3/1 To Win
Derby County’s Under-18s return to Premier League – North action on Saturday and will be looking to extend their impressive run of form as they host Wolverhampton Wanderers, kick-off 11am.
The Rams are unbeaten in their last six games in all competitions stretching back to the beginning of September, and have taken eight points from their last four league matches.
Last time out, Justin Walker and Rory Delap’s side drew 1-1 with West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League Cup to leave them with two draws in the competition and a realistic chance of progressing into the next round.
Midfielder Louie Sibley’s close-range effort had deservedly put his side ahead early in the second-half, but West Brom would take a point thanks to a deflected effort that spun cruelly past Rams keeper Matthew Yates.
The Rams currently sit third in the Premier League – North and just two points behind leaders Manchester United after consecutive league wins over both West Brom and Stoke.
Saturday’s opponents Wolves are currently ninth in the league standings after they drew their most recent game with Newcastle United 2-2.
The Under-18s have put in some impressive displays this campaign, with their attacking players showing creativity and flair to open-up opposition defences.
However, they have also been very strong defensively, and currently possess the best defensive record in the Premier League – North with just eight goals conceded in their first eight league matches. This solidity has helped the Rams lose only one competitive game all season.
Going in to Saturday’s match at the Training Centre in partnership with the University of Derby, the players will hope that these traits can continue to flourish as they look to extend their strong start to 2017/18.
Words by Marc Walker
