Matty Roberts scored twice as Ipswich Town U21s began 2024 with a 3-3 draw against QPR at Playford Road this afternoon.
Town were taking on an R's side who went into the game sitting top of the Professional Development League Two South table.
John McGreal's side had finished 2023 with a 3-1 win at AFC Bournemouth, ending the Cherries’ 12-game unbeaten run.
There were seven changes from that game, which included Cieran Slicker starting in goal and winger Jesse Nwabueze returning from injury.
The young Blues took the lead in the 17th minute when a through-ball from Leon Ayinde found Roberts, who calmly opened the scoring. However, Arkell Jude-Boyd replied for the visitors on 32 minutes.
Roberts then put Town 2-1 up just after the hour-mark with a fine shot from outside the box, with substitute Rio Morgan firing home soon after to increase their advantage.
However, the R's reduced the deficit through Nathan Jeche in the closing stages, and he found an equaliser deep into stoppage time to deny Town the three points that they deserved.
It was disappointing for the young Blues to concede two late goals, but it was a very positive performance overall with plenty of standout performers.
Roberts impressed again with his two goals, taking his tally to six for the season since joining the club from Arsenal in September. He showed his class on the ball and took his goals well.
Ayinde was lively as ever down the left, but he cut a frustrated figure with a few chances that he should have buried or squared to his team-mate. Nonetheless, the forward was also exciting to watch.
It was good to see Nwabueze back in action after a long lay-off with injury. He played well on the right win but was replaced at half-time, which was likely to have been a pre-planned decision.
He was replaced by forward Morgan, who made an instant impact and deserved his goal after getting in a good position for his first of the season for the under-21's.
17-year-old Jacob Mazionis was another standout in defence. He has all the attributes to go very far in the game.
It was another enjoyable game to watch on a cold but sunny day, which saw six goals scored and plenty of chances created. Unfortunately, Ipswich just couldn't see out the win.
Town remain fifth in Professional Development League Two South table and return to action when they travel to Watford next Tuesday.
Town U21s: Slicker, Agbaje (C), Mazionis, Ayoola, H Barbrook, Turner (Towler), Taylor, Nwabueze (Morgan), Roberts, Ayinde, Boatswain (Buabo).
Subs: Williamson, Jambang, Morgan, Towler, Buabo.
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