1 min
QPR came from behind to draw 1-1 in a tightly contested encounter against Middlesbrough at the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium.
After a cagey start from both sides, the visitors opened the scoring in the 19th minute as Paddy McNair’s corner was glanced in by Chuba Akpom at the near post.
However, just under ten minutes later QPR were level – Bright Osayi-Samuel poking home after Luke Amos’ shot from Osman Kakay’s cross was well saved by Boro keeper Marcus Bettinelli.
And they nearly took the lead five minutes later as Osayi-Samuel motored past a retreating Jonny Howson, got to the byline and played in Amos only for the midfielder’s shot to be blocked by McNair.
The Hoops also had a handball appeal turned down five minutes before the break as Kakay wriggled away from Marvin Johnson inside Middlesbrough’s box, cut the ball back to Amos whose effort struck George Saville square in the face.
The second-half continued to see little between the two sides with QPR hitting the post through Tom Carroll and Middlesbrough having a goal ruled out for offside.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Tom Carroll’s second-half effort ricocheted off Marcus Bettinelli’s back and looked destined to creep over the line before Dael Fry cleared the ball to safety.
Moan of the Match
QPR’s desire to try to build from the back meant they occasionally played themselves into trouble – forcing keeper Seng Dieng to opt for a more direct route as the game went on.
Talking Point
Bright Osayi-Samuel was by far QPR’s most dangerous player – if he stays at the club could he propel them to a strong top-half finish?
Man of the Match
Bright Osayi-Samuel – a creative spark throughout, stepping into the shoes of the departed Ebere Eze well.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Dean Whitestone (Northamptonshire) – did not have too many tough decisions to make and made the right call after QPR’s players were adamant George Saville handled in the box.
Atmosphere
Both sides could attest to the lack of Neil Warnock antics on the touchline as the Middlesbrough manager was forced to stay away due to coronavirus.
Verdict
A physical affair but one in which QPR had the better chances – largely thanks to Bright Osayi-Samuel trying to take everyone on with little support from his team-mates.
