Ipswich Town defeated Birmingham City, 1-0, in the Championship opener at Portman Road on Saturday. Football writer CHRIS BRAMMER gives his match ratings.

33. BARTOSZ BIALKOWSKI - 7

Saved Town on a couple of occasions in the first half, from Morrison’s header and Roberts’ shot, before tipping Nsue’s vicious effort over at the near post in the second period.

2. DOMINIC IORFA - 7

Solid debut from the Wolves loanee. Defended well and used his long stride pattern and pace to get forward well and join the attack.

3. JONAS KNUDSEN - 7

Really came to the fore in the second half, providing the assist for the goal, and whipping in two or three more dangerous centres.

4. LUKE CHAMBERS - 6

Couple of shaky moments in the first half, namely a dodgy header across his own box, but held the backline together, despite having played catch-up with his fitness in pre-season.

5. TOMMY SMITH - 6

Caught out with a couple of high balls in the first half, but recovered well and got better as the game wore on.

12 JORDAN SPENCE - 6

A little fortunate perhaps to stay on the pitch after hauling down Donaldson in the second half. Was it a clear goalscoring opportunity, 45 yards out? Tried to get the ball forward quickly.

8. COLE SKUSE - 7

Indifferent first half and received one or two moans for one too many square balls. Excelled in second half, driving Town forward.

23. ANDRE DOZZELL - 8

Involved in everything good Town did in the first half and was really growing in confidence until he was badly injured.

18. GRANT WARD - 8

My pick for Man of the Match. A constant menace down the right and gave Grounds a tough afternoon. Produced some proper old-fashioned wing play and got into good positions in the final third.

20. FREDDIE SEARS - 6

Tireless runner up front and linked up well with Garner. Didn’t fall for him yesterday but he will only get better with a run of games in his favoured position.

14. JOE GARNER - 7

In the right place at the right time to score the winner - exactly the reason Mick McCarthy signed him. Had a quiet first half, but put himself about constantly and never gave defenders a minute

SUBSTITUTES

21. FLYNN DOWNES - 8

Played like a seasoned professional from the moment he got his first, very composed touch in league football. Broke attacks up, got stuck in, and showed no shortage of creativity to get Town going forward.

6. ADAM WEBSTER - 6

Late substitute won a couple of crucial headers and helped see Town to victory.