West Bromwich Albion
Derby County's Under-18s claimed a deserved point with a 1-1 home draw against West Bromwich Albion in Premier League – North on Tuesday evening.
It looked as though the Rams’ controlled performance would go unrewarded when West Brom took the lead after 72 minutes, but captain Lee Buchanan’s header late on meant a share of the spoils.
An experienced Rams side made a fast start to the game, and Jayden Mitchell-Lawson almost gave his side the lead when breaking into the box. He connected well with his eventual shot, but the ball cannoned back off the post.
Midfielder Jason Knight was producing a typically busy display and had a number of efforts in the first-half that were all blocked well by West Brom defenders.
The first period ended with further Derby pressure, but the sides would go into half-time with nothing between them.
Chances in the second-half for Henry Wise, Yoann Greco and Cameron Cresswell came closer still to breaking the deadlock, but it seemed as though the vital first goal the Rams were searching for would not materialise.
Indeed, it was visitors West Brom that did take the lead against the run of play after 72 minutes. A fast break from the Baggies produced a goalmouth scramble before the ball was eventually forced past Rams keeper Matt Yates.
However, late pressure from Derby saw them draw level through Buchanan. The centre-back met an inswinging Max Bird cross with a powerful header and planted the ball past the 'keeper.
The Rams now look forward to a third successive home game in Premier League – North as they welcome Newcastle United to the Training Centre in Partnership with the University of Derby on Saturday, kick-off: 1pm.
The penultimate game of the season then sees Rory Delap’s and Justin Walker’s side travel to face Wolverhampton Wanderers away from home on Tuesday 17th April.
Derby then complete their campaign with an away clash with fourth placed Manchester City, who they managed an impressive 2-0 home victory over in December.
Derby County U18s Vs Newcastle United U18s – Saturday 14th April 2018 (kick-off: 1pm)
Wolverhampton Wanderers U18s Vs Derby County U18s – Tuesday 17th April 2018 (kick-off: 12pm)
Manchester City EDS Vs Derby County U18s – Saturday 21st April (kick-off: 12pm)
Words: Marc Walker
