First Derby Victory in 16 Years
Ipswich Town broke a long-standing hoodoo with a 3-1 victory over Norwich City at Portman Road, their first derby win since 2009. The home side delivered a commanding performance in front of a packed stadium, ending years of frustration for supporters who have endured countless near misses in one of English football’s most passionate rivalries.
Dominant Display and Key Moments
From the opening whistle, Ipswich dictated the tempo. Early pressure paid off when Conor Chaplin struck in the 24th minute, sparking rapturous celebrations. Norwich briefly found hope with an equaliser before halftime, but Ipswich regained control through George Hirst’s composed finish and a late goal from Leif Davis that sealed the victory. Manager Kieran McKenna’s tactical setup was praised for balancing attacking flair with defensive discipline, nullifying Norwich’s counter-attacking threat.
Emotional Scenes and Season Momentum
As the final whistle blew, thousands of Ipswich fans erupted in joy, celebrating an overdue moment of local pride. McKenna lauded his players’ composure, describing the win as “a reward for belief and persistence.” The result not only restores bragging rights in East Anglia but also strengthens Ipswich’s position near the top of the Championship table, fueling optimism for a potential Premier League return.
