Ipswich Town’s punishing readjustment to Premier League life continued as Manchester City ran out 4-1 winners, meaning the Tractor Boys have lost the opening two matches of a league campaign for the first time since 2006/07. The reigning Premier League champions, who have lifted the title in four consecutive seasons, proved difficult opposition for last season’s Championship runners-up, despite a shock early lead for the visitors.
One of the many dramatic moments at Etihad Stadium came when summer signing Sammie Szmodics broke clear through on goal to slot between Ederson’s legs and put Ipswich ahead early on. But Ipswich joy was short-lived. Leif Davis fouled Savinho inside the area, handing Erling Haaland the opportunity to level matters from the penalty spot; he rifled home with minimum fuss.
It didn’t take Manchester City long to turn things around, capitalizing on mistakes from Ipswich. Arijanet Muric was caught in possession on the edge of his area, allowing Kevin De Bruyne to slot into an empty net. Moments later, De Bruyne set Haaland through to round Muric and complete his brace, with Ipswich shell-shocked.
City continued to press and Rico Lewis and De Bruyne hit the woodwork before the end of the first period. The second half was more sedate, and for that reason alone perhaps, Ipswich avoided further damage. Though for City supporters – over 50,000 of whom got to their feet to applaud when Ilkay Gundoğan finally made his comeback – that was reason enough.
The afternoon was capped off in the dying moments when Haaland completed his hat-trick, securing the match ball and sealing Manchester City’s 18th win in their last 19 Premier League games against newly-promoted teams. For Ipswich, it was a sobering experience, having faced two of the league’s top sides, Liverpool and City, in their opening matches.
