Doncaster v QPR – Match Preview

Harry Redknapp and his blue and white charges make the trip up to South Yorkshire tomorrow as they look to extend their unbeaten run to five. Rangers sit in third on goal difference and are currently involved in a three-way slog for the top two automatic places with Burnley and Leicester. With a busy December on the horizon, it will be fascinating to see which teams are still up there come the new year.

Since the defeat to Burnley, QPR have reacted positively and are unbeaten in four (W2 D2). Against Charlton, QPR battled for a hard-fought 1-0 win, which is becoming a trademark this season. The defence was typically robust and it was a joy to see Charlie Austin score the type of goal he did; a match-winning wonder strike, worthy of winning any game.

As predicted by pundits, Doncaster are struggling this season. Only Yeovil (6) have lost more games at home this season than Donny (4), which bodes well for the R`s. Paul Dickov`s men have lost four of their last six in the league and look bereft of confidence. However, the return of Dean Furman could provide them with a boost and no doubt Macheda will be keen to make an impression against us, after his disappointing loan spell at Loftus Road.

A point wouldn`t be a disaster, as winning your home games and drawing away is promotion form, but with Burnley and Leicester facing winnable opposition in Huddersfield and Millwall respectively, QPR will want all three points to put pressure on their fellow promotion rivals.

Doncaster Team News:

Dean Furman is back from suspension. Martin Woods could fill in for Reece Wabara.

Possible line up:

Player to watch: –

QPR Team News:

Nedum Onuoha, Ali Faurlin, and Bobby Zamora are all out injured. Tom Carroll could be in contention.

Possible line up:

Player to watch: Joey Barton

I think it`s fair to suggest that Joey Barton has been the driving force behind the QPR side this season. Barton`s energy around the pitch, coupled with his class on the ball and eye for a pass makes him one of the best midfielders in the league and a real asset for the R`s at this level.

Barton has been QPR`s main creative force, laying on 41 chances for his teammates, more than any other R`s player. Here`s hoping we can keep hold of Barton until the end of the season because I fear should he leave in January, Rangers might struggle to maintain their current level of consistency.

Match Facts & Stats

LAST FIVE

QPR: LDWDW
DONCASTER: LLDWL

HEAD 2 HEAD

QPR: 7
DONCASTER: 7
Draw: 1

LAST TIME OUT

CHAMPIONSHIP – 19/03/11
The Keepmoat Stadium

Doncaster 0
QPR 1 (Ephraim)

Team: Kenny, Orr, Hill, Gorkss, Hall, Derry, Faurlin, Routledge, Smith, Ephraim (Buzsaky), Helguson (Hulse).

Attendance: 11,747

Ref Watch:

Referee: Oliver Langford
Assistants: Karl Evans & Shane Hudson
Fourth Official: Nigel Murphy

Oliver Langford is the match official for tomorrow`s game against Doncaster. This season, Langford has issued 28 yellow cards and 1 red card in 14 games.

Match Prediction:

0-1 Away win.

Next Up

Who: Bournemouth
Where: Loftus Road
When: 03/12/13