U21 | Ipswich Town 2-2 Cardiff City

Our U21s began their PL Cup campaign with a 2-2 draw against Ipswich Town.

In the group stages of the competition, City will also face Watford and Everton.

Darren Purse's side are now on a four-game unbeaten run, having won their last three PDL fixtures.

REACTION | DARREN PURSE

After the full-time whistle, U21 head coach Darren Purse said: "After our performance in the first 35 minutes, I'm a little disappointed with a point, but after that period, we looked a bit tired. A lot of our boys have been playing international football and have come back with little rest, so for them to work that hard to get the point, I'm proud of them. 

"Tonight is a point that we can build on. To go away from home for an evening game, a totally different experience to what the boys are used to, we did everything right in preparation. For those first 35 minutes, we were exceptional, but had to grind out the last half an hour with our backs to the wall, so we saw both sides to the boys and I'm pleased with that."

MATCH SUMMARY

The young Bluebirds recorded a point away from home to begin the PL Cup campaign.

In a competitive first half, Purse's side showed their quality to head into the break with a 2-1 lead.

The goals came from Cody Twose and Trey George, who have both made impressive starts to the season.

In the second half, the hosts levelled up the score to claim a 2-2 draw.

Pre-Match | Darren Purse

Ahead of Friday's fixture, U21 head coach Darren Purse said: "We're definitely excited to be back. You look at the next three double-game weeks and that's going to be a big ask for the boys, playing in three different competitions as well. I think it's something that the boys have to relish. Playing in the PL Cup against Ipswich will be a big test, then the Nathaniel MG Cup next week will be brilliant, playing against some of the best Welsh clubs is great for our boys. 

"Ipswich are usually one of the best U21 sides, they're a good side and it will show us where we're at at this stage of the season. If we're going to be in and around those teams, those are the games that we have to go and express ourselves in."

PRE-MATCH | ISAAC JEFFERIES

Winger Isaac Jefferies, who has had a positive start to the campaign, added: "We're all buzzing to be back playing after a little break. Preparation has been really good this week, so we're all really positive about being back playing together. The togetherness in the squad is great and we're going to need everyone in these next few weeks, because games are coming thick and fast. 

"The Premier League Cup is a good chance to express yourself against teams at a higher level. Ipswich are a good side every season, but the boys are ready for it and we've done everything we can in preparation."

Ticket information

Entry for Friday's match at Bloomfields will be free for all supporters.

Reaching THE GROUND

Supporters planning on attending on Friday should use the following address:

Bloomfields, Quinton Rd, Needham Market, Ipswich IP6 8DA

The nearest rail station to the ground is Needham Market Station, which is an 11-minute walk away.