Heidar Helguson's injury time header broke Crystal Palace hearts as they lost 2-1 at home to league leader Queens Park Rangers.

The Icelandic international nodded home Tommy Smith's back-post cross in the third minute of time added on and although Julian Speroni claimed he was fouled by the striker, referee Kevin Friend correctly let the goal stand.

It was harsh on a Palace side who thought they had earned a well-deserved point when half-time substitute Kieron Cadogan equalised Adel Taarabt's goal with just two minutes of normal time left.

In a frantic opening half Andy Dorman hit a post and Wilfried Zaha was twice denied by Paddy Kenny, while at the other end Speroni was in inspired form to stop Jamie Mackie finding the net on three occasions.

QPR also hit the post when Paddy McCarthy deflected a header on to the woodwork.

Rangers took the lead three minutes into the second half when Edgar Davids' terrible back pass was intercepted by Mackie who rounded Speroni before squaring for Taarabt to tap home.

Palace had lost their fizz from the opening 45 minutes and it was only a moment of brilliance from Zaha that got them level.

The youngster tricked his way past Kaspar Gorkss and crossed for Cadogan to poke home with the outside of his foot.

The joy was short-lived for the home fans though as Helguson ensured the Eagles dropped to 23rd in the Championship.