QPR boss hails duo for helping R’s to tighten up defensively

QPR manager Mark Warburton reckoned Wednesday night’s 1-0 win at Derby County proves his side have tightened up defensively this season.

Former Charlton striker Macauley Bonne headed in Rob Dickie’s cross in the closing stages as the west Londoners made it back-to-back Championship wins.

Rangers have kept four clean sheets this season and head to Blackburn – the division’s highest scorers – tomorrow.

Warburton praised the defensive work done by assistant boss John Eustace and first-team coach Neil Banfield.

“They have been drilling them to make sure we’re ready,” he said. “We saw a lot of soft goals last season. We’ve given away five penalties as well – but in terms of open play we’ve been very good.

“You saw a real energy and desire to protect our goal with the passion you have to show. A clean sheet and a 1-0 win is always very nice.”

Bonne netted his second goal since joining, Dickie winning the ball in the Rams half and delivering a quality cross.

“We’re a good team when we get up and out to the ball – you hear me shout that a lot,” said Warburton.

“Rob stepped in, he drove with the ball and delivered a really good cross – Macca has got to be in the right position.

“Lyndon [Dykes] worked tirelessly for the first hour and then Macca comes on. It’s great to have those options. They’ll play together in certain games.”

PHOTO: SEAN GOSLING