We take a look at the major talking points coming out of Ipswich Town’s 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
A different approach
In the first half especially, it looked like a different Ipswich Town.
The ball was being moved through midfield quickly as the Blues had plenty of possession, rather than long balls being fired up the channels, and it was pleasing on the eye.
Post match Mick McCarthy revealed he and his players had been working on a different approach for much of the week and, while it didn’t necessarily create chance after chance, it was certainly more attractive.
Injured playmakers Ryan Fraser, Teddy Bishop and David McGoldrick could all certainly have added a creative spark to a side playing that brand of football, had they been available.
Despite a changed style of play the Blues were still required to grind out a 1-0 victory, but it’s now two wins in a row which leaves McCarthy’s side just a point off the play-offs with a game in hand.
Foley quietly going about his business
He may not have overly-excited Ipswich Town fans when he was signed at the start of the year, but Kevin Foley is proving to be quietly effective for the Blues.
The Irish international put in his best Blues performance in the win over Nottingham Forest, where he was deployed in a midfield role and was visibly keen to get on the ball whenever possible.
His simple ‘pass and move’ football was a big part of Ipswich’s impressive first-half display which, it has to be remembered, came from a full-back playing out of position.
A good afternoon was rewarded as he played a major part in creating Ben Pringle’s winner, by winning the ball back and then keeping it alive inside the box for the midfielder to fire home.
Youth brings a buzz
He didn’t get on, but the very presence of academy product Andre Dozzell on the bench seemed to give Portman Road a lift prior to kick off.
He received a big cheer when his name was read out and, if he gets on the pitch before the end of the season, he will still match his father Jason’s achievement of making his Ipswich debut as a 16-year-old.
Bart has earned the number one shirt…again
Along with Christophe Berra, keeper Bartosz Bialkoswki played a major part in keeping Ipswich level before they eventually grabbed a winner.
The Pole turned two early saves from Nelson Oliveira away well and was commanding in his area, just as he has been since taking the place of Dean Gerken following his shoulder injury at Birmingham.
McCarthy has often said he views both Bialkowski and Gerken as being equal, in terms of ability, which maybe brings the best out of them both when they get their chance.
Once you pop…
It’s now two winners in a week for Fulham loanee Ben Pringle, who appears to have settled well at Portman Road.
He adds something different to what at times has been a flat midfield, is comfortable on the ball and is always looking to move forward, with his set piece delivery certainly causing problems for the opposition.
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