Boss Jim Magilton felt the Blues were unlucky not to get something from the 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace. The Northern Irishman was pleased with his side's passing and movement.

Magilton said: "We passed and moved like an Ipswich team I want to manage.

"Nicky Forster picked up from where he left off last season and we were in control - but we had a crazy few minutes which lost us the game.

"But I'm delighted with the team, who gave me everything. On any other day we would have got something from that game."

Forster was happy to net for the fifth league game in succession: "I was pleased to score, but it's the result that matters and obviously from that point we're all disappointed.

"The manager made it clear that we can't afford to defend as we did for their two goals.

"We switched off and we can't do that if we are to win promotion from this division. We need to defend as a unit and grind out 1-0 wins. We had the game in our hands, but then lost it within five minutes.

"There are plenty of positives though, and we have a renewed energy about us this season.

"We are equipped to be involved in the promotion shake-up, especially if the gaffer adds to the squad. But like I say, we need to cut out the errors."

Palace boss Peter Taylor said after the game that he still needs to add to his squad: "We're not a promotion team yet. We've got a good team and a good squad but we need to improve it.

"The chairman is first class and has said we'll have a look at it and we'll strengthen."

The England U21 boss was pleased with some of his new signings: "Carl Fletcher and Mark Kennedy haven't had a full pre-season, Carl was preparing to start in the Premiership with West Ham in two weeks, but both of them kept going great.

"Carl looks a good type, I've always been impressed with him, he's a good passer and he's a leader.

"And I'm pleased for James [Scowcroft]. He obviously has a great affection for this club, but he got the goal and he led the line very well."

Photo: Action Images

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