Derby County’s Under-18s continue their Premier League – North campaign on Saturday, where they will be aiming to extend their current unbeaten streak, which dates back to the start of September.
The Rams are unbeaten in their last seven matches in all competitions, and have taken nine points from their last five league outings.
In their most recent match, Justin Walker's and Rory Delap’s side earned a 5-5 draw at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers, despite falling behind in the match on three separate occasions.
Derby raced into a 2-0 lead less than 10 minutes into the match, courtesy of goals from Jason Knight and Morgan Whittaker.
The visitors then fought back to go 4-2 ahead before the hour mark. Knight then scored his second of the match, only for it to be cancelled out two minutes later.
Determined to end the game with a positive result, Walker’s and Delap’s side turned the tables and goals from Jayden Mitchell-Lawson and substitute Adam Davie bought the game level with just six minutes remaining.
The Rams are currently fourth in the Premier League – North, only four points behind leaders Manchester United.
Saturday’s opponents Newcastle are currently 12th in the league table, following a 2-1 defeat against Everton in the last match.
The Under-18s have not been short of goals in recent weeks, scoring 14 times in their last four league matches.
Their defensive record has also been impressive in this campaign, conceding only 13 times in their nine league games, only Manchester United and Liverpool have conceded fewer goals in the league.
Going in to Saturday’s match at the Newcastle United Academy, the players will hope that they can extend their current unbeaten run to eight games.
Words by Jonty Colman
