GET there early.That is the message from Ipswich Town ahead of the Under-18s league match against old foes Norwich City at Portman Road tomorrow.More than 2,000 tickets have already been sold for the Academy match, dubbed the 'friendly derby' and a crowd of around 5,000 is anticipated.

By Derek Davis

GET there early.

That is the message from Ipswich Town ahead of the Under-18s league match against old foes Norwich City at Portman Road tomorrow.

More than 2,000 tickets have already been sold for the Academy match, dubbed the 'friendly derby' and a crowd of around 5,000 is anticipated.

Ten turnstiles will be open from noon for the Britannia Stand and supporters are being urged to allow plenty of time if they have not already bought tickets, in order to avoid last-minute queues and delays.

Academy sponsorship manager Simon Milton is hoping for a sizeable crowd at the game, underwritten by supporter Colin Kriedewolf, with all funds going to the Academy.

He said: “Preferably supporters will get their tickets before the game but if they do want to get in on the day I would ask they get to the ground early.

“Norwich City fans are welcome and we want to show that we can have a friendly derby so they will not be tucked away in a separate area and everyone will be free to mingle.

“Yes, we are going to want to win, and I'm sure Norwich will do to, but the main aim is development of the young players.

“Playing in front of a decent crowd with a good atmosphere is part of that development.”

The Under-18s will tomorrow unveil their new kit sponsors, which will have ROL Reader Offers emblazoned across the shirts.