THE first East Anglian bragging rights of the season have been claimed by Ipswich Town after Caolan Lavery’s first half penalty gave the Blues a deserved 1-0 win over Norwich City in an Under-18s friendly.

Lavery continued his impressive pre-season with the only goal of an entertaining game after strike partner Jack Marriott was sent sprawling in the area by Kyle McFadden.

It could, and should, have been more emphatic, but for a fine display by City keeper Remi Matthews who denied Lavery from adding to his tally on more than one occasion.

And when the youngster was beaten by Town sub Carel Tiofack, Sam Kelly cleared off the line with what looked suspiciously like a handball.

At the other end, Blues stopper Conor O’Donnell had to be at his best to block Jemal Loza’s strong shot.

15-year-old Byron Lawrence started on the left hand side of midfield for the Academy side just four days after being named on the bench for Town’s Carling Cup match against Northampton Town.

The Under-18s Academy side kick off their league season with a home match against Derby County next Saturday. Kick off is 11am at the training ground on Playford Road.