Ipswich completed the second match of the pre-season programme on a hot Friday evening at Humber Doucy Lane in front of a good crowd.
Sudbury proved predictably stern opponents playing in Regional 1-Level 5 (Ipswich play next season at Regional 2-Level 6), however it was the home team that started the better and were rewarded with a try by Ali Margetts after 13 minutes following sustained pressure and possession.

Sudbury however reacted quickly and scored a try of their own 3 minutes later and extended the lead with a further try in the last minute of the half, both converted to give the away side a 5pts to 14 lead.

Ipswich started the second half with greater intensity and responded with a try by Lock Monty Beaton converted by Callum Murphy to reduce the arrears to 12pts to 14, only for this to be undone by some uncharacteristically poor defending by the home side in mid field resulting in a Sudbury converted try.

This galvanised Ipswich in playing their best rugby of the match resulting in 2 tries for 17 year old Full back/Wing Callum Murphy putting the home side in the lead 22pts to 21 with 6 minutes left.

A lack of composure, coupled with giving away 3 successive penalties, enabled Sudbury to regain the initiative scoring 2 tries in the last 4 minutes to give them a 22pts to 33 victory
.
Both teams deserve credit for producing an entertaining game early on in the season, expertly refereed by Andy Dixon.

Head Coach Jim Clark would see this as distinct advancement from last week’s game v Ipswich YM in terms of continuity, skills and fitness levels across the squad.

Their was further evidence younger players in the squad developing up well which is a testament to the amazing work carried out by the Academy coaches over the years, transitioning players from Youth to Senior rugby is a major playing focus looking forward for IRFC.

Ipswich complete their pre-season programme next Friday 19th at Bury St Edmunds kicking off at 7.30pm.