Things we learnt from QPR’s defeat against West Brom
QPR’s winning run was brought to an end by West Brom in a game which underlined the visitors’ status as one of the Championship’s heavyweights.
Rangers boss Mark Warburton was having none of it when it was suggested that his side were given an education by the Baggies. But the game did tell us some things about Warburton’s team.
Cameron is no right-sided centre-back
Geoff Cameron has operated as a central defender for much of his career and has previously looked the part in that position for QPR. But on the right of a three, he never looked comfortable and was quickly targeted by Albion, who realised early on that he was a weak link.
Cameron is needed in midfield
Cameron was missed in the centre of the pitch where, at his best, he does a great job in front of a back four. His performance at Stoke on the opening day set the tone for the win against his former team and against West Brom he might well have helped Rangers get a foothold in what was often a one-sided game.
Eze and Chair are no longer surprise packages
The young pair’s growing reputation meant Albion were wise to the threat of Ebere Eze and Ilias Chair and worked hard to shut them both out of the game. That’s something they will need to get used to, especially against the better, more streetwise teams in the division.
Warburton doesn’t do excuses
Not for the first time this season, Warburton flatly refused to indulge in any excuses or cling to cliches about a new-look team, young players or a reduced budget. The manager’s terse response to a suggestion Rangers had been given an education by Albion is typical of his aversion to excuses. He demands high standards.
Click here to subscribe to West London Sport’s YouTube channel