QPR’s upcoming match against Rotherham is crucial not just as a relegation six-pointer but also as a significant opportunity for the team to address a key issue that has plagued them all season.
Currently, QPR has the worst home record in the Championship, having won only three of their 16 home games and earning just 14 points. Although all three wins have come since Martí Cifuentes took charge at the end of October, it’s clear that Loftus Road must become a fortress if QPR is to have any chance of avoiding relegation.
The recent 1-0 victory over Bristol City showcased the renewed confidence under Cifuentes, with QPR displaying a style that defied their low league position. This win, secured by Ilias Chair’s fourth league goal of the season, highlighted the team’s ability to secure crucial points away from home.
The win at Bristol City also positions QPR well to achieve consecutive victories for the first time since December, especially against a Rotherham side that sits at the bottom of the table, having won just one of their last 21 league matches and appearing likely to be relegated.
Anything less than a win against Rotherham would significantly damage QPR’s chances of survival. Despite being unbeaten in their last three home games (one win and two draws), these statistics do not fully capture the frustration felt by fans in those matches.
Against Huddersfield, QPR narrowly avoided defeat with a last-minute equalizer from Kenneth Paal, salvaging a draw. Their frustration continued in a 2-2 draw with Norwich, where they squandered a lead despite a strong first half.
QPR dominated the first half against Norwich with their high pressing tactics, leading through Jack Colback’s goal. However, defensive lapses allowed Norwich to equalize twice, and only a late goal from Michael Frey saved QPR from defeat.
While QPR has struggled at home, averaging 0.88 points per game compared to 1.06 away, they have lost just once in their last six games and seem to be improving.
“We are picking up a good points average in the last few away games,” Marti Cifuentes said after the win at Bristol City. “But at the same time, I don’t care who we play against or where – we just need to pick up points.”
Looking ahead to the home game against Rotherham, Cifuentes emphasized the need to stay calm and acknowledged the challenge ahead.
“Simply looking at the table, we’ve learned many times in this league that expecting an easy game is a mistake. It’s going to be very difficult, and we’ll need to be at our best to secure three points. It’s crucial that everyone stays united and understands the severity of our situation, treating every game as extremely important.
“However, when you consider QPR’s remaining seven home games, it’s difficult not to think that Cifuentes has identified a particular fixture, aside from the crucial match against Rotherham.
“In early April, they will face Sheffield Wednesday, another struggling team, in a match where both sides will be aiming to enhance their survival chances at the expense of the other, with just five games remaining after that.
“Before that, there are challenges against not only Rotherham but also West Bromwich Albion, Middlesbrough, and Birmingham City at Loftus Road. QPR will need to work hard to ensure they are in a strong position before facing Sheffield Wednesday.
“A consecutive win and a fourth unbeaten home game against Rotherham would certainly boost these hopes. Anything less, and it might be too little, too late down the line.”
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