3/1 To Win
Justin Walker was delighted with his Under-18s side’s attacking display in their 5-3 win away to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Tuesday.
A brace each for Morgan Whittaker and Tyree Wilson following Jayden Mitchell-Lawson’s opener at Molineux saw the Rams score five for a second time against Wolves this season.
The side put in a professional display all over the pitch, and Walker was keen to compliment his side post-match.
He told dcfc.co.uk: “From an attacking point of view, I thought we were excellent.
“We caused them a lot of problems, had a lot of energy and had a lot of the qualities that we’ve been looking for over previous weeks; hence why we scored five goals.
“Yet, on the other hand, we’re disappointed with the goals we did concede.
“I think the three midfield players were outstanding in the first-half particularly. The team as a whole worked tirelessly, and I thought their energy levels and the intensity that they played at in the first-half ultimately dictated what happened during the game.”
This season has seen the Rams play in a number of first-team stadia around the country, including at Pride Park and at Molineux against Wolves.
With progression up through the club key for the Under-18s, Walker highlighted the importance of experiences such as these.
He said: “It’s fantastic. We’ve come to a recently promoted Championship club who will be in the Premier League next year.
“There’s a good buzz around the stadium as you’d expect, all the staff are in a good mood. It’s just brilliant for the lads to get to play in an arena like that and ultimately put on a performance as well.
“I thought Jason Knight and Max Bird were outstanding. They dictated the play, and Jack Haywood contributed to that first-half too.
“As for the two wide players; I’m not sure they could deal with them.”
Derby now have just one remaining game in their 2017/18 campaign, and the season concludes with a trip to face Manchester City next weekend.
Following the Under-18s most recent triumph, Walker took time to reflect on the progress that his and Rory Delap’s side have made.
He added: “Myself and Rory have thoroughly enjoyed working with the players that we’ve got. There’s been a high work ethic, great attitude and application.
“All of them are persevering and wanting to better themselves, and it’s made our life easier really.
“To see some of the work that had been going on throughout the season being transferred onto the grass at Under-18s and Under-23s level - which is why we do the job we do, to see the players progress - that’s been a real plus.
“Everyone wants to finish on a positive note. I think the players can look back on what they’ve done during this season and be proud of the progress that they’ve made. Fingers crossed, the Under-18s and Under-23s can finish the season strong.”
