G.M's Match Preview: Rams Must Stamp Authority To Quell QPR
Tuesday, 8th Mar 2016 12:16 by George Martin

Derby should go into their away game against QPR in a confident mood having won 3 of their last 4 games.

Saturday's match against Huddersfield was open and entertaining with chances at both ends. The away side could have and probably should have scored, but football is a cruel game, and Derby were more clinical with fine finishes from both Martin and Russell earning them a much needed 3 points.

It is likely Derby may stay with the same starting line up but Johnson may come in for Blackman if a more defensive strategy is employed away from home. Ince played well against the Terriers on the left but if Johnson does start, this may see Ince revert back to the right hand side of midfield. Russell may also be in the mix after scoring a cracking goal as a second half sub on Saturday.

Hanson was solid again on Saturday in the CDM role and should have done enough to keep Thorne out of the side. Hanson adds extra bite in midfield and can play a little bit too. Butterfield and Hendrick should complete a midfield 3 but with both midfielders not in the greatest form, Bryson may be handed a start after looking good when he came on against Huddersfield.

QPR have been inconsistent since Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink took over and are struggling mid-table with their best result in recent weeks being a 2-0 victory at home to Birmingham City.

The Hoops do have some good attacking players, but a bit like Derby, sometimes their desire and battling instincts wilt. Hasselbaink was very unhappy with the performance and defeat against MK Dons at the weekend and will be looking for an immediate reaction.

QPR may have to manage without Grant Hall at Centre Back after he suffered a foot injury on Saturday. In midfield they may receive a much needed boost by the return of Alejandro Faurlin who has recovered from a thigh injury.

Prediction:

This will be a tough game for Derby as Philips, Hoilet and Chery provide good attacking options for the home team. The Rams will have to work hard to stamp their authority on the game and be less open than they were against Huddersfield on Saturday.

Derby have been struggling away from home in recent times, especially as they struggle to fight back if they concede the first goal.

Hopefully a battling performance will gain the Rams a 1-1 draw with Butterfield to score.