IPSWICH Town manager Paul Jewell believes his players proved tonight that the spirit is still within his camp following a valuable 1-1 draw at Brighton.
Following disappointing performances against Charlton and Barnsley, the Blues put in a much-improved display against one of the division’s most attack-minded sides.
With Daryl Murphy’s first-half opener only pegged back in the 80th minute by substitute Will Buckley, back-to-back away points have restored some confidence heading into Saturday’s home game against new league leaders Cardiff City.
Reflecting on his side’s spirited display, he continued: “Obviously you’re disappointed to only draw when you go 1-0 up, but they’re a good team Brighton. They have a way of playing that is very difficult to stop and I thought we stopped them.
“We frustrated them, kept our shape well and counter-attacked excellently, first half especially.
“We had a wonderful opportunity to go 2-0 up at the start of the second half when their keeper has made a great save from Daryl Murphy.
“They then had a lot of pressure and eventually got a goal, but I thought we stood up to the task well.
“The back four, not just them, the whole team, has taken a lot of flack. I think they’ve shown in the last two games that the spirit is there though.
“I thought Carlos Edwards was outstanding. For someone of allegedly 34 he looks like an 18-year-old. I thought the rest of the team dug in too and showed great attitude and determination.
“We looked a lot more compact tonight and made some good opportunities on the break at what is a difficult place to come.
“We just need to get that victory and we’ll be on our way.”
Looking ahead to the weekend’s Sky televised game at Portman Road (kick-off 5.20pm), he added: “Cardiff are flying and have spent a lot of money, but we’ve got to try and match them and put on a decent performance for our supporters because our home results haven’t been what we wanted.”
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