DELAP IN DOUBLE AS IPSWICH VILLA DENIES A SHARE OF THE TOP

Liam Delap scored a superb brace to earn Ipswich Town a 2-2 draw, denying Aston Villa the chance of moving level on points with leaders Liverpool.

The newly promoted Tractor Boys had a flying goal when Delap fired a low shot at the near post after eight minutes.

Villa responded with Watkins equalizing against Morgan Rogers seven minutes later, before the England striker scored his fourth goal in three games from Leon Bailey’s cross just after the half-hour.

Town had several moments on the counterattack but Jack Clarke and Delap both missed great opportunities to equalize on the break.

However, there was no denying the home side and a superb solo run and finish from Delap 18 minutes from time ensured them a share of the spoils.

The result means Villa remain in fifth place, two points off top spot.

Ipswich remain winless but with four points from six games they move out of the relegation zone and into 15th place.

Next up, Town continue their search for a first win since their long-awaited return to the Premier League when they visit West Ham on Saturday. Villa continue a great week with two significant home games against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday and then Manchester United on Sunday.