Hammers hope history repeats

West Ham were looking for a repeat of last year’s play-off semi-final, when they defeated Ipswich 2-0 at Upton Park in the second leg to progress to the final.

Manager Alan Pardew stuck with the team that won 2-1 at Watford on the final day of the regular Championship season to gain entry into the play-offs.

Ipswich boss Joe Royle made two changes, Drissa Diallo replacing David Unsworth – who has returned to Portsmouth after a loan spell – in defence, and Kevin Horlock coming in for Darren Currie in midfield.