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Derby 1 Tottenham 0

Last updated : 02 February 2002 By Our man at the match

John Gregory's reign as manager of Derby County starts with a hard won win against Tottenham Hotspur.

Lee Morris
Lee Morris worth the £500,000 extra
Gregory wanted a full house for his first game in charge. It was quite that but the fans that did make the noon kick-off where treated to a better-looking Rams side. Lee Morris, the forgotten man at Pride Park was given a chance by Gregory, even though it will cost the club £500,000. An appearance clause in the transfer agreement with Sheffield United means the Rams have to stump up the £½ million. The crowd and John Gregory think it is money well spent after Morris stuck the only goal of a thrilling match.

His shot in the 44th minute was half saved by Sullivan but rolled agonisingly over the Spurs goal line. Dean Richards kicked the ball away but video evidence showed the referee and linesman (sorry assistant) to have made the correct decision. (For once this afternoon).

Rams V Spurs
Spurs had their chances
Spurs had their chances but a combination of good Rams defending and a little luck kept them at bay. Derby nearly contributed to their own downfall in the first half as a quickly taken free-kick caught nearly every Rams player (and a few spectators) asleep, the ball eventually thumping the advertising hordings after missing Andy Oakes's left-hand post by a very small margin.

A one goal lead at half time was not looking to be enough if the Rams where to claim points out of this match. Although after the first 45 minutes of the Gregory reign Derby where ahead, and the home crowd saluted the fact with a standing ovation for Gregory and his team.

The second half began with Tottenham attacking the Rams and looking for the equaliser. Little changed in the remainder of the half as the Rams slipped further into their usual defensive pattern. Fabrizio Ravanelli looked tired well before the final whistle but at 33 he put everything he had into his performance and again looked the world class player he undoubtedly is.

Warren Barton
Warren Barton, outstanding debut

Warren Barton for me was man of the match. A transfer from Newcastle that was swift (approximately 12 hours to complete) and just a few hours training with his new team mates didn't stop the 32 year old from dominating the right back position. He didn't place a foot wrong in an outstanding debut. His skill and experience will be invaluable if the Rams are to avoid relegation this season.


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