Struggling Queens Park Rangers have succumbed to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Everton in this afternoon's Premier League clash at Loftus Road.

Everton's Irish defender Seamus Coleman celebrates scoring the opening goal during the English Premier League football match against Queens Park Rangers on March 22, 2015 © Getty Images

The hosts made an encouraging start, edging forward into the Toffees half and sending a handful of crosses into the box, with Bobby Zamora looping an effort over the visitors' bar in the seventh minute.

Just two minutes later, the Toffees countered through a Leighton Baines corner that was hooked just over at the near post by Leon Osman.

Although QPR were stronger in the early stages, they would find themselves behind in the 17th minute when Seamus Coleman side-footed Osman's square ball into the top corner of the net, via the post.

Everton had a potential penalty shout turned down on the half-hour mark when Darron Gibson's shot from just inside the box appeared to hit Joey Barton's arm.

Mauricio Isla of QPR is challenged by Leon Osman (L) and Arouna Kone of Everton during the Barclays Premier League match on March 22, 2015

Chris Ramsey's charges then wasted an opportunity just before the break when Barton played in Matt Phillips, but the 24-year-old went for glory from 35 yards, only to slice the ball well wide.

QPR thought they had equalised just after the restart when Junior Hoilett's curler against the crossbar was bundled in by Zamora, but the linesman's flag on the far side was raised to chalk off the goal.

They didn't have to wait much longer to level proceedings, as substitute Eduardo Vargas pounced from six yards out to lash a rising shot into the roof of the Toffees net five minutes after the hour.

QPR's lead wasn't to last, however, with Aaron Lennon pouncing on to a half-hearted clearance from the home defence in the 77th minute and drilling home.

The hosts drove forward in the latter stages of the game and nearly conjured up a second equaliser when Adel Taarabt weaved into the right channel of the Everton box and rifled an effort towards goal, but the ball cannoned off the post.

Ultimately it wasn't to be for the struggling Hoops, as they remain in the bottom three of the Premier League in 19th place, while Roberto Martinez's charges climb up to 13th.