Boss Jim Magilton was delighted with his team's late 1-0 victory over Birmingham City at Portman Road. Gavin Williams volleyed home in the 89th minute after the Blues had enjoyed much the better of the game.

Magilton said: “It was a great result for us. We started very well and got our just rewards in the end.

"At West Bromwich on Saturday we played well but did not produce an end product. Today we always looked as though we could score goals. We picked ourselves up after the defeat at the Hawthorns and showed great character.

"I hope we can use this result as a springboard to play consistently well every week. On our day we are a match for anyone and the players are starting to believe in themselves.

"On the balance of play I think we deserved the three points. It was a terrific effort by all the players and now we have to build on that performance over the second half of the season.

"We created a number of chances and looked incisive when we pushed forward. Billy Clarke came in and did a great job for us and it was the same with Matt Richards. I can't fault any one of them.”

Magilton said he was pleased with Alex Bruce's performance against the side managed by his father Steve: "Alex was really determined to do well. He handled the match in a really professional manner and I was delighted for him."

The Town manager confirmed that loanee Simon Walton will be on his way back to Charlton later this week after completing his spell but is still hopeful he will keep striker Jon Macken for the second half of the season: "We will be speaking to Crystal Palace about Jon Macken in the next few days."

Birmingham boss Steve Bruce conceded his side was second best on the day: "It is disappointing to lose to a goal in the last minute, but I cannot argue with the outcome.

"I didn't think we had that cutting edge that we have had in recent weeks. We didn't pass the ball as well as we have been doing.

"Ipswich Town are a decent footballing side and they caused us a few problems. The gruelling Christmas schedule is always difficult. When you are on top of the league there are expectations, but we have to deal with that."

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