Keith Leonard snatched Aston Villa’s first division one point with a firm header 13 minutes from the end at Loftus Road.

Leonard struck as QPR struggled to overcome the loss of central defender Frank McLintock. who hobbled off with a damaged ankle after six minutes. At that point things looked bad for Rangers who were already without another injured back four man, Dave Webb.

But seconds later their problems were eased when Gerry Francis. fancied by many succeed Alan Ball as England captain. slotted home a low shot from a sharp angle.

Then tireless Villa took over. Parkes dived to save from Little, Leonard and Hamilton and Givens headed a fierce Graydon volley off the line.

Villa had Aitken booked for a foul and Rangers Masson followed him into the book for time wasting, both in the second half.