QPR fined by FA over Man City free-kick controversy

Victory against Manchester City would have lifted QPR out of the relegation zone

QPR have been fined £20,000 by the Football Association after admitting to failing to control their players during the 2-2 draw with Manchester City.

Charlie Austin's strike for QPR was ruled out as City keeper Joe Hart had taken two touches to clear his penalty box with a free-kick beforehand.

Several QPR players surrounded referee Mike Dean to question the decision.

QPR boss Harry Redknapp said it was "a bit harsh" before adding "if that's the rule then that's the rule".

Law 13 of the game states that if a free-kick taken by a defending team inside its own penalty "is not kicked directly out of the penalty area, the kick is retaken."

QPR, who twice led against the Premier League champions before Sergio Aguero's 83rd-minute equaliser, accepted the standard FA penalty.