IPSWICH Town could have “two very lively front players” on their books in years to come after Jack Marriott and Jack Simmons shot the Blues into the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup.

The first year scholars grabbed the goals as Town knocked out Leeds United 2-0 in a very professional display at Portman Road last night.

And Under-18s coach Russell Osman is tipping the pair for big things if they continue working hard and improving their game.

Osman said: “Jack Marriott has come into his own since Caolan Lavery left. He is reaping the rewards for his hard work – he really does put everything into every game.

“Jack Simmons is a very different type of striker. He is learning the game but he is a terrific striker as well.

“It just shows you that goalscorers come in all different shapes and sizes. One is prepared to cover every blade of grass for you and one is just very clinical.

“We have got two good lads there although they are still both first years – so we have them for the next two years. And if they keep improving the way they are, it means we have two very lively front players with a bit of pace and power who know where the net is.”

Osman was left delighted by his side’s progression – the first win witnessed at Portman Road for seven weeks – with two clinical goals and some stout defending in between.

“There were good things from both the first half and the second half,” explained Osman, who also praised the work of youth coach Gerald Nash and academy director Sammy Morgan.

“Leeds United are a good side with some experienced players, big boys, with some pace. In the first 15 minutes of the first half, there were a few nerves jangling around. After that, we seemed to settle down a bit and created some good chances.

“We went in at half-time with the one-goal lead. We knew the second half was going to be difficult with Leeds throwing everything at us. The good points from the second half we managed to keep a clean sheet, blocking shots and the keeper (Conor O’Donnell) did his bit.

“We said at half-time if the back four and the keeper can keep a clean sheet we would go through.”