So much of Ipswich’s survival hopes are likely to depend on the creative talents of Julio Enciso. The Paraguayan playmaker netted in both the draws against Nottingham Forest and Hull.
If he scores again this afternoon, he’ll become the first Ipswich player to find the net in three consecutive home Premier League games since Marcus Bent all the way back in 2002.
Ipswich’s home form has been decent so far, too. Only Liverpool have come away with all three points in the league. They will need Portman Road to become a fortress if they are to make their stay in the top flight a longer one than last time.
How they do that against a Bournemouth team that’s looking for an eighth straight win, in a run including AC Milan, Manchester United and Aston Villa…well, we’re about to find out.
James Sharpe