A RELIEVED Jim Magilton accepted the three points were more satisfactory than the display as Ipswich mullered Barnsley.

Derek Davis

A RELIEVED Jim Magilton accepted the three points were more satisfactory than the display as Ipswich mullered Barnsley.

Jon Stead and Iván Campo were both gifted goals from reds keeper Heinz Muller, with Owen Garvan netting in between to take Town's unbeaten run to five.

The Blues boss said: “The result was far more important than the performance. We set very high standards at this club and we know we have fallen a little short of that. It wasn't great but we showed great character and determination.

“The crowd reacted fantastically well because they knew we were a bit jittery but they responded really well.”

Magilton thanked Muller, who is being watched by several Premiership clubs.

“We took our chances really well. Their goalkeeper has had one of those nights and I'm grateful he chose Portman Road to do it. He is normally an excellent keeper.”

Magilton believes the win will be a great confidence booster after dropping two points against Crystal Palace.

He said: “After all the doom and gloom from Saturday and the pessimism around the football club a win is a win and we take it. Come May people won't remember Tuesday night against Barnsley they will just see the result. But we know we can play better.”

Magilton accepted Barnsley played very well on the night.

He said: “I told Simon (Davey) that up until the goal they were the better side and produced some really good football and he should take great credit for that.”

He also reserved praise for man of the match Richard Wright.

“Richard Wright has come under pressure so should be very pleased with his 90 minutes. Hopefully that will be the confidence boost he needs. He sets high standards and by his own admission he has fallen below that.

Jon Stead struck his third goal in three successive games at Portman Road since signing from Sheffield United and Magilton sent a gentle reminder to his critics.

He said: “Funny enough I brought him to the club so I will give myself a pat on the back.”

Davey said: “Heinz has been magnificent for since signed and never made a mistake for me unfortunately he has made two errors and cost us the game.”

History was made when 15-year-old, and 45 days, Reuben Noble-Lazarus became the youngest-ever Football League player.