Joe Royle leapt to the defence of under-fire goalkeeper Kelvin Davis following Ipswich Town's shock defeat at home to Queens Park Rangers.

Looking for help - the answer is not in the heavens as Queens Park Rangers score their second goal at Portman Road. Picture: ROB SAMBROOK (41271-1)

The shotstopper was at fault for both goals. But manager Royle said: "Kelvin's the best kicker in the business and that's the first time his kicking has cost us a goal since he's been here.

"He's been fantastic for us so there's certainly no recriminations towards him. As for the second goal, he shouted for the ball but didn't get there.

"But he's big enough and brave enough to hold his hands up when he makes mistakes."

Royle admitted his side were due some luck after a miserable week - this loss came hot on the heels of Tuesday's 2-1 defeat against Watford.

"We haven't had any breaks in either game," he said. "And that's not me looking through rose-tinted glasses."

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Published Monday, February 28, 2005

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