QPR Manager Cifuentes Stresses Ongoing Need for Improvement

Marti Cifuentes, manager of QPR, stated that it would be a ‘huge mistake’ for the team to believe they have overcome their difficulties, even after extending their unbeaten streak to six matches with a 1-1 draw against Bristol City. This run has seen Cifuentes’ side secure 11 points from their most recent five fixtures. Less than three weeks prior, Rangers occupied the bottom position in the league standings. However, following their acquisition of 11 points out of a possible 15, they have ascended to 18th place, now holding a five-point advantage over the relegation zone. Speaking to BBC Radio London, head coach Cifuentes remarked, “This is a relentless, ruthless league and you need to be on top of your qualities every time.” He continued, “It’d be a huge mistake as a team, as a club, to think that everything is fine. Football is about small margins, right now those small margins are helping us to get points and of course the team keeps growing.” Cifuentes concluded by emphasizing, “But the reality is there are a lot of things we need to improve and hopefully everyone can understand that.” During the match at Ashton Gate, QPR did not record a single shot on goal in the first half. Nevertheless, their performance improved following the interval, with Paul Smyth’s notable 40-yard chip into an unguarded net equalizing Scott Twine’s earlier free-kick. Young striker Alfie Lloyd, introduced at half-time, enhanced the team’s attacking presence. Cifuentes commented on Lloyd’s contribution, stating, “Alfie is coming back from injury, he’s still on his way back to match fitness and it was a step in the right direction.” He further noted, “He did really well, running in behind and giving the centre-halves some difficulties.”