3/1 To Win
Whilst circumstances currently mean there’s no live football to enjoy, dcfc.co.uk is delving into the archives to feature a photograph from Derby County’s illustrious history.
Every day for the foreseeable future, we’ll provide you an image each day for supporters to enjoy and reminisce.
Igor Stimac Derby County Home Debut (11th November 1995)
Igor Stimac is pictured here after crossing the white line of the Baseball Ground for the first time as Derby County defeated West Bromwich Albion 3-0 in the First Division.
After signing for the Rams on 31st October 1995 from Croatian side Hajduk Split, Stimac bagged his first goal for the club in his debut just days later in a 5-1 defeat away at Tranmere Rovers. The Croatian international’s presence was immediately felt in the Rams side who were in their first season under Jim Smith.
His arrival was pivotal in their rise up the table to eventually gain automatic promotion to the Premiership after finishing second in the First Division. The Rams were in 18th place in the table heading into his home debut, where Marco Gabbiadini was on target twice and Dean Sturridge once.
From there, Derby went on a 20-game undefeated streak and only lost four times in the remaining 30 league games with Stimac in the defence.
He went on to play four seasons with the Rams, racking up 93 appearances before signing for West Ham United.
Look out for tomorrow’s Snapshot in Time across dcfc.co.uk – and remember you can suggest an image by getting in touch via the club’s social media channels.
