Mcgeady star turn for Simon

PRESTON manager Simon Grayson admits Aiden Mcgeady’s ability to create something out of nothing is invaluable after the Irishman sparkled in the win over 10-man QPR.

Kazenga Lualua’s cheeky backheel gave Rangers the lead, but Mcgeady (above left) cut in and curled an exquisite 20-yard equaliser on the stroke of half-time.

Jordan Hugill won it from close range 20 minutes from the end.

“Theirs was a disappointing goal to give away,” said Grayson. “A long throw into the box, unfortunately it just went through Tommy Spurr’s legs and, to be fair, the lad Lualua showed great awareness and good skill.

“We ultimately responded well and when you’ve got somebody like Mcgeady, who can do something out of nothing, it just shows the quality that the lad’s got. “Hugill got into some good areas and unfortunately didn’t hit the back of the net.

“But, for the winner, he reacted really well to lose his man.”

Luke Freeman was dismissed for a second yellow with 12 minutes left after a studs-up challenge on Spurr – and Ian Holloway felt the decision was harsh.

The QPR boss complained: “I don’t think he put any weight on it. He’s tried to ride the tackle and not hurt anybody.

“Apparently the ref didn’t see it, the linesmen didn’t see it and the fourth official’s made an absolutely outrageous call.

“If it’s a stamping and it’s a deliberate stamping, which he clearly says he saw, why isn’t that a direct red which we might be able to appeal?

“If someone stamps on you, I would definitely want them sent off – Luke didn’t do that.”

And Holloway believes the incident is the latest indication replay technology is required in the Championship. He said: “If it’s good enough in the Premier League, then it’s surely good enough for this standard where we’re all trying to fight to get to the Premier League.”