McClaren defiant despite QPR’s losing run
Steve McClaren again insisted QPR are not far away from turning the corner – despite a seventh consecutive league defeat.
The 2-0 loss against the Rangers manager’s former club Middlesbrough means the threat of relegation has not been eliminated.
McClaren’s side have not won a Championship game since Boxing Day, are nine points above the drop zone and face a tough midweek game at home to promotion-chasing Leeds before a derby at in-form Brentford.
“We are very close,” said McClaren, who saw his team concede a goal after just two minutes at the Riverside Stadium.
“This is a tough week but we have to keep fighting and showing the perseverance we have been doing and get that first win of the year.
“We need to really have a go against Leeds on Tuesday and then against Brentford.”
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Rangers were up against it once Jonny Howson, totally unchallenged, gave Boro the early lead. The hosts were two up by half-time courtesy of Ashley Fletcher’s goal.
“The goals were avoidable and you can’t expect to concede as early as we did and win,” McClaren admitted.
24/02/2019 @ 5:16 pm
Just watched the highlights and wish I hadn’t
24/02/2019 @ 5:07 pm
So, the ‘next level’ is just around the corner then, I now ask which corner?
I think the fans are being taken for fools here. What’s being achieved that Ollie or Neil couldnt manage?
24/02/2019 @ 8:09 am
I wasn’t at the game but was surprised by the selection. In my opinion you don’t play Grant Hall in a back four. He’s a very good footballer but I don’t think he has the physical presence to play as one in a pair of centre backs. If you play him it should be in a back three. This gives him the necessary defensive cover while he utilises his ability to play passes and bring the ball out from the back. Holloway learned this lesson. I thought McLaren had as well.
23/02/2019 @ 9:03 pm
Lack of attacking power puts pressure on the defence,therefore this is reflected on the results.Few goals scored and too many conceded.The solution is to get a proven goal scorer.Otherwise it could be curtains!!!