Ipswich vs Brighton Report

Scorers: Mitoma 59’, Rutter 82’

Brighton & Hove Albion climbed into the Premier League (PL) top half with a well-earned 2-0 win over Ipswich Town at Portman Road. It marked the Seagulls’ first victory in five league outings, while Ipswich remained rooted in the relegation zone despite a spirited display.

First Half: Ipswich Show Promise, Verbruggen Stands Firm

In the first top-flight meeting between these sides since January 1983, Ipswich aimed to build on recent positive results, including a victory over Chelsea and a draw against Fulham. Despite Brighton controlling possession early on, it was the hosts who crafted the better chances.

Nathan Broadhead was the first to threaten, testing Brighton goalkeeper Mark Verbruggen with a well-placed effort that the Dutchman expertly pushed away. Buoyed by the electric atmosphere at a packed Portman Road, the Tractor Boys grew in confidence, creating another close call just before halftime when Omari Hutchinson unleashed a powerful 25-yard shot that Verbruggen did well to tip to safety.

Second Half: Brighton’s Clinical Edge Shines

Ipswich looked the brighter side as the second half began, but Brighton’s quality in attack soon proved decisive. In the 59th minute, the Seagulls struck with a clinical counterattack. Yasin Ayari broke free down the right flank before squaring to Matt O’Riley, whose intelligent layoff allowed Kaoru Mitoma to unleash a deflected strike past Christian Walton for the opener.

Brighton nearly doubled their lead shortly after, as João Pedro’s sharp turn and shot were denied by Walton’s brilliant reflex save. However, the visitors’ dominance grew as the match wore on, and they sealed the victory with eight minutes left. Substitute Georginio Rutter pounced on a loose ball in the box, swiveling and firing into the corner to make it 2-0.

What It Means

Brighton’s hard-fought win propels them to ninth in the league standings, a reward for their superior second-half performance. Ipswich, meanwhile, remain in the relegation zone, level on points with safety but trailing on goals scored. Their spirited first-half display was undone by Brighton’s clinical finishing and composure under pressure.

Looking Ahead

• Brighton: The Seagulls will look to maintain their momentum as they push for a strong finish in the PL table.
• Ipswich: Despite the defeat, Kieran McKenna’s side can take heart from their battling performance as they prepare for crucial fixtures in their fight for survival

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Ipswich v Brighton, 2024/25 | Premier League