G.M's Match Preview: Rams Must Sting Seagulls Early
Thursday, 8th May 2014 07:55 by George Martin

Derby have no injury or suspension problems for what is surely the most important game since the last time The Rams gained promotion eight years ago.

McClaren and his coaching staff will have to select the right starting eleven and tactics for a successful trip to the Amex Stadium.

I believe Thorne will come back into the side and be partnered by Bryson and Hendrick in midfield. Ward and Russell should fill the wide roles with Martin, the pinnacle of the attack, down the middle.

Brighton will still be buzzing from their last gasp goal to clinch a play off spot, so Derby will need to put a sting in their tail early by retaining possession and defending well.

For Brighton, right-back Bruno and midfielder Dale Stephens are set to miss out, but defender Matt Upson is expected to be fit, while striker Will Hoskins is available after a knee injury. Midfielder Keith Andrews is a doubt, but should be fit.

There is also a chance striker Craig Mackail-Smith may start having recently returned from injury, but he is still making his way back to full fitness after a long time out.

Expect Albion’s goal hero from Saturday Ulloa to start up front. Derby will also have to be aware of the tricky Lua Lua who usually provides impact from the bench.

The play offs are an absolute lottery. Derby is in form and playing well. We have looked a little unstable at the back but this seemed to coincide with securing the play off spot.

Brighton have been a little inconsistent in their last six games, but are a good football side who have play-off experience from last season.

It all adds up to what will hopefully be an exciting game and cracking atmosphere.

Whether travelling to Brighton, watching at the iPro or getting together to watch with friends and family at home or in the pub, enjoy the game and cheer on The Rams!!

COYR!!

Current Form — Last 5 League Matches:

Brighton (6th): W, D, D, W, W

Derby (3rd): W, W, W, W, D

The Stats That Matter:

Steve McClaren collected nearly 75% of the points available to him since joining The Rams coach, collecting 72 of a possible 100 points.

The draw at Leeds on the final day set a new DCFC record of 85 points accumulated in a single league season.

Derby scored more goals than any other team in the Championship this season and this record includes the most scored away from home by any team.

Derby come into the Play-offs with good form having won having not lost in their last 6 matches including 5 wins and 1 draw.

Brighton has also been on a good run having not lost in their last 8 including 4 wins and 4 draws.

The Rams defeated Brighton in both of their League clashes this season with a 2-1 away win at the Amex and a 1-0 win at the iPro.

Brighton have struggled to score this season having only netted 55 times which is the lowest tally in the top 6 and the lowest on the table till you reach 18th placed Charlton.

Despite problems scoring Albion’s defence has been their strength having only let in a total of 40 goals which was only bettered by Burnley (37) over the season.

In contrast the Rams have seen 52 go past them, many of which came during an inconsistent start to their campaign, and despite it being the most goals conceded in the top 6 - The Rams still ended with the 7th best record in The Championship.

2013/14 Clashes - Derby vs. Brighton:

Derby Gaffer / Player Preview:

COYR!!

Photo: Action Images

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