For Those Long Distance 606-ers

Below is my take on the Blackburn game for the benefit of our far distant 606-ers in NZ, Finland, The Hebrides, Ireland, California, East Anglia and beyond.

Derby County last night, were magnificent throughout against a very well organised and disciplined side whose tactic was to block off Derby’s attacks whilst hoping to get a breakaway goal. They were big, strong, well organised and determined.

Derby, to a man were immense. Grant made at least 2 match saving stops and dominated his area totally. Shotton put in a sterling defensive performance which enabled Forsyth to attack more freely down the left and Keogh had a superb game. If Will Hughes had only been very good Keogh would have made MOTM. Buxton was hardly behind Keogh and Mascarell had a really good game. Will Hughes may be only the age of a Subaltern, but he was the midfield General. He just gets better and better despite the attention all defences lavish on him. He was clearly the MOTM. Hendrick was very good and showed strength when it was needed which was often. Dawkins did not have a bad game but maybe he was the one showing the need for a rest. Ward was lively and intelligent both on the right and on the left. Martin was the best target man I can remember in a Derby shirt since John O’Hare and has a quicksilver brain, great control and laid off some brilliant passes.

And so to the subs. Bent’s game says it all by the 2 goals he poached and the terror he struck in the Blackburn defence. A great signing. Bennett looks stronger than last time I saw him and just as quick. He created the 2nd goal though it took efforts by Martin and Bent to seal it I think Bennett now needs and deserves more game time. And I thought Steve’s post match interview was a bit faint praising Bennett. From the fact that he couldn’t break into the Chesterfield team, I suspect there may be a problem on the training ground, but as young and talented as he is it is up to Simmo to correct it or ignore it to give him more time on the field.

We have truly a great squad and it is now down to Sam Rush to secure the present head coach and his staff for 4 or 5 years of stability and development. All the great clubs have long term managers in place. Do it Sam and tell Mike Ashley the price of him taking Steve McClaren is £UNAFFORDABLE.