Gregory hails QPR spirit

QPR boss John Gregory has hailed his side following Saturday's win over Cardiff.

Queens Park Rangers boss John Gregory has hailed his side following a 1-0 win over Cardiff on Saturday, which ensured their Championship status.

In-form QPR claimed their fourth win in five matches courtesy of Dexter Blackstock's first half header and it was enough to ensure any lingering fears of the drop were put to bed.

Gregory concedes it has not been easy to claw his side away from the danger zone, since taking over from Gary Waddock in September, but now it is a case of mission accomplished, he can reflect on his work with genuine pride.

"The players at QPR have been under pressure from the very first game - since before I came here," said Gregory.

"They've constantly been trying to get out of the relegation zone and have shown unbelievable character, determination, courage and resolve.

"More than anything, a spirit in the dressing room is what has got us out of trouble.

"I am absolutely delighted for everyone at this football club. I just want to celebrate now and I want there to be a real party atmosphere for the last game of the season against Stoke.

"Celebrating not being relegated might seem strange to people on the outside but this club has been through so much in the last year or so."

While the majority present left Loftus Road in a jubilant frame of mind, Cardiff boss Dave Jones was left to reflect on a campaign which has promised so much but delivered considerably less.

"We missed chances and that's what our season has been like since January," said Jones.

"If you don't put your chances away and then you don't defend properly you'll be caught out, and that's what happened.

"Our goalkeeper, David Forde, is the only one of our back five who comes out of that with any credit, while up front we were toothless.

"We have to give our fans better than that. We've got to show more fight and more urgency."

Cardiff's woes were exacerbated by the sight of leading goalscorer Michael Chopra leaving the field early, having been shown a second yellow card for lashing out at QPR goalkeeper Lee Camp, in an incident which left his manager less than amused.

"It will be dealt with in-house," Jones concluded. "It was a stupid thing to do. Absolutely crazy. All he had to do was walk off the pitch.

"You do battle and then you shake hands - it's a simple as that. 'Chops' needs to grow up."