Will Rams Pay Penalty If Put On The Spot?

The play-offs are coming, it’s an exciting time to be a Rams fan and, without wishing to bring everyone down, I’ve been taking a look at Derby’s penalty record this season.

Last time the Rams entered the play-offs, they took part in a penalty shoot-out against Southampton to settle the semi-final. Another spot-kick show-down is a reality that Derby may well once again have to face.

While the penalties may be a challenge of both execution and mental nous for the players, it will certainly be a test of the heart for us fans.

Some say that penalties are a lottery, maybe they are, but I think there is skill to it, there has to be.

If you watched the recent FA Cup semi-final between Wigan and Arsenal you’ll have seen how poor the Latics’ penalties were. I’m sure they’ll be looking to improve ahead of the play-offs.

It would appear that Steve McClaren’s Rams need to take a look at improving their record too, especially when you take a look at Derby’s penalty record so far this season.

Player - Taken / Scored

Chris Martin - 6 / 4

Johnny Russell - 3 / 1

Craig Bryson - 2 / 1

Team Total — 11 / 6

The above stats don’t make for brilliant reading.

Last season there was an issue with penalties too — Conor Sammon, Jamie Ward and Theo Robinson each tried and failed to be consistent from the spot.

I would certainly have Chris Martin down on my list if a shout-out did arise, he’s been the most clinical of the trio that has stepped forward in the current campaign.

I’m not sure I would put Craig Bryson among my first takers, even his penalty scored against Nottingham Forest was close and quite unconvincing (I’m not complaining, I love all goals against Forest!), Johnny Russell likewise.

Who else does that leave? Jamie Ward could be worth a punt again after a couple of misses last season, Patrick Bamford is obviously a good finisher and a confident young player, as well as George Thorne, he knows how to hit a ball, Jeff Hendrick likewise.

If the time comes that The Rams have to take one when it really counts — all we can hope is that the boys having been saving their best for the big show.

Especially because this time around, Agent Idiakez wont be on hand to win it for us again!

For more of Nathan's articles visit his blog at www.derbycountyfan.com and follow him @NathansRamsBlog on Twitter.

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