Under-18s Top The Table Following Victory At Middlesbrough

Derby County Under-18s secured their fifth consecutive league victory and climbed to the top of the Premier League – North table after a 2-0 win over Middlesbrough on Saturday.

A gritty and determined performance from the Rams saw Javaun Splatt open the scoring after six minutes before Jason Knight’s late strike secured the three points.

Derby started the game in bright fashion and Splatt tested home ‘keeper Sol Brynn with a close-range header before breaking the deadlock soon after.

Morgan Whittaker played a precise pass inside for the striker who controlled well and slotted home calmly inside the box.

Middlesbrough’s best chance of the contest came after 14 minutes and Sam French had to be alert to tip Alberto Balde’s fierce volley wide.

Whittaker almost doubled the lead as his shot clipped the post shortly after half-time and Connor Dixon twice struck firm efforts straight at the hosts’ shot-stopper Brynn from good positions.

The Rams were well in control for much of the match though and the result was made safe five minutes from time.

Midfielder Jason Knight ran onto a loose ball just outside the box and planted a firm shot inside the near post to ensure a calm finish to the afternoon for his side.

What’s To Come…

The Rams sit top of the Under-18s Premier League – North division on goal difference with seven league games remaining this season.

Their next game sees them host Newcastle United at the Derby County Training Centre next weekend.

Two away trips to Stoke City and Sunderland then follow as they look to build on their five match winning run in the league.

The Next Five…

Derby County Under-18s Vs Newcastle United Under-18s – Saturday 2^nd March 2019 (kick-off: 1pm)

Stoke City Under-18s Vs Derby County Under-18s – Saturday 16^th March 2019 (kick-off: 11am)

Sunderland Under-18s Vs Derby County Under-18s – Saturday 30^th March 2019 (kick-off: 1pm)

Derby County Under-18s Vs West Bromwich Albion Under-18s – Saturday 6^th April 2019 (kick-off: 11am)

Derby County Under-18s Vs Liverpool Under-18s – Saturday 13^th April 2019 (kick-off: 12pm)