CHELSEA superstar Michael Ballack today praised Ipswich Town's performance in Saturday's 3-1 FA Cup defeat at Stamford Bridge.

Elvin King

CHELSEA superstar Michael Ballack today praised Ipswich Town's performance in Saturday's 3-1 FA Cup defeat at Stamford Bridge.

The German, who scored two goals, said: “It was a hard game. It's always hard in the Cup, but we played at home and we controlled the game.

“We couldn't decide it until the third goal, so it was always close. Ipswich had a couple of chances, but in the right moment we knew we could score. Ipswich were worthy opponents, and it is always difficult against lower league sides as they come to us, and they have a chance. And of course they fight until the end. Ipswich played as well and tried to create some chances and it was not easy for us.”