A FAST start is essential to QPR’s chances of beating rivals Fulham at Loftus Road this evening according to boss Ian Holloway.

The R’s manager has urged his players to get at the Cottagers from the off in the west London derby as they look to end their four match winless run.

Rangers have picked up just three points from their last four outings, something Holloway is desperate to change.

He said: “I can’t wait for this game. I think they play a marvellous way and I really like their manager (Slavisa Jokanovic).

“The job he has done for them has been nothing short of sensational. He is a really good man as well, and I have the utmost respect for him.

“We are going to try to really get at Fulham – not because it’s a local derby but because that’s our style. We want to develop into a team that doesn’t give you much time, that disrupts you, that pins you in.

“Look at this game last season and our opening goal from Ryan Manning – that came from us pressing and closing down.

“Fulham have been in the Premier League in recent years like we have, so the expectation of their fans is similar to ours – so what a wonderful night to look forward to!”

QPR may have hit a slight stumbling block in recent weeks but they have managed to maintain their unbeaten run at Loftus Road.

Holloway believes it is in the middle of the park where this game could be decided.

“Through their midfield area they are as good as anyone in the division but I’m very pleased with our midfield areas as well,” he said.

“That’s why I am so excited about this game. Games are won and lost with your strikers and with clinical finishing, but really it’s in that engine room.

“We are going to need to be at our best but, if we are, I believe a win against this lot could start a little fire again for us.”