Phillip Cocu was understandably delighted to see his Derby County side rewarded for an impressive performance on the road as they turned on the style to record a 3-1 victory at Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday.
Derby stormed into a 3-0 lead by half-time following a scintillating first-half display at Hillsborough in their latest Sky Bet Championship fixture.
Tom Lawrence’s brace and a fine strike by Jason Knight had the Rams well in control against Garry Monk’s side.
The Owls rallied after the interval and did pull a goal back midway through the second half through substitute Josh Windass, but Derby were full value for their third away victory of the campaign in the league.
Cocu was happy with the football his side played in the opening 45 minutes, as well as their resilience in the second period as the Owls pushed for a way back into the game.
Speaking to RamsTV following the match, Cocu said: “I think we started well, on the front foot and tried to press them.
“The lads did great, scored good goals and it was a pleasure to watch in that first half.
“We controlled the game and built up from the behind very well. They couldn’t press us and we always found the free player in midfield so it was a pleasure to watch.
“We knew in the second half they would want a reaction if the home team goes down 3-0, so we had to put up a fight and I had to adapt tactically.
“In the end it was about getting the win today and I think because of the first half we got it. The way we played in the first half is the way we want to play home or away.”
Striker Chris Martin had a hand in all three of Derby’s goals.
The frontman showed his value to the team by leading the line superbly, displaying his impressive ability to bring others into play.
Cocu explained: “That is why he played today.
“He can keep the ball, has a great eye on his team-mates to put them in position. He came close twice himself and was a bit unlucky not to get a goal, but he was very important for the team.”
Derby were backed by a large following of 2,500 supporters in South Yorkshire.
The Derby boss was delighted to reward the travelling faithful for their backing with a deserved victory.
He said: “We have to thank the fans because big numbers showed up to support us.
“They know it hasn’t been easy for us a times away from home, but I am extremely happy we could give them a good win in this game.”
Next up for Derby is Thursday night’s sell-out Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round tie at home to Premier League Manchester United, before returning to Championship action next Sunday at Pride Park Stadium against Blackburn Rovers.
