QPR manager Harry Redknapp admitted that his team were simply no match for Everton in their FA Cup third-round clash.

Striker Nikica Jelavic – one of Redknapp’s transfer targets – scored two of Everton’s goals and missed a penalty as the home side cruised to a 4-0 victory at Goodison Park.

Joey Barton who captained Rangers, also hailed Everton for their display – and issued an apology to the travelling fans.

“It was a disappointing afternoon and we were well beaten,” said Redknapp.

“We were beaten by a far better team. I thought Everton were excellent.

“Even though they made lots of changes, they were strong all over and made life very difficult for us.

“They’ve got some real quality throughout their squad and it really showed. We struggled to live with them at times.

“Their movement, their passing, their attacking play – it was top class.”

Promotion back to the Premier League remains Rangers’ top priority and Redknapp’s assistant Kevin Bond insisted they were confident the heavy defeat would not affect their morale.

Bond said: “We don’t want to get beaten. We want to keep on winning as many matches as we can.

“But this defeat, hopefully in the big scheme of things, won’t affect what is our main aim.”

See also: Rangers brushed aside by clinical Everton

Everton v QPR player ratings

Follow West London Sport on Twitter

Find us on Facebook