IPSWICH 2-1 QPR
JOHN GREGORY warned his QPR players they face a massive battle for survival after this defeat at Ipswich.
Alan Lee ended the home side's six-match goal drought and John Walters added a second before veteran striker Paul Furlong gave the visitors late hope.
QPR might have been given a penalty in the closing minutes, but their overall performance failed to provide the passion needed if they are to dig themselves out of this relegation hole.
Gregory said: "We don't want to hide behind a poor referee. We conceded two very poor goals.
"We have played with loads of passion, drive and enthusiasm in the last couple of games, but it was missing today.
"I'm not sure some players appreciate the consequences of what could happen."
Rangers have not won since New Year's Day, but came out of the traps fast and were nearly ahead in the opening minutes when Lewis Price was almost caught out by Cook's free-kick.
They had a strong claim for hand-ball turned down by referee Rob Lewis but, having failed to take advantage of the bright start, paid a heavy price.
The warning signs were there when Jon Walters' header brought a superb save from Lee Camp.
But when Gary Roberts delivered his next cross, Lee headed in Ipswich's first goal since he scored nine hours and 51 minutes earlier against Swansea in the FA Cup.
Walters made it 2-0 in the 54th minute with his first for the club after holding off Danny Cullip.
Rangers fans showed their frustration at their team's lack of direction, chanting "We'll never score with one up front."
Gregory finally responded by sending on 38-year-old Furlong, who within a few minutes reacted quickest after Martin Rowlands hit the inside of a post.
Mike Allen (Sunday Mirror)
