Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna was all smiles as he reflected on his team’s emphatic 5-0 demolition of Sheffield United, a performance that had Portman Road rocking and cemented Ipswich’s place among the most entertaining sides in English football this season. The Blues were relentless from the first whistle, producing a dazzling display of attacking football that left the Blades with no answers.
Speaking after the match, McKenna revealed that he had a “favourite” goal from the five that Ipswich put past their visitors — a strike he said summed up everything he wants from his team. “It’s hard to choose because all five goals were excellent in their own way,” McKenna admitted. “But if I had to pick one, I’d go with the fourth. It was a team goal from start to finish — the kind of move we work on every day.”
The fourth goal came after a flowing passing sequence that saw nearly every Ipswich outfield player involved. The move started deep in their own half, with centre-back Luke Woolfenden playing a crisp ball into midfield. From there, Ipswich’s midfield trio shifted the ball with one-touch passes, pulling Sheffield United’s defensive block apart before releasing Wes Burns down the right flank. Burns delivered a perfectly weighted cross for George Hirst, who finished with aplomb, capping off what McKenna described as “a perfect training ground goal.”
“That one really pleased me,” McKenna said. “It showed patience, composure, and understanding. We drew them out, switched play quickly, and the finish was top class. Those are the moments you love as a coach — when the ideas you work on come to life in a real match.”
Ipswich’s other goals were just as eye-catching. Nathan Broadhead opened the scoring with a thunderous strike from the edge of the box, before Omari Hutchinson doubled the lead after a mazy dribble through two defenders. Leif Davis made it three with a well-timed run and finish at the back post, while substitute Conor Chaplin completed the rout with a poacher’s effort late on.
The victory was more than just three points. It was a statement. Ipswich showed they could not only compete with but also outclass an established Premier League outfit. McKenna praised the fans for creating a special atmosphere and stressed that the performance was a product of hard work and togetherness.
“We’re growing every week,” he said. “The players believe in what we’re doing, and nights like this are a reward for everyone — the staff, the supporters, and the players themselves. It’s not about just one goal or one game. It’s about building something sustainable.”
Ipswich’s comprehensive victory over Sheffield United has given them momentum heading into a crucial run of fixtures. If McKenna’s men continue to play with this level of confidence and fluidity, it’s hard to see many sides stopping them. And if they keep scoring goals like McKenna’s “favourite,” Portman Road could see plenty more nights to remember this season.
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