Stephan ‘convinced’ QPR can be a force despite Bolton stalemate
Julien Stephan remains “convinced” QPR can be a force to be reckoned with in the Championship despite a frustrating goalless draw at home to Bolton.
Rangers dominated the game, but striker Richard Kone missed several chances and visiting goalkeeper Jack Bonham was in fine form.
Stephan said: “We did a great game. I’m very satisfied with the way we play and the way the players want to be an exciting team on the pitch.
“I enjoyed that and I’m really, really convinced that in the mid-long term, if we continue to play like this and continue to be brave, and continue to be dominant, that we will have a lot of wins.
“Probably the next step with this team is to be able to win this type of game. I think we are in a very good direction.”
Kone had four opportunities to score during a one-sided first half and missed another chance just before going off during the second.
After being teed up by Ilias Chair, Kone had a weak shot held by Bonham, who soon afterwards denied him at close range after good work on the left by Koki Saito.
Kone was then put through on goal by Harvey Vale, but again was unable to find a way past Bonham.
And when Bolton were unable to clear their lines and Ronnie Edwards pulled the ball back from the right-hand touchline, Kone could not apply the finish.
QPR continued to dominate after the interval and appealed in vain for a penalty when Saito, having cleverly evaded two challenges, appeared to be upended by Josh Sheehan.
Kone’s final chance came just after the hour mark via a low cross from the right by Amadou Mbengue, but again Bonham saved.
“I said at half-time to the players that they just needed to keep going, because the way they were playing was perfect and we created some big chances,” said Stephan.
“I said to them: ‘No panic, no stress, just stick to the plan and continue – you’re playing good football, so continue to in the second half’.
“We continued to create a lot of chances – enough to win – and when we deserve a penalty we need to have a penalty. It was a clear one with Koki Saito.”
