Derby (until the 92nd minute) show how to stop QPR
QPR have hit 9 in their opening 3 games but, until a late collapse, Derby nullified them. They got tight quickly in midfield and stopped the league leaders from creating chances. Rangers need to learn how to cope with this; sides are not going to gift them time and space. County look a much better side than their 4 pts from 4 games suggests. Expect Nigel Clough’s rebuilding operation to start showing results in the coming months.
Portsmouth have the players to be doing much better than they are
Pompey started today with David Nugent, Tommy Smith, John Utaka, Marc Wilson and Aaron Mokoena in their side, all players who should be thriving at this level. The financial situation may be desperate but there is still quality at Fratton Park; it’s motivation that’s required.
The new boys look comfortable
With Milwall and Leeds winning and Norwich securing a draw away at Nottingham Forest, it was a good day for the newly promoted sides. In particular, the Den has the potential to become a real fortress this season.
Swansea might just have discovered a cutting edge
Paulo Sousa’s Swans were hard to beat but scored fewer goals than anyone else last season. Under Brendan Rogers, however, they have more thrust going forward. They created plenty against Burnley and Scott Sinclair looks capable of worrying quality defences.
Team of the Weekend – Ipswich
Ipswich are starting to look the promotion contenders that they were meant to be last season. Their performance against Bristol had a confidence which was rarely there last season. For once, Roy Keane actually sounded quite happy afterwards.
Player of the Weekend – Jonathan Forte
The Scunthorpe striker took his 2 goals superbly, giving a boost to those Irons’ fans who despaired at the loss of Gary Hooper and Paul Hayes.
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