The 2001-02 campaign was a heartbreaking one for Ipswich Town, delivering the crushing blow of relegation back to the First Division after falling victim to the dreaded "second season syndrome." Despite a turbulent start, The Tractor Boys mounted a dramatic mid-season revival, fueled by a sensational run of seven wins in eight matches, which briefly pulled them clear of the drop zone. However, the immense strain of a European adventure, which saw them famously beat Inter Milan 1-0 at Portman Road in the UEFA Cup, proved too much. Leading the line was new signing Marcus Bent, whose 9 crucial league goals were not enough to secure their survival, condemning the club to Division One despite the small consolation of qualifying for the following season's UEFA Cup via the Fair Play ranking.