Ipswich Town striker Brett Pitman hopes lightning will strike twice as the Blues look to emulate Bournemouth’s promotion-winning season.

After 10 games last season, Bournemouth were three points worse off than Ipswich were at the same stage this campaign, but everything changed after the Cherries won at Bolton, the south coast club going on to win their next six league games.

Ironically, Bolton were the victims as Town recorded their first win in eight matches on Tuesday, securing a 2-0 victory at Portman Road.

“I think we were 14th or 15th going into the October international break and we went on an unbelievable run,” recalled Pitman, who was part of the Bournemouth team that won the title in May.

“By Christmas we were right up there and I think Ipswich went on a similar run. It shows that if you can do it you push up the table very quickly.

“You have just got to get through tough spells and come out of the other side stronger.”

Asked about last season’s turning point with Bournemouth, Pitman added: “It was away at Bolton funnily enough and after that we went on a good run.

“That sticks in my mind, so hopefully Bolton at home this season for Ipswich might do the same. We’d been playing OK, but we perhaps didn’t get the results we deserved. From that moment, we kicked on.”

Pitman has scored four times for Ipswich this season but has only made six league starts as he has battled for a striking spot with David McGoldrick, Daryl Murphy (pictured) and Freddie Sears.

Having started on Tuesday, the 27-year-old was not surprised to get the nod from Blues’ manager, Mick McCarthy.

“Not really,” he revealed.

“The manager knows I am ready to start and it’s not about nudging him and letting him know what I can do.

“We have always said there are four of us who can play together and probably any of the four can play out wide if needed. We are quite flexible”

While Pitman scored again on Tuesday, last-season’s top-scorer Murphy has yet to open his account, but Pitman added: “Everyone saw what he contributed on Tuesday and in previous games.

“I think he’ll get a goal soon and once he does, hopefully they will start flowing.”

Ainsley Maitland-Niles should be fit for tomorrow’s trip to Rotherham, after taking a knock to his metatarsal in Tuesday’s win, but David McGoldrick is doubtful after pulling up with a groin strain in training yesterday.

Midfielder, Teddy Bishop, recovering from a long-term injury, is not ready for a recall just yet.

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