IAN Holloway tried his best Churchillian approach to get his Rangers side ready to keep their unbeaten run going against Ipswich.Unfortunately his “We are asking too few to do too much,” paraphrase of Winston's more famous quote, was not as successful, as they lost a lead and their eight-game unbeaten streak at home.

IAN Holloway tried his best Churchillian approach to get his Rangers side ready to keep their unbeaten run going against Ipswich.

Unfortunately his “We are asking too few to do too much,” paraphrase of Winston's more famous quote, was not as successful, as they lost a lead and their eight-game unbeaten streak at home.

Holloway said: “We were very disappointed to let in three goals in the second half. I was shell-shocked because I didn't expect it, it didn't look like it was coming and for two of them to be wicked deflections.

“The first one has hit one foot then the other, all his fans were starting to go 'Aaargghh' as if he missed but it ended up in the top corner.”

But the Rangers' boss did admit Town were the better side, even if he was surprised at conceding those second-half goals.

Holloway added: “That was the best we have played for some time with two fantastic goals from Paul Furlong.

“We went one down but didn't show concern and deserved to get back in it, so it was a bitter pill to swallow.

“Ipswich came out second half and did well. They pushed us back and the ball kept going to Jim Magilton and he always had that extra pass.

“They are one of the best teams, if not the best, we have played this season, so it is no shame to get beat by them. I felt the scoreline definitely flattered them but we have to take it on the chin and get on with it.”

Holloway was also in his best Spike Milligan mode in the wake of the defeat.

QPR, who were promoted last season, are clinging on to sixth place but the manager is keen to bolster his squad, although he has not been entirely successful.

He said: “I'm fed up with constantly being on the phone because all you get is a big custard pie in your face - sorry, splat. I don't really like the taste of custard - it is getting on my nerves.”

Holloway was due to fly to Brazil to scout two players but the trip was called off as their season is in a mid-summer break and he has lost his passport.

He said: “The wife tells me it is my fault I have lost it and she is right. If anyone sees it let me know. It is about eight years old, the picture inside is not Gollum it is Ian Holloway and I look minging.”

QPR may not stay in the play-off places, but as Holloway points out they only need 16 points to stay up, and they will no doubt have a lot of fun getting them.

derek.davis@eadt.co.uk