Kieran McKenna enjoyed a 'special' win over Chelsea on Monday, which he labeled a 'milestone' moment for Ipswich Town.
His side secured their first win at home this Premier League season, beating Chelsea 2-0 for a first win in ten attempts at Portman Road.
Liam Delap proved the hero when his 12th-minute penalty set the tone, before Ipswich striker Omari Hutchinson scored against his former side in the second half.
The win marked Ipswich's first victory over Chelsea since August 1993, and McKenna called on all involved to cherish a memorable victory that took them to 18th, one point adrift of safety.
“[A] A special night for the club, for the players and fans,” the Ipswich manager told Sky Sports.[Our] first home win in the Premier League at Portman Road in 22 years, and that against Chelsea was fantastic.
“For most of the supporters who have been here for 22 years, every moment here is a milestone for them. Winning the home game is another special little milestone.
“I think the time of year, the night game and the opponents make this a special night, and I want everyone to thoroughly enjoy it.
“But inside we're getting ready for the next one. We're going back to work on Wednesday and getting ready for Sunday.” [away to Fulham].”
A HUGE WIN TO FINISH THE YEAR! #IPSCHE | @Nustone_UK pic.twitter.com/Omz0qil6fj
— IPSWICH TOWN (@IpswichTown) December 30, 2024
It could have been a different story for Ipswich had Joao Felix not had a first-half goal disallowed for offside and Cole Palmer was twice denied by the woodwork before the break.
Indeed, Chelsea had 20 shots at Christian Walton's inspired goal, their most attempts without scoring in an away match in the Premier League since December 2017 (25 against Everton).
“We've had a few VARs against us, so when their goal was disallowed for offside there was a big sigh from the crowd,” McKenna added.
“That was a good feeling, but we've had a lot of 1-0s here, so the second goal was nice.
“It won't change much inside. The group is working well and believes what we do every day. Halfway through the season we have been competitive in the vast majority of our games.
“It's just a few small improvements we need to make to win more games. We're a humble group with belief, and we'll get back on top.”
The end of a 22-year wait
Ipswich win another Premier League match at Portman Road #IPSCHE pic.twitter.com/tu37BOiQuu
— Premier League (@premierleague) December 30, 2024
Reflecting on a year in which Ipswich were promoted at the first attempt from the Championship, McKenna praised his side who he believes are capable of staving off relegation.
“Incredible year,” he continued. “Anyone involved with Ipswich can probably enjoy a glass of sparkling stuff and reflect on some of the games we've had and the moments over the years.
“I don't want to point too far back, but I think six of the starting line-ups were part of our League One team today, so this is the journey this group has been on.
“When you have moments like this, take a short break and enjoy it, but then move on to the next one.”
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