The Rams barely had to get out of second gear as they tore apart Brighton in 20 minutes to secure 3 points, a clean sheet and retain top spot in the Championship.
Derby dominated proceedings from the first whistle and it seemed like only a matter of time till they troubled the scorer.
The Rams dominated from the start and Chris Martin put them ahead with an early shot into the bottom corner.
A much publicised goal drought was soon a thing of the past as Chris Martin had one with a powerful shot into the corner after only 10 minutes.
Johnny Russell doubled the lead on 15 minutes when he cleverly beat the keeper before Martin popped up on 20 to make it 3 — 0, with a firm header from Christie’s cross.
It looked as if it would be a Cricket score but despite having a host of chances following their opening triple — Derby had to settle for their early 3 goals.
Bryson hit the bar and only just missed from long range, Hendrick was unlucky not to score and Martin was only denied a hat-trick by a brilliant save as the Rams could have easily won by 5 or 6.
The clean sheet was also encouraging, especially with the defence having to counter the ever present threat of Darren Bent who showed he is still a danger who must be respected.
Buxton’s return in particular - due to Keogh’s injury - could not have ended up better for Jake as he looks to force his way back into the regular starting 11 in coming weeks.
A great result for the Rams who hold onto top spot and just as importantly, bounced back in resounding fashion after the debacle at Leeds last Saturday.
Ryan Weston was at the iPro for RamZone and on Monday morning will present his thoughts on 3 goals in 20 minutes and the 73 minutes that followed them.
Until then, enjoy the win, the clean sheet and my personal favourite… top spot!
Living the dream! COYR!!
Ref: M. Heywood
Crowd: 28,637
Derby: Grant, Christie, Buxton, Shotton, Forsyth, Mascarell, Bryson , Hendrick, Dawkins (Ward 75’), Russell (Ibe 79’), Martin (Best 91’)
Unused Subs: Roos, Buxton, Eustace, Coutts
Goals: Martin (10’,20’), Russell (15’)
Possession: 54% / 46%
Shots On Target: 8 / 0
Shots Off Target: 10 / 11
Corners: 4 / 4
Fouls: 11 / 10
We Said — Steve McClaren:
"It was a great reaction, after last Saturday [when they lost to Leeds]. "It was important we started well with lots of energy, and we did that.”
"We knew we would create chances, but could we be clinical in front of goal? We certainly were in the first 20 minutes."
They said — Sami Hyypia:
"I think I can turn it around. If I don't think I can turn it around then I will walk away.”
"I will still be here and taking training on Monday. Only if I am told from elsewhere will I not be taking training, but that is a matter that is out of my control. However, I don't expect that to happen."
Middlesbrough vs. Derby
Riverside Stadium
12:15pm - Saturday 13th Of December
COYR!!