Tuesday 28th September 2010
Npower Football League Championship
Loftus Road Stadium
Referee: L Probert
Kick-off: 20:00
Queens Park Rangers (1st) V Millwall (12th)
By The Godfather

Queens Park Rangers could extend their lead at the top of the Championship to nine points if they can overcome Millwall in Tuesday night's London derby. Having won seven of their eight matches, Warnock's men will go into this game as strong favourites. However, derby matches can often produce some surprising results. In my view, this is a difficult fixture, especially in front of what is likely to be a large and potentially intimidating away support. It is therefore important that the Rs maintain the standard of performance that we have all enjoyed over the last few weeks.

Millwall

Manager: Kenny Jackett

Season 2009-10 finish: 3rd position (League One)

After four campaigns spent in League One, Millwall finally managed to achieve promotion last season, beating Swindon Town by a single goal in the Play-Off Final at Wembley Stadium. Manager, Kenny Jackett, will be aiming to avoid a relegation battle in the Championship.

The Lions got their season off to a dream start, beating Bristol City comfortably at Ashton Gate and then thrashing Hull City at the New Den. However, Millwall's last two results have brought supporters back down to earth. Firstly, they suffered a humiliating 6-1 defeat at the hands of Watford, prompting a small pitch invasion, with one fan trying to assault Lloyd Doyley. Last Saturday, they suffered the agony of losing to Cardiff, thanks to a last-minute winner from Andy Keogh. Supporters will be concerned that these two defeats could spark a lengthy run of bad form.

Jackett, therefore, will be desperate for a decent result at Loftus Road on Tuesday night. One thing is for certain: they are going to have to improve defensively after having conceded eight goals in two matches.

Men to watch

1. Millwall's main attacking threat is likely to be the experienced Kevin Lisbie, who joined the Lions on loan from Ipswich during the summer. Lisbie enjoyed his most successful spell with Colchester United, netting 17 goals for the club in the 2007-08 season. The 31 year-old started his career with Charlton Athletic, where he made 155 appearances over a twelve-year period. He lists Gillingham, Reading, QPR (started twice in 2001), Norwich and Derby among his other former clubs. The Jamaican international is capable of causing opposing defenders problems and must be marked closely on Tuesday night.

2. Millwall's all-time record goalscorer, Neil Harris, could also be involved against Queens Park Rangers. Over the course of two spells with the Lions, he has scored 117 goals in over 300 appearances, a record that has made him a favourite with the Lions supporters. At the age of 33, he lacks pace, but makes up for it with his footballing vision and finishing abilities. This season he will probably be used as an impact substitute. Harris has also played for Cambridge United, Cardiff City, Nottingham Forest and Gillingham.

3. Darren Ward is likely to retain his position in central defence for Millwall on Tuesday night. Like Harris, the 32 year-old is enjoying his second spell at the club, having previously played a crucial role in the Lions' FA Cup success in 2004, reaching the final of the competition. Ward is another member of Millwall's squad who has played for QPR on loan, having made 14 appearances for the Rs in 2000 whilst contracted to Watford. Ward has bags of experience in this division, having also spent time with Wolves, Crystal Palace and Charlton. He could provide a stern test for the QPR frontline on Tuesday night.

4. In goal, Jackett will be relying upon David Forde, a talented shot-stopper. The Irishman has played for numerous English clubs, including West Ham, Cardiff, Luton and Bournemouth. Forde will need to be on top of his game when he faces a Queens Park Rangers side that simply can't stop scoring at the moment.

Team News

According to reports, Shaun Derry was substituted due to an injury last Saturday against Doncaster. It is unclear whether he will be available for this London derby. Alejandro Faurlin is still out with a groin problem, so Akos Buzsaky is likely to keep his place. Bradley Orr is still recovering from a calf strain, whilst Fitz Hall and Rob Hulse are still sidelined. Lee Cook and Peter Ramage remain long-term absentees.

Liam Trotter is suspended for Millwall after picking up a red card during their defeat to Cardiff.

Prediction

Millwall will present a different kind of challenge to that of Doncaster last Saturday. The Lions favour a physical approach and will aim to prevent the likes of Taraabt and Buzsaky from influencing proceedings through sheer brawn and aggression. However, over the last few weeks, Queens Park Rangers have shown that they are capable of getting 'stuck in', and I'm sure that the Super Hoops will be able to cope. I am going to predict a narrow victory in what is likely to be a lively encounter.

Queens Park Rangers 1-0 Millwall