Slappy days but Marti needs win

MARTI CIFUENTES started the day high-fiving fans but his QPR side need a bit more than gestures if they are to climb out of the bottom three.

Rangers are five points from safety after a game of few chances.

Cifuentes at least was able to pick up a second consecutive draw as he looks to connect with supporters.

After embracing the Loftus Road faithful he saw QPR extend their winless streak to 11 games.

They are also 13 without a victory at home, a venue where they have won only once in 2023.

The Spaniard said: “I just wanted to say hello to the fans who have been amazing.

“It was good to see us have the courage to pass and press.

“Every day since I arrived has been a step forward but we need more end product.”

Liam Manning was making his own debut in the Bristol City hotseat after switching from Oxford this week.

And he nearly enjoyed the perfect start as Mark

Sykes was denied by Asmir Begovic inside a minute.

But other than that, chances were scarce.

Paul Smyth had QPR’S best effort but fired wide from the angle and the hosts failed to have a single shot on target.

City were not much better, although sub Sam Bell came closest as he failed to properly connect with a Sykes cross.

Manning said: “It’s been a whirlwind week. There was some really positive stuff – especially out of possession.

“Defensively there were lots of good things and we finished the stronger side.” QPR: Begovic 6; Kakay 7, Cook 7, Dunne 7, Paal 7; Dozzell 6, Colback 7 (Richards (82) 5), Field 7; Smyth 6 (Dixon-bonner (82) 5), Dykes 6 (Armstong (74) 6), Willock 6 (Kelman (90) 5) BRISTOL CITY: O’leary 6; Tanner 7, Vyner 7, Dickie 7, Pring 7; M James 7, Knight 7; Sykes 6, Weimann 6 (Gardnerhickman (60) 6), Mehmeti 6 (Bell (60) 6); Conway 6 (Cornick (71) 6) STAR MAN: Rob Dickie – Solid defensive performance earned the Robins a point on return to former club. REFEREE: Geoff Eltringham 7