A Duke triple saves the Rams

Last updated : 12 August 2008 By Rams Mad Editor

Nathan Ellington
Nathan Ellington goal hero for the Rams
Derby County enjoyed their first win under Paul Jewell at Pride Park this evening. The Carling Cup Tie against Lincoln City was never going to be easy with the mounting pressure on Paul Jewell and his new side after Saturdays disappointing loss to Doncaster Rover on the opening day of the football season.

The Rams needed extra time to overcome Lincoln with the sides locked at 1-1. The Rams were staring defeat in the face with only seven minutes left on the clock when 'The Duke' Nathan Ellington stepped up to level the scores, the goal was controversial however with people saying the goal looked to be off-side.

Ellington then went on to fire the Rams into a 3-1 lead and claim a very rare hat-trick for himself. Manager Paul Jewell must get some praise after he spotted that the midfield needed pepping up a little and Rob Hulse wasn't gelling with Nathan Ellington. He substituted Robbie Savage in the middle for KAZ and brought Tito Villa on for Hulse. The substitutions seemed to make the difference and the Rams claimed victory with goals in the 100th and 105th minute of extra time.

So a huge relief for Jewell and maybe the kick start the Rams needed for their season. It remains to be seen if the good work will continue at Bristol City at the weekend but confidence has now received a huge boost in the Rams camp.

Well done Derby and well done Nathan 'Duke' Ellington...