Beale ‘delighted’ after QPR victory

Mick Beale said he was “delighted” after QPR continued their encouraging spell with a 2-1 victory at Bristol City.

Rangers were outstanding in the first half at Ashton Gate, racing into a two-goal lead that could have been more as their front three of Ilias Chair, Tyler Roberts and Chris Willock tore the home side’s defence to shreds.

Goals from skipper Stefan Johansen and Roberts – his first in the league since joining on loan from Leeds – clinched the win, but City made it a nervous finish after Nahki Wells scored.

“We played well, but I thought Bristol City started the game on fire really and their crowd were really up,” R’s boss Beale said.

“It took a big save from Seny Dieng off a free-kick to wake us up. After that some of our play was really good. We got into positions where we could build possession and I thought our front three were excellent

“Being 2-0 up at half-time we looked good and nobody could have said we didn’t deserve a few more.

“But to come here, an extremely difficult place, you only have to look at the home form they have this season, it makes it a very good three points.

“But I have to ask them, why when we are 2-0 up we become so nervous?

“I knew we would have to grind it out second half like all away games.

“But I am delighted tonight – it is the start of a marathon week for all Championship clubs.”

Beale said Jake Clarke-Salter, who limped off in the second half of his comeback match, was only suffering from cramp.

But Rangers must hope that Kenneth Paal, who had another fine game, will be fit for the midweek trip to Sheffield United after picking up a knock. Niko Hamalainen is also currently nursing an injury.

“I knew Jake would struggle to play 90 minutes, but he is all good,” Beale said.

“He (Paal) had a dead leg and he said he was feeling a strange sensation, so we hope it’s not too serious because at the moment Niko has a bit of knock, so it’s not ideal.”