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Jim Pleased With Spirit - Ipswich Town News

Town boss Jim Magilton was delighted with the spirit shown by his players in the 1-0 victory over Derby at Pride Park. Jon Walters netted the only goal in the first half, the ball going in off his shoulder.

Magilton said: "We've shown tremendous spirit and tremendous character. The players have stuck together and they've had to because Derby showed great heart and kept going for their manager right to the end.

"Even though we had the numerical advantage Derby kept going. We had a little bit of luck, but I though we deserved it.

"The back four defended heroically and the keeper was very safe in his handling.

"I thought the midfield also did well and points away from home are never easy at any level. In the Championship, you've got to earn every point and we did that today.

"We haven't had the rub of the green away from home, but our away performances have improved from last year. But we can be better with the ball. We looked a bit nervous at times but that's understandable."

Derby boss Paul Jewell stayed away from the post-match press conference with assistant Chris Hutchings left to give the Rams' managements' view: "Paul is a little bit disappointed. In the past, we have always taken it in turns to do the press conferences just for a different voice.

"But Paul is of the same opinion as me and that is that we have to work hard to put things right.

"I can understand the fans' frustration because we are losing matches and no one wants to see that.

"I didn't think that Ipswich were a lot better than us but it's unfortunate that we are going through a period when we are not creating many clear-cut chances.

"We conceded a poor goal and the early injury to Nathan Ellington upset us and the sending off didn't help, so it's been a bad day all round.

"But we won't be appealing against the sending off, it was a high challenge and he has shown his studs.

"It wasn't malicious in any way and maybe it was a bit harsh but those are the rules."

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