Ipswich scored their first goals in over 500 minutes - with Freddie Sears ending his own 38-game barren run - to beat Burton United 2-0 and claim their first Championship win in five matches.

The home side broke the deadlock with a goal out of nothing as Sears' cross was met by the unmarked and onrushing Luke Chambers who beat the statuesque away defence.

Burton were unlucky to be behind at the break but Ipswich finally made the points safe when Tom Lawrence's deft skill and pass across goal allowed Sears to burst in to score in the 88th minute.

There was somehow only one goal in an always entertaining first half and it came in the 15th minute when Chambers was gifted a free header at the far post and made no mistake with a diving effort.

Burton fought back with Kyle McFadzean heading over before Lucas Akins should have levelled when he was set clear by Chris O'Grady but he rifled his shot wide of the near post.

Burton then spurned another great chance with 28 minutes on the clock when a neat interchange between John Brayford and Jamie Ward led to the latter firing a long-range shot at goal.

It should have been comfortable for the diving Bartosz Bialkowski but his parry out found Dyer who could only direct the rebound wide of the far post.

At the other end, Kevin Bru's shot deflected just wide of the unknowing Akins before Burton again spurned a great chance - a neat one-two between Dyer and Ward saw the Burton winger fire well over from 10 yards out.

Bialkowski then showed his worth with a fine save with his feet to deny the advancing Brayford as Burton continued to push for a first-half equaliser.

It took a little while for the second half to warm up, after a pulsating opening 45, but it was Ipswich who almost doubled their advantage when a fantastic burst down the left by Lawrence set up Leon Best but his shot was brilliantly blocked by Ben Turner.

Just before the hour mark, Jonas Kundsen's long throw caught Burton napping but neither Lawrence's header or Teddy Bishop's rebound could add to the Ipswich lead after they were teed up by Sears' delicate cross.

Knudsen missed a golden chance to score after miscuing a cute knock down by Best.

Burton had half chances to get back into the game but it was left to Sears to clinch the points, poking the ball into the corner after a great piece of skill from Lawrence.

Ipswich boss Mick McCarthy:

"Whether we have played him on the right, the left or in the centre, Freddie has been selfless and never questioned it. His pace and energy means he is a constant threat and I have never once considered leaving him out.

"It was great to see everyone celebrating with him (including keeper Bartosz Bialkowski) and I think because it was Freddie, it was that extra bit special."

Burton boss Nigel Clough:

"I think our first half was the best we have played all season, but the one thing we couldn't do is put the ball in the net. There was plenty to be encouraged and pleased about. I was delighted with our performance and the fact we are Burton Albion coming to Ipswich Town should be put into perspective."

PA Sport