JEEPERS KEEPERS
Blackman’s calamity is a winning gift for QPR
JAMAL BLACKMAn suffered a freak injury that cost Sheffield United leadership of the Championship.
the visiting goalkeeper rushed off his line to collect a hopeful long punt forward in the fourth minute that Queens Park Rangers forward idrissa Sylla had given up on
But Blackman, on loan from Chelsea, collided into defender Cameron Carter-Vickers and lost his grip on the ball as he landed heavily on his shoulder and neck.
He dropped it right at Sylla’s feet and the Guinea international could not miss from four yards.
Blackman was left in considera- ble discomfort and required five minutes of treatment before being carried off.
His manager Chris Wilder was not sure of the extent of the injury but said: ‘it was a really awkward fall but thanks to the QPR fans for their applause for the keeper. it was a proper gesture from a proper football club.’
the incident handed Rangers a second win over high-flying opposition in three days after their 2-1 win over Wolves on Saturday and ensured managed ian Holloway could celebrate his 300th game in charge of the club.
After their early season inconsistencies, Rangers are climbing the table and are now just beneath the play-off places.
Holloway said: ‘i thought my lads were magnificent from start to finish. that was a fantastic team effort and it is a big win. Don’t write us off, it’s a tough division but it’s about believing.’