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A stunning individual effort from Liam Delap helped Ipswich Town salvage a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa, preventing the visitors from moving level on points with Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Delap’s second goal came in the second half when Ipswich trailed 2-1. The 21-year-old striker collected the ball just inside Villa’s half, raced into the box, and skillfully outwitted Diego Carlos before slotting the ball past Emi Martinez.
Delap had earlier given Ipswich the lead, converting Jack Clarke’s cutback in the eighth minute. However, Villa responded before halftime. Morgan Rogers capitalized on Jacob Greaves’ poor clearance, combining with Ollie Watkins before smashing in his first goal of the season to level the score. Leon Bailey’s cross then found an unmarked Watkins, who headed Villa into the lead.
Despite Villa looking set for a third successive comeback win, Delap’s brilliance ensured Ipswich earned a point, lifting them to 15th in the table. Villa, meanwhile, missed the chance to close the gap on Liverpool.
Positives for Ipswich, but First Win Elusive
Ipswich’s wait for a first Premier League win continues, but manager Kieran McKenna will take heart from the performance. Delap’s two goals were a highlight, and the former Manchester City striker could have completed a hat-trick if not for Martinez’s crucial save in a one-on-one situation.
Kalvin Phillips also impressed, playing a key role in the opening goal and testing Martinez with a powerful shot from distance. However, defensive lapses remain a concern, as Villa’s goals came too easily.
With upcoming fixtures against teams outside the top 10, Ipswich will hope to secure their first win soon, especially if Delap maintains his excellent form.
Villa Miss Out on Another Comeback
After recent comeback victories against Wolves and Everton, Aston Villa appeared poised for another after overturning their early deficit. Rogers’ first goal of the season and Watkins’ header looked to have sealed the win, but Delap’s late strike denied them all three points.
Unai Emery’s side will now turn their focus to two major home fixtures: Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Wednesday, followed by a Premier League clash against Manchester United on Sunday.
