Trialist Thomas Features in Friendly Draw With Southend - Ipswich Town News

Trialist Jerome Thomas played the first 72 minutes as a Town XI, featuring several senior players, drew 1-1 with Southend in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Playford Road this afternoon. Irish U18 international Shane McLoughlin netted for the Blues on 85, before one-time Town loanee Tyrone Barnett equalised for the League One side.

TWTD was first to reveal that free agent Thomas, 32, was training with the Blues on Wednesday, the former Arsenal, Charlton and West Brom winger having been released by Crystal Palace last summer.

Also involved for Town this afternoon were Jay Tabb, Luke Varney - who created McLoughlin’s goal - Kevin Foley, Piotr Malarczyk, Giles Coke and Larsen Touré.

Former Blue Noel Hunt played the first half for the Shrimpers, who switched their entire XI at the break.

U21s: Henly, Foley, Malarczyk, Digby, Kenlock (Robinson 75), Thomas (Hammond 72), McDonnell (McLoughlin 50), Coke, Tabb, Touré, Varney. Unused: Henshall, Guldbrandsen.

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