QPR boss Neil Warnock refuses to blame players after Fulham loss

Whether it was intended as a metaphorical kick up the backside or just a plain‑speaking observation, Martin Jol's suggestion in midweek than Andrew Johnson did not score enough in the Premier League was given an emphatic answer.

A regular threat in the Europa League, Johnson came into this match without a goal in the Premier League for five months. One hour was all that was necessary against a shellshocked QPR to register a hat-trick. In doing so, he became the first Fulham player to take home the match ball in the Premier League.Andrew Johnson's hat-trick helped Fulham secure their first Premier League win of the season in resounding fashion against west London rivals QPR.

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While some feared the Cottagers may struggle with a hangover from their midweek European exertions, they impressed from the offset and dominated throughout against their neighbours from less than three miles up the road.Queens Park Rangers manager Neil Warnock said he would not be too hard on his players after they were thrashed 6-0 at Fulham.

He said injuries to his defensive line-up allowed the home side's three-man attack to slice through his side "like a knife through butter".

"We lost Matthew Connolly and Fitz Hall has an injury," said Warnock.

"We were at sixes and sevens at the back and it showed. I don't think there'll be many days like this."