Ipswich Town scored twice either side of an Eoin Doyle header to take a 2-1 lead into the break against Cardiff City at Portman Road.

A vulnerable Cardiff defence gifted Ipswich the opening goal inside eight minutes as a long ball forward found Freddie Sears, who collected the ball on the run before firing a deflected effort past the helpless David Marshall.

However, the visitors responded to the early setback impressively and were back on level terms just five minutes later when an inch-perfect cross from Scott Malone allowed Eoin Doyle to head home from close range.

Apart from the goals, chances had been difficult to come by, but the home supporters were brought to their feet when Cole Skuse found the net with a strike from 25 yards to hand his side the lead.

Ipswich could have extended their advantage before the break, but Tommy Smith could only head over the crossbar after meeting a corner.