left hand side and Connolly failed to attack the ball and ended up palming the ball into the path of Bellamy and he sliced his shot into the top corner from six yards out. 2-1 Cardiff.
Rangers' played out the rest of the half and geared themselves up for a Warnock pep talk at half time.

At half time the queues to get to the concourse were so long that it took a while for everyone to get downstairs and do their bits before arriving for the second half a few minutes late. The half time interval was hardly entertaining, would've been nice to see what was said in the BBC studio's.

Having stolen John's inflatable sheep as the half started, Sam and Jess examined the item and found a hole in the back of the sheep and begun to see how many fingers Sam could get up there. That was the entertainment for the opening five minutes of the half before they got bored and Jess instead just kept hold of the sheep and held it for the entire second half.
Cardiff again looked to trouble the R's with their traditional long ball over the top, which in fairness did trouble the R's for a short period but finally we sussed this out and nullified the attacks and the half grew. With this Rangers' started to find their feet and the passing game of ours slowly became more and more effective and the space across the pitch began to open up as Routledge and Taarabt started to work their magic.
With the introduction of Patrick Agyemang, with Tommy Smith making way, there was an imediate impact.
Routledge flicked the ball with the outside of his foot to Taarabt and the R's captain controlled the ball before wriggling free of his defender and then placed the ball into the bottom left corner past the despairing Bywater.
Rangers' piled the pressure on Cardiff after the goal and in the final minute they carved out a great opening.
Taarabt once again was the creator as he drilled a low cross to the back post where Heidar Helguson was arriving with the goal wide open to him....... and his effort dribbled wide and left R's fans wondering what could have been.

In fairness every R's fan would've taken a point at the start of the game, just as long as we didn't lose.
Defensively first half we were all over the place and just needed the confidence and composure to deal with the Cardiff game plan which consisted of balls being played over the top for Bothroyd and Bellamy to chase, once we figured that out and brought Fitz Hall on for Matt Connolly the R's looked like the only team likely to win the game.

Man of the Match today was a unanimous decision but we did have three candidates going into this one. Lorna pointed out Tommy Smith as an outstanding performer and with his hard work. Lofty voted for Bradley Orr, who had probably his best game for the R's to date and has been performing well over the last three or four games. However the majority vote went to the man that scored both goals and was always going to be a danger to the Cardiff backline, Adel Taarabt.

Cardiff City: Bywater, McNaughton, Whittingham, Bothroyd, McPhail, Burke (Emmanuel-Thomas 77), Keinan, Quinn, Olofinjana, Samuel, Bellamy (Chopra 88).

Subs: Heaton, Rae, Hudson, Blake, Matthews.

Goals: Bothroyd (6), Bellamy (35)

Bookings: Whittingham (33), Quinn (67)

QPR: Kenny, Orr, Hill, Derry, Taarabt, Helguson, Faurlin, Gorkss, Routledge, Connolly (Hall 81), Smith (Agyemang 70).

Subs: Cerny, Buzsaky, Hulse, Ephraim, Miller.

Goals: Taarabt (10 & 71)

Referee: Mr L Mason

Attendance: 26,058(2000 QPR)

Having now got home and seen Dave Jones' interview after the game and how Cardiff apparently "took us to the cleaners" I will politely say this to the miserable old git............... YOU'RE GONNA LOSE IN THE PLAY OFFS.........

U R'SSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

R's on the Road.............. To Cardiff City.

2011-04-21T19:39:00.004Z

On Saturday Rangers' could seal their place in the Premier League if they beat a Cardiff City side that are in a rich vain of form and with a strong home record in their favour. The R's have the ideal opportunity to put Monday night's 0-0 draw with Derby behind them and give the club the result that the fans are desperate for as sweet revenge for THAT play off final in 2003.
Incidentally, when Neil Warnock took Sheffield United to the Premier League in 2006 it was a win against Cardiff, at Cardiff.......... will history repeat itself????
Nearly 2000 R's supporters travel to the game and many more watching at home as the game is Live on the BBC at lunchtime.

Here's a quick preview of what to expect ahead of Saturday's game.

The Stadium.

Current Capacity – 26,828

Having had Ninian Park as home for t 99 years the club embarked on their move across the road to their new home on the opening day of last season. Normal service was soon resumed as they left off, with a 4-0 thrashing of Scunthorpe United.
Since then only two goals have been conceded, both in the League Cup. Also they have never scored less than three in all competitive games at their new home, that was until their 1-0 defeat at home to Newcastle the previous Sunday.

The new stadium cost £48 million pounds to build and also has foundations set ready for expansion, if needed to, to become a 60,000 all seater stadium.
This design is very much a new style bowl, lacking with any distinctive features but the finish to the stadium is very clean and tidy.

R’s fans will be housed in the corner between the Ninian Stand and Grange Stand, so I would expect an exciting yet intimidating reception, that is of course if the atmosphere from Ninian Park has been carried across the road.

The History between the teams.

At Cardiff City (33)

Cardiff 16
QPR 9
Draw 8

Friday 17th November 2006 will always hold a place in Rangers hearts. The game was at Ninian Park and with the Sky cameras there one of our bright prospects enjoyed what was his finest moment, and all his last goal in the famous blue and white hoops. Yes you've guessed it, the day that Ray Jones scored a dramatic 88th minute winner for the Superhoops and secured what would prove to be a vital 3points in a relegation threatened season.
Rangers have enjoyed mixed fortunes at this ground in recent years having won 4, lost 2 and drawn 3 in the previous 9 meetings (not including the play off final) in South Wales, could this be another win on the board for the Superhoops?

How to get there.

By Car:- For those of you with the benefit of having sat nav the all important post code is CF11 8AZ

To avoid driving through the centre of Cardiff, leave the M4 at junction 33 and take the A4232 towards Cardiff/Barry. Keep on the A4232 towards Cardiff and then leave the dual carriageway at the B4267 exit, signposted 'Cardiff (Leckwith) Athletics Stadium'. Follow the signs for the stadium and after about half a mile you will see the Cardiff City Stadium over on your right.

By Train:- The closest train station to the ground is just around the corner and is called Ninian Park Halt station. This is a local line service only. You can catch trains for this from Cardiff Central. The ground is only five minutes’ walk away from the stadium.

Pubs 'n' Grub.

Most of the pubs near to the ground can be quite intimidating for away supporters and are not recommended. However there is the Lansdowne Hotel on Beda Road which is a ten minute walk away from the stadium.
There are no nearby restaurants or take aways nearby (from what I remember) so you may have to settle for a burger van or food inside the ground.
I haven’t got a list of food prices for inside the ground but I can inform you that it is £3 a pint inside the ground, a rare treat for a Cardiff visit.

Rangers Held by Battering Rams...

2011-04-20T21:42:00.003Z

QPR 0-0 Derby

It was a frustrating night for R's fans on Monday night as QPR were held at home to a goal less draw by Derby in front of the Sky Cameres once more, but took another step to securing automatic promotion back to the Premier League.

I firstly, apologise for the lateness of this report as with so much going on for me away from QPR, this really is the first chance I have had to sit down at the laptop, again, I'm sorry. But, as always with a night game, it was difficult to catch up with the gang beforehand and I didn't personally see anyone until inside the ground. We were almost at full strength with the exception of Jenson who had taken a break in New York, running up HUGE bar bills, paying over the odds for steak sarnies and stalking Beyonce - the lucky bugger!!! California Hoop was also absent, well, until, a record breaking, 83rd minute until he made an appearance amid massive applause from the rest of us.

Onto the game itself and I think as mentioned, frustrating is the word that would best describe this one. Derby as always, came with a game plan and to a degree, it worked and everyones favourite, Robbie Savage, did his usual number on Adel Taarabt. Despite Adel having the better of things in the first half, Savage had the desired effect overall. Love or hate him, Savage is a player that I would love to see playing for the R's, he does his job, he winds people up and absolutely laps up the banter from the opposing supporters, of which he got plenty from the R's faithful, largely aimed at his hairstyle.

Wayne Routledge had probably the best chance of the game on 10 minutes, when he fired wide from close range after Faurlin's delicate lobbed ball put him through. On 17 minutes there was a moment of magic from Taarabt, when 25 yards out,attempted an audacious swerving effort that would have dipped under the crossbar, but Brad Jones's excellent save kept it out. Derby had a couple of chance of their own before the break, but had the best chance of a pretty flat second period - Jamie Ward raced past Bradley Orr and pulled back for Pearson, whose powerful shot from 12 yards was superbly saved by Paddy Kenny. The stop was even more impressive given that he had been largely a spectator for most of the game.

QPR: Kenny, Orr, Hill, Derry, Taarabt (Agyemang 71), Helguson (Hulse 86), Faurlin, Gorkss, Routledge (Miller 83), Connolly, Smith. Subs: Cerny, Buzsaky, Ephraim, Shittu.

Man of the Match: sadly for one reason or another, the gang all kind of went in different directions shortly after the match, leaving no real time for discussion, so will go with my personal choice and a player who is impressing more and more as the games go by - Tommy Smith

In summary, although the game and the result were disappointing, it is another point towards our goal and at the time of writing, we could all but be promoted if Norwich lose to deadly rivals Ipswich tomorrow night (Thursday).

But for now, it's all about Saturday where Lee could well be reporting on a momentous day for all of us. See you at Cardiff...

Come on You R'ssssssssssssss!!!!

Nearly time to say Taa-ra to the Championship.

2011-04-12T19:36:00.006Z

Tonight the R's faithful traveled to Barnsley hoping to recover from Saturday's 4-1 defeat at Scunthorpe, however it wasn't going to be easy as the R's opponents were Barnsley who at the weekend beat Bristol City 4-1 at Oakwell.
The Lofty Heights gang were once again in attendance with another strong following.

Once again we took two cars as Sam, Jess and Luke jumped into my car and in Jenson's motor were Lofty, Smithy and Callun.
With both parties hitting traffic on the M1 in Nottingham and then again in Mansfield, it didn't delay our arrivals as Jenson arrived in Barnsley first and went straight to a pub called 'The Mount'. An hour later my car rolled up to Oakwell and we all met up outside the turnstiles and made our way into a chilly Oakwell and had our usual pre-match chats before heading to our seats. On our travels Iceman joined us in the ground and Lorna joined Jenson and Lofty in the pub so we were in full force as kick off time arrived.

Three changes were made to the side that lost at Scunthorpe on Saturday. Adel Taarabt, Heidar Helguson and Matthew Connolly came in for Hogan Ephraim, Rob Hulse and Fitz Hall.

Rangers' came flying out of the traps and got a quick opening goal.
After good work by Routledge down the right he squared it to Taarabt and he went down the defenders left side and then hit a left footed shot across goal and into the bottom right hand corner.
Rangers' did continue to enjoy possession for the opening 10 minutes until Barnsley slowly begun to take control and it was Marlon Harewood who shot from distance forcing Paddy Kenny to spill his shot into the path of an oncoming Barnsley player but Kenny brilliantly saved the rebound with an instinctive save.
Rangers' continued to be on the back foot for the remainder of the half as Kaspars Gorkss put in a superb performance at the heart of the R's defence.

At half time the gang gathered on the concourse as I stayed in my seat to start of this report and give myself a rest from all the shouting I was doing at all the inept refereeing on show.

The second half continued as the first one finished as Barnsley kept the pressure on the R's.
An absolutely awful refereeing performance kept the R's fans on the edge of their seats and just praying that a decision from this poor excuse of a ref.
With no decisions going Rangers' way it was only going to be hard work and a solid defence that was going to win us this game. With Routledge running his little legs off, Helguson tirelessly working hard up front on his own, Derry battling away at the heart of midfield and Gorkss winning every header going. Add on the fact Paddy Kenny picked up some type of injury that meant he couldn't kick for the duration of the second half, meaning Bradley Orr was on goal kick duty, this was the type of gritty 1-0 wins that we have rarely seen this year and really went a way to proving that we have the kind of stuff champions are made of.

As I said earlier this really was a battling performance and had to overcome a lot of dodgy refereeing decisions as well as a well oiled Barnsley side that on a different night may of beaten us had they created more clear cut chances.

Tonight's Man of the Match for me was between two people. Kaspars Gorkss was immense in the back four and really did show how much we missed him on Saturday, however that is not enough to grab the award tonight as with the unanimous vote is Wayne Routledge. He worked until the very end and considering he is playing with an ankle injury and playing through the pain barrier, his performance was truely superb.

After the game there were plenty of hugs and manlove about the group as its more than likely that if we win on Monday night in front of the Sky cameras we will be promoted to the Premier League.

Barnsley: Steele, Butterfield, Foster, McShane, Trippier, Hill (McEveley 77), Harewood, Haynes, Gray (Noble-Lazarus 82), Shackell, Mellis (Clark 77).

Subs: Preece, Arismendi, Foster, O'Brien.

Bookings: Butterfield (19)

QPR: Kenny, Orr, Hill, Derry, Taarabt (Ephraim 69), Helguson, Faurlin, Gorkss, Routledge, Connolly, Smith.

Subs: Cerny, Buzsaky, Hulse, Miller, Shittu.

Goals: Taarabt (1)

Bookings: Taarabt (35)

Referee: Mr A Bates

Attendance: 11, 381

Four-kin awful!

2011-04-09T20:53:00.003Z

Today the R's faithful traveled to Scunthorpe in the first of two long trips up north in four days. The R's, looking for another win that would send them closer to the promised land, had a challenge in front of them as Scunthorpe introduced new manager Alan Knill to the home fans for the first time and you can be sure he was out to impress.

The Lofty Heights gang traveled in two cars for this game as Sam, Jess, Luke and Nik jumped into my car and in Jenson's car was Lofty. Iceman, Callun and Smithy took the train to sunny Scunny.
In my car we were entertained by some old cd's that me and Jess had unearthed during the week as the trio in the back drifted to sleep within half an hour of us leaving for our northern destination. Having enjoyed an extremely smooth drive and having plenty of discussion about bets on the game and on the Grand National, we arrived at quarter past one and made our way to the pub which was hiding away just behind McDonalds.
Iceman joined us 20 minutes later having walked from the station and then Lofty and Jenson soon followed before finally Callun and Lorna made their entrance to complete the group as we enjoyed a pre-match pint in the sun as we looked ahead of what we all thought would be another three points for the R's.

Just as we left the pub the team news was announced and there was a shock in the news.
Adel Taarabt missed out with a stomach strain as Heidar Helguson and Kaspars Gorkss surprisingly dropped to the bench. Hogan Ephraim, Rob Hulse and Danny Shittu were their replacements.

The R's came steaming out of the blocks and took control of the opening exchanges and created two great chances early on only for Hulse to fire over when under pressure and Ephraim dragging a shot wide after good work by the R's down the left hand side.
However on seven minutes the R's got the goal that was coming from the opening minute.
Routledge was released down the right hand side by Shaun Derry and Routledge's teasing cross was met and tucked into the near post by Rob Hulse. Great header although we needed to see the celebrations of the players to be certain that his header had gone in the back of the net.
The goal only encouraged the R's as they searched for more.
Rangers' nearly got a second goal a minute after the first. Ephraim crossed over to Routledge and in one movement the little winger attempted to lob Joe Murphy in the Scunny goal but he clawed the effort away from goal before being cleared to safety.
Soon after the R's broke away after a Scunthorpe corner was cleared and Faurlin played Routledge clear on goal with only Joe Murphy to beat but the keeper was more than up to the challenge as he superbly blocked Routledge's effort from close range.
Rangers' were soon cursing not taking their chances as Scunthorpe levelled.
O'Connor took a free kick from the left side of the Rangers' penalty area and he floated it in and Joe Garner was there unmarked and powered his header past Paddy Kenny at full stretch. Poor marking for the goal and it led to a few heated words in the camp.
The goal gave Scunthorpe the belief they have been lacking and a minute later they had the opportunity to make it 2-1. O'Connor took the free kick just outside the penalty area but failed to make the most of the opportunity.
The Iron continued to enjoy the majority of the creative play and the R's must've been glad for half time to come when it did.

At half time the gang all gathered behind the goal to discuss the proceedings of the first half. We expected there to be a bit of an arse kicking to be delivered to wake the troops up but we were highly expectant of the team to come out firing in the second half.

As the team took to the field for the second half there was one R's change.
Pascal Chimbonda replaced Danny Shittu and went to left back as Clint Hill moved in to the centre back position alongside Fitz Hall.
Scunthorpe begun the half as they finished and were in control, within two minutes they were in front.
Paddy Kenny failed to deal with a high and hopeful ball into the box and the ball fell to Joe Garner and his scuffed shot rolled into the back of the net and gave Scunthorpe a deserved lead.
Just before the hour mark things got even worse for the R's.
Rangers' failed to clear their lines and the ball fell to O'Connor and he volleyed from about 20 yards out into the top corner, leaving Paddy Kenny no chance! A fine goal and was well worthy of the applause that a few of the 1855 travelling fans gave to the strike.
With the R's in desperate need of goals a double change was made on 62 minutes. Patrick Agyemang and Ishmael Miller came on for Rob Hulse and Shaun Derry.
It looked as if the R's went 4-2-4 as Faurlin and Ephraim played centre midfield and the front four from right to left were Miller, Smith, Agyemang and Routledge.
The changes failed to inspire Rangers' as the frustration grew and the final nail in the coffin was delivered ten minutes from time.
Clint Hill tried to shepherd a ball into touch but Chris Dagnall stole the ball off him before squaring to Duffy and his shot was part blocked by Chimbonda but the ball trickled into the back of the net.
Game over.

It has to be said that for the opening 28 minutes there only looked like one winner but after conceding a sloppy equalizer Rangers' just couldn't seem to get going again.
There were a few shocking performances out there but you can't bemoan the players who did as they have been outstanding all season and to belittle them after one bad game would be extremely harsh. They know who they are and I'm sure they will go out on Tuesday at Barnsley full well knowing that they need to make up for it, lets just hope it happens.
It was nice to see Rob Hulse get himself on the score sheet again but the team are guilty of only playing long balls to him and this doesn't give the man much of a chance.
Hopefully on Tuesday we will see Gorkss return to the starting eleven with Heidar Helguson and lets hope Mr Taarabt is fit also.

Today's Man of the Match was a unanimous decision as Tommy Smith was pipped to the award by the lively Wayne Routledge.

Scunthorpe United: Murphy, Gordon, Togwell (Raynes 90), Nunez, O'Connor (Wright 84), Dagnall, Hughes, Nelson, Mirfin, Duffy, Garner (Miller 90).

Subs: Lillis, Collins, Nolan, Godden.

Goals: Garner (28 & 48), O'Connor (58), Duffy (79)

Bookings: O'Connor (77)

QPR: Kenny, Orr, Hill, Derry (Agyemang 62), Hall, Faurlin, Routledge, Hulse (Miller 61), Smith, Ephraim, Shittu (Chimbonda 46).

Subs: Cerny, Buzsaky, Gorkss, Vaagan Moen, Miller.

Goals: Hulse (7)

Bookings: Miller (75), Orr (82)

Attendance: 6, 061 (1855 QPR fans)

I will be back with a preview of the trip to Barnsley (providing I remember to post it) and the Barnsley report will be available from Wedsnesday next week.

U R'SSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!

Blades Cut by Rangers Rout...

2011-04-05T16:12:00.008Z

QPR 3-0 Sheffield United

QPR maintained their nine point lead at the top of the Championship and moved ever closer to a deserved promotion, with a crushing 3-0 win over Sheffield United at Loftus Road last night.

For once, I had my sensible head on last night and chose not to write this report on arrival home last night, but perhaps I should have done, as the R's performance had me buzzing until the early hours. Due to the Sky Monday Night Coverage, the gang arrived in full strength, but in fits and starts. I was actually first to arrive and met Lee, who soon had to dash to meet Jess at the station, so I made my way inside, the rest of the gang soon followed, including Jenson who had made a late journey from Beaconsfield to Shepherds Bush in around 20 minutes!!

I suppose there is good and bad about writing the report a day late, as many of you by now would have read the papers, internet reports and seen the goals again on the TV, but in saying that, writing a report after a performance such as last night's would always be a pleasure, the R's, simply, played like Champions...

After a cagey opening, the R's began to get into their stride and Tommy Smith went close to getting his 100th career goal. A Faurlin effort flew just over the bar before Hill miscued his execution from a quite superb Taarabt low cross. 'We're gonna score in a minute' came from the Loft and on 29 minutes, the breakthrough was made - Faurlin found Helguson on the right, who's looping cross was met by Wayne Routledge who made no mistake from 12 yards out.

Bradley Orr then got in on the action and struck a cracker from 30 yards that flew just inches wide. The R's survived a weak penalty shout just before the break - Stephen Quinn went down under the challenge of Fitz Hall when tearing towards the goal, but the well placed referee waved away the half hearted appeal.

Into the second half and Bogdanovic fired well over when perhaps he should have done better. The Blades were made to pay on 52 minutes when Taarabt's corner was deflected into the path of the once again outstanding, Faurlin, who let rip with an 18 yard drive that flew into the bottom right hand corner - the party was then in full swing!

It was all Rangers now and true exhibition stuff. And on 66 minutes, goal number three arrived - a superb passing move from Faurlin, Smith and Helguson, who found Routledge free on the right to drill a fine low shot past Simonsen. As well as the Sky Sports Champagne, Routledge could have taken home the match ball but for a fine save low down from the Blades keeper. Another delightful team move, ended with Patrick Agyemang blazing his effort over the bar when every R's fan in the ground was willing him to score. There was a further chance when Ishmael Miller hit the side netting, before a late rally from Sheffield United ended fruitless for the visitors.

QPR: Kenny, Orr, Hill, Derry (Buzsaky 86), Hall, Taarabt (Agyemang 71), Helguson, Faurlin, Gorkss, Routledge, Smith (Miller 81). Subs: Cerny, Ephraim, Chimbonda, Shittu.

Man of the Match - this is seriously getting to the point, where there could easily be a QPR Man of the Match, apart from Ajejandro Faurlin - another superb display from the Argentinian Midfielder!!!

I don't think I have seen so many smiles on exiting Loftus Road for some time now and I really don't know how best to summarise the result and performance apart from one word - CHAMPION!!

On a slightly sour note, the F.A. today announced that hearing relating to the transfer of Alejandro Faurlin, will take place on May 3rd with a decision coming on the 6th May. The day before the home match versus Leeds United. In order not to spoil the report of a glorious night of football, I will refrain from making any comments at this time...

Lofty Heights will be at Scunthorpe this coming Saturday and Lee will return with another legendary awayday report, no doubt. But in the meantime, COME ON YOU R'sssssssssssssss!!!!!!

The Eph-ing party is getting started.

2011-03-19T18:13:00.006Z

Today Rangers' travelled to Doncaster in search of their first win there since 1951, could they beat another hoodoo this season or would Doncaster gatecrash the R's party as the business end to the season really starts hotting up? All is about to be revealed.......

The group had one of the best turn outs today as myself, Sam, Jess, Callun made our way over to Jenson's house and jumped into his car before whizzing of to pick up Smithy and then finally Lofty. We set away from Hemel at just past 11.30.
With us all crammed into the seven seater there were times that comfort became an issue but we braved through it but as we got within half an hour of Doncaster we had to quickly pull into the hard shoulder as Sam was feeling very sick and launched herself out of the car and getting some fresh air to settle her down. As we stood on the hard shoulder with Lofty and Callun making the most of the break by enjoying a sneaky fag or two, Smithy then got out the car and walked up the hard shoulder before bring sick on the roadside.
We put all our predictions down as we had three debutants in the game so there was every chance that the prize money was going to make its way into a new pair of hands.
We arrived at our car park in Donny at 1.30 with another passenger feeling sick and having a cramped up thigh, quite an eventful journey!
We made our way into the stadium for a cheeky beer, pie and a few bets.
We met up with Clingy, Michael, Fiona and Debbie.
Iceman, Nik and Luke just made kick as they were stuck in traffic in a taxi. I made the late dash down from my seat to hand over the match ticket to Iceman and he took his seat just in time for kick off.
The news that Adel Taarabt was missing from the squad was slowly filtering through to everyone with several rumours flying around. It was confirmed later on that there was a family tragedy, our thoughts go out to the Taarabt family.

With Adel missing for the squad the starting place went to Hogan Ephraim. Patrick Agyemang returned to the bench as Ishmael Miller dropped out.

The first half wasn't the greatest halves of football that I have ever witnessed so I can keep the round up short and sweet.
Rangers' were comfortable to say the least. Doncaster created few chances and in fairness chances were rare throughout the first 45 minutes.
The R's best chance came when Tommy Smith's shot had to be turned around the post with Rangers' first real shot of the half 20 minutes in.
Doncaster's best chance came during a a scramble in the box as Hayter's shot deflected off of Fitz Hall and onto the outside of the post and wide........ for a goal kick.
Doncaster did finish the stronger of the sides but 0-0 was a very fair reflection on a not so entertaining game of football.

At half time the gang met up on the concourse for a wuick natter about the half, it didn't last very long as there wasn't anything to talk about. Me and Luke did however come to the conclusion that Hogan needed to come off at somepoint as we were not impressed with his opening 45 minutes.

We got to our seats in time for the start of the second half and within three minutes we had the first goal of the game.
Ephraim had the ball down the R's left and got deep into the Donny penalty area before cutting back onto his right foot and found the far corner with a neat curling shot that evaded the fingertips of Woods in the Donny goal.
The goal did spur Rangers' on and they enjoyed a good 15 minute spell afterwards.
Heidar Helguson was gifted a great opportunity to double the lead as a beautiful cross found him at the far post but his header went wide of the far post.
Rangers' continued to look comfortable as Alejandro Faurlin ran the show in centre midfield, he was at the heart of every R's move and was also there to block the Donny attacking presence.
Donny did have us pretty nervy for the final five minutes plus added time but it proved to be too little too late as the R's held out to secure another crucial three points.

This really was a comfortable three points for the R's as Doncaster looked a shadow of the side that has previously played sides off the park and it looks as if injuries have taken their toll on the squad as they are a much better side than this performance showed.
Having said that the R's still had to be professional and get the job done.

Man of the Match had two candidates put forward. Fitz Hall was solid at the heart of the Rangers' defence and once again the chosen one is Alejandro Faurlin. He's been superb as of late and is really showing what a quality player he is.

Doncaster Rovers: Woods, Friend, Martis, Stock, Hayter (Euell 75), Moussa, Oster (Mason 67), Gillett (Dumbuya 84), Mills, Hird, Coppinger.

Subs: Sullivan, Wilson, Shiels, Kilgallon.

QPR: Kenny, Orr, Hill, Derry, Hall, Helguson (Hulse 80), Faurlin, Gorkss, Routledge, Smith, Ephraim (Buzsaky 63).

Subs: Cerny, Agyemang, Vaagan Moen, Chimbonda, Shittu.

Goals: Ephraim (47)

Referee: Mr P N Gibbs

Attendance: 11, 747

For the journey home we swapped a few places in the back seat to make things a little more comfortable for all of us.
With me being right at the back of the car I didn't really hear much of what was said with everyone so I sat back and enjoyed Jess' company.
However what I did hear is the result of the prediction competition. It all went down to the final two evening games as myself and Smithy were separated by only two points. It was decided when the final whistle went at Everton and secured me victory and finally claiming a prize for the first time in ages.

R's on the Road................ To Doncaster Rovers.

2011-03-17T20:06:00.002Z

On Saturday Rangers' travel to Doncaster looking to record their first victory there since 1951, the first ever visit to Donny at their old Belle Vue Stadium. Having been played off the park in our previous two visits to the Keepmoat Stadium against a good Donny side that plays good attractive football, hopefully we can take advantage of the home sides inconsistent form and keep the gap between us and Norwich at seven points.
Here are a few hints and tips for your journey to Doncaster Rovers.

The Stadium.

Current capacity - 15,231

Doncaster moved into the Keepmoat stadium at the start of 2007, playing Huddersfield Town on New Years Day . After spending 84 years at their previous home, Belle Vue. The stadium is very similar to the new stadium that are built nowadays, it is shaped like a bowl, is used as a multi purpose venue and is the host to not only Doncaster Rovers, Doncaster Belles and Doncaster Lakers Rugby league team also have The Keepmoat as their home.

The stadium cost £21million to build and is the only stadium in the Football League(apparently) to be housed next to a lake.

Away fans are housed in the North Stand that traditionally holds 3,344 supporters. The view of the pitch, leg room and facilities in this stand are all said to be pretty good. The one downfall about the stand (and the rest of the ground included) is that there is a substantial tarmaced strip that runs around the outside of the pitch and pushes the fans further away from the pitch than we would all like.

The History between the teams.....

At Doncaster Rovers (7)

Doncaster Rvs. 5
Q.P.R. 1
Draws 1

Rangers' have been unsuccessful in winning at the Keepmoat in their two previous visits. Both games were dominated by Doncaster and the end result in both games was 2-0. Hopefully we will actually give the home team a run for their money for once!

How to get there.

By Car :- The post code being used for todays journey is DN4 5JW

This is a very easy ground to find, the hardest part of the journey is the distance. Travel up the M1 and leave at junction 32 to join the M18. Leave the M18 at junction 3 and you are only a mile away from the ground. There are a limited number of parking spaces at the stadium, around 1000 i am lead to believe and it will cost about £5 to park there. I am unaware of any other parking opportunities in and around the ground but I am sure there will be an alternative option if needed.

By Train :- The train station is roughly two miles away from the stadium so it would be best advised to get a taxi to the Keepmoat. There is also a dedicated bus service to the ground available from the Doncaster Interchange bus station which is adjacent to the train station. The bus to catch is the route 75X service and runs roughly every 10 minutes and taking just under 10 to get to your destination.

Pubs 'n' Grub

As the stadium is on the outskirts of town, there is not much choice in pubs.There is one pub on the retail park just around the corner from the Keepmoat and if you do require a tipple I would guide you there. It is a Beefeater so you can really kill two birds with one stone and eat as well as drink there. There is also a Pizza Hut, McDonalds and KFC in the same area. There is also another option if needed. There is a bowling alley by the Vue cinema on the other side of the lake that may appeal to some of us.
Food inside the ground includes- Pies (including the Chicken Balti pie), Pasties and Vegetarian 'Pizza Pods are supplied by Shire Foods and cost £2.30 each. Burgers and Hot Dogs are also available.

Believe...

2011-03-12T21:16:00.003Z

QPR 2-1 Palace

A double from Heidar Helguson, helped Rangers extend their lead at the Top of the Championship to 10 points, Crystal Palace being the R's latest Loftus Road victims...

With the events, talk and speculation off the pitch during the week, it seems an age since the Millwall defeat and it was dicussed as the gang descended on the upstairs bar of the Springbok once again for our pre match, inluding a surprise and very welcome visit from my friend Laura and Tony and it was great to spend some time and have a decent catch up with them both. The bouncers, although it is hardly their fault, where thankfully a bit more laid back this week with the new anti-drinking outside rule and we were eventually shuffled away from the balcony at 2.45 and we made our way into another sold out Loftus Road.

Well, despite the scoreline, the R's dominated the match and were gunning straight for Palace from the off . Adel Taarabt looked like he was definitely in the mood and the first chance of them match fell to the Moroccan, who fired just wide from 25 yards out. It wasn't long before the R's dominance turned into a goal and on 20 minutes, we were deservedly in front - Taarabt received the ball on the edge of the box and shot across the face of the goal and Helguson was on hand to slide in his 11th goal of the season at the back post. For the Statistician's amongst you, it was Taarabt's 19th assist of the season, 9 more than any other Championship player.

Chances continued to come for Rangers with Taarabt again testing Speroni and Helguson heading Smith's cross just over the bar. But against the run of play, the Eagles found an equaliser and an extremely good one it was - a superb passing move ended with Ambrose feeding Vaughan who made no mistake. The goal seemed to panic Rangers for the next few minutes, but the R's managed another effort just before the break with Routledge firing just over.

The R's started the 2nd half in positive fashion and on 56 minutes, the lead was restored - Wayne Routledge's through ball found Taarabt in the box but as he was about to let fire, was felled by a rash challenge from McCarthy, which saw the centre-back receive a red card and the referee point to the spot. Helguson stepped up and cooly slotted the ball down the centre.

Rangers continued to dominate but that all important, killer third goal was not to be, leading to a very nervy ending as Palace started pushing bodies forward. But the R's rearguard held firm and the final whistle brought much joy to the Loftus Road crowd.

QPR: Kenny; Orr, Hall, Gorkss, Hill; Derry, Faurlin; Routledge, Taarabt (Buzsaky 89), Smith (Ephraim 86); Helguson. Subs not used: Cerny, Connolly, Hulse, Miller, Chimbonda.

Man of the Match - again brought much discussion and there were some individual votes for Taarabt, Derry and Faurlin, who were all superb, but unanimously, with 5 votes, today's award goes to two goal, Heidar Helguson.

In summary and as mentioned, this was a far more comfortable victory than the scoreline suggests and with results going our way again, the lead now is 10 points. Of course, this may well be brought back to 7 or 9 over the next couple of days with the Cardiff and Norwich results, but with 9 games to go, is it now time to believe....

After the match, we made our way to the British Queen where a few of us, picked up fellow R's fan, Mel's, eagerly awaited book - Grounds for Divorce. The book is described by the Author as - An irreverant and honest look at the world of football taken during the course of the 2009-10 season. This, as viewed from a seat in the stands, a spot on the terrace, the confort of a sofa and the bottom of a glass.

I for one am looking forward to reading it and all of us at LH, wish Mel all the very best with his venture!!

The gang are in good numbers going up to Doncaster next weekend and a HUGE R's following is expected. Lee will return with one of his unique away game reports and will be capturing the days events for us all to enjoy.

Come on You R'ssssssssssssss!!!!

Rangers' hit by a brick 'Wall.

2011-03-08T17:14:00.016Z

Tonight the R's faithful made the daunting trip to The New Den in lovely South Bermondsey. After the events of what happened at Loftus Road in late September following the gang travelled in hope of avoiding seeing any trouble at all.

The gang tonight was down to four as Jenson drove down myself, Sam, Lofty and Jenson's friend Smithy.
We hit the road at 3.50 and went to pick up Lofty from Northolt and hit the popular M25 traffic hot spots on our way round one of the most loved motorways in the country. One of the more popular topics on the way was whether there was going to be any trouble tonight and Sam was worried that we might get caught up in it but the four of us lads were there to reassure her and we were all in hope that with Cardiff being down the road at Crystal Palace that it would take the eye of the Millwall lot and would take the trouble as far away from us as possible.
We arrived at the ground in good time and met up with Nik, Iceman and Luke for a good pre-match chin wag, pie and a pint before taking to our seats in the middle of the upper tier and well out of missile launching distance.

Neil Warnock made one change from Saturday's win against Leicester. Fitz Hall dropped out through injury and he was replaced by Kaspers Gorkss.

With 2,200 Rangers' fans behind them it was the R's that started this London derby the better of the two teams.
Millwall's game plan was evident from the start, park the bus and hit Ranger's on the counter and also be very physical. That physical side showed when the first challenge was put in on Taarabt, sending the R's captain flying with a tackle well worthy of a booking and the referee set the tone for the game by bottling it and not producing a yellow card.
From the resulting free kick Taarabt dusted himself down and floated his cross over to the back post and found Kaspers Gorkss who's bullet header was tipped around the post for a corner.
From that corner Taarabt found Clint Hill and he placed his header just wide.
Both Millwall and the R's were battling in midfield throughout the half it was Rangers' that were just about the better team as the half came to a close, Millwall were putting up a good fight on the field and were making it incredibly hard for us to break them down. Helguson was being pushed and pulled all over the place and as soon as an R's player tried doing the same to a Millwall player the ref instantly gave the decision to the home team.

Half time came around and we all decided to stay in our seats as only one kiosk downstairs was open and the space on the concourse wasn't great at all. instead we reflected on the half, which took all of 30 seconds and looked at the other Championship scores.
It was also nice to see the lovely Millwall fans either side of us relaxing after what must've been an exciting half of football for them, especially as they probably only watched about 10 minutes of it at most!

The teams came out for the second half, no changes were made so it was game on.
Rangers' had the first chance of the half when Routledge crossed to the back post and Orr headed straight at the Millwall keeper. All that was needed was a bit of composure and maybe the R's would've taken the lead.
The game then went back to a midfield battle and really killed the atmosphere amongst the fans, it really wasn't pretty to watch but it suited Millwall down to the ground and they were beginning to take charge and were becoming the team in the ascendancy.
On 63 minutes the opening goal of the game came.
A long ball over the top cleared Morrison of Shittu and Gorkss and he raced on before smashing home into Kenny's near post. It was a simple route one passage of play that caught us out but the finish by Morrison left Paddy with no chance what so ever.
In scenes that I've rarely seen before, as soon as the ball hit the back of the net all you could see was half the stand on each side of the ground just charge towards you to goad, not because they cared but because they wanted a reaction off of us. It honestly looked like Morrison had just scored the goal that won the European cup for them, thats how much of a big deal they made of it.
The goal gave the Lions the extra impetus to go and kill us off as we really did not come out in the second half at all.
Ten minutes later and Rangers' were caught out again.
Another long ball caught us out and Morrison broke clear again, this time Shittu caught up with him but was judged to of unfairly fouled him inside the box and as the last man Shittu was given a red card to give him the worst possible return to The Den, especially with all the racist abuse he was getting from the home 'supporters'.
Liam Trotter stepped up and sent Kenny the wrong way and doubled the lead for Millwall. Having already celebrated in front of the away support with his team mates Trotter then decided to dance away in front of us and further goad the away support, as he done for the entire game referee Tanner failed to even have a word and bottled giving Trotter a yellow card for inciting the away supporters.
The second goal killed the game off as a contest but that did not stop the ref and his fellow officials to fail to give decisions in our favour and give everything against us. An extremely frustrating night south of the river for us Rangers' fans!

As you can probably tell I personally am not happy with the officials performance in tonight's game. There were too many occasions were they bottled decisions because of the atmosphere within The Den tonight, there were scared to give anything against them in case they upset the home support.
Despite this though you cant take it away from Millwall, they were the better side in the second half and in the end you have to say that we were maybe lucky to only lose by two in the end.
On a final note I have to mention the Millwall fans.
This was my first visit to The Den with the gang and I knew that things were not exactly going to be comfortable but I have come away with a stronger dislike for them after what happened tonight and the past events in September. The set of 'fans' to our right clearly were not there for the football as they taunted fans and even racially abused members of the travelling support whilst the stewards and police around them just watched them do it. Plus the racial abuse they were Danny Shittu was a complete disgrace, however I'm sure nothing will be done about it and it'll be brushed off as their fans just being 'passionate about the club', what a load of rubbish that is!!!
Then after the game as the R's fans were trying to make their way to their trains it was the Millwall fans that begun to pelt the Rangers' fans with bricks, seats and coins amongst things. It was the police from the R's side that had to step in as nothing was being done on the other side. It was a relief that the gang along with Callun hung around at the other end of the gates as we waited to exit onto the streets and walk back to our car and hope we didn't bump into any unsavoury characters. We all got back to the car to find Jenson had got a parking ticket and bundled in, with Callun having to laying in the boot for the first 10 miles of the journey as we quickly escaped.
As we got back north of the river and in cleaner air we made a quick stop at a Shell garage for a quick bit of food and drink before Jenson whizzed us back home and in the warmth of our homes.

Our Man of the Match only has two runners in it today and they were both of our holding midfielders. Shaun Derry was immense today and was always covering defensively when we were wayward, putting in some important challenges. However once more it was Alejandro Faurlin that caught our eye as he looked to be involved in everything and really got stuck into the nitty gritty tonight and because of this he gained a unanimous vote from everyone to get tonights award.

Millwall: Forde, Dunne, Robinson, Trotter, Harris (Lisbie 66), Henry, Craig, Mkandawire, Ward, Morison, Townsend.

Subs: Mildenhall, Eastmond, Schofield, Hackett, Barron, McQuoid.

Scorers: Morison (63), Trotter (73)

QPR: Kenny, Orr, Hill, Derry, Taarabt (Smith 71), Helguson, Buzsaky (Miller 71), Faurlin, Gorkss, Routledge, Shittu.

Subs: Cerny, Hulse, Smith, Vaagan-Moen, Ephraim, Chimbonda.

Red Cards: Shittu (72)

Referee: Mr S Tanner

Attendance: 14, 104 (2186 QPR)

I hope everyone managed to get home safely from The Den, I have been recieving texts saying that a lot of people are getting home and managed to avoid all the trouble afterwards.

Lofty will be back on Saturday with the Palace round up and hopefully it will be a lot happier than what we have had to endure tonight.

U RRR'SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!

It's Miller Time as Ishmael Fox Leicester...

2011-03-05T20:30:00.004Z

QPR 1-0 Leicester

Ishmael Miller came off the bench to fire QPR eight points clear at the top of the Championship, as Neil Warnock's tactical masterstroke, out foxed Leicester at Loftus Road.

Okay, no more puns, I promise...

A Saturday home game, a rarity in these parts for R's fans... and the gang, all bar California Hoop, missing due to family commitments, met in the Springbok. Due to the new regulations regarding drinking outside the pub, we made our way to the newly decorated and very blue, upper bar and stood on the balcony overlooking South Africa Road. We soon found that standing on the balcony is also against regulations as we were soon to be shepherded inside and with only four chairs available, it was standing room only as we enjoyed a pre match pint.

With 15 minutes to spare, we made our way, slowly into the ground to join another sell out Loftus Road crowd and with Rangers unchanged from last weeks victory over Middlesbrough, the match against Sven-Goran Eriksson's much improved Leicester side, got underway.

The first half was a tight but full blooded affair, with Taarabt getting plenty of 'treatment' from the Leicester back line. It was 26 minutes before the first chance came, with Helguson's low drive being blocked by the legs of Ricardo. Hall went close for the R's soon after before Paddy Kenny was brought into action - Yakubu's esquisite lob being superbly tipped over by the R's Number One.

The game opened up somewhat after the break with Buzsaky's powerful drive from the right being forced away by Ricardo. Helguson headed just over minutes later from Taarabt's teasing free kick and Wayne Routledge hit the side netting. But it wasn't all one way traffic and Waghorn nearly made Matt Connolly pay for his indecisiveness, but poked his effort just over the bar.

Helguson was inches away from giving Rangers the lead, by sliding full stretch and just failing to connect with Taarabt's cross/shot that flew across the face of the Leicester goal. Paddy Kenny was at his brilliant best yet again - Yakubu's cross was headed towards the top corner by King, but Kenny superbly tipped his goalbound effort over the bar.

But the masterstroke came on 86 minutes when Ishmael Miller entered the play in place of Adel Taarabt. Within 2 minutes of him coming on,he big striker collected Routledge's through ball, powered past the impressive Sol Bamba, before slotting his effort cooly under Ricardo. It was all a bit of a blur after that to be honest as 3 sides of Loftus Road went absolutely beserk and the celebrations went on right through the remaining two minutes and stoppage time, before the final whistle went on another massive victory.

QPR: Kenny, Orr, Hill, Derry, Hall (Connolly 31), Taarabt (Miller 86), Helguson, Buzsaky (Ephraim 90), Faurlin, Routledge, Shittu. Subs: Cerny, Hulse, Smith, Vaagan Moen.

Man of the Match - plenty of candidates here and for the first time this season, the gang could not find an out right winner and we had a three way split! To be honest, I can't quite remember who voted for who, but there were 3 votes each for Helguson, Kenny and Faurlin. So, Sam came up with the novel idea of putting it to our adoring public to decide, so the question was asked on the Lofty Heights facebook page. We accumulated just 5 more votes but they were all in favour of the R's Number One and today's award goes to Paddy Kenny.

In summary, Rangers won, Cardiff, Swansea and Forest lost and Norwich drew - a perfect day and the R's are eight points clear. As mentioned, this was another massive victory against an in form Leicester who are, in my opinion, the best side I have seen at Loftus Road this season.

The gang will be smaller, but will be at The New Den on Tuesday night as the R's take on Millwall and Lee will return with one of his legendary away match reports no doubt, but until then...

COME ON YOU R'ssssssss!!!!!

Helguson leaves Boro Heid and dry.

2011-02-26T14:27:00.010Z

Today the Rangers' faithful took to the road and embarked on the long 'ol pole to Teesside as the R's took on struggling Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium.

With Jenson pulling out at the last minute due to working commitments it was I that took over driving duty with Sam, Jess and Luke as my passengers. PK and Lofty were also unable to make the trip due to them being on call for work so the depleted gang took to the road just after 9.30.
We started listening to the finest old skool tunes around for the first two hours of the journey and then Sam requested that some party/singa-a-long songs were put on and the first song to grace our ears was 'I'm so excited' by The Pointer Sisters, a feeling that really wasn't shared in the car as Luke was sleeping and the rest of us still feeling tired from not having much sleep the night before.
After a quick stop in Wetherby services and a burger king munched by us all we again hit the road with only 45minutes of our journey left.
We arrived at 1.40 and parked up right outside the ground and made our way into the ground, bumping into Clingy just outside the turnstiles and went inside for a quick beer and chat before taking our seats ready for the game start.

Neil Warnock made one change to the team that beat Ipswich 2-0 on Tuesday night, Akos Buzsaky in for Ishmael Miller.

The first half started as an edgy affair as Middlesbrough looked to unsettle the R's in their free flowing passing and it looked to be working as they always looked to set Leroy Lita and Scott McDonald free behind Fitz Hall and Danny Shittu, all with very limited success.
The R's did start to slowly take a foothold of the game as Taarabt was looking to be instrumental in his left wing position. It was Taarabt who looked like his was going to do all he could and open the scoring as he had a shot fly wide, one shot gathered up easily by the 'Boro keeper and another one blocked.
The final 10 minutes saw Rangers' look at their most comfortable as they were reading all of Boro's attacks and hitting them on the counter and it was that man Taarabt again that nearly opened the scoring as a long ball evaded everyone and Taarabt got to the ball before the keeper and unfortunately for him the ball nestled on top of the net rather than in it.
A few minutes before the end the deadlock was broken. Helguson managed to take the ball down inside the area and hit his shot, it deflected off the back of a Boro defender and looped into the back of the net. Slightly fortuitous but who cares!

At half time Sam, Luke and Clingy went downstairs to get in refreshments as me and Jess stayed in our seats as I begun writing this report. There were a few half decent half time scores to keep us excited but it was important that we held onto the 3points as Swansea won earlier on in the day.

Rangers' came out for the second half with all guns blazing (and with only me and Jess from the gang present to see the opening 10 minutes of the half).
The R's hit the ground running and in the opening five minutes we had three separate counter attacks foiled at the last minute by the Boro defence.
However the resolve did not last long and soon the lead was doubled.
Routledge skinned his marker on the left hand side and dinked a delightful ball into the 6 yard box and there was Helguson to nod in with aplomb and put the R's in a controlling lead.
After the second goal there definitely was only ever going to be one winner.
The R's remained in control and the opportunity for a third soon came.
Taarabt danced into the left hand side of the box and was tripped, definite penalty!
Taarabt grabbed the ball and soon shook of Helguson as the striker looked to bag his first hat-trick for the R's and despite calls from other Rangers' players to give Heidar the chance of the match ball, pure greed won the day and Adel stepped up to take the kick and sent Steele the wrong way as he smashed his penalty to the left and into the back of the net for Rangers' third goal of the afternoon.
The third goal left the R's in cruise control and a fourth goal would've been possible had we really pushed hard enough for it. Middlesbrough in fairness did fashion a few chances of their own before the end of the game but Rangers' ran out clear and deserved winners.

This was a very professional performance on the road and a very much needed goal feast away from home was finally served up.
Having Akos back in the starting 11 and having his movement and creativity in the team was something that we have missed and gave us that extra impetus in the final third of the field. Faurlin and Derry once again bossed the midfield as Taarabt and Routledge caused plenty of problems with all their trickery.
It would've been superb to see Heidar bag a hat-trick today had Adel given him the chance from the spot but this was Adel's first away goal since the Palace way back in October.

The Man of the Match for today had a few contenders as there were a few good all round performances. As mentioned before Alejandro Faurlin and Shaun Derry were immense in the midfield and Akos Buzsaky was superb on his return. Today's man of the match is a clear winner with everyone's vote going to Heidar Helguson.

After the game two members of the gang were very happy as Sam won £100 on Helguson being first scorer and Rangers' winning 3-0 and Clingy won £52 on a 3-0 R's victory. Myself and Jess were slightly gutted as we had Helguson first and the R's to win 2-0, at least we won the three points!
The journey home was one that we all wanted to get out of the way as quickly as possible so I put my foot to the floor Jenson style and aimed to beat last years time of just over three hours.
We left the car park gates at the Riverside at 5.15 and we walked into our front door at 8.30, I must say I shocked myself and everyone was happy as we all made it home in time for 'Take me out'.
At the end of the journey my car was feeling pretty battered and bruised and we had a loss of power for the last 20 minutes of the journey and with the car screaming weird noises, no explaination can be given yet but hopefully in the morning the poor motor will hopefully of recovered.

U R'SSSSSSSSSS!!!!!