Oxford United's search for an away win in the Championship goes on as a second-half Sam Field brace condemned the U's to defeat at Loftus Road this evening.
Des Buckingham made three changes to the side that started in the last game against Millwall, with Peter Kioso making his first appearance at right back since being taken ill during the last international break; Idris El Mizouni replaced Will Vaulks in midfield, and Mark Harris started up front in place of Dane Scarlett.
United had the first attempt in the fifth minute, Cameron Brannagan's powerful strike from distance well held by Paul Nardi. However, that was the only bright moment in a tense opening period when defences were on top.
It took until the 23rd minute before Oxford's next opening, with Tyler Goodrham the creator for El Mizouni, whose shot was deflected wide for the first corner of the game. In the 43rd minute, QPR managed their first attempt of the game, Rayan Kolli's shot straight at Jamie Cumming.
The home side started the second half more brightly and in the 53rd minute they took the lead when Field pounced on a loose ball to thump home from eight yards. Fifteen minutes later Field was again United's nemesis as he doubled the Rangers lead after Oxford gave away the ball at the back, leaving the side with a mountain to climb.
In the end, despite plenty of endeavour, the U's were unable to claw a goal back and now go into Saturday's game against Sheffield Wednesday looking for a reaction. It's the last home game before Christmas, so come along and help the side to some festive cheer.
UNITED: Cumming, Brown, Moore, Płacheta (Edwards 58), Brannagan, Harris (Scarlett 70), Phillips (Rodrigues 58), El Mizouni (McEachran 70), Goodrham, Leigh, Kioso (Dale 88)
Subs not used: Ingram, Vaulks, McEachran, ter Avest, Thorniley, Scarlett
Attendance: 14,440 including 1,749 away fans
Report: Martin Brodetsky; Photography: JasonPix, Steve Edmunds