07-03-2025, 13:32
![[Image: OIG10.jpg]](https://i.ibb.co/RkRqdxN1/OIG10.jpg)
A very good point at Leeds kept Albion in the playoff positions by the barest margin, and now in the space of four days we face a similar double-whammy test to last week: first a winnable home game as QPR visit the Hawthorns, and then a daunting trip up north to see what we can get out of Burnley at Turf Moor.
Our record against Rangers is about as solid as they come, with only one defeat in eleven and just four weeks short of completing a full ten years unbeaten against them at home (in fact, the last time we lost a Championship match at the Hawthorns to a London side at all was against Crystal Palace on 26th September 2009). Meanwhile, QPR's recent form - though buoyed somewhat by two home wins in February - has encompassed five defeats in the last six weeks, including the last three on the road. As with Oxford a fortnight ago, we can't and shouldn't expect a pushover, but three points is the bar we have to clear if the playoffs are our target.
Burnley are naturally a different kettle of fish: still within striking distance of the automatic places, they bounced back effortlessly from a shock FA Cup trouncing by Preston to record their fourth league win in five games in midweek. As with Leeds, if we get up there and have a go, then defend as a team when necessary, we might just pick up an unexpected bonus in a match where there are no real expectations of success.
"I would rather spend a holiday in Tuscany than in the Black Country, but if I were compelled to choose between living in West Bromwich or Florence, I should make straight for West Bromwich." - J.B. Priestley
