Norwich City 1-1 QPR: Marcelino Nunez nets late to rescue Canaries draw

The Canaries, worthy victors over Millwall last time out to end a four-game winless run, were not at their best but will wonder how they failed to take all three points, let alone have to be content with one, having dominated their stubborn opposition.

QPR, so abject in their 3-0 loss in Wales three days earlier, wasted a glorious opportunity to go ahead when Lucas Andersen sliced a first-time effort wide after a swift break on the left and fine pull-back by Paal.

The hosts then seized control, but wasted a couple of excellent chances in an open first half that brought plenty of attacking threat but lacked quality in front of goal.

Top scorer Sainz impressed on the left, showing good vision and awareness and setting up a couple of opportunities, notably a lovely cut-back that ended with Oscar Schwartau shooting wildly over from 12 yards.

The 23-year-old Spaniard was also involved in a fine move that led to a fierce Slimane strike being superbly held by the Rangers keeper, but he was wayward with his only attempt when he dragged an effort across goal.

Crnac knew little about his own goal which gave Rangers the lead, the ball taking a deflection and bouncing off him into the net following a delicious near-post corner from Paal.

But the hosts recovered and soon started to regain control – and create more chances – after the interval. Ben Chrisene somehow headed well off target from eight yards, Sainz had a low shot saved following a divine reverse pass by Slimane and Duffy’s header beat Nardi but not the bar.

At the other end, Paul Smyth did go close for Rangers with a rasping strike from distance, but Norwich’s patience and dominance paid off when Nunez struck.