Some Derby County supporters have taken to Twitter to praise the performance of Craig Forsyth as he played a key role during the Rams’ 1-0 win over Preston North End.
Derby defeated Preston thanks to a first-half goal from forward Martyn Waghorn.
(Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images).
It was a fully deserved win for Phillip Cocu’s side. They thoroughly dominated the first half and stood up to Preston’s direct approach late in the second period.
Waghorn will grab the plaudits for his match-winner. However, it was Forsyth who was named Man of the Match and supporters singled him out for praise on social media.
Here are some of the best tweets:
Very good first half today, should of been out of sight 1st half . PCFC changed personnel for 2nd half , asked more questions of the Dcfc back 5 , we stood firm and saw the game out. Special mention to Craig Forsyth, astounding mental strength to come back and play like that 🐏
— Shane Nicholson (@Shinner144) November 23, 2019
Craig Forsyth’s return is a brilliant story, too. Has the height and athleticism to play centre-back too and after his third ACL injury he looked like he’d never been away. Excellent #dcfc #dcfcfans
— Richard Cusack (@RichardCusackBM) November 23, 2019
Also not quite sure whether I’m watching Craig Forsyth or prime Maldini #dcfc
— Dom (@DominicLomas96) November 23, 2019
Is this Forsyth or prime Maldini? #dcfc
— stephen. (@dcfcstephen) November 23, 2019
Huge result. That was some performance from Craig Forsyth, a massively important player for us. Davies, Lowe and Bielik also class. And how good does Tom Lawrence look in the number 10. He’s on fire at the moment. Up the boys 🐏🐏🐏 #DCFC
— Joel Moore (@jmDCFC) November 23, 2019
Brilliant today. First half best we’ve played by a mile. Loved the 442. Lowe & Forsyth excellent. In fairness though to a man they were all brilliant and thought Cocu got it tactically spot on today! 👍🏼🐏 UTR! #dcfc #dcfcfans
— DCFC Football (@derbycountyf) November 23, 2019
Lawrence, Bielik and Forsyth all class today #dcfc
— Jacob🇳🇱 (@jacobcooperr_) November 23, 2019
Good to see Forsyth playing today, I actually think he could be better a CB than Clarke, certainly a better full back than Lowe and Malone. #dcfc #dcfcfans
— Adam Fisher (@AdamFisher02) November 23, 2019
Craig Forsyth was making his first appearance for Derby in over a year.
The former Watford man spent nine months recovering from an ACL injury picked up last season. His only game-time this term has been with the U23s.
But as manager Phillip Cocu faced a defensive crisis with Richard Keogh no longer around and loan star Matthew Clarke out injured, he turned to Forsyth in a bold move.
The Scot is predominantly a left-back. However, Cocu played him alongside Curtis Davies in central defence and he showed his capabilities with a superb display.
Forsyth racked up five effective clearances and three aerial duels won. Moreover, the 30-year-old was assured in possession, regularly picking out a Derby shirt.
(Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images).
The victory lifts the Rams momentarily up to 11th in the Championship. Up next is a trip to Fulham, and fans will be hoping Forsyth can produce another top display.
Also see: £2.75m Derby ace reportedly set for international bow after surprise turn of events
Also see: Cocu says Derby academy talent is showing unbelievable levels after tough start