Everton edged Ipswich Town 3-2 in a thrilling Championship encounter at Portman Road on Saturday, significantly enhancing their promotion prospects and denting Ipswich’s automatic promotion hopes. The Toffees, under Sean Dyche, showcased resilience and attacking flair, overcoming a spirited Ipswich performance. Dominic Calvert-Lewin was instrumental, scoring twice – a first-half header and a second-half penalty – to take his season tally to a substantial number and reinforcing his importance to Everton. Jack Harrison also scored with a well-placed finish, extending Everton’s lead after Ipswich had briefly levelled. Nathan Broadhead and Kieffer Moore scored for Ipswich, with Moore’s goal setting up a tense finale, but despite intense pressure, the Suffolk side couldn’t find an equaliser. The high-tempo match was marked by end-to-end action, highlighting the quality of both teams. The win moves Everton closer to the playoffs and potentially even automatic promotion, depending on other results, while Ipswich remain in a strong Championship position but will need to regroup quickly. Concerns were raised over a potential injury to Everton’s Amadou Onana, who was substituted in the second half, with Dyche indicating it will be assessed in the coming days. Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna praised his team’s effort but acknowledged the need to be more clinical in front of goal. The result also has implications beyond the top end of the table, as Everton’s points gain further distances them from the relegation zone, despite their earlier points deduction.