QPR started the new season in style as they hammered Barnsley and gave notice of their promotion intentions.

Heidar Helguson's penalty sent them on their way, although Barnsley hit the post through Adam Hammill and Jason Shackell, before Jamie Mackie's tap in.

Barnsley conceded another penalty when Shackell fouled Helguson and this time Adel Taarabt scored the spot-kick.

The rout was complete when Hogan Ephraim laid on a tap-in for Rangers skipper Fitz Hall.

The result was the perfect way for Neil Warnock's side to begin justifying their tag as one of the clubs tipped for promotion.

And with the impressive Taarabt in their ranks - the former Tottenham midfielder ran Barnsley ragged - their ambition could come to fruition.

The 21-year-old forced keeper Luke Steele into two fine saves before one of his jinking runs ended with Stephen Foster fouling him inside the area. Helguson's penalty was cool, placed low into the corner, giving Rangers a deserved lead.

The Tykes should have forced a leveller just before the break when Rangers keeper Paddy Kenny spilled a routine catch but Shackell's header came back off the post.

Barnsley were frustrated again seconds after the re-start with Hammill's shot coming back off the upright and Rangers made him pay for his wastefulness minutes later.

Alejandro Faurlin and Ephraim combined to set up Mackie, who made no mistake in front of goal with a predatory finish.

Taarabt then grabbed a deserved goal for his performance, albeit from the penalty spot.

Helguson also later struck the post for QPR before the scoring was completed when Hall struck from close range late on.