QPR vs Aston Villa 2014

          QPR are once again finding life hard in the premier league but it is not for the want of trying. As evident from the game last week against Liverpool, they are full of fight and spirit under Harry Redknapp, and were exceptional in a game where everyone assumed a comfortable Liverpool win. But in reality is was a tight contest, with Liverpool only edging it due to a last second Caulker own goal. Aston Villa, on the other hand, started well but have recently not been performing to the standard that maybe their fans will have expected. For a few seasons now, there has been considerable pressure on Paul Lambert, and until they find some form, it will continue to linger. With both teams finding it hard score at the moment, this one had stalemate written all over it.
          After a rather slow start, the game sprang into life, and both teams, in particular Villa, were playing some classy football. The one and two touch passing was crisp and precise, not to mention entertaining to watch. Villa dominated the opening quarter of an hour, and forced Rob Green in to a few, be it simple, saves. However, QPR were finding the pressure put on them simple to deal with and totally against the run of play, managed to grab themselves a goal. A brilliant first time half volley from Charlie Austin into the bottom corner was enough to beat Brad Guzan, and send Loftus Road into pandemonium, after recently not having a whole lot to cheer about. Zamora must also be given credit for the goal. It was his strong centre forward play, battling with Ron Vlaar, that meant he was able to chest the long ball down to Austin, who rifled home.
          The second half continued in the same manner as the first. It was clear both teams wanted, rather needed this win, and there was plenty of physicality in the game. It was great to see players getting stuck in and showing hunger to win fifty-fifty balls. Once again Villa were dominant and had an array of chances, but were not able to provide the finishing touch, despite have the likes of both Benteke and Agbonlahor on the pitch. With many of Villa's players pressing, it left them open at the back, and QPR took full advantage. Vargas charged down the line and put a delightful low cross in towards Charlie Austin, who buried it at the near post. Villa could only blame themselves.
          Despite a late push from Paul Lambert's men, it simply was not their day, and they travel home empty handed. Maybe QPR did not deserve anything from this game, but they may see it as justice for last weeks game against Liverpool. Things seem to be looking up for QPR. As long as they can perform and get results, they should survive the drop this year, as I believe they have the players to stay up. For Villa though, they must start picking up points. Every year they seem to be hovering around the relegation zone, and their fans are never fully confident they will survive in the Premier league.