Leeds United came away from Pride Park with a crucial 1-0 win courtesy of a Kemar Roofe strike, and have taken a giant step forward in their promotion chase.
The Whites didn’t have it all their way as they saw off a bright Derby start and a late rally, but managed to keep their third cleansheet in as many games against Frank Lampard’s side.
As usual, it was a heated affair at times, and here are three talking points from the closely-fought game.
#3 Leeds weather early storm to impose themselves
Leeds’ shaky form prior to the clash meant they had to be a bit more cautious in their approach in the opening stages. Though Marcelo Bielsa’s side tried to get their passing game and rhythm going, it was Derby who started the better of the two teams.
Unfortunately, Lampard’s side couldn’t do much with possession they had, and Leeds slowly grew into the game in the first half. Barring an early David Nugent chance that was blocked, Derby didn’t do much in the first half.
Derby finished the game with no shots on target, which will disappoint the manager considering they were playing at home.
#2 Kemar Roofe’s movement too much for Derby to handle once again
Derby must be sick of Roofe by now. The 26-year old had scored in both games against the Rams and made managed his fourth against Lampard’s men with a calm finish past Kelle Roos in goal.
Roofe should have had more but he isn’t quite at his best yet, and Derby will at least be glad they are still in the contest.
The forward often dropped deep and his pace was always a threat on the break. The goal was a combination of good movement and an excellent cross by Jack Harrison, which was just too good for Scott Malone who was closest to Roofe.
#1 The controversial penalty decision
You ask most neutrals about the decision, and they will perhaps give you a 50-50 answer. The fans will most likely opt for a favourable decision, and replays suggested just how tough a call it was.
It was one of those decisions that perhaps needed the linesman’s call who was looking straight at it, and identified that Jayden Bogle’s challenge came from behind, which is perhaps the right call.
With such high stakes, Derby will feel grieved as the referee Craig Pawson immediately pointed to the spot, but overturned the decision after consulting the linesman.