Derby County took one step into the Championship with a narrow 1-0 victory over Cambridge United this afternoon, breaking one impressive club record in the process.
Derby County knew before the game they needed just four points from their final two games to secure promotion.
The Rams secured three points against Cambridge thanks to a composed finish from Nathaniel Mendez-Laing after Louie Sibley set him away with a superb pass.
Although Bolton Wanderers beat Port Vale 2-0 and Peterborough United overcame Bristol Rovers by the same margin, only a point is needed against relegated Carlisle United next weekend to secure their return to the second tier.
Paul Warne will have been very pleased that his side got the job done against Cambridge, and while the hosts did have their chances to score, the visitors were great value for a crucial victory.
Derby County break club record for away wins in a single season
Derby have been impressive on their travels this term and this afternoon, they kept their 10th clean sheet against sides from 10th down in the table.
Combining the quality that Garry Monk was wary of with a defensive steeliness, Warne has created a recipe for success.
Derby are set up perfectly to go away, play in a 3-5-2 system and hit teams on the break. A lot of their goals come from set pieces or through the pace of Mendez-Laing.
The latter was how the Rams opened the scoring today, as the 31-year-old rounded goalkeeper Will Mannion and slid the ball into the empty net.
While that was a huge goal in the context of their season, it also saw the former Cardiff City winger break history.
As revealed by journalist Dominic Dietrich, Derby’s final away game of their season saw them register their 13th win, which happens to be a club record for away wins in a season.
Derby County need just one more point for promotion
The equation for Derby County is simple; secure at least a point against Carlisle United at Pride Park next weekend and promotion will be theirs.
Following relegation from the Championship in 2022, supporters were dreaming of this moment.
David Clowes has since tookover the club and transformed the mood around the place while instilling belief into a fanbase that was once fractured.
Derby should secure at least a draw against Carlisle, but if they somehow lose, Bolton will need to pull off a four-goal swing to pip Warne’s men to the second spot.
It’s been a fantastic season for the club, so let’s hope they can get over the line next weekend and celebrate in style.
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