By Michael
July 25 2002

Bristol Rovers and Ipswich went head to head last night in a very entertaining match, which saw Ipswich win with a last minute strike from young Darren Bent to make it 2-1 to the Tractor Boys. Both sides showed a great deal of commitment and hard work, this would no doubt please the fans of both teams.

Again, like on saturday, there were many visiting supporters. Ipswich fans are known for their fantastic support they give for their team, all accross the country. I'd just like to say thanks to them for the support.

The first half ended 0-0 but it saw Rovers control the game and managed to keep the ball really well. Ipswich managed to force many corners but due to Rovers brilliant defending Ipswich was unable to break The Gas down. Rovers' Drew Shore and Adam Barrett were a rock at the back.

The second half was full of action and saw Ipswich play some good passing football. Rovers however, took the lead through Adam Barrett, who powered home a header from a superb Vita Astajevs cross.

Darren Bent replaced Marcus Stewart; Marcus was given a fantastic reception from every gashead in the ground, what a hero.

I honestly thought we were on a winner, but as the game grew on, Ipswich took advantage of some Rovers' defensive errors and managed to equalise on the 70th minute through Darren Ambrose who smashed passed Rovers 'keeper Ryan Clarke, it was a Marcus Bent passed that made the goal.

The game was dieing down and both sides looked content on keeping it at 1-1, however, there was to be one last twist in the tale, Darren Ambrose put through Marcus Bent to slot home in the last minute of the game to make it 2-1.

Bristol Rovers were probably a little hard done by but it was a descent match for both sides. It was also nice to see Matt Holland clap the Rovers fans, everyone returned the favour and it capped a good night out.

You can check out the Ipswich site for more information at Singing The Blues