PLAY-off fever has hit Ipswich with hundreds of Town fans queuing to get their hands on precious tickets for the play-off semi-final matches against West Ham.

PLAY-off fever has hit Ipswich with hundreds of Town fans queuing to get their hands on precious tickets for the play-off semi-final matches against West Ham.

By the time tickets for the away leg went on sale yesterday lunchtime, a sizeable queue had built up along Portman Road.

The first dedicated fans had started queuing shortly after 9am - and all were hopeful that the team would be able to overcome the team that ended Town's play-off dream last year.

Stephen Stiff from Stowmarket was one of the first to collect tickets. He said: "I'm not too happy that it's against West Ham but if we keep it tight at Upton Park there's no reason why we shouldn't win at Portman Road."

But he is one of many who think the club is fated to reach the Cardiff final.

"I can't help thinking were going to meet George (Burley - who is now boss of Derby) in the Millennium Stadium.

"And I certainly think we can beat Derby, we would not need to be afraid of them!"

He had been queuing just behind Marlene Turner from the Chantry estate in Ipswich.

She said: "I don't go to many away matches but I couldn't resist this one - of course we are going to win!"

The first in the queue was Trevor Eaton from Colchester who had to come to Ipswich anyway and heard about the tickets going on sale.

He said: "I've been waiting here since 9am, and it's now 2pm.

"I got my home leg tickets first from the other side of the ground but it's well worth the wait!"