A comical own goal by Thierry Small preserved QPR’s unbeaten run. This unexpected twist came during the match between Preston North End and Queens Park Rangers at Deepdale, where the teams settled for a 1-1 draw on April 6, 2026.
Brad Potts’ goal in the first minute of the second half looked like being enough to secure the points for Preston. The home side had taken the lead just after the break, with Potts scoring in the 46th minute, marking a significant moment in the match. However, the game took a turn in the closing stages.
In the 83rd minute, an unfortunate own goal by Thierry Small allowed QPR to equalize, ensuring they maintained their unbeaten streak. This result kept QPR in 12th place in the Championship, seven points off the playoff spots, which has become a critical concern as the season nears its end.
QPR had entered the match with a positive momentum, being unbeaten in their last four games, having won three in a row. However, the draw against Preston stunted their hopes for a late charge towards the playoffs. Julien Stephan’s side have had a tendency this season to concede goals early in the second half – and it happened again, complicating their quest for a higher league position.
Preston, on the other hand, had struggled with possession in their previous match against Leicester City, where they managed only 41% possession and three shots on target. In contrast, QPR had a more aggressive approach in their last game against Watford, boasting 46% possession and eight shots on goal. This match showcased the contrasting styles of both teams as they vied for crucial points.
As the season progresses, both teams will need to reassess their strategies. For Preston, the focus will be on maintaining their form and capitalizing on their scoring opportunities, with Alfie Devine and Milutin Osmajic leading as their top scorers, each netting three goals this season. Meanwhile, QPR will look to their top scorers, Rayan Kolli, Paul Smyth, and Richard Kone, who have also scored three goals each, to step up in the remaining matches.
With only five games left in the season for QPR, the pressure is mounting. The team will need to find a way to convert draws into wins if they hope to break into the top six. The draw against Preston was a missed opportunity, and both teams will be looking ahead to their next fixtures to improve their standings.
As the Championship season approaches its climax, every point counts. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how both Preston and QPR adapt in the coming weeks, with the playoff race heating up and the stakes higher than ever.