Ipswich Town demonstrated resilience and tactical prowess in a hard-fought 2-1 win against Oxford at Portman Road, with manager Kieran McKenna offering candid insights into the team's performance.

The match unfolded dramatically in the first half, with Jaden Philogene and Chuba Akpom finding the net, strategically bookending Will Lankshear's equalizing goal. Despite the positive result, McKenna was measured in his post-match assessment, highlighting areas where his team could improve.

Speaking to BBC Radio Suffolk, McKenna acknowledged the team's strong initial control but emphasized the need for greater clinical finishing. "We played some great stuff through the pitch," he noted, "but we lacked that decisive edge that would have made the victory more comfortable."

The victory propelled Ipswich into automatic promotion places, a significant milestone that underscores the team's potential this season. McKenna was particularly focused on the psychological aspects of maintaining momentum, stressing that the team must learn from each performance.

"We knew the game wasn't dead after their goal," McKenna explained. "Our reaction was good, and we wanted to dominate the second half. We had good periods, but if you don't conclusively kill the game off, it remains tense."

The manager's tactical awareness and commitment to continuous improvement shine through in his analysis, suggesting that Ipswich Town is not just playing to win, but playing to evolve. His balanced critique demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that could be key to the team's long-term success.

As the season progresses, McKenna's leadership and the team's growing cohesion will be critical in their promotion campaign. This match against Oxford serves as a microcosm of their journey: challenging, dynamic, and filled with potential.