Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna says ‘it’s not worth justifying’ handing Blackburn Rovers an advantage when the two sides meet to replay last weekend’s abandoned fixture.
Last week’s clash at Ewood Park was called off with 10 minutes remaining due to a waterlogged pitch. Rovers were leading 1-0 at the time of the decision, whilst Ipswich were down to 10 men following the dismissal of defender Jacob Greaves.
The scenario was one which caused much debate during the course of the week, with many suggesting Blackburn should be handed the points. However, the EFL confirmed yesterday that the game will be replayed in its entirety at a later date.
McKenna – “It Was The Only Decision”
Preparing to host Portsmouth tomorrow, it was inevitable that McKenna would be asked for his thoughts. Speaking to the media, he said:
“I think it was the only decision, that’s the truth. We didn’t expect anything else. I was surprised how long it took to get to the decision, but I understand there was a process to follow.
“I didn’t expect anything else. It’s going to be a challenge to fit in another midweek game and go up there again, but, for me, it was the only possible decision.”
This has prompted some calls for Ipswich to give Blackburn a goal head start or play the game with 10 men, to which McKenna responded:
“I don’t even think they’re worth justifying with a thought, to be honest.
“As I say, you’d be frustrated if you’re in the Blackburn situation because they’ll feel like they were in a good position to go on and get a result. But I don’t think there’s a decision to make or too much else to discuss. The conditions were unplayable, in my opinion, from probably about half-time onwards.
“The game could have been stopped earlier. That’s no responsibility of ours over the course of the season.”
Writer’s View
Kieran McKenna is absolutely right to disregard these suggestions in the manner in which he did. Yes, Blackburn will feel aggrieved but to suggest that Ipswich should give them a goal and/or play with 10 men is just ludicrous. The decision to replay the game is the correct call, as we’ve seen in previous years when games have been abandoned late on. Leyton Orient saw they game against Lincoln City in 2023 called off in the 84th minute after a medical emergency in the crowd. They were also leading 1-0 at the time but lost the rearranged tie by the same scoreline. It’s time to draw a line under this and move on.
