Magilton praises goalkeeper Alexander

By Derek Davis

BLUES' boss Jim Magilton once again praised keeper Neil Alexander for saving Ipswich Town at crucial times in the local derby.

Magilton said: “Neil kept us in the game with fantastic saves. He has got better and better as the weeks have gone on.

“His confidence has grown. He had to be at his best today and he was.”

Just like Burnley last month, Ipswich threw away a two-goal lead to end up with a draw and could not make the most of their good fortune.

Magilton said: “We were probably a bit fortunate to be two ahead at half-time. There were so many chances for both teams that it could have been anything.

“We made the most of our opportunities and they didn't.

“We knew they would come at us second half and put pressure on us. We didn't take enough care of the ball so I was disappointed with us in the second half.

“You have to give the opposition some credit because they threw all caution to the wind and played very well second half.

“Had we defended properly they would not have scored the goals they did so I'm disappointed with that.

“It was end-to-end stuff and very entertaining. I'm not sure about the quality but it was a good game with both teams keeping going until the end.”

Magilton praised half-time substitute John Hartson who made a big difference and said: “John Hartson played very well for them. He bullied our back four and was very good in possession.”

He also took a swipe at the City players who have struggled this season and are currently bottom of the table.

He said: “It is amazing what new managers can do for players. I'm sure Peter Grant will be sat at home absolutely choking with that performance from Norwich.”

Town now go to Sheffield United searching for their first away win since March.

Magilton said: “We have a tough game on Tuesday night and need to have a look at our shape away from home.”