THEY say things even themselves out over a season but it has taken just four days for Ipswich Town boss Joe Royle to feel decisions have been balanced out, writes Derek Davis.

THEY say things even themselves out over a season but it has taken just four days for Ipswich Town boss Joe Royle to feel decisions have been balanced out, writes Derek Davis.

Less than a week ago Royle let rip at a referee he felt had cost Town at least a point at Sunderland. On Saturday he admitted feeling some sympathy for opposite number Ronnie Moore, but stopped short of saying any points should have gone elsewhere.

The game hinged on three penalty decisions and there were also two sending-offs. No-one complained about the red cards.

Royle said: "You can't argue with the result although it got a little controversial. I know Ronnie is not happy but you can't deny we deserved to beat them. They are a hard side to play against and they have been a bogey side for us so a win in any way will do."

It was not vintage Ipswich but the result was crucial as Town are still at the wrong end of the division, even after four league wins from five. Royle said: "We looked a bit nervous but overall we passed the ball better and created more chances. Our goalkeeper has been fairly redundant and I know Ronnie will say they should have had a penalty to level things.

"We should have had a penalty before the one we were given. At first I thought Georges tangling with Byfield was a penalty but the referee was close but that shows how difficult it is for referees.

"The referee did not have a bad game but had some difficult decisions to make."

Town's loan players will have to go back unless cash is found to keep them. Royle said: "There are five new players in that side and 11 games is not long enough for a new side to settle in. I'm delighted with the way the midfield has knitted together as individuals, although Chris Bart-Williams looked a bit leggy after all our recent travel. Kuqi worked hard for the team, while I was delighted for Pablo to get his goals although I thought Jermaine Wright was probably our best player. It is four in five after none and going bottom of the table so you have to praise the side for their resilience."

Town's defence have still not kept a clean sheet in 14 league games, something Royle is hoping his team don't become paranoid about. He said: "We have to be careful not to get a phobia about free kicks and set pieces

"We were the better side, but we were better than them last season and lost so I will take the points."