![](https://i0.wp.com/www.streaksportnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/133139993_ipswichgettyindex.jpg?fit=624%2C351&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/www.streaksportnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/133139993_ipswichgettyindex.jpg?fit=624%2C351&ssl=1)
Latest sport news and updates
Ipswich Town returned to the top of the Championship table – but missed the chance to capitalise on defeats for automatic promotion rivals Leeds United and Leicester City.
Kieran McKenna’s side came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw with Middlesbrough at Portman Road to open up a two-point gap on third-placed Leeds. Daniel Farke’s men suffered their first home defeat of the season in a 1-0 loss to Blackburn Rovers.
With Leicester City losing to Plymouth Argyle on Friday night, it means Ipswich are now a point clear at the top with just three games remaining. However the Foxes have a game in hand and would go back top should they win that.
READ MORE: Leeds United player ratings with Piroe, Rutter and Summerville poor in defeat
READ MORE: Leeds fans’ gesture to Stuart Dallas vs Blackburn leaves Cooper teary-eyed
Ipswich found themselves behind early on at Portman Road when Boro striker Emmanuel Latte Lath opened the scoring. Michael Carrick’s men were able to capitalise on a poor backpass, with Luke Ayling’s cross headed home. But they fought back to level before the break. Massimo Luongo was given too much space at the far post from a corner to level against his old side.
While Ipswich were the better side in the second half, they were unable to find a way past the Boro defence and had to settle for a point. While they go top of the table, it’s now three games without a win for Town after defeat to Norwich and a draw with Watford.
They now have a fortnight off due to Coventry City’s involvement in next weekend’s FA Cup semi-finals, and don’t play until April 27 when go to play-off chasing Hull City. Liam Rosenior’s men enjoyed a comfortable 3-0 win over relegation threatened QPR.
Elsewhere, Southampton left it late to seal a 3-2 win over Watford. The Saints were 2-0 up thanks to goals from Will Smallbone and Che Adams, but the Hornet fought back to level through Ryan Porteous and Ismael Kone. However, Flynn Downes scored deep into added time to earn three points for the home side. Southampton can draw level with Leeds if they win their two games in hand.