Magilton full of praise for Pim
DUTCH defender Pim Balkestein staked a place for Ipswich Town's troublesome left back position with an impression display in a 1-1 draw at League Two Gillingham last night.
Elvin King
DUTCH defender Pim Balkestein staked a place for Ipswich Town's troublesome left back position with an impression display in a 1-1 draw at League Two Gillingham last night.
The 19-year-old signed earlier this summer caught the eye of Blues boss Jim Magilton in what was a thoroughly worthwhile work out.
Town did not play as well as they would have liked despite coming good after the break to equalise through a Tommy Miller penalty after substitute Danny Haynes had been brought tumbling down.
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Richard Wright could only fumble a Simeon Jackson low shot into the net on a night when Czech Republic defender Roman Hubnik failed to make a big impression.
But Magilton was singing the praises of Balkestein a player he likens to former Town defender Hermann Hreidarsson.
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“Pim has given me plenty to think about and he showed that he can handle the left back position,” said Magilton .
“He is determined to make a success of his career and he if does not make the grade it will be our fault.
“He is athletic and has pace and I am seriously thinking about giving the youngster his head.”
Magilton was also particularly happy with the displays of Pablo Counago and substitute Tommy Smith, but talking about Hubnik he said:
“He is behind us fitness-wise and looked more comfortable when he switched to right back. But I don't think I am going to pursue things.”
And talking about the game, Magilton added: “The game was too open in the first half and we were disjointed, but we controlled proceedings after the break and overall a draw was about right.
“These games are not all about winning by any means, and we learned quite a lot from the night. It was a proper game.
“Danny Haynes can be a manger's dream and a manager's nightmare, but his pace will always worry defenders and he can play a massive part when coming on.
“He has shown up well in pre-season, while hopefully Richard Wright made the only mistake he is going to make this season.”
Magilton confirmed that talks are continuing with Ben Thatcher and that he is still looking to increase his squad.
“If Ben comes in he will be a squad player like the rest of the players.”
Magilton confirmed that new striker Kevin Lisbie could be in the squad for the game at Ridgeons League Tiptree United tonight.
