Here’s a bold statement: Ipswich Town is on the brink of Premier League promotion, and Blackpool’s manager Ian Evatt is one of their biggest believers. But here’s where it gets controversial—while Blackpool sits 18th in League One, Evatt isn’t just conceding defeat; he’s openly praising Ipswich’s dominance. After a 2-1 loss at Portman Road that knocked Blackpool out of the FA Cup’s third round, Evatt didn’t hold back his admiration for the opposition.
"Let’s be honest, they’re miles ahead of us right now," Evatt admitted. "We had to approach this game with respect, trying to find creative ways to compete. I think we did that well—we kept it tight, created chances to level the score, and could’ve pushed it further. But credit where it’s due: Ipswich is a Premier League-caliber club with a top-tier coach."
Evatt’s praise for Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna is particularly noteworthy. "I’ve faced Kieran before in League One when I was at Bolton, and I’ve always admired his work," Evatt said. "This Ipswich team is stronger than the last time they were in this division. They’re a different kind of squad—more talented, more cohesive. I genuinely believe they’ll secure promotion this season."
And this is the part most people miss—Evatt’s reflections on Blackpool’s performance reveal a strategic shift that’s worth unpacking. "I’m disappointed we’re out, but I’m proud of how the players adapted today," he explained. "In our division, we’re all about aggression and taking the initiative. But against Ipswich, we had to play a more defensive, disciplined game—sitting back, frustrating them, and waiting for transitions. I think we executed that plan really well."
However, Evatt acknowledged that even the best plans can falter against quality opponents. "We switched off once in the first half, didn’t close down the midfield quickly enough, and got punished. That’s what happens when you face top-tier players. We had our chances—CJ Hamilton and Ashley Fletcher both had big opportunities—but we couldn’t capitalize when it mattered."
The game’s turning point came in the 87th minute when Jacob Greaves headed home a corner for Ipswich, though Ashley Fletcher scored a late consolation penalty for Blackpool. Here’s where opinions might differ—Evatt suggested the penalty decision could’ve gone either way. "The Ipswich player jumped early and made contact with our goalkeeper, which probably affected his ability to reach the ball," he said. "But that’s football—sometimes these calls go your way, sometimes they don’t. I’m not too bothered about it."
As the dust settles, Evatt remains optimistic. "I’m disappointed we’re out, but I’m not disheartened. There’s a lot to take away from today’s performance."
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Is Evatt’s praise for Ipswich a genuine acknowledgment of their strength, or a strategic move to shift focus from Blackpool’s struggles? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to spark differing opinions!
