Stewart Ipswich’s saviour

Avenir Beggen 0

Stewart has fallen out of favour at Portman Road, and Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp yesterday admitted he was considering a bid for the 29-year-old.

But the forward, who scored 19 Premiership goals for Ipswich two seasons ago, rediscovered his scoring touch last night to give the Tractor Boys a deserved win.

Ipswich youngster Matthew Richards made his debut, making him the youngest Town player to start in a European tie at just 17.

Jamie Clapham was named captain for the first time, with club captain Matt Holland starting on the bench alongside Jim Magilton and Hermann Hreidarsson.

Ipswich enjoyed most of the possession, with Richards impressive on the left flank.

Beggen’s only real foray forward came after 23 minutes when Claudio Da Luz sent Alain Schmit racing towards goal.

Schmit’s touch sent the ball over the line for a goal-kick.

At the other end, Hartert made two saves as Ipswich continued to control proceedings after the break, but for all their possession, they had to wait until the 67th minute for their first real opening of the second half.

However, they got their reward at the death when former Huddersfield and Bristol Rovers marksman Stewart volleyed home Magilton’s through-ball.