Magilton Criticises Players

Queens Park Rangers boss Jim Magilton indicated his disappointment at one or two players following the defeat against Swansea City.

While being generally pleased about the way his side started both halves, the R’s boss lamented his sides’ inability to take chances when they came around.

He told QPR.co.uk: ‘We started the game really, really well, controlling possession and creating chances.

‘But we didn’t score when we had the opportunities, and I know it’s obvious to say, but red cards and goals change games.

‘We had one or two chances through Wayne Routledge and Jay Simpson in the first half, but then the match turned lacklustre.

‘It really petered out for the last 15 minutes of the half, but Swansea just about edged it in that period.’

Jim conceded that Dorus de Vries put in a match-winning display between the sticks to notably deny Jay Simpson and Wayne Routledge from close range – two saves that ultimately helped define the course of the game.

‘At the start of the second half we were great from the first whistle,’ said Jim.

‘Their goalkeeper made two miracle saves, and then of course in 10 seconds, following Routledge’s chance, the course of the game changed.

‘Martin Rowlands was probably a little bit rash – and with two bookings, he has to go. It was always going to be difficult after that.’

While positive in the main, it didn’t escape Magilton’s attention that a few of the players weren’t playing at their peak and he gave a stark warning without naming specific people.

‘One or two of the lads’ heads were still at St. James’ Park, maybe they looked at the press reports after the game and lorded it up.

‘We weren’t as incisive as we have been, but we had to carry one or two today, which really disappoints me.’

The R’s went down to ten men when Martin Rowlands was sent off for a poorly timed tackle and was given his second yellow early in the second period.

Swansea took full advantage with Mark Gower slotting home unmarked in the area, before Ben Watson was harshly sent to the dressing room for a second booking following a dubious handball decision.

Lee Trundle finished matters off with Rangers down to nine rolling home an excellent cross from the right by danger man Nathan Dyer.

Rangers now have a week to reflect on this result before facing Preston North End at Loftus Road after the international break.




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