QPR 2 Mansfield 2

Last updated : 22 February 2003 By Footymad Previewer

Kevin Gallen saved QPR's blushes with a last minute equaliser against ten-man Mansfield at Loftus Road.

A mix-up between Keith Welch and Keith Curle presented the ball to Gallen on the edge of the area. He swivelled to lob the ball into the open goal and salvage a vital point for Rangers.

QPR started the first half brightly and after just two minutes Paul Furlong poked the ball wide from a few yards out.

Rangers were dominating the play and Furlong went close again a few minutes later with an angled header.

The deadlock was finally broken on 20 minutes, some good play from Leroy Griffiths released Gallen, who played in Furlong to slot the ball home.

But the lead didn't last long as Mansfield equalised with their first meaningful attack. Nicky Culkin was caught out by Junior Mendes' looping header which hit the bar and Iyseden Christie put the rebound into an empty net.

On 34 minutes Mansfield sub Andy Jones was sent off for a second bookable offence and Rangers sought to regain the advantage. Gino Padula's fierce shot was spilled by Welch and Dan Shittu's follow-up hit the bar.

Furlong had another effort go just wide, but it was all square at half time.

The second half, however, got off to the worst possible start for QPR as Mansfield took the lead. Christie timed his run to beat the offside trap and beat Culkin for his second goal of the game.

Just minutes later Rangers had the chance to get back in the match. Furlong was fouled in the area and the referee pointed to the spot, but Gallen's penalty was well saved by Welch.

Now a goal down but still with the extra man, Rangers laid siege to the Mansfield area.

Yet they were unable to create many clear cut chances as the Mansfield defence held firm, with keeper Welch making some important interventions.

With time running out, and Mansfield on the verge of a famous victory, Gallen pounced at the last.