QPR star meets 'fantastic' hype with 'smart' double save against £50m Premier League duo

QPR could have a future star on their hands in goalkeeper Joe Walsh as the shot-stopper impressed yet again in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Brentford on Thursday.

The 22-year-old was deployed between the sticks by Marti Cifuentes in a goalless draw against the Bees, keeping a clean sheet against the top flight opposition. That head-turning performance comes after a big few months for Walsh, who made his Championship debut on the last day of the campaign last season.

The player, who has been with the R's since 2021, also starred in the Carabao Cup match against Luton Town last week. Walsh produced an impressive save to stop a dangerous Carlton Morris header in the second half and then saved the crucial penalty in the shootout.

After that match, Cifuentes hailed Walsh as 'fantastic' and the goalkeeper was at it again against Brentford. The friendly meeting took place away from the public eye but both clubs published their own match reports with plenty of praise for Walsh.

The QPR report spoke of a 'smart double stop' against £22 million man Kevin Schade and £28 million summer signing Fabio Carvalho after just 12 minutes. The Brentford article also praised the 'well blocked' save.

Walsh was in important action after the break too with an 'important improvised stop' to tip a Ryan Trevitt shot over the bar. The goalkeeper also managed to get the slightest touch on the ball to end a dangerous Ashley Hay opportunity - the Bees believed they should have been awarded a penalty but the referee judged that Walsh had got the all-important touch.

Walsh signed at Loftus Road from Gillingham in January 2021 and extended his contract this summer after his full debut against Coventry City. When putting pen to paper on a new deal, Walsh said: "I am really looking forward to the future.

“Over the last three and a half years I have worked hard and I have improved as a goalkeeper. Now I just want to keep improving and keep showing people at the club what I can do.”

At the time, CEO Christian Nourry added: “After a promising spell on loan at Accrington Stanley, Joe impressed everybody at the training ground with his dedication and steady increase in level.

“His efforts were deservedly rewarded by Martí and the coaching staff with a first taste of Championship football on the final day at Coventry. I congratulate him on this next step and encourage him to continue to constantly demand more of himself.”