Carlton sends Luton dancing into play-offs with win at QPR
The Hatters were looking to avoid further capital punishment to close out 2023, having lost 11 of their last 12 away league matches played in London.
Rob Edwards’ men made a strong start, with Carlton Morris seeing an early sighter saved by Seny Dieng.
The Luton forward had netted 10 of his previous 13 club goals in the first half, and he continued that habit here by finding the opener inside the opening 10 minutes.
Alfie Doughty found him on the edge of the area, before Morris produced a stunning finish to slot through the legs of Ethan LairdEthan Laird and into the bottom corner.
QPR gained a greater foothold in the contest before the interval, but struggled to pose a significant threat to the Luton goal.
Improvement would be needed in the second period from Critchley’s men, but the hosts’ plans went up in smoke within two minutes of the restart.
In his efforts to clear a free-kick from James Bree, Kenneth Paal’s header inadvertently found Morris at the back post, and the forward made no mistake to double the Hatters’ advantage.
A monumental effort would now be required if QPR were to salvage anything, especially as nine of their 10 league wins this season have seen them score first.
A bombardment of crosses into the Luton box proved largely ineffective, although a Tyler Roberts delivery should’ve been converted by Lyndon Dykes, but the Scotsman’s effort trickled wide.
Far from a comeback, Luton added to their lead in the closing stages in spectacular fashion.
Doughty played a quick one-two with Morris before rifling his effort into the top corner beyond a despairing Dieng.
A humbling defeat means QPR have now lost each of their last four home matches, while Luton temporarily moved into the top six, leapfrogging the R’s in the process.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Carlton Morris (Luton Town)
