Jake Livermore double boosts Watford’s playoff push with victory at QPR

Jake Livermore isn't known for scoring many goals. However, he casually celebrated two well-executed shots from outside the Queens Park Rangers' box as if he's a frequent scorer. He even smiled confidently after his second goal.

Ben Hamer, the goalkeeper for Watford, commented on the impressive goal scored by the team's star player. He stated that without the player's contribution, Watford would not have been able to secure three points in their push for the Championship playoffs. The goal was reminiscent of Cantona's iconic style, which only added to its magnificence.

The fans and teammates of a player who had served West Brom and Hull before that for many years had a great affection for him. He had become a beloved scorer and was highly regarded among supporters. During a Sunday afternoon game in West London, Livermore's skills were on full display. He demonstrated the same talent that had earned him caps for England. His goals put QPR in a precarious position and they struggled to keep up. Unfortunately, the new year of 2024 has not started well for QPR. They have already suffered three losses and their attempt to make a late comeback in this game fell short.

Last week, there was news from a club that has faced many problems and difficulties in recent years. The club appointed a 26-year-old data specialist named Christian Nourry as their new chief executive. Lee Hoos, the former chief executive who now serves as chairman, praised Nourry's competence. Nourry previously worked for the company that recruited the director of performance, Ben Williams, and head coach, Martí Cifuentes. Cifuentes, who is 15 years older than Nourry, commented that his new boss has a lot of experience and that age is not important to him.

The fact that Cifuentes's team is second to last and has only earned one point in their previous six matches implies that the statistics-oriented approach of the management should prioritize underlying numbers. Even though Watford was on the receiving end of 16 shots compared to their own nine, QPR has only scored 22 goals this season in the league, with their top scorer Lyndon Dykes having only four goals. Kenneth Paal, a left-back, is tied for second place with three goals.

Looking at past scenarios, it's unusual for Valérien Ismaël to still hold the position of Watford manager at this stage of the season, especially with his team beginning Sunday's game in 13th place. After the match, Ismaël expressed gratitude towards Livermore and Hamer. "Although scoring goals isn't his responsibility, we're happy for him. He possesses a strong mindset and has found his groove."

The world of Championship football is unpredictable. Though there were moments of brilliance, the athletes demonstrated immense dedication and energy throughout the game. Chris Willock made a triumphant return, displaying his impressive skills while Livermore held the reins of Watford's midfield with ease. Early on, there was a possible penalty, but Jake Clarke-Salter expertly tackled the ball. Unfortunately, Rhys Healey and Matheus Martins collided, causing them both to fall. Ilias Chair's free-kick tricked the spectators blinded by the winter sun into thinking they had scored a goal.

Jack Colback from Queens Park Rangers, who has played at many levels in football, probably felt relieved that there was no VAR when he made contact with Yáser Asprilla. Although he did apologize for the rough challenge, he was not as friendly towards Sinclair Armstrong, who only has one league goal this season, when the striker failed to make a run. However, this seemed to motivate Armstrong, as he soon managed to force a save from the opposing goalkeeper, Hamer. Unfortunately, the rebound was intercepted by Healey, preventing Chair from scoring.

The young striker's strength was proven in the early stages of the second half as he charged forward and successfully attempted a shot on goal, testing Hamer. Shortly after, when Willock attempted to pass to Armstrong with a high, arcing ball, Ryan Andrews of Watford tried to intercept but was unsuccessful and got hurt in the process. Luckily, Hamer was able to save the day.

As the fun factor increased, it was up to Livermore to unleash his first power shot with his right foot, sailing past goalie Asmir Begovic who couldn't see the ball coming after Martins had set him up. Another five minutes passed and the same move was executed again.

The fans of Watford were teasing their opponents, but soon became worried about their weak defense. Dykes, who was not being marked, received a pass from substitute Paul Smyth and set up an intense and chaotic finish. The team lost control of the midfield when Livermore was substituted. Armstrong attempted a shot, but it was saved by Hamer. Dunne headed a corner kick wide, and his final shot was saved by Hamer. Livermore praised Hamer's save and mentioned that he had been receiving criticism from some of his teammates for not scoring enough goals.

By successfully preventing a determined QPR team from scoring, Hamer's outstanding performance gave the away fans the chance to celebrate another victorious player, Livermore, singing along to Status Quo's/John Fogerty's "Rockin' All Over The World". As a result, the team was able to take home the win to Hertfordshire.