Paulo Sousa was full of praise for his side following the 0-0 draw against promotion-chasing Cardiff City.

Rangers enjoyed long spells of possession against the Bluebirds, and created a number of excellent opportunities in front of goal, much to the delight of their gaffer.

"We lost two points today. We showed a lot of personality and character and created a lot of opportunities, playing fantastic football," he told www.qpr.co.uk.

"After the game against Ipswich we received a lot of criticism. We didn't play well then, but today we sent out a very positive message to those people, with a good performance against a Club with big ambitions for the Premier League.

"They have invested a lot and this is also a very difficult place to come, with a strong atmosphere. But we showed personality, playing fantastic football.

"We could have won the game easily, but it didn't happen, but that is no fault of my players, who gave me excellent effort."

Sousa singled out the efforts of stand-in skipper Gavin Mahon, who shone from start to finish in the heart of the R's midfield engine room.

"Gavin showed what a good professional and good player he is tonight," said Sousa.

"You can have bad moments sometimes, but it is how you respond and he showed great character."

The draw left Rangers five points adrift of the top-six, with a game in hand on most of their nearest rivals, prompting Sousa to add: "We have always been very close to the top-six.

"With two or three wins, you can go up the league significantly.

"Playing like we played tonight, we need to believe that anything is possible.

"I always say that to my players - believe in yourselves, because you can play very good football and win, just believe it.

"We have overcome the barrier of winning away in recent months, and now we are playing good football too.

"With good energy from everyone, and not criticism, we can make things possible."