Promotion-chasing Ipswich delay 'extra bit of elation'

Sophie Peskett became Ipswich's first fully professional female player in 2021

When Ipswich Town boss Joe Sheehan speaks of his team putting themselves "in a good position", it is surely one of the under-statements of the season.

Following Sunday's 11-0 win at MK Dons - when Sophie Peskett scored six of their goals - it would be impossible for Town to be any closer to winning the Women's National League Southern Premier title and promotion.

They are three points clear of Hashtag United with both teams having one game left to play and their goal difference is +36 superior to their rivals.

"It's a big win for us and one we needed, but nothing's done yet or confirmed so there's maybe a little bit of mixed feelings," Sheehan told BBC Radio Suffolk.

"I'm feeling really pleased that we managed to win the game convincingly and put ourselves in a good position going into our final game but until it is mathematically confirmed, I will hold off that extra bit of elation until we get over the line."

Ipswich have won 16 of their 21 games, losing only twice, and have scored 81 goals in the process, conceding only 10.

Peskett now has 20 goals during the campaign and Jamaica international Natasha Thomas has 16 following a brace against the Dons.

Joe Sheehan has been in charge of Ipswich for six years

"It was a really composed, committed, professional performance, some really well worked goals, six for 'Pesk' which is remarkable, and a collective team effort that has put us in a really strong position," said Sheehan.

"We have to enjoy the feeling that we have currently but we still have one game to go and want to make sure we end the season with a convincing performance that hopefully results in a final-day win.

"The message (to the players) will be to enjoy the result but nothing is official, nothing is confirmed."

Ipswich have to wait until 27 April for the chance to round things off in style when they take on Cheltenham Town on their home ground in Felixstowe.

It will be the climax of a season which began with a total commitment to following the example of the Ipswich men's team, who won back-to-back promotions in 2023 and 2024, and reaching the second tier of the women's game, the Championship.

Sheehan said: "They are a joy to work with. There's a special connection with staff and players. Togetherness is a huge pillar in our environment, it underpins everything we do each day. Hopefully in a couple of weeks' time we'll get our just rewards.

"It's been a long process, lots of years of laying the groundwork and foundations. We'd like to think we're in a really strong position, we've really attacked it, we've conducted ourselves impeccably, we've established some really strong momentum, won some important games and responded well when things haven't gone our way."

So how will he approach what is sure to be a memorable day against Cheltenham?

"Going to celebrate won't be my particular focus, it will be about preparing to perform and try and win the game and do ourselves proud," he added.

"We've been really consistent all season and won't be stopping now. It'll be a big occasion and a big crowd but one we're determined to give a really strong performance for."