Nigel Clough revisited his old club this afternoon, taking a strong Rams side to meet Burton Albion at th Pirelli Stadium.
A crowd of 4135 saw an entertaining game and the home supporters were in full voice in the 7th minute as Marvin Hamilton scored from 25 yards out, apparently having seen Frank Fielding, the England U21 goalkeeper, off his line. Despite a brave effort Fielding could only force the ball into the net.
The game was very much on for the Rams and they reacted well to going behind. Steve Davies drew the Rams level in the 19th minute. His goal was just reward for some slick passing play by Derby in the build up.
A penalty saw Derby take the lead in the 38th minute, Steve Davies again was the man fouled in the area and he calmly placed the spot kick straight down the middle, giving the Rams the lead at the half time interval.
Burton reacted to going behaind by making nine changes for the second half, Ross Atkin on loan from Derby County being one of only two players to play both halves.
The game was wrapped up for the Rams on the hour mark. Ben Davies showing he can produce one of his fabled free kicks that prompted Nigel Clough to buy him from Notts County last season.
So a good start to the 2011-2012 season warm-up games. The Rams now move on to Macclesfield Town on Tuesday kick-off 7.30pm..