Queens Park Rangers twice came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw against Preston North End at Loftus Road. The result extends their unbeaten run to three games but represents a missed opportunity to strengthen their position in the Championship's top six.
Johnny Kenny gave the visitors a shock lead after just one minute, capitalising on a cross from Stanley Mills. He doubled Preston's advantage midway through the first half, putting Julien Stéphan's side under severe pressure. QPR responded after the break, with Kwame Poku pulling a goal back in the 66th minute. The comeback was completed in the final minute of normal time when Paul Smyth found the net to secure a point.
Recent form and context
The draw continues a run of three consecutive stalemates for QPR, following 1-1 and 0-0 results against West Brom and Charlton respectively. Their recent form over the last five matches reads one win, three draws and one defeat. That sequence leaves them fifth in the table on 12 points, having lost only one of their seven league fixtures this season. Stéphan's team have now scored eight goals, all from open play, while conceding five. They will aim to get back to winning ways in their next fixture away to West Ham on 9 October, a team they have beaten only once in their last five meetings.
In contrast, Preston remain deep in relegation trouble, sitting 23rd with just three points. They have lost four of their last five matches and have yet to keep a clean sheet this campaign, having shipped 13 goals. Callum Lang leads their scoring charts with three league goals.
Squad challenges
Both sides were hampered by significant injury lists. QPR were without Ilias Chair, Karamoko Dembélé, Tariq Lamptey, Richard Kone and Boy Kemper. Preston missed Brad Potts, Alistair McCann and Theo Carroll. The extent of these absences is detailed on the club's official injuries list.
Queens Park Rangers now turn their attention to a trip to face West Ham on 9 October. Before that, they will look to their squad depth to maintain their push for a play-off place.
Background and full detail: onefootball.com
