Iain Dowie isn't underestimating the challenge of Carlisle United in the Second Round of the Carling Cup.

After coming through the opening round with a 3-2 win at Swindon, the R's play host to the League One outfit, and Dowie told www.qpr.co.uk:

"This will be a tough test for us, make no mistake about that.

"John Ward has done an excellent job there, and they were very unlucky not to go up last season, losing out to Leeds in the Play-Off Semi Finals.

"I expect them to be pushing for promotion again this time around, so we will need to be on our mettle when we play them.

"They had a tricky match against Shrewsbury in the First Round, and to come away from New Meadow with a 1-0 victory was no mean feat."

Dowie's main hope from the Second Round draw - which saw the R's seeded, and therefore avoid the Premiership sides - was a home time, and he is pleased to get his wish.

"I always hope for a home tie," he explained, "so I'm delighted this match will be at Loftus Road.

"I want our ground to be a real fortress this season. Hopefully we can get a good crowd along to back the lads, and we'll aim to repay them with good, attractive football.

"As I showed with my team selection against Swindon on Tuesday night, I take this competition very seriously and will be approaching this match in the same manner."