Full-Time: Derby County 2, West Bromwich Albion 1 – Championship Match Summary

In a match that had all the hallmarks of an enthralling Championship clash, Jerry Yates rose to the occasion, scoring the opener for a resilient Derby County. Their triumph over West Bromwich Albion was particularly poignant, marking a difficult beginning for the Baggies in the post-Carlos Corberan era.

Yates, showcasing his prowess, expertly slotted home from a tight angle, taking full advantage of a sluggish start from West Brom, who were operating under the interim guidance of Chris Brunt and his coaching team, Damia Abella and Boaz Myhill.

Despite their woes, the visitors had their moments, twice striking the post before the half ended—Darnell Furlong’s adrenaline-fueled low strike and a beautifully executed free-kick by John Swift nearly swung the match in their favor.

However, the second half proved to be a test of Derby’s mettle, as they not only held their ground but doubled their advantage thanks to Kayden Jackson’s powerful shot, which was fortuitously deflected into the net off Albion defender Mason Holgate.

Grady Diangana’s late header, a result of a pinpoint cross from Tom Fellows, ignited hopes of a West Brom resurgence, with just 10 minutes left on the clock.

Yet, the Rams displayed a commendable defensive performance, sealing their second victory in three matches and lifting themselves up to a respectable 14th in the table, while West Brom was left pondering the ramifications of their search for a new manager, still positioned in eighth place.

Diangana’s debut goal of the season had the Pride Park faithful holding their breath, reminiscent of Derby’s previous heartbreak against Luton Town, where they conceded a last-minute goal while leading 1-0.

The Rams’ keeper, Jacob Widell Zetterstrom, displayed composure under pressure with a crucial leg block from Karlan Grant, while the home side survived a nail-biting injury-time goalmouth scramble, with Sonny Bradley making a heart-stopping clearance.

Though Albion dominated possession with over 60%, their inability to capitalize was glaring, with their first shot on target arriving more than an hour into the contest when Alex Mowatt’s curling attempt was deflected away by the agile Widell Zetterstrom.

The second goal revitalized Derby as they expertly saw out the closing stages, marking a significant seventh league victory of the campaign.

Derby’s manager Paul Warne articulated his satisfaction in a chat with BBC Radio Derby:

“I’m really pleased. We started really well but we didn’t take one of our chances. But Jerry scored a good goal and we had pretty good control.

“Apart from the two strikes that hit the post, they didn’t really lay a glove on us.

“The second goal was a bit fortuitous but we put our bodies on the line and did enough to see out the game.

“We have always been really competitive in the Championship. Since the Leeds game we should have had 10 points from four games but we threw away points against Luton.

“Today we possibly had some luck that we haven’t had before.”

Conversely, West Bromwich Albion’s co-caretaker boss Chris Brunt reflected on a challenging afternoon:

“In the end we gave ourselves too much to do. We knew what was coming and didn’t deal with it well.

“Individual errors are a part of the game, and we won’t have a go at anyone trying to do the right thing. This is a tough place to come.

“I received a phone call late on Christmas Eve saying there’s a possibility. Then another saying it’s happening; we could use your help.

“Why would you change what’s gone pretty well for the majority of the season? We’ve been in every game, so why change that? Carlos prepped a lot before he left.

“Carlos did a great job here for two years and left us in a better place than when he came in, and you can’t say that often. He’s not left us in a bad place and what he achieved last year, getting us to the play-offs.”