Losing start for QPR boss McClaren

Preston 1 QPR 0

QPR’s season and Steve McClaren’s reign as manager began with a defeat at Deepdale.

Alan Browne’s goal five minutes into the second half was enough to give Preston a deserved win.

Massimo Luongo on the line was unable to keep out Browne’s looping header from Josh Harrop’s free-kick.

The hosts had been on top, although Matt Smith missed a great chance for QPR shortly before the interval when he headed Luke Freeman’s left-wing cross wide of the target.

Recent signing Toni Leistner captained Rangers and had a very decent debut at the heart of their defence.

McClaren’s side were much less impressive at the other end of the pitch in a disappointing start to their campaign.

But they would have rescued a point had keeper Declan Rudd not produced a fine late save to deny substitute Idrissa Sylla following Freeman’s free-kick.