They say first impressions are all-important and, on the evidence of this entertaining showdown, that could be stirring news for Ipswich Town.

The opening day of any season is a time for early assessments, judging new players and spotting potential for the campaign ahead.

And, with that in mind, Town can be rightly pleased with this victory against Gillingham.

Horlock bossed the midfield and, up front, the hosts always looked dangerous thanks to their three-pronged strike-force of Dean Bowditch, Darren Bent and Shefki Kuqi.

However, although they were lively throughout, the biggest negative of the afternoon was their inability to score more goals.

After a fairly even first half, Town were comfortable after the break and should have scored another three or even four times.

Kuqi twice, Bent, Matt Richards, Pablo Counago and Tommy Miller all had chances to add to the goals scored by Richard Naylor and Bowditch.

The latter's strike - which turned out to be the winning goal - was especially memorable.

Diallo's cross from deep on the right fell into his path and, after letting it bounce, he curled a stunning long-range volley into the top-right hand corner.

It was a classic, precision strike and one which prompted comparisons with a Matt Le Tissier special, in the eyes of Town boss Joe Royle.

The Blues' other goal came late in the first half when Horlock swung in a corner and Naylor's downward header bounced inside the left-hand post.

Gillingham had taken the lead after 24 minutes and their scorer, ironically, is a lifelong Ipswich fan.

Paul Smith made a darting run from midfield, connected with a low cross from Byfield and slipped his shot past Davis.

Published Monday August 9, 2004

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