Notts County 1 Derby County 3 (friendly)

Rams continue good start to pre season

Derby County maintained their good start to the pre-season friendlies with a 3-1 defeat of Notts County at The Aaron Scargill Stadium (formally Meadow Lane).

Brian O’Neil was tonight’s man of the match with a superb display in midfield, capped with a fine goal. Derby had O’Neil to thank for their first goal. After a strong run into the box he was bundled over for a penalty kick. Danny Higginbotham took responsibility for the spot kick and he duly scored.

Derby where playing well but where caught after 27 minutes when Magpies striker Danny Allsopp beat the off-side trap before slotting the ball past Mart Poom in goal.

It didn’t take the Rams long to regain the lead and Man of the Match Brian O’Neil again played a major part, slotting a superb through ball for Fabrizio Ravanelli to round on and beat the Notts keeper. However his shot hit the post but Rava was given a second chance as the ball fell kindly for him and he made no mistake with the second chance.

Brian O'Neil capped a good display with the rams third goal

Derby went 3-1 up with just 30 minutes played when a free kick floated in by Rob Lee found it’s way to that man O’Neil, who headed a well deserved goal to top a stunning performance after his nightmare injury season last year.

Possible free signing Robbie Mustoe made his first appearance in a Rams shirt as he came on for Rob Lee at the interval.

One down side to this evenings match was an injury to Chris Riggott after 30 minutes. It is not yet know the extent of the injury but we will bring you news when we have it.