Adel Taarabt's first goal of the season set Queens Park Rangers on course for a 2-1 victory over Arsenal at Loftus Road on Saturday to boost the west London club's hopes of avoiding relegation.

Taarabt broke his duck in the 23rd minute with a superb individual effort and while Theo Walcott levelled for the Gunners, Samba Diakite's 66th minute effort secured three points for the home side.