QPR v Derby player ratings

Alejandro Faurlin’s injury marred an otherwise excellent day for QPR, who secured three deserved points against Derby. Here’s how we rated the players in their 2-1 victory at Loftus Road.

Rob Green: 6
Looked uncertain at times but produced an important save low down at his left-hand post in the second half.

Danny Simpson: 5
A poor display from the usually solid right-back who was caught napping on a couple of occasions and lost the ball on the edge of his own penalty area, which almost led to a Derby goal.

Richard Dunne: 6
Decent after a couple of recent below-par displays, although he wasn’t tested too often because of Derby’s lack of a cutting edge.

Clint Hill: 6
Also able to stick to the basics as most of the play occurred well in front of him. Like Dunne, he put a foot in when needed.

Benoit Assou-Ekotto: 7
Offered a good outlet for Rangers on the left-hand side. With his ability on the ball he is clearly a class above the Championship.

Matt Phillips: 8
By far his best performance for QPR so far. Served up a good cross in the build-up to the opening goal and almost scored a cracker late on when he cut in from the right and sent a rising shot against the underside of the bar. Had some dodgy moments in between as he continues to rediscover his sharpness following injury, but this game was an important step for him.

Joey Barton: 6
Held his own against rugged opposition and kept things ticking over with some sensible passing, but Derby can feel satisfied with their display in midfield, where their shape and hard work gave them a foothold in the game and stopped Barton from having things all his own way.

Alejandro Faurlin: 7
Has strengths and weaknesses, both of which were evident in this game – not least when his excellent delivery from a free-kick led to the winning goal. Faurlin has always been a model professional and a credit to his club so it would be a real shame if, as looks likely, he is sidelined with another long-term knee injury after being stretchered off.

Junior Hoilett: 6
Bright in spells and got through some defensive work, but overall he didn’t influence the game enough. Has gone off the boil.

Jermaine Jenas: 6
In the right place at the right time to score the opener and did a credible enough job as Rangers’ advanced midfielder in the absence of other options.

Charlie Austin: 6
Worked hard, but it wasn’t his day. His persistent, combative style will see him have better days and score more goals.

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