Ipswich Town fans are celebrating their team’s promotion back to the Premier League. The Blues secured their spot on Saturday with a 3-0 victory against QPR.
Victory at Portman Road
All eyes were on Portman Road as Ipswich Town took to the pitch knowing a win against QPR would secure a return to the Premier League. Two quick goals from George Hirst and Jaden Philogene helped settle nerves inside the stadium and set The Blues on their way to a 3-0 victory and second spot in the Championship.
Town were promoted to the Premier League in 2024. They were relegated after only one win in their final 19 matches.
Supporters React to Promotion
Jack Richardson, from Ipswich, was among nearly 30,000 fans at the game. The 19-year-old said he had seen the team go through three promotions in four years, adding that this one “feels amazing”.
“I was nervy coming into it and there was a chance we could bottle it, but as soon as I saw them two, three minutes in and we scored, it was gone,” said Richardson.
Birthday girl Lisa Fisher, from the Suffolk town, celebrated her 60th in style with the promotion triumph. “What a birthday present. It was top of my list and I got it,” she said. “I have been going [to Portman Road] since 1975 and we have had good times and bad times, but it wouldn’t be supporting Ipswich if we didn’t.”
She added, “We won the FA Cup in ’78 and had the best team there ever was in ’81, and we had dips but now with Kieran, the good times are back.”
Looking Ahead to the Premier League
Robin Collins, from Ipswich, said the team played “absolutely brilliant” on Saturday. “They did exactly what they needed to do – came out of the traps quickly, and got a brilliant result. McKenna is God for doing that again,” the 45-year-old added.
Talking about the team preparing for the Premier League, he said “we will deal with that tomorrow”. He added, “A lot of money needs to be spent, more than last time, bring [Liam] Delap back, bring [Omari] Hutchinson back and go big for the Premier League next season.”
Joe, 30, from Ipswich, said it was a “perfect start” to the game after George Hirst scored a goal after only three minutes. “This stadium is a Premier League ground and I so hope we stay up next year as we fully deserve it,” he said. “Us fans, we love them through the highs and the lows.”
Ellie added: “It makes me feel so emotional, it makes me happy for everyone.”
Trevor Loan, from Ipswich, has been a supporter of the club for decades, following the Blues since the glory days of Sir.
Delighted Town fans told the BBC of their delight at being back – and their hopes for next season in the top flight.