Joe Royle is aiming to complete a cup hat-trick tonight when he leads Ipswich Town into battle against Slovan Liberec.

The Blues boss has a 100 per cent record in the UEFA and Worthington Cups so far, having inspired his side to a first-leg success against the Czechs and victory over Middlesbrough.

Confident - Ipswich's in-form defender Hermann Hreidarsson

Tonight, however, he believes his charges could face their toughest duel yet.

Speaking ahead of the second round second leg tie, he said: "They're no mugs. They're a decent side and I'm sure they can do better than they did in the first game.

"They didn't attack too much then but I'm sure they'll come at us over here.

"That may suit us, though, because we might get more room and be able to catch them on the break."

Royle is quick to stress that his priority this season is to guide his side back into the Premiership.

But he added: "We're taking this match very seriously and want to progress.

Clacton teenager Ian Westlake is hoping for some involvement, having made his debut for the Blues against Gillingham.

Published Thursday November 14, 2002

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