Graham Branch isn't high on the list as a rule when Burnley fans are looking for heroes.
But his second goal in four days - to all but clinch First Division survival - has changed all of that.
Emergency striker Branch struck five minutes before half-time, out-muscling Derby defender Youl Mawene before sending a right-foot shot out of the reach of Lee Grant.
It was a magic moment for Branch who earned special praise from manager Stan Ternent.
"Branchy is a bit of a worrier, who likes to be liked and I am pleased for him.
"He's a very good player and he's come up with a couple of vital goals at a crucial time.
"Winning back to back hasn't happened too much for us this season and I feel much better than I did a few days ago.
"It was a very exciting game and I thought we just about shaded it." Derby manager George Burley said: "We lost to a poor goal and had missed four good chances before they scored.
"The performance was okay and the commitment first-class, but this game was all about points and we were disappointed not to get any." Spanish striker Manel missed two great opportunities from inside the six-yard box before Branch's decisive goal and Brian Jensen made some outstanding saves in a second half dominated by the visitors.
Jensen pushed away a header from Michael Johnson and then made a brave block to keep out a close-range shot from Leon Osman.
On the one occasion when Jensen was beaten, colleague Richard Chaplow was on hand to clear an effort from Marcus Tudgay off the line.