Mackie Hits Milestone

Jamie Mackie scored his first international goal as Scotland beat the Faroe Islands last night

Some might say that international football has been a bitter-sweet pill for Mackie, who hasn't netted for QPR since appearing for Scotland.

His eight goal, neatly bunched at the opening of the campaign helped propel Rangers clear at the top, only for a succession of draws - without the Mackie goal magic - to see them drop their advantage.

Nevertheless his infectious effort and persistence has won him many admirers, and Craig Levein is the latest in a line of bosses to see the benefit the striker can bring.

His poachers effort on the cusp of half time was just reward for Scotland's dominance and the striker's sheer endeavour.

Mackie told the Scottish Daily Record: 'It was a beautiful feeling when the ball hit the net. It was nice to get the tap-in and open my account. Hopefully there are many more goals to come for Scotland.'

While Mackie was predominantly signed as a striker, Warnock has used him primarily as an option wide of the front-man and latterly the bizarre position of right-back.

He has coped effortlessly with both challenges, but explains it is part of the reason his goal record is suffering a tad.

He continued: 'I'm greedy - I'm a striker and that's how I will always be. The fact I hadn't scored for a while wasn't on my mind. I've been playing right-back for two of the last three games for QPR!

'I haven't really been at that end of the park. I haven't played up front all season, only on the right. It doesn't prey on my mind. I'll look to keep playing well and the goals will arrive.

'But it was good to score here. It gives you a taste of that feeling and hopefully I'll get on the goal trail again.'

Rangers will now be hoping that he continues his goal-scoring exploits against Preston North End, given the timely return to defence of Matt Connolly.

This should allow Mackie to take up a more advanced role and really shake up Darren Ferguson's rearguard.

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