Sheffield Wednesday head coach Henrik Pedersen believes his side were tested by the strongest group of players in the Championship during their defeat at Portman Road.
The Owls showed plenty of resilience against Ipswich Town, who had raced into a two goal lead through Cedric Kipre and Jaden Philogene. Wednesday responded well and gave themselves hope when Liam Cooper pulled a goal back, but Jack Clarke’s late strike sealed a 3-1 win for the hosts and ended any realistic chance of a comeback.
Given the circumstances, Pedersen’s team were always facing an uphill battle. Several key players have departed for the Africa Cup of Nations, while injuries continue to stretch an already thin squad. Even so, Wednesday competed well and once again showed fight in their battle to avoid relegation, despite leaving with nothing to show for their efforts.
Speaking after the final whistle, Pedersen praised his players for their attitude and commitment in difficult conditions.
“I’m really, really proud,” he said. “To come to Ipswich, who I believe have the best squad in the league, and deliver a performance with that level of courage, belief, discipline and togetherness was impressive. The way we played in the first half was among our best this season. We played with intensity and knew we had to do that to press them because they are so strong on the ball and have so much individual quality.
“The way we approached the game, created chances early on, and performed in that first half was really encouraging. The way the boys kept going and worked for each other was outstanding. I’m very proud of them.”
Wednesday now shift their focus to Friday night’s clash with Hull City. Pedersen will be hoping for positive news on his squad after Dominic Iorfa, Max Lowe and Charlie McNeill were all forced off during the weekend.