3/1 To Win
Frank Lampard admitted he was disappointed that Derby County were forced to settle for just a point against Bristol City – but was keen to focus on the many positives he saw from his side.
Derby had to be content with a 1-1 draw at Pride Park Stadium in what was their final home fixture of 2018.
The Rams, against the run of play, fell behind early on to Jamie Paterson’s deft finish after 24 minutes.
However, Lampard’s troops produced a fine response and were level before the break when Martyn Waghorn converted Mason Mount’s cross from close range.
Both teams had opportunities in the second period but Derby certainly had the better chances to claim victory as Mason Mount, Harry Wilson, Richard Keogh and Jayden Bogle all went close.
The Derby boss was clearly frustrated not to record another home win, but was proud of his players’ character and personality.
Speaking after the final whistle, Lampard told RamsTV: “I’m a bit disappointed (that Derby didn’t win).
“We dominated the first 20 minutes of the game and playing some really good football, but after making a mistake we found ourselves behind.
“That was a test of character for us and it felt like everyone was on edge; it was an edgy game and it didn’t need to be.
“We fought as a team to get back into it and once we equalised I was waiting for us to go on and get the win.
“We could have been a goal up at least in the first half and in the second half we had opportunities. Bristol City had some chances too but they were on the counter-attack mainly when we were pushing so much.
“I said to the players I am proud of the lads today. They showed character and personality in a difficult match for many reasons.
He added: “It was a tough game. As I said I’m disappointed we didn’t win but we didn’t lose and that’s a positive.
“Every team gives you a problem to a degree and you can’t have it all your own way in this league, so we need to take the point and move forward.”
Waghorn’s goal was his first at Pride Park since his summer switch from Ipswich Town.
The forward recently returned to the squad after a spell out with a hamstring injury and marked his comeback to the starting line-up with his fourth goal of the campaign.
Lampard said: “I’m delighted for Waggy to get his goal.
“He made a fine run across from the right to finish at the near post.
“He picked up an injury last month which was disappointing for him because he was playing well.
“Waggy is fit now and forced his way into the team today. He got that goal and I’m sure he will be happy too.”
Derby sit fifth in the Sky Bet Championship table at the halfway point of the campaign.
Lampard believes the Rams find themselves in a positive position but believes there’s still more to come.
He said: “I’m pleased but there could be more. For different reasons we could have had more points and I know other managers will be saying the same as me.
“What is important now as a club, players and fans is that we look forward and try to improve on that position.
“I believe we can be better although I do think we are punching a bit because there’s a lot of competition in this league and there’s a number of teams that have spent a lot of money.
“We are in a transition right now but as I said earlier, we showed personality today and if we continue to show that alongside our workrate we’ll be alright.”
