‘We won because of that’ – Rob Edwards’ Middlesbrough verdict after Ipswich win

Edwards Hails Middlesbrough’s Statement Win Over Ipswich

Rob Edwards expressed his pride after Middlesbrough produced an impressive performance to beat promotion favourites Ipswich Town 2-1, calling it a real marker for his side.

Coming off their first defeat of the season, Boro responded superbly in a thrilling encounter that showcased the best of the Championship under the Friday night lights on Sky Sports.

An own goal from Cedric Kipre and a second-half strike from Morgan Whittaker proved decisive, despite Ipswich captain Dara O’Shea pulling one back with 14 minutes to play.

“I’m delighted,” Edwards said afterwards. “I thought it was a great tear-up — two teams going right at it. It was a really enjoyable game of football.

On a Friday night with a big audience watching, I’m really proud of the boys for showing the best of themselves.

“It was pleasing to see us attack like that. There have been a few questions about that side of our game, but when a team like Ipswich come here to play and win, it creates an open game with spaces for both sides.

We pressed high, and they did too, which made it end-to-end at times — but we attacked really well and showed a lot of quality.”

Edwards switched to a 4-2-3-1 formation to encourage more attacking play, but what pleased him most was that Boro maintained their defensive discipline despite the open nature of the contest. Goalkeeper Sol Brynn saved a first-half penalty, Dael Fry cleared off the line, and several key blocks preserved their lead.

“Sol’s save was brilliant — that’s his job, but he did it really well,” said Edwards. “Some of the blocks tonight were just as good. They had three or four shots from the edge of the box in quick succession and we threw bodies in the way. I actually celebrated one of those blocks like a goal!

“I thought to myself, ‘What am I doing?’ — but that’s what wins you games. The lads showed great intensity to win the ball back. It was a really enjoyable game against a very good team, and that’s why I’m so proud of the players — because we stood up and delivered.”