Derby County's under 18s were unfortunate to start their 2010/11 season with a defeat after pushing Tottenham Hotspur all the way on Saturday morning.

Tottenham were 2-1 winners at Moor Farm, with a goal in either half defeating Darren Wassall's side.

Striker Callum Ball set up a grandstand finish by pulling a goal back late on from Alex Witham's free-kick, but it wasn't to be for Derby.

Despite tasting defeat, under 18s manager Wassall was very pleased with how his side performed.

He told dcfc.co.uk: "It was a very good game and a very good performance against a strong Tottenham side that defeated Manchester United 3-1 last week, so we knew we were in for a tough afternoon.

"We had a goal disallowed at 1-0 and we looked very dangerous on the break in the 2nd half.

"We pressed for a goal and conceded with ten minutes left, but we responded straight away which was pleasing to see.

"I'm disappointed we didn't get the equaliser we deserved towards the end, but very pleased with the players throughout the 90 minutes.

"In fact, I couldn't be more pleased with what the players have given us over the last seven weeks.

"We competed exceptionally well against a Premier League Academy which has had stability and substantial financial backing for many years."

The under 18s travel to Watford this weekend, and with the mood in the camp very upbeat.

Wassall added: "We're looking forward to the Watford trip next Saturday, full of confidence and self belief."