Pat Lyons hailed Derby County’s Under-23’s ‘excellent’ display as they beat Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 at Pride Park Stadium in Premier League 2 Division One.
Luke Thomas stole the show with a stunning performance, which was capped off by a brilliant winner, whilst the Rams stood firm at the back to keep a clean sheet and claim another three points against one of the league’s big sides.
Lyons, Derby's senior professional development phase coach. was thrilled with the performance and response to last Saturday’s defeat at Manchester City, but also the way that the side managed the game after going in front.
He told RamsTV: “The season so far has been excellent, but we had a blip against Manchester City and we told the lads to get their heads up, because it’s what you do after a defeat that will show your true worth.
“It was absolutely excellent. The attitude, the application, we played football and created opportunities, but also, we dug in at the end to keep it at 1-0.
“They took control, so we had to show some resilience. I don’t think that they created one good chance in the last 30 minutes.”
Lyons revealed that the Rams' showing impressed their counterparts and he thinks that the youngsters have now found their feet at this level after a difficult first campaign.
He said: “Their coach thought that we were outstanding, which is great to hear from another club.
“It’s our second season in this top league and the lads are up to speed with it now, they understand what’s expected. They’re facing some great teams and some great individuals, and they’re thriving against it.”
The Under-23s were once again supported by the inclusion of Jason Shackell in the starting XI, and Lyons was keen to praise his influence as well as that of the match-winner Thomas.
He added: “Thomas really affected the game, he was outstanding, but everyone, their work-rate was absolutely brilliant.
“Jason Shackell, coming in from the first team, he was excellent again and he’s a great leader.”