JACK Marriott scored his fifth goal in as many games as Ipswich Under-18s returned to winning ways with a 2-1 victory at basement side Portsmouth.

Town dominated the first half without creating too many chances although Marriott went close following a corner.

Against the run of play, Pompey opened the scoring with their only attack of the half when Cody Cropper, making a rare appearance, spilled a shot and a grateful Ashley Harris fired home.

Town grabbed a deserved equaliser in the 55th minute with a typical close range finish from Jide Maduako. Russell Osman rang the changes and on 75 minutes they finally made the breakthrough when the Pompey keeper presented Marriott with a simple chance after a horrendous mix-up with a defender.

It was Marriott’s fifth goal in as many games and he and his strike partner Jack Simmons had looked lively until the latter was forced off with injury.

Aaron Jones was outstanding for Town who return to home action when they entertain Arsenal at Playford Road next Saturday (11am ko).

Team – Cropper, Jones, October, Thorsteinnson, Maduako, Schroder, Meikle, Bennett, Marriott, Simmons, Leddy

Subs. O’Donnell, Scotcher, Timlin, Lawrence, Winter.