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Both sides started the match brightly but the Rams slowly took a slight hold on the game. The decisive play of the first half saw Derby press forward and a low cross from Dean Moxey was turned into the net by Greg Mills in the 20th minute. Derby Continued to be the dominant side for the rest of the half but it took until the last minute of the half before any noteworthy goal mouth action occurred. A first time volley from Callum Ball going just wide.
Half time saw Dean Leacock substituted, with Kallum Keane taking his place in the Ram defence. A half time team talk seemed to give Rotherham impetus and started the half on the attack but the Rams soon find their attacking feet.
The hour mark was reached and the Rams forced a good save out of Jamie Annerson as he parried a shot from Greg Mills around his right hand post.
Derby continued to look the side most likely to score to improve their lead and a stunning through ball in the 64th minute sent David Martin one-on-one with the Rotherham keeper, again Annerson managed to snuff out the danger, diving low at the feet of Martin
Just one minute later the Rams deservedly increased their lead with a great ball from wide midfield by jeff Hendrix, The looping cross was perfect for Callam Ball to head the ball over the advancing keeper and into the top left hand corner of the goal.
Alex Witham was substituted in the 75th, Graham Kelly taking his place.
The game was played out with no further incident. The win saw return to competitive action for Jake Buxton, who was rarely troubled in defence. Dean Leacock also completed 45 minutes of action. There was also a game for returning loanee Lee Croft, who has just completed a term with Huddersfield.
Short clip of this afternoons action at Christhurch Meadow..