Newcastle v QPR player ratings

QPR’s loss against Newcastle meant they will complete 2012 without an away win. Here’s how we rated the players in their 1-0 defeat at St James’ Park.

Robert Green: 5
Not at fault for Newcastle’s goal but was repeatedly guilty of failing to do the very basics. Flapped at a Gabriel Obetan free-kick, a Vurnon Anita corner and other routine balls into his area.

Anton Ferdinand: 6
Selected at right-back and had a go. Offered decent cover through the middle and got forward when possible – which wasn’t often.

Ryan Nelsen: 8
“He plays on his own” was the recent chant from QPR fans and that certainly seemed the case for parts of the first half, when a host of clearances by Nelsen helped Rangers get to the interval on level terms.

Clint Hill: 7
Solid and hardworking but Rangers’ ageing centre-back partnership is constantly protected by their midfield, which means the team overall is struggling to impose itself.

Fabio: 8
Did very well at left-back. Produced two saving challenges and was solid throughout. Used the ball well too.

Jamie Mackie: 6
Worked hard as always but had little success.

Esteban Granero: 5
Looked lost before being taken off in the second half.

Alejandro Faurlin: 5
Useful on the ball when given space but struggled in a congested midfield.

Stephane Mbia: 6
Closed down well but was also careless with the ball.

Adel Taarabt: 7
Will always give the ball away at times because what he tries won’t always come off. Looked to cause Newcastle problems and also worked hard off the ball, offering Fabio good protection. Was even in his own box trying to prevent Shola Ameobi scoring the winner.

Djibril Cisse: 5
Offered little.

Shaun Wright-Phillips: 6
Lively after coming on and offered decent defensive cover.

Junior Hoilett: 7
Also added something after his introduction. Quick and direct, but didn’t have time to get into the game.

Follow West London Sport on Twitter
Find us on Facebook