Mackie’s magic cannot save Rangers

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Blackburn 3 QPR 2

QPR’s relegation worries increased after what could prove to be a disastrous defeat against fellow strugglers Blackburn.

Nedum Onuoha’s own goal summed up a dismal first half for Rangers and left them 3-0 down at the interval.

Defender Onuoha was unfortunate to score an own goal.

Substitute Jamie Mackie, back at the ground where he suffered a horrific leg break last year, scored twice in the second half but Mark Hughes’ side were unable to pull off an amazing comeback.

Rovers striker Yakubu, who claims he recently rejected a move to Loftus Road, scored the opener on 15 minutes.

Goalkeeper Paul Robinson’s long kick was nudged on by Steven Nzonzi, and Yakubu turned away from Anton Ferdinand before shooting into the bottom corner.

Nzonzi scored the second, capitalising on sloppy Rangers defending by meeting Junior Hoilett’s pull-back with a swerving shot that deceived R’s keeper Paddy Kenny.

And worse followed for Rangers on the stroke of half-time, when they were again a mess at the back and Hoilett’s shot deflected in off Onuoha.

QPR improved after the break and Bobby Zamora should have reduced the deficit but headed wide from Shaun Wright-Phillips’ cross.

Mackie did find the target, tapping in Taye Taiwo’s cross from close range to give his team hope.

Rangers’ rally came too late although Mackie hit the net again in the dying minutes, this time with a blistering right-footed effort from the edge of the penalty area.

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