QPR Away Match Report

For the first time this year, Crewe picked up 3 points for successive Saturdays. The manner of this victory was less impressive than last week’s mauling of Coventry, though the much-needed 3 points is gratefully received.

After QPR failed to make the most of an early opportunity, Crewe dominated the opening 15 minutes. The impressive Tony Grant ensured QPR found it difficult to carve out an opening, with Steve Jones’ pace providing an outlet over the top of the R’s defence. After QPR’s Dan Shittu clumsily collided with Luke Rodgers in the box, penalty appeals were waved away by the overly-fussy Steve Tanner. Kenny Lunt had a shot from range before Marc Bircham threw himself to the ground laughably. The less-than-honest Bircham lost control of the ball as he entered the box, before attempting to fall over the nearby Tony Grant, though the referee laughed away Bircham’s less-than-convincing appeal.

QPR found their feet as the half went on, though lacked a decisive cutting edge as they searched for a final ball. Despite no appeals for a free-kick from QPR players, Mr Whistlehappy provided QPR with a free-kick in a very presentable position. However, Ainsworth’s attempt floated over from 25 yards.

The deadlock was broken after 38 minutes. After a series of dreadful Crewe throw-ins, Jon Otsemobor cleverly picked out Gareth Taylor, who in turn flicked the ball into the path of Kenny Lunt. Lunt found himself in acres of space and slotted home calmly with his left foot to give Crewe the lead at the break.

Minutes after the restart, Crewe had a superb opportunity to bag the much needed second goal. Rodgers was picked out by Taylor on the right wing, and following a dummy from Steve Jones, Lee Bell failed to convert a one-on-one. QPR huffed and puffed in an attempt to get back into the game, and although they were dominating in terms of possession and territory, the predictably unimaginative crosses into the box were dealt with consistently by the solid Steve Foster and Madjid Bougherra. In fact, perhaps QPR’s best opportunity was gifted to them by a Crewe player, as Jon Otsemobor strangely attempted a back pass from 5 yards, though his underhit was intercepted by the temporarily marauding Mauro Milanese, who cut the ball back to Gareth Ainsworth, though Billy Jones blocked the scuffed shot.

QPR’s efforts left Crewe with chances on the break, with the odd burst into QPR’s half often rewarded. Just before the hour mark, a corner was the product of a Crewe attack. Quick thinking from Luke Rodgers led to an effort which squirmed just wide after a short corner. However, he was soon to be replaced by the lively David Vaughan, in a move which saw Steve Jones play just off Gareth Taylor as Jonah helped out defensively.

QPR had the second of their three presentable chances just after the 70th minute. Having turned Steve Foster on the edge of the area, Furlong had time and space though lacked the necessary composure, as he scuffed his wrong-footed shot straight to Ross Turnbull.

A minute later, and QPR were punished by a smart counter attack. Steve Jones was released down the left, before returning the favour to David Vaughan on the edge of the area. Vaughan sidestepped Shittu to fire his shot away across an overweight Paul Jones into the far corner. The goal was important, as we all know Crewe aren’t particularly adept at defending one goal leads.

QPR continued to battle away, and grabbed a consolation with the last kick of the game. Crewe deserved their victory and go into next Saturday’s vital game full of confidence.

Player Ratings

Ross Turnbull 7
Although Ross could maybe have communicated better on the odd occasion, he provided some good saves at vital times to keep Crewe in the game.

Jon Otsemobor 6
Semmy contributed well going forward, and defended well at times, though the lasting memory of his performance will be his woeful backpass.

Billy Jones 7
Solid as ever from Billy. He ensured that QPR had no joy down their right hand side, defending resolutely throughout.

Madjid Bougherra 7.5
Another promising performance from Bougherra. Although not as dominant as in recent weeks, the charismatic Algerian dealt well with the aerial presence of Marc Nygaard.

Steve Foster 9
Man of the match An excellent performance from Foster. A solid first half was improved upon as Foz won his headers, got some excellent blocks in and read the game superbly.

Lee Bell 6
Belly wasn’t as effective as in recent weeks, though his work-rate was an important part of the defensive effort which helped restrict QPR.

Steve Jones 7.5
A good performance from Jonah. Jonah bagged another assist, and provided an important outlet for Crewe down the left hand side.

Kenny Lunt 7.5
Kenny took his goal superbly as well as performing his defensive duties excellently.

Tony Grant 8
Grant was particularly effective in the first half, as not only did he start off Crewe attacks well, but crucially, he broke up many of QPR’s attacks.

Luke Rodgers 7
Luke worked hard as ever, earning himself some good opportunities, almost bagging a goal on several occasions.

Gareth Taylor 7
Although Taylor was disappointing for much of the game, he did offer some important contributions, playing in Rodgers and Jonah on numerous occasions.

Sub: David Vaughan 7.5
Vaughany did exactly what was required of him. Not only did he defend well, but he supported the attacks effectively and was rewarded with a goal.
No time to impress