With Richard Langley ON Saturday QPR played Ipswich and unfortunately were on the wrong end of a 3-1 scoreline. With the play-offs in sight, this was a worrying result for all involved. Games are running out and maintaining good home form is vital for thi

With Richard Langley

ON Saturday QPR played Ipswich and unfortunately were on the wrong end of a 3-1 scoreline. With the play-offs in sight, this was a worrying result for all involved.

Games are running out and maintaining good home form is vital for this latter part of the season. With this in mind I can understand the frustrations of the fans.

But what I found concerning was the reaction of a section of fans who seemed disgruntled by the performance of skipper Gavin Mahon. Mahon was at fault for one of the goals and was subject to the boo-boys.

Having played at QPR for as long as I did, I know how loyal the fans are. By no means am I suggesting that this was anything but the minority at Loftus Road, but what these fans need to realise is that their voices will be heard loud and clear by players on the pitch. In my opinion it will do nothing but hinder the progress of the team they claim to support.

As a player, I know that the worst periods of my career have been when I had a drop in form. Getting through that is a tough process, but when you add the negativity of the fans it makes it a lot harder. The barracking of your own player has rarely proved conducive to better form, in my experience.

My point is that, even if Gavin doesn't allow this to affect his performance, there will be some players who will crumble under the pressure of their own fans. This in turn will prove to be detrimental for the team who need that player to be at his best for as much of the game as possible.

We all want to see success at QPR and so the fans need to remember that, at times like this, positivity is the only way to support your team. It is often said that the fans can prove to be the 12th man.

With seven home games remaining, the vocal support from the stands could play a big part in the team's performances.

It is to be hoped that Saturday's behaviour proves to be a one-off for the sake of the play-off push.

Come on you Rs!

IF you have any questions or comments to put to Richard, you can email us at nwl.sport@archant.co.uk