Johnny Russell has called for consistency after Derby County’s impressive 2-0 victory over rivals Nottingham Forest at Pride Park Stadium on Sunday.
Matej Vydra and David Nugent struck as Gary Rowett’s side won three consecutive home games against Forest for the first time, with Russell being named as Man of the Match after a strong performance on the flank.
The 27-year-old believes that the win could provide a ‘kick-start’ to the Rams’ campaign, but only if they maintain that level of performance going forward.
Speaking to the media after the East Midlands derby, he said: “We know that on our day we are one of the top sides in this division and it’s about showing it on a consistent basis.
“That’s down to us as players week in week out to go and do it. Hopefully this is the start of our charge and the win is a kick-start for us, we’ve had a few bad results and we know we can do better.”
Rowett’s side took control of proceedings in the second half but they were made to fight for all three points after taking the lead inside the opening minute as Forest looked for an equaliser.
Derby stood firm and doubled the lead early in the second half, and Russell said that the players’ attitude and determination to get a result for the fans were key to the win.
He added: “We’re a hardworking team and that is what our game is based on at times.
“We haven’t done it quite so well this season at times but we were solid and showed that fight for each other right over the park.
“If you can’t get up for a special occasion like this there’s no point being in the game. It’s nice for us but the main thing was to get the win for the supporters.”