3/1 To Win
There was one thing certain in the mind of striker Jack Marriott following the 4-2 Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round replay victory over Northampton Town on Tuesday night - and that was to claim the Rams’ third goal of the evening.
As Chris Martin stood the ball up for the striker at the far post, he nodded the ball down but his header was saved by Cobblers goalkeeper David Cornell.
Scott Malone did manage to score from the rebound and raced off in celebration.
However, the referee pointed to his watch to indicate Marriott’s initial header had crossed the line.
It was heartbreak for Malone but delight for Marriott who netted his third goal of the season against the Cobblers.
“The goal-line technology gave it, that’s what they told me,” he told RamsTV following the game.
“I saw Scott Malone running off and the referee came over to me and gave it to me, so it’s just nice to be in the next round and back on the scoresheet. Scott wasn’t happy but it is what it is!”
The Rams were made to work for their win, despite going into the half-time break two goals ahead.
Goals from Andre Wisdom and Duane Holmes had put Derby in a commanding position, however, Marriott was frustrated with how his side started the second period as the visitors played a goal back.
“It was a disappointing start to the second half,” he admitted. “We are not happy that we conceded but to bounce back and get the third to give us that two goal cushion again was important because they probably felt they could get back into the game.”
The win sets up a Fifth Round tie against Premier League giants Manchester United.
The Rams have special memories playing against the Red Devils over the years, including a trip to Old Trafford last season.
A first goal in Derby colours for Marriott helped the Rams overcome United last season in the Third Round of the Carabao Cup, on penalties after a 2-2 draw in normal time, and the striker is hoping for more of the same next month.
“That was a special night and hopefully we can have another one,” he said. “We have a great tie here which will be amazing. It’s going to be a good game.
“They are one of the biggest teams in the world so we are looking forward to having them down here and we will give it a good go.
“They are a huge team. They have some incredible talent so it will be a tough game but one we are optimistic about.
“The fans will come out in their numbers and I’m sure their fans will bring a few too. It should be a great game and we are all looking forward to it.”
