Striker George Hirst is delighted to have opened his league account for Ipswich Town, setting the Blues on their way to victory at Bolton.
Hirst’s only Ipswich goal in his previous 12 appearances had come in the FA Cup at Burnley, but he produced a sublime finish to put his side ahead as he met Wes Burns’ cross just before half-time.
Town eventually won 2-0, thanks to a Cameron Burgess goal and a Christian Walton penalty save, with Hirst pleased to have scored but even more happy with the three points.
He said in a club interview: “The gaffer told me before the game we would get chances in behind and when you have players like Wes running down the line, it’s just about getting the right side of the defender, getting on the end of it and making the movement.
“If the ball comes, it comes but you have to be there to take your chance. Wes put a good cross in and I was there to finish it off.
“It’s probably been too long coming but the first is always the hardest to get. I know that as a striker but for me now it’s about kicking on and keep getting on the end of things.
“For me I’m delighted but winning the game is more important.”
Discussing Town’s display and his team-mates' contribution, Hirst said: “It was a mature performance. There were things we could have done better and things we did really well. For us it was about trying to extend the lead and holding on to it.
“Having someone like Walts between the sticks, saving penalties left, right and centre, it really helps.
“Cam’s goal was a massive moment and it was a nice time to get a second goal. They were on top a little bit and that deflated them a little bit.
“For us we are always looking to score more goals, whether it’s against teams like Bolton or playing at home, and his boost gave us a boost.”
On the traveling Ipswich fans, who made themselves known despite being hidden away in the top tier at the University of Bolton Stadium, Hirst said: “The fans were brilliant, the loudest fans in the stadium and that says a lot because they were up in the heavens and probably freezing cold.
“Credit to them, coming out in their numbers and showing support. They probably don’t realise how much they give us and that extra push when we need them.”
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