Ainsworth optimistic despite QPR defeat

QPR boss Gareth Ainsworth remains convinced that his side will prove their doubters wrong this season.

Rangers were almost relegated after a terrible run last season, have been touted as favourites for relegation, and have lost two of their first three league matches this term.

But their spirited display in the 1-0 defeat at home against Ipswich encouraged Ainsworth, who said: “I’ve got to look past this result.

“We’re a mile away from where we were last season and it’s so good to see. The boys were brilliant and gave everything.

“I’m gutted we haven’t got anything from it but I’m also hugely happy with the performance.

“Mark my words – and I really hope I’m proved right here – I think we can achieve things.

“I think we’re going to be fine. Write us off at your peril this year.”

Youngster Sinclair Armstrong, leading Rangers’ attack in the absence of injured striker Lyndon Dykes, caused Ipswich major problems before going off in the second half.

QPR were unlucky not to be ahead at half-time after Armstrong’s strike from the left of the penalty area hit the inside of the far post and then the inside of the opposite post.

And in the second half, Osman Kakay missed a golden chance for Ainsworth’s side when he contrived to blast wide from close range.

Ainsworth said: “How we haven’t scored I don’t know. Sinclair, who was tremendous, hits both posts and then we miss from a yard out.

“Then I felt we were going to get an equaliser, I really did. It was a different performance to what we’ve seen for a long time here at Loftus Road.

“We had some really good chances today and if we’d put them to bed I think we put Ipswich to bed.”