Queens Park Rangers fought back to claim a 1-1 draw away to West Bromwich Albion in the Championship on Saturday. The result extends QPR's unbeaten run to three matches, following draws with Charlton and Bolton and a win over Blackburn in their recent form of two wins, two draws and one loss from their last five outings.
Chris Mepham's own goal put the hosts ahead in the 38th minute, but Callum Styles levelled for West Brom just three minutes later, finishing from a Felix Horn Myhre assist. Julien Stéphan's side had to weather significant pressure, conceding 63 percent of possession and facing 12 shots, but held firm for a share of the spoils.
Stéphan's selection shuffle
The QPR manager was without a host of players through injury, including Ilias Chair, Jimmy Dunne, Karamoko Dembélé and Tariq Lamptey. He named a 4-2-3-1 setup with Paul Charles in goal and Rumarn Burrell leading the line. The game's pattern was disrupted early when Paul Smyth was forced off injured in the 35th minute, replaced by Leon Scarlett.
Glen Kamara entered the fray at half-time for Nicolas Madsen but was booked just six minutes later. Defenders Jake Clarke-Salter and Jonathan Varane also saw yellow in quick succession as QPR battled to contain West Brom's attacks. The visitors managed only four shots all game, with three on target.
A disciplined rearguard
Despite the territorial disadvantage, QPR's defence, marshalled by Clarke-Salter and Rayan Edwards, made key blocks. Goalkeeper Charles was called into action for four saves.
Julien Stéphan acknowledged the challenge his depleted squad faced. "It was a difficult game against a good side, and we showed real character to get something from it," the manager said. "The players gave everything, and that point could be important."
The team's next challenge is a home fixture against Middlesbrough on September 19th.
