The Premier League is back in full swing after the international break, and all eyes will be on Portman Road as Ipswich Town hosts Everton in a clash that could prove pivotal as the season unfolds. Both teams are searching for vital points to boost their campaigns and secure their positions in the league. Let’s delve into the details and make some predictions for this exciting match.
Ipswich Town: Aiming for Their First Win
Ipswich Town sits one place above the relegation zone, having struggled to find footing since returning to England’s top tier. With a record of four draws and three losses (D4, L3), the Tractor Boys are desperate for their first victory of the season. Their recent form shows improvement, particularly with four draws in their last five matches, indicating that Kieran McKenna’s side may gradually find their rhythm.
Historically, Ipswich has never started a top-flight campaign with eight winless matches, and they will be eager to change that narrative this weekend. Adding to their motivation, Ipswich has been successful against Everton in recent years, winning three of their last four Premier League meetings (D1). Although the previous victory dates back to 2002, the historical edge could be a psychological boost.
Key Player to Watch: Liam Delap
Liam Delap has emerged as Ipswich’s main attacking threat, scoring three goals in his last two appearances. Impressively, two of those goals came within the opening ten minutes of matches, highlighting his ability to make an immediate impact. If Delap can carry his form into this match, he could be the difference-maker for Ipswich.
Everton: Seeking Away Form Revival
On the other hand, Everton has started to find some momentum after a slow beginning to the season. With one win and two draws in their last three Premier League outings (W1, D2), they are aiming to extend their unbeaten run to four matches for the first time since May. The Toffees recently secured a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Newcastle United, which may provide a confidence boost despite their defensive frailties, having conceded 15 goals this season—joint second-most in the league.
Manager Sean Dyche will be eager to address Everton’s alarming away form. The team has gone 14 away league matches without a win (D5, L9). With new, ambitious owners keenly observing the club’s performance, the pressure is mounting on Dyche to deliver results on the road.
Key Player to Watch: Iliman Ndiaye
Iliman Ndiaye will be a player to watch, especially after returning fit from an injury scare during the international break. He was influential for Senegal, assisting in their recent match against Malawi. Additionally, Ndiaye scored in Everton’s last away game against Leicester, making him a crucial player for the Toffees as they secure their first away victory in nearly a year.
Hot Stat: First-Half Goals Galore
A notable trend heading into this match is Everton’s ability to score before half-time, having netted in four of their last five away league matches. This statistic suggests that the Toffees can make strong starts, which could prove decisive against a potentially vulnerable Ipswich defense.
Match Prediction
Given the contrasting forms of both teams, this match promises to be an intriguing contest. Ipswich will be desperate to secure their first win of the season, while Everton will look to build on their recent improvements.
Prediction: Ipswich Town 1 – 1 Everton
Expect a closely contested match with both teams sharing the spoils. Ipswich’s home advantage may help them secure a crucial point, while Everton’s struggle for away victories could lead to another disappointing result for the Toffees.
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