Daryl Murphy seized the chance to spearhead the Blues’ rapidly-improving season after putting Millwall to the sword, before revealing he was an unlikely hero.
The 29-year-old scored and played his part in both of DJ Campbell’s efforts as Ipswich ended the play-off chasing Lions’ 13-game unbeaten run with a solid 3-0 victory.
Victory also eased Town, revitalised under Mick McCarthy, further away from the Championship drop-zone, ahead of next Saturday’s trip to Leeds.
Murphy looks to be a certain starter in West Yorkshire but admitted his selection to start Saturday’s game, in place of Tyrone Barnett, came as a surprise.
“It was great that I got the nod, I was not expecting it,” said Murphy.
“I’ve been on the bench for the last couple of games and for whatever reason I thought the manager would stick with the side that won at Bolton.
“I have been coming off the bench and making an impact and I wanted to get back in the first team. The manager just told me to express myself and thankfully, I got a goal.”
n For more with Murphy on competition for places, Stephen Henderson’s heroics and fans’ favourite Guirane N’Daw - PLUS five pages of action and reaction from the 3-0 victory over Millwall, see today’s Ipswich Star.
n Get involved with the Ipswich Town webchat, from 1pm today - www.ipswichstar.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here