I’ve spent longer than I should this morning discussing memorable trips to Loftus Road with friends. Visits to QPR seem to always be enjoyable regardless of the result. Those lukcy enough to be travelling this weekend will do so with a spring in their step as the post-Robson honeymoon period continues.
The arrival of some serious money men at QPR has seen the media and bookmakers latching onto the Hoops as a team to watch but this is a game that the Blades will feel they can win. A goal would be nice after 3 consecutive 0-0s, some better than others.
Vital Quotes:
Billy Sharp told the official site that Blades fans can expect to see a more positive approach
‘They are a strong, organised side who are dangerous at home, but they also concede a lot of goals, so we must get behind them and take our chances. We have lots of pace, experience and enthusiasm so there isn’t any reason why we can’t achieve things this season. The Gaffer wants us to be attack minded and it’s all about playing the chosen system correctly – we have been working hard on it all week. We must exert pressure on the opposition instead of getting under the cosh ourselves.’
QPR Team News:
Akos Buzsaky is suspended. Martin Rowlands is expected to return from injury.
Former Blades midfielder Mikele Leigertwood may have to be content with a place on the bench.
Player to watch: Gavin Mahon
I was a little surprised when Watford allowed Mahon to join the Hoops. Like most of the Watford side he found the Premier League beyond him but he’s a steady player at this level.
Sheffield United Team News:
Billy Sharp is the biggest doubt after picking up a dead leg in the draw with Middlesbrough.
Kevin Blackwell will await Derek Geary’s fitness test with some concern given that we don’t have another right back in the squad.
Player to watch: Stephen Quinn
The diminutive midfielder was excellent in the face of Middlesbrough’s thuggery last week. Can he now go on to add the consistency that has been lacking to his game? He’ll solve us a lot of problems if he can.
Match Facts & Stats
It’s almost 10 years to the day since the Blades drew a game at Loftus Road. That was on the 25th February 1998 when the sides drew 2-2.
Since that day we’ve won 3 and lost 2 away at QPR.
Ref Watch:
Steve Bennett takes charge. I can’t say what I’d like to about him…
Match Prediction:
The Blades look at decent bet for this one at bigger than 2/1. Sides who are relaxed and have little pressure on them are always dangerous and I think this could be the start of a decent run for us (albeit too late in the season).
I’ll take us to win this one 2-1.
For all the latest odds on this game plus the rest of the weekend’s football, go to: www.williamhill.co.uk
Next Fixtures:
Feb 27th Middlesbrough (a)
Mar 1st Charlton (h)