Queens Park Rangers secured a comeback win against Blackburn Rovers to extend their unbeaten start. The 2-1 victory at Ewood Park on Saturday moves QPR into the early play-off places with seven points from three games.
Jimmy Dunne's 74th-minute header completed the turnaround after Paul Smyth's quick equaliser. The hosts had taken the lead early in the second half through Ryoya Morishita. The win continues a positive opening to the campaign for Marti Cifuentes's side, who now face a selection challenge with Tariq Lamptey among the players currently sidelined.
How did QPR turn the game around?
Blackburn Rovers started the second half brightly and took the lead in the 49th minute. Morishita found space outside the box and fired a shot past Pierce Charles. The lead lasted just two minutes. Queens Park Rangers responded immediately, with Smyth finishing left-footed from the centre of the penalty area in the 51st minute to make it 1-1.
The game's decisive moment came from a set-piece. Lamptey, introduced at half-time, delivered a cross from a corner in the 74th minute. Dunne met it with a glanced header that flew into the net, completing the comeback. The defender's goal secured all three points for the visitors, who had to withstand late pressure. Charles made an important save from Todd Cantwell shortly after the equaliser, and Alfie Lloyd missed a chance to extend the lead late on.
What were the key match statistics?
The possession stats told one story, but the shot count told another. Blackburn enjoyed 54.7% of the ball at Ewood Park. However, Queens Park Rangers created more clear opportunities. They registered 19 attempts, with six on target. Blackburn managed 12 attempts, but only two tested Charles. The visitors' efficiency in front of goal proved the difference on the day.
QPR's attacking intent was evident from the first half. Illias Chair forced a low save from goalkeeper Balazs Toth in the 31st minute. Ronnie Edwards was also denied a shot in the 39th minute. After taking the lead, Blackburn's Toth was busy again, tipping a Lloyd effort over the bar in the 84th minute. You can review the full match data on our stats page.
What does this mean for the squad depth?
The victory was achieved despite ongoing injury concerns. The club's injuries list includes several key figures. Tariq Lamptey, who provided the winning assist, is currently sidelined alongside Boy Kemper, Justin Obikwu, and Karamoko Dembélé. His impactful substitute appearance highlights both his quality and the need for careful management of his fitness.
Marti Cifuentes will have to navigate these absences in the coming weeks. The performance of players like Smyth and Dunne, who stepped up with vital goals, is encouraging. It shows the squad has players capable of contributing at crucial moments. Managing the workload of the available players will be important to maintain this early-season form.
What's next for Queens Park Rangers?
Attention now turns to the next Championship fixture. Queens Park Rangers return to Loftus Road to face Cardiff City next weekend. They will aim to build on this momentum and protect their unbeaten record in front of their own fans. You can see the full schedule on our fixtures page.
Blackburn Rovers, meanwhile, travel to face Lincoln City in their next match. For QPR, this result solidifies a strong start. They sit in the play-off positions, and the character shown in coming from behind will please the coaching staff. The challenge is to continue this form and keep pace at the top end of the standings.
