Town boss Joe Royle was understandably pleased with his side's win in last night's Dale Roberts testimonial. Goals from Shefki Kuqi and Pablo Couñago helped the Blues to a 2-1 defeat of Sir Bobby Robson's Newcastle United.

Royle said: "It was a great game for a friendly. They have the same symptoms as us. They are terrific when they have the ball but sometimes not so good when they don't have the ball.

"I was pleased with Jason De Vos and Kevin Horlock, they have given us a stiffer spine and we looked tighter.

"The first goal would have graced any game. The game never slackened and it was end-to-end. Kelvin Davis made some super saves but in the end I was delighted to win. They have terrific players with pace."

One man who turned out to pay tribute to the former Town assistant manager beyond the call of duty was Darren Ambrose, who revealed after the game that he had spent much of the day being sick: "I was ill all day and didn't feel well at all but I really wanted to play so didn't tell anyone. I'm glad I played. I got a great reception and I was very excited to be back.

"Ipswich were very good and they passed us off the pitch at times. You can tell they have had a few more games than us but if they carry that on into the season I can see them doing really well."

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