Following Ipswich Town’s 1-0 win at Preston, sports writer Andy Warren hands out his player grades.
Bartosz Bialkowski
His handling was excellent and made the saves he was required to make, holding the ball on almost every occasion rather than palming away. A few balls flashed through his six yard box in the first half which he could perhaps have dealt with better. 6
Cameron Carter-Vickers
Impressing each and every week at the moment. Is so strong, reads the game well and has exceptional positional sense. He knows where his man is, knows when to clear and when he has time and is quick to step in and win the ball. Superb. 8
Luke Chambers
Playing between two talented young defenders, Chambers’ role is to be the physical presence, hold the shape and direct traffic. He has done that superbly since McCarthy switched to a central three and did so again today. 7
MORE: McCarthy relieved his tactical substitution worked after 1-0 win at Preston
Adam Webster
Another very good display from a player who has struggled with injuries for much of the season. Good in the air, strong on the ground and stepped out with the ball at his feet this afternoon – more so than usual. 8
Dominic Iorfa
Less effective in attack than he was against Norwich but still looked to be enjoying the freedom he has at wing back. Has cut out the mistakes of late but still had his hands full with Tom Barkhuizen. Unlucky to see his shot come back off the bar. 6
Jonas Knudsen
Solid and dependable, if not spectacular from the Danish defender. The full back role doesn’t allow or need him to be as physical as he has been for the Blues for much of the season. Didn’t get forward as often as he has done but his presence allowed Carayol time and space to create. 7
Cole Skuse
A mixed afternoon for the experienced midfielder. Played well in the first half, playing some expansive passes and hooking the ball through for Carayol’s goal. In the second, though, Ipswich had less ball in midfield and Skuse was guilty of giving it away on occasions. 6
Callum Connolly
Has looked tired of late and appeared to be struggling as the game edged towards a conclusion. Solid enough, but the physical, driving midfield play of recent months is lacking right now. 6
Martyn Waghorn
Lots of bluster but little in the way of creativity for the striker – now 15 without a goal. Played in a wide right role in a game where much of the Ipswich play came down the left in the first half. Was caught offside repeatedly and had few sniffs at goal. 6
Mustapha Carayol
Tore Preston to pieces in the first half before being replaced at the break. Looked to run at his man throughout the opening 45 minutes, so much so Calum Woods was replaced before the break. Should have scored when he poked an early effort wide, but took his goal extremely well. 9
MORE: Preston NE 0-1 Ipswich Town: Carayol wins it for Blues with superb first-half finish
Joe Garner
Would have desperately have wanted to score against his former club but, sadly, it wasn’t to be. His one real chance saw him not quite manage to reach Waghorn’s cross, which Iorfa ultimately clattered off the bar. Was physical in attack, as always. 6
Luke Hyam (for Carayol 45)
Came on and added a physical edge to midfield following the departure of Carayol. Played in a slightly more advanced role than he usually occupies and, while not the most expansive with the ball at his feet, did move it well at times. 6
Freddie Sears (for Garner 69)
Chased up front and helped push Preston back without ever getting a look at goal. 6
Jordan Spence (for Waghorn 90)
Came on and made a late clearance which helped see the game out. 6
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