DERBY (3-5-2):
Carson 5; Keogh 4, Davies 5, Forsyth 5; Wisdom 5, LAWRENCE 6, Huddlestone 5 (Hanson 71), Johnson 4, Olsson 5 (Weimann 62, 4); Vydra 4 (Palmer 62, 4), Nugent 5.
Subs (not used): Roos (gk), Pearce, Ledley, Jerome.
MIDDLESBROUGH (4-1-4-1):
7 Randolph: Most of Derby’s efforts were straight at him, but he did well in the second half to turn Lawrence’s shot around the post
7 Shotton: His promotion to the starting line-up has made Boro much more defensively resolute – another solid showing
8 Ayala: Kept Nugent quiet at one end and made himself a real nuisance at the other – has been Boro’s most important player in the last few games
7 Gibson: Has formed a rock-solid partnership with Ayala in recent weeks, with his composure putting the rest of the back four at ease
7 Friend: Won his personal battle against Wisdom, who was playing at wing-back, and is becoming more effective with his long throws
7 Clayton: Preferred to Leadbitter, who was back after suspension, and handled himself superbly despite a second-minute booking
8 Traore: Another jaw-dropping display from a player who has the world at his feet – Derby’s defenders didn’t know what to do with him
9 BESIC: Is getting better with every game, and is now showing why Everton were so desperate to sign him – scored his first senior goal for four years
7 Howson: Crashed an excellent second-half drive against the crossbar and was always looking to get on the front foot
7 Downing: Even when he is not quite at his best, his ability to do the simple things so effectively makes him a valuable asset
7 Assombalonga: Claimed his 14th goal of the season as he steadied himself before slamming home Traore’s cross, and led the line well throughout
Subs:
Leadbitter (for Besic, 81)
Fabio (for Downing, 85)
(not used): Konstantopoulos (gk), Cranie, Fry, Johnson, Harrison.
Man Of The Match: MO BESIC – Boro have been crying out for a goalscoring central midfielder all season – in Besic, they have finally found that player.
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