SAM Field scored twice as Queens Park Rangers extended their unbeaten run to five games with a 2-0 victory over Oxford United at Loftus Road.
Field struck in the 53rd and 68th minutes and Marti Cifuentes’ side have now won more games (three) in their last five than they did in their opening sixteen matches of the Championship campaign.
It was also a fourth successive clean sheet for goalkeeper Paul Nardi.
“It was a difficult game, we spoke during the week about expectations, about managing a strong performance. I knew this would be difficult game as Oxford are in a similar place to us in the table,” Cifuentes said.
“You could see the expectation from our fans in the first half – they have a taste for good football. We were disappointed about the first-half performance but we knew we could adjust some details. We were definitely the better side in the second half.
“Sam has been playing in the number six and number eight. Every time he plays number eight he shows the capacity to get into the second line and get onto the second goal.
“We need to keep encouraging him. It was not an easy decision to drop Kieran Morgan after a fantastic performance against Norwich, but we felt it was important to introduce some fresh legs. Sam is an important person in the dressing room.
“The fans have been fantastic and now we want to give them something back.
“I am pleased for Sam, but everyone else who is contributing. To have four clean sheets is satisfying. We have been defending well. I am pleased that Paul [Nardi] hasn’t had much work to do, and that says a lot about how the team is getting better.”
QPR have moved four points clear of the relegation zone and travel to Bristol City on Saturday for a 12.30pm kick-off.
Cifuentes said: “We are all pleased but there is still lots of work to do so we must stay humble and now get ready for Saturday’s game at Bristol City because this will be another difficult game against a very good side.”
