Ipswich rise to second place amid penalty controversy in tense Boro draw

A dramatic late penalty ensured Ipswich Town salvaged a 2-2 draw against promotion rivals Middlesbrough at Portman Road, lifting them back into the Championship’s automatic promotion places on goal difference.

The visitors appeared set to claim a crucial victory after Tommy Conway restored their lead in the second half, finishing from close range following earlier goals from David Strelec and Kasey McAteer.

However, the game turned late on when George Hirst went down in the box under slight contact from Adilson Malanda, prompting referee Jarred Gillett to award a penalty without hesitation.

Jack Clarke stepped up and converted from the spot with just minutes remaining, earning Ipswich a vital point in the promotion race.

The result moves Kieran McKenna’s side back into the top two, capitalising on other results and strengthening their push for automatic promotion with four matches left and a game in hand.

Meanwhile, Middlesbrough’s chances of finishing in the top two have taken a significant hit, with their winless streak extending and a play-off place now looking like their most realistic route.

After the match, Hirst defended the penalty decision, insisting the contact was enough to justify the call, while Middlesbrough boss Kim Hellberg expressed frustration, suggesting such incidents would lead to frequent penalties if consistently given.

McKenna acknowledged his side’s strong first-half display but admitted momentum shifted after the break, forcing Ipswich to fight back late on. Hellberg, on the other hand, praised his team’s overall performance, believing they deserved more despite the controversial ending.