George Burley admitted Ipswich's Worthington Cup exit could be a 'blessing in disguise'.
The Blues boss said: "Obviously, we wanted to win the tie but with such a hectic schedule it might be a blessing.
"We knew it was going to be a tough game against Newcastle and a 20 minute spell in the first half cost us the match.
"We lost possession for their first two goals and they caught us on the break."
Newcastle progressed in the competition beating Ipswich 4-1 at St James Park on Tuesday night.
Burley added: "In the second half it was just a question of restoring pride and we managed to get one goal back.
"I was very pleased for young Darren Bent to come on and score."
Alan Shearer scored twice for Newcastle and in so doing registered his 100th goal for the Magpies.
Published Thursday November 29, 2001
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