Derby County's U21s lost 1-0 to Hull City U21s in the Premier League Cup on Monday night, conceding a stoppage-time goal to Kieran Wilson. The defeat at the MKM Stadium ended the young Rams' unbeaten run in the competition and left them two points behind Group J leaders Brentford. The result means Derby now have four points from their three group matches.

Coach Danny Maye described the match as one of the toughest of the season. He praised his side's bravery and defensive unity, noting they had to use younger players due to a schedule of two games in two days. He stated the team was disappointed with the late goal but would learn from the experience.

Match action

Derby created the first meaningful chance after 10 minutes when Israel Green forced a save from Hull's experienced goalkeeper Jack Butland. The visitors' own keeper, Eterne Djedje, was in fine form, making a double save in the 25th minute to deny Ted Devine and Damari Daley. Zach Marsh also saw a header saved by Butland as Derby defended resolutely.

The game appeared to be heading for a draw until the final moments. Ben Robinson made an initial stop in the 80th minute, but Kieran Wilson was quickest to the rebound to score his first goal in Hull's colours. It was a harsh outcome for a Derby side that had competed well against a Hull team featuring six first-team players, including Paddy McNair and Darko Gyabi.

Derby's own lineup included six players with first-team experience. The side was captained by Max Banks, with Djedje in goal behind a back line of Leo Corry, Ben Robinson and Kian Canoville, who was substituted after 75 minutes. The midfield trio of Ollie Lukic, Zach Wren and Koby Davidson worked hard, with Davidson making way for Koby Watmon after 63 minutes. Zach Marsh and Israel Green led the attack, with Marsh replaced by Louie Nessling after 64 minutes.

What comes next

The U21s must quickly regroup for a National League Cup tie against Wealdstone on Tuesday evening. For the senior side, the focus is on halting a difficult run in the Championship. Derby County sit 23rd in the league table with just seven points from 13 games, having lost 4-1 at Millwall last time out. The club's recent form reads five games without a win, with two draws and three defeats. The first team's next fixture is a home match against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, a key game in the battle to move away from the bottom of the division.

Background and full detail: wearehullcity.co.uk