Ipswich Town manager Mick McCarthy has admitted that it was "vital" for his side to get off to a winning start to the new season this afternoon following their disappointing campaign last term.
The Tractor Boys finished 16th in the table last season, just four points clear of the relegation zone, but they kicked off the new campaign with a 1-0 victory over Birmingham City this afternoon courtesy of Joe Garner's goal.
An injury to youngster Andre Dozzell somewhat overshadowed the victory, but McCarthy was still delighted with his side's performance.
"For me it was vital we won and played well. I've had lovely support but there would have been an element waiting for me and I wouldn't blame them because we were rubbish last year. Somebody asked me about my ambition and that is to build a team and win games. I've had lovely support from everybody at the club and the fans. They turned up and it humbles me. It was nice to repay it with a good performance and a win," he told reporters.
"It was a perfect first day really apart from Andre's injury. I'm worried it might be a cruciate ligament so we'll find out on Monday. I can't confirm or deny that until then. It was a good goal and I think we played really well and think that overall we deserved to win.
"It's lovely when it goes our way but we defended well. Wardy (Grant Ward) was brilliant and continued his run and released Jonas who put a really good ball in and Garner came from a wide position and had a look over his shoulder and scored. It was a really good quality goal."
Ipswich will next take on Luton Town in the League Cup first round on Tuesday.
Barney Corkhill
