Ipswich Stuns Norwich 3-1 — McKenna Breaks Silence with Surprising Verdict!

Kieran McKenna Thrilled as Ipswich Town End 16-Year Wait for East Anglian Derby Win

Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna expressed his joy after the Blues secured a 3-1 victory over Norwich City at Portman Road, ending a 16-year drought in the East Anglian derby.

Goals from Cedric Kipre, Jaden Philogene, and Jack Clarke sealed the win against Norwich, a result that means a lot to the local community and the club.

“It means a great deal to the town,” McKenna said. “It’s a special rivalry that you really feel when you come here. Ipswich represents Suffolk, Norwich is Norfolk’s team. I know this has been on every Ipswich fan’s mind, even during the good times, so it’s great to finally put it to bed.”

Reflecting on the club’s progress, McKenna recalled, “Four years ago, we were mid-table in League One, with muddy pitches and basic facilities, while Norwich was enjoying the Premier League. Last year we played in the Premier League too, but as a supporter, you know until you get that derby win, there’s always a ‘yeah, but…’ from your rivals. It’s great to take that off them now.”

Ipswich took the lead through Kipre’s powerful header from a corner. Norwich’s Oscar Schwartau then equalized with a deflected strike, but just before halftime, Philogene delivered a stunning solo goal — a spinning, long-range finish into the top corner.

“That was an incredible goal, possibly the best in derby history,” McKenna praised. “It was a decisive moment and a fantastic individual display from a remarkable talent. Jaden really grabbed the game by the neck.”

In the 77th minute, substitutes Mareclino Nunez, Ivan Azon, and Jack Clarke combined for the third goal. Nunez set up Azon, whose shot hit the post, and Clarke was there to score the rebound.

“The impact from substitutes has been key to our recent promotions,” McKenna explained. “We were pioneers in making the most of the five-sub rule in the EFL. Last year in the Premier League, strong benches often decided games, so returning to that level with a motivated squad is important.”

He added, “It’s not just about having quality on the bench — the mindset matters. These boys are fighting for the club and ready to contribute, which was clear from their performance today. Jack Clarke, again, showed great promise.”

Reviewing the match as a whole, McKenna said, “We deserved the win. Our runners caused them problems all game, and we created plenty of chances. Defensively, we were solid and didn’t give much away.”

He acknowledged the typical derby intensity, noting, “There were scrappy moments, physical challenges, and tense duels, but we remained calm and focused. We may not have been at our most fluid, but we stayed compact and dangerous.”

McKenna believes this victory is a significant milestone for the team: “Playing under such pressure and coming out on top is a big experience. It could be a turning point for us moving forward.”

Ahead of the match, McKenna revealed a special preparation moment: a long-serving staff member shared insights into the derby’s history and importance with the squad.

“That was Matt Bayard, our club physio of 25 years, an Ipswich man through and through,” McKenna smiled. “He’s been part of all these derbies and spoke passionately to the team this week. His contribution was a vital part of our preparation.”