Ipswich Town began their first top-flight season in 22 years with tough defeats against Liverpool and Manchester City. However, they enter this weekend’s match following successive draws against Fulham, Brighton, and Southampton. The team is learning to navigate the challenges of playing at a higher level and adapting to different game states.
Kieran McKenna said “We know we’re not going to dominate every moment of games, as has been the case at times in previous seasons, so it’s about learning how to manage different game states. When we’re on top of games, like we have been in spells, in the home games especially, it’s about the execution to go and turn that into clear chances and goals. That needs to improve and we’ve been working hard on that. I’m sure as the players adapt to the league, individually and collectively, that will develop.”
McKenna highlighted the importance of defensive organisation when the opponent is on top. He emphasized the need for collective strength and sticking to the team’s strategy without allowing individual play to disrupt the flow.
Kieran McKenna said “There have been other phases in games when the opponent has been on top and we have had to defend collectively and with good organisation. We’ve already felt how important that is. You can’t afford to go off strategy and play individually at any moment. Our strength is going to be as a collective.”
McKenna reflected on how much the players have learned since the start of the season, especially after facing two of the best teams in the division and earning results against strong opposition just below the top tier.
Kieran McKenna said “I think the players have learned lots already, on and off the ball. We’ve played two of the best teams in the division and taken results from two teams just outside the real top ones in the division.Our intent going into every game is the same. It’s to be the dominant side and to be brave and aggressive with and without the ball, but it’s not always going to pan out that way. We’re enjoying the journey we’re on.”
This restructuring groups the context and quotes, highlighting McKenna’s reflections on the team’s progress and challenges in the Premier League.
