Joe Royle is backing his in-form strike-force to topple Premiership new-boys Portsmouth.

Ipswich Town entertain Pompey this afternoon (kick-off 5.15pm) in their quest for a coveted play-off spot.

Joe Royle is looking to upset Portsmouth this afternoon

And, with Pablo Counago and Marcus Bent firing on all cylinders, the Blues boss is confident they will come up trumps in front of a bumper crowd at Portman Road.

The duo scored two goals each in last week's 4-2 win at Coventry and Royle said: "The front two have been looking more and more like a pair which is very encouraging.

"At one time I wasn't even sure if they could play alongside each other.

"But both players have so much potential.

"If Pablo becomes more consistent and Marcus starts to realise the weaponry he has at his disposal, they can form a lethal partnership."

Town - four points outside the play-off zone - are out to gatecrash Portsmouth's promotion party after Harry Redknapp's side beat Burnley on Tuesday.

That was enough to book their place in next season's Premiership but Royle said: "I was there in midweek and they seemed a bit tense."

Royle believes three wins and a draw from the remaining four games should be enough to book his side a play-off spot.

Richard Naylor is a non-starter this afternoon after failing to recover from a jarred knee.

Alun Armstrong returns to the squad in his absence.

Published Friday, April 18, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette