We didn’t deserve to lose says boss

QPR manager Ian Holloway admitted his frustration after his team lost 2-1 at home to Sheffield Wednesday and again failed to get the points they need to guarantee their Championship survival.

Idrissa Sylla’s 10th goal of the season cancelled out Adam Reach’s early effort, but Daniel Pudil headed the visitors back in front at Loftus Road.

Rangers could not find a way back in the second half and have now lost five matches in a row, remaining on 50 points, but Holloway is convinced they can follow in the footsteps of clubs like Wednesday from next season.

“It’s just very frustrating. It would be nice to get three points and leave us with only six to play for,” Holloway said.

“If we can get three in the next game at Brentford then everybody can just breathe and we can start again.

“Did we deserve to lose? Honestly? No. I think that’s a draw, but unfortunately they saw it out and we didn’t.

“The boys keep going and we’ve got three games to put this season to bed so we can catch a team like Wednesday (next season).

“We’ve looked dangerous and we just need to get the goals to get the points to get us over the line and earn the right to be a Championship side.

“That’s no mean feat. There are more famous, or almost as famous, clubs that have gone down two divisions before they’ve built – look at Southampton.

“Sheffield Wednesday fans believe they’re on the way back. How long were they in the abyss? I believe we’re on our way back.”

Sheffield Wednesday boss Carlos Carvalhal believes his team’s victory showed they have the mental strength to clinch a play-off place.

Leeds’ home defeat against Wolves meant Wednesday’s fourth win in a row moved the Owls up to fifth with three matches left to play.

“We are very strong mentally – the mentality of this team is very strong,” Carvalhal said.

“When you play twice in three days, physical teams can cause you problems and it’s not easy to play twice in such a short time.

“But we are very strong and the confidence is high. We have four wins in a row and the mentality is really strong, which is why we achieved the three points.

“We knew before this game that it was one of the more difficult ones for us. I thought we were fantastic.

“We have been stronger since the international break and we are showing that we are strong. I am very happy with our players.

“We are ready for this part of the season. It will be three finals and our focus is on this. This is a marathon and let’s see where our position will be in the marathon.”