In a thrilling encounter, Ipswich Wanderers and Redbridge battled to a 2-2 draw on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. The match, which saw the debut of Wanderers' new hospitality suite, provided ample entertainment for the 185 spectators in attendance.
Chances for both teams in an even first half
Redbridge started the game with real purpose, dominating the early exchanges. However, Wanderers grew into an evenly contested first half that ended goalless despite good chances for both sides.
An early goal in the second half
The visitors started the half the stronger of the two teams, much like they did in the first half, and didn't take long to break the deadlock with a well-worked opener from Kai Thomas-Fraser in the 50th minute.
A scrappy twenty minutes followed before Wanderers got back on level terms courtesy of a Redbridge own goal.
In a moment of misfortune, the scorer of Redbridge's opener, Kai Thomas-Fraser, inadvertently nodded the ball over his own goalkeeper, who had failed to claim a cross, to bring Ipswich level after 72 minutes.
A blockbuster finale
As the match approached its climax, Wesley Gomes Dos Santos seemed to have secured victory for Redbridge with a sublime strike from the edge of the area in the 90th minute. However, the Wanderers' never-say-die attitude shone through in the dying moments.
Deep into stoppage time, Rasheed Salau emerged as the hero. Latching onto a through ball, he showcased impressive strength to hold off a defender before rounding the keeper with composure. His finish, threading the ball past two sliding defenders, sent the home fans into raptures.
The draw was a fair result in a match that ebbed and flowed, with both teams demonstrating their quality.
What it means
The draw maintains Wanderers' unbeaten start to the season at the GBS stadium and takes them up to 14th place with 8 points. Meanwhile, Redbridge missed the chance to move into the playoff spots, ending the weekend on 11 points in 8th place.
Up next
Wanderers face 13th-place Waltham Abbey away from home on Saturday, October 5th.
Hospitality suite
The SMART Hospitality Suite offers a premium matchday sponsorship opportunity at The GBS Stadium for Ipswich Wanderers matches.
For £595 per game, sponsors receive:
Exclusive use of the Smart Hospitality Suite for ten people
Pre-match buffet lunch
Half-time afternoon tea
All drinks included (draft beers, house wine, soft drinks, tea and coffee)
Pre-game social media posts thanking the sponsor
Company logo on the matchday programme
Photo in the dugout
Opportunity to choose the Player of the Match award
Additional guests can be added for £50 per person, with availability from 12:30-6pm for Saturday fixtures or 6:15-10:45pm for night games. Premium drinks can be added for an extra charge.
For £40 more, sponsors can add match ball sponsorship to their package, which includes additional perks like logo placement on the ball stand and a tannoy announcement.
To book or discuss this sponsorship opportunity, interested parties should contact the club's Commercial Manager, Kelly Hayes, at 07746130631 or email sponsorship@ipswichwanderers.co.uk.
