EPL Index
·10. November 2024
EPL Index
·10. November 2024
Ipswich Town clinched a historic 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, marking their first Premier League win in over two decades. The result brought to an end a long wait for a top-flight victory, as Ipswich’s last such win came in 2002. The Tractor Boys, who have struggled to hold onto leads since their return to the Premier League this season, finally found the resilience needed to secure all three points in a thrilling encounter.
This triumph, achieved under the guidance of manager Kieran McKenna, will not only be remembered for its importance to Ipswich’s survival bid but also for the tactical discipline and clinical finishing displayed. The club’s players wore their eye-catching pink third kit, designed in collaboration with Ipswich-born music star Ed Sheeran, a nod to their community spirit and creative approach to the season.
Ipswich wasted little time in making their mark, with Sammie Szmodics giving the visitors the lead with an acrobatic overhead kick that soared past Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario. It was a goal that demonstrated the precision and sharpness Ipswich had shown throughout the match, as they took full advantage of a Spurs side still adjusting to their rhythm.
Just over 10 minutes later, Ipswich doubled their lead in somewhat scrappy fashion. Liam Delap was in the right place at the right time, bundling the ball over the line from close range. The home crowd, expecting a strong response from their team, began to express their frustration as Spurs failed to break down the Ipswich defence. The boos that greeted the half-time whistle reflected Tottenham’s underwhelming first-half performance.
Photo: IMAGO
Tottenham came out with renewed intent after the break, and within minutes they thought they had halved the deficit. Dominic Solanke’s strike found the net, but a handball in the build-up saw the goal ruled out. This momentary setback would prove to be costly, as Ipswich managed to retain their composure while Spurs struggled to find a way through.
However, there was a glimmer of hope for Tottenham when Rodrigo Bentancur headed in a Pedro Porro corner with 21 minutes left, making it 2-1. The goal ignited some excitement among the home crowd, but Ipswich held firm, defending resolutely and limiting Spurs’ attacking options. Tottenham’s late efforts were thwarted by Arijanet Muric, who produced a vital save to deny Solanke a late equaliser.
Despite the late pressure, Ipswich remained resolute, and as the final whistle blew, they celebrated their first Premier League victory in 22 years. This historic win, which ended a long period of top-flight struggle for the club, will be remembered fondly by Ipswich fans. It also signals that the Tractor Boys, under McKenna’s stewardship, are capable of competing at the highest level.
The victory not only secured Ipswich’s first three points of the season but also ensured that their return to the Premier League will not be defined solely by their early-season difficulties. With such a resilient performance, Ipswich will hope to build on this momentum as they aim to establish themselves in England’s top tier.