IPSWICH Town defender Alex Bruce knows the degree of difficulty the Blues face when they play high-flying Stoke City at Portman Road tomorrow (kick-off 3pm).

IPSWICH Town defender Alex Bruce knows the degree of difficulty the Blues face when they play high-flying Stoke City at Portman Road tomorrow (kick-off 3pm).

“It will be equally as difficult as our last league game against West Brom,” said Bruce.

“We're really up for it and, if we can win again, we'll be in a very good position.”

Town turned on the style to deservedly get the better of West Brom, and last weekend they were denied by stunning saves by David James when playing Premier League Portsmouth with ten men in the FA Cup.

Bruce will be part of an Ipswich defence that have only conceded seven goals on Suffolk soil this campaign.

This is two less than Wolverhampton and an impressive 13 fewer than third-placed Watford.

“We've got a very good defensive record at home, which is very pleasing,” added Bruce.

“All the lads have done well.

“Sito, in particular, has done brilliantly after a tough time out of the team.

“There's been a lot of pressure on him to perform but he's done very well.

“David Wright topped some very good performances with a goal against West Brom and Jason De Vos is always solid and a real war-horse.”

And looking long term with a view to the Blues gaining any honours this season, Bruce said: “It will be all about consistency.

“The most consistent sides will always finish high up the table - and apart from the more fancied teams there are always a few surprise packages.

“Blackpool and Bristol City, for instance, have done very well and Barnsley are the best opposition we've played at Portman Road this season.”