Some Derby County supporters have taken to Twitter to praise Colin Kazim-Richards after he grabbed the equaliser in the 1-1 draw at home to Nottingham Forest.
It looked like Forest were set to win the bragging rights at Pride Park.
The Reds took the lead against the run of play after the half hour mark when James Garner’s weak volley somehow squirmed under Derby goalkeeper David Marshall.
Derby held a record of losing every one of their Championship games this season after falling behind, while Forest had won all nine they had taken the lead in.
But Colin Kazim-Richards ripped up the script. With five minutes remaining, the 34-year-old striker struck a thunderous volley which left Brice Samba with no chance.
Here is a selection of comments from some Derby supporters on CKR after the game.
Legend Status Confirmed. #DCFC
— Sean Murphy (@smurfie37) February 27, 2021
I’ve never seen a player have so much of an impact than #CKR has had on #dcfc. Talk about pulling a club up by the bootstraps; I’ve never experienced such an impact#dcfc #dcfcfans
— Chris (@CheBaronay) February 26, 2021
CKR
1 chance
Boooooooom !!
What a player he’s been this season #dcfc
— Neil Parkinson 💙 (@neilvparkinson) February 26, 2021
It’s not even just CKR’s ability on the pitch that makes him so good, his attitude & leadership bring so much to our club- what a signing he’s been👏🏼🖤🤍 #dcfc #dcfcfans
— Carolyn (@carolyn005x) February 26, 2021
Fair result looked abit cocu at times Thank god for king CKR #dcfcfans #dcfc
— David Graham Wall (@dave88wall) February 26, 2021
Far cry from recent performances the team have put in got away with one and didn’t lose to them. On to the next one and get to safety quick. As for CKR, that man is unreal #dcfc
— Michael Dean 🏴 (@deane_derby11) February 26, 2021
@dcfcofficial CKR player of the season, don’t even waste your time going to vote #dcfc 🐑
— Ranj (@Ranj6) February 26, 2021
Example No. 123455754 that CKR is the best striker in the Championship, no service all game then smacks one in from 20 yards #dcfc #dcfcfans
— Adam (@adaamwilliaams) February 26, 2021
Kazim-Richards arrived at Derby last summer to a somewhat subdued reaction.
Many Rams supporters were hoping for a more high-profile signing to fill the void left by Chris Martin, and there was a consensus Kazim-Richards arrived out of desperation.
But the former Sheffield United man has been a revelation for Derby this season.
Kazim-Richards has started every game under boss Wayne Rooney. Moreover, the experienced striker tops the club’s scoring charts with seven goals in 19 Championship starts.
Aside from his goals, Kazim-Richards offers strength, an aerial threat and focal point. He has proven to be an influential character, and fully deserves his recent contract extension.
Also see: £4m ace sold by Derby returns to Pride Park as Forest’s best player toppling Nathan Byrne
Also see: Chelsea teenager on trial at Derby head of possible move