QPR Stay Top

Queens Park Rangers remain at the summit of the npower Championship after last night’s results

A point at Portsmouth, particularly in the circumstances, was deemed as a useful result but with Welsh duo Swansea and Cardiff having comparatively easier games it appeared that QPR’s period at the top would be short-lived.

This was not to be however on a nervous evening of Championship action saw neither Swansea or Cardiff capitalise on QPR’s stalemate at Fratton Park.

Cardiff were stunned when Noel Hunt – a player who warmed the bench in Saturday’s fixture at Loftus Road – gave Reading an early lead against the would-be leaders.

Jay Bothroyd popped up to equalise late on but despite having numerous opportunities to clinch the win and subsequently top spot, Cardiff stumbled at the Madejski.

Welsh neighbours Swansea City arguably had the easier double header, both games at home against unfancied opposition, but they slipped up at home to Bristol City.

Jon Stead, who normally takes great delight in slaying QPR, became the Rangers hero, popping up to score the solitary goal in the first period.

Another game checked off, but another test to the R’s unbeaten record comes this weekend as they travel to Nottingham Forest.

Meanwhile Cardiff should pick up that victory against Scunthorpe United and Swansea City will provide a stern test for Tony Mowbray’s Middlesbrough.