Derby County had to settle for a point at Barnsley despite leading into injury time.
The Tykes opened the scoring in the first-half as Aapo Halme rose highest to head in a set-piece. It was no less than Barnsley deserved after dominating the opening exchanges.
But Derby hit back. Chris Martin made it three goals in three games, profiting from some poor defending. Tom Huddlestone then put the Rams ahead via the penalty spot.
(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images).
Phillip Cocu’s men had several chances to kill the game off in the second half. Decision making, however, was their downfall and Barnsley grabbed a last-gasp equaliser.
Here are five things we learned from the encounter:
Krystian Bielik must play in midfield:
The Poland international started as centre-back and again looked shaky. Huddlestone’s injury, however, saw him step up into midfield and he bossed the second half.
Bielik is strong, excellent in the tackle and can pick a first-time forward pass.
Derby paid some £10 million for Bielik. They must start playing him in his best role.
(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images).
Jamie Paterson shows his quality:
The Bristol City loan star was excellent again. In a central role, he drops deep and can carry the ball forward. His understanding with Chris Martin is impressive.
The move to sign Paterson on loan from the Robins was frowned upon at the time. Now, it looks like a smart move from the Rams as he grabbed another assist.
Chris Martin is rediscovering his best form.
Chris Martin has netted three goals in three games. Impressive yes, but it’s his overall play which simply makes Derby tick as he brings others into play.
The former Norwich City man still lacks fitness, but he is getting there.
(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images).
Phillip Cocu’s changes divide supporters.
Bringing Tom Lawrence and Mason Bennett back into the fold was a brave move. Not just because of last week’s incident, but also due to their recent poor form.
But Cocu arguably made the changes with Luton Town in mind. Three games in a week is a big ask, and the controversial duo aren’t likely to feature at Pride Park on Saturday.
(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images).
Set-piece defending needs some serious work:
Derby have conceded 15 goals in ten league games. Nine of those goals have come from set-pieces. Something is clearly missing, and you can’t pin it on a lack of height.
Alex Mowatt’s deliveries were on the money all night for Barnsley. The Tykes scored from two set-pieces, and they could have had a couple more too.
Derby goalkeeper Kelle Roos no doubt needs to work on his catching. But, the Dutchman could do little about Barnsley’s equaliser with the Rams guilty of schoolboy defending.