Blues Blogs

Three Things Birmingham Need To Do To Beat Ipswich

|
Image for Three Things Birmingham Need To Do To Beat Ipswich

International break’s can be a killer of momentum so hopefully the two week gap between fixtures doesn’t affect us tomorrow when we face the Tractor Boys.

I’m kind of hoping that instead the manager has used the time wisely to get across more of his ideas during the training sessions over the past couple of weeks. Ipswich will be tricky customers so how should we go about beating them?

1. Dealing with the 3-5-2

Mick McCarthy’s side will most likely come to St Andrews playing three at the back. It has served them well in recent away games with wins away at Preston and Sheffield Wednesday over the past month.

Monk has hinted that he may switch formation to counteract them. If we do play 4-4-2 we will be outnumbered in midfield so don’t rule out a system change despite the two up top being successful last time out against Hull.

2. Put them under pressure early on

It was only announced yesterday that their manager will be leaving at the end of the season. Uncertainty over the future, combined with their comfortable mid table position, could be something we can exploit.

If we push them hard early on and get a goal, the fight could leave them very quickly, especially if we can keep on top of them with our desire and work rate.

3. Exploit the flanks

When you play against wing backs, overloads on the flanks can be a regular occurrence if you target them there. Their last defeat against Bristol City came from the Robins full back Lloyd Kelly delivering early from the left hand side. A similar focus on crosses in wide areas to Jutkiewicz could be something worth exploring.

What do you think the result will be tomorrow? Let me know in the poll.

Share this article