West Bromwich Albion
Derby County’s Under-18s drew 1-1 at home against West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League Cup on Saturday.
The Rams had the best chances of the game and pushed their opponents back right up until the final whistle, but ultimately couldn’t find the winning goal that they arguably deserved.
After a cagey opening 20 minutes, the home side had the first scoring opportunity. Morgan Whittaker’s powerful strike from just outside the area was parried out to the onrushing Louie Sibley, but his close-range effort was well-saved by West Brom 'keeper Alex Przybek.
The Rams were showing all the first-half’s attacking intent, and would go close again before half-time. Full-back Jayden Bogle was put through on goal, but his low effort was pushed away again by ‘keeper Przybek.
It didn’t take long for Derby to open the scoring in the second-half though. Whittaker, who was heavily involved throughout, beat his man well and curled in a low cross. The ball was fumbled by Przybek, and Sibley was on hand to side-foot home.
With another typically strong Rams defensive performance on show, it looked as though they might see the game out and win. However, West Brom drew level when Aaron Rowe’s long-range strike was deflected cruelly past wrong-footed home keeper Matthew Yates on 71 minutes.
This setback didn’t stop Justin Walker and Rory Delap’s side from pushing forward, though, and winger Whittaker’s fierce drive from the edge of the area bent just wide three minutes from time.
The game ended all square at full-time despite late Rams pressure, meaning Derby stay second in their Premier League Cup group with one match to play and still with realistic chance of reaching the next round.
The Rams’ next match is at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers, and they will be hoping to extend their unbeaten run of four league games.
After a strong start to the season, the Rams sit in third place in Premier League - North and just two points behind league leaders Manchester United.
Walker and Delap’s side then travel to face Newcastle United and conclude their fixtures for the month of November.
Derby County Under-18s Vs Wolverhampton Wanderers Under-18s – Saturday 18th November (kick-off: 11am)
Newcastle United Under-18s Vs Derby County Under-18s – Saturday 25th November (kick-off: 12pm)
Derby County Under-18s Vs Everton Under-18s – Saturday 2nd December (kick-off: 12pm)
Derby County Under-18s Vs Manchester City Under-18s – Saturday 9th December (kick-off: 12pm)
Liverpool Under-18s Vs Derby County Under-18s – Saturday 13th January (kick-off: 12pm)
Words by Marc Walker
Images by Harry Marshall
