1 min
QPR left it late to seal all three points against West Bromwich Albion with Charlie Austin’s 89th minute strike earning his side a vital 1-0 win at the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium.
West Brom started brightly with Jayson Molumby testing QPR’s debutant keeper Scott Marshall from range before Karlan Grant slid a cross across the six-yard box that just evaded Matt Phillips.
However, the Hoops grew into the game and nearly went ahead on the stroke of half-time, as Stefan Johansen fired a goalbound effort that was beaten away by Baggies keeper David Button.
QPR picked up where they left off after the break, having a number of chances – Chris Willock firing an effort which was beaten away minutes after Andre Gray had a goal disallowed.
At the other end, West Brom substitute Daryl Dike nearly set up Jake Livermore to snatch a winner, but the midfielder’s effort could only be directed over the bar.
And it was QPR who managed to find a breakthrough with just minutes remaining, as former West Brom striker Austin met Willock’s cross to head past a helpless Button.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Charlie Austin’s late winner gave the Hoops a crucial victory in a tight encounter against fellow promotion hopefuls West Brom.
Moan of the Match
Andre Gray’s disallowed goal at the start of the second-half could’ve made this result even sweeter – instead the effort was ruled out for a foul.
Talking Point
With David Marshall’s arrival from January on a permanent deal until the end of the season, do QPR need anymore signings before their AFCON stars return?
Man of the Match
Chris Willock – the attacking midfielder was at the heart of everything good for QPR, linking play between the front two and the midfield with ease.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Simon Hooper (Wiltshire) – failed to let the game flow at times and the noise from the away end suggests West Brom’s support were unhappy with his display.
Atmosphere
An intense match not only because of the implications at the top of the table, but because QPR were playing for pride as they celebrated their 140th birthday.
Verdict
Having been second best in the opening 45 minutes, QPR boss Mark Warburton will be delighted with the response from his side in the second-half to earn all three points.
