Queens Park Rangers (QPR) exhibited a notable transformation in their style and approach against Norwich at Carrow Road, showcasing improvements under manager Marti Cifuentes. Despite the positive changes, the team faced three enduring challenges that continue to impede their progress.
In the early minutes of the game, a QPR move demonstrated their enhanced style, involving fluid passing from Kenneth Paal to Steve Cook and a delightful flick from Chris Willock to Elijah Dixon Bonner. The energy, confidence, and modern football tactics displayed by QPR contradicted their league position (second bottom) and recent winless streak of 11 games, spanning nearly three months.
Dixon-Bonner, often overlooked under the previous regime, emerged as a pivotal player, embodying the technical prowess instilled during his time at Chelsea and Liverpool. His ability to execute Cifuentes’ ‘Cryuffian football’ became evident, showcasing bravery in tight spaces, adept body positioning, and quick forward movement. The positive changes in QPR’s style were unmistakable, contrasting with their struggles in the previous match against Bristol City.
Despite the promising start with probing passes and an energetic high press, three chronic issues resurfaced during the match, overshadowing the team’s improvements.
The primary challenge highlighted was the team’s persistent lack of goals. Despite an encouraging start, QPR struggled to convert chances, with Ilias Chair’s attempts being the primary strategy. The team’s overreliance on Chair’s right-footed shots made their offensive approach predictable. The inability to score consistently has become a significant hurdle for QPR.
Another pressing issue was the team’s sluggish pace, evident in their struggles to match opponents for speed. Players like Chris Willock were noted for hesitancy in movements, contributing to the team’s overall lack of dynamism. The lack of pace emerged as a key factor making QPR vulnerable, especially when facing more experienced and composed opponents.
The third challenge revolved around the limited impact from the bench. Despite making substitutions, the substitutes had minimal influence on the game, emphasizing a lack of depth to effect substantial changes during matches. This limitation raises questions about the team’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges as games progress.
While Cifuentes has undeniably brought positive changes to QPR’s style, addressing the enduring issues of goal-scoring, pace, and bench depth remains a formidable challenge. The team has improved performance under Cifuentes, but suggests that significant changes in the upcoming transfer window may be necessary to fully address the identified shortcomings.
In a discussion with the head coach, he said, “Patience and Focus are what we need now”
The return of key players, such as Reggie Cannon and Jake Clarke-Salter, is anticipated to provide a boost, but the article emphasizes that deeper issues require strategic solutions, possibly involving significant transfers in the January window.
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