Clive Rose/Getty ImagesA celebratory Harry Redknapp took his QPR side a step towards Premier League safety with a late win at Southampton.

How depressing it is to beat one of your relegation rivals away from home with a late goal, only to see the league table still has QPR four points adrift of safety. At least it is no longer seven.

That 2-1 away win at Southampton was as vital as they come, but the manner in which it was done can give QPR plenty of satisfaction.

- Redknapp: Hardworking QPR deserved win

For a start, we saw Ji-Sung Park roll back the years with a harrying display. His persistence was the vital key that finally unlocked Southampton's defence.

And Jay Bothroyd proved that he is more than capable of running the line in Bobby Zamora's absence. Indeed, his partnership with Loic Remy was one that made me wonder whether we still may yet get out of this almighty mess.

Perhaps there was also a blessing in disguise. Julio Cesar has been responsible for goals of late -- his injury problems overriding his desire to play -- and his substitution brought on a Rob Green who was world class between the sticks.

He won us those three points. If Green now has a resurgence, what price an "I told you so" from Mark Hughes?

Many questioned Harry Redknapp intimating prior to this match that he would take a draw if he could get a win against Sunderland next time out. What may have seemed like pressure on his players now has had the opposite effect: They have surpassed their target, so now the pressure is off for the home game against Sunderland.

A win there and we could be one point off safety with our next game against fellow strugglers Aston Villa.

And then what price the miracle?

Follow Sean Smith on Twitter @seanshorn

• Recommend0
• Tweet0
• Email