QPR vs. Wolves Preview

QPR will be setting their sights on Premier League safety if they can overcome fellow strugglers Wolves in a proverbial Premier League six-pointer at Loftus Road on February 5.

The hosts sit three places above Mick McCarthy’s men in 15th however they only hold a two point advantage over their opponents who are in desperate need of a win following a disastrous start to 2012.

Although Wolves managed to record a well-earned point against high flying Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane, defeats to Chelsea and Aston Villa have left them in deep trouble and they were also knocked out of the F.A Cup by Championship side Birmingham City – a result which did not go down too well with the supporters at Molineux.

QPR have hardly set the world alight at home, however they have to be regarded as a different proposition now that new boss Mark Hughes is at the helm.

And the Welshman appeared to make an instant impact for his debut in charge at Loftus Road, inspiring a 3-1 victory over Wigan Athletic which moved the club five points clear of the Latics who occupy bottom spot.

With Wolves being so woefully off colour, Hughes will be confident of an immediate home double up and his side undoubtedly have the quality to dismantle McCarthy’s men, judging by their recent performances.

Wolves’ midfield began well in their recent derby match against Aston Villa however they were ripped to shreds towards the end of the game and there seems to be an overwhelming feeling that they cannot sustain their efforts at the top level over a full ninety minutes.

Villa, helped largely by new signing Robbie Keane, did much to expose Wolves’ limitations and it is easy to envisage the likes of Adel Taarabt and Joey Barton doing the same.

Hughes always manages the players at his disposal effectively and he will already be aware that he has a midfield capable of grinding out results. And Taarabt, Barton and co look too much of a stiff proposition for Wolves especially considering how low the visitors will be on confidence after losing the aforementioned game against Villa from a winning position.

It would be unfair to do anything but praise Mick McCarthy for his passion and influence as a manager however his team do not exactly ooze creativity and often the end product leaves a lot to be desired. QPR need a prolific frontman and if they can find a suitable candidate before the end of the January transfer window, their chances in this encounter will be further enhanced.

The even money about a home success seems fairly solid and QPR should be able to continue their improvement.

Wolves look real cannon fodder after shipping 40 times in 22 games and their goals against figure could be damaged further if QPR can get on top early.

The bookmakers clearly think matters will be close but the hosts may well run out comfortable 3-0 or 3-1 winners and those score-lines are 18/1 and 16/1 respectively.

Go To bet365

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02/02/2012     © Frixo 2024