Derby County lost 1-0 at home to West Bromwich Albion in a result that pushes them into the Championship's relegation zone. Aune Heggebo's first-half goal proved decisive for the visitors, who held on despite playing with ten men for most of the match to go top of the table.
John Eustace's side began the game well but were hit by a sucker punch. West Brom's Jimmy-Jay Morgan delivered a cross from the left and Heggebo was on hand to turn it home against the run of play. The Derby manager told reporters the goal was "a kick in the teeth" after his team's positive start. The defeat leaves Derby 21st in the Championship with just four points from five games, having won one, drawn one and lost three.
West Brom's task became much harder when debutant right-back Brayann Pereira was sent off in the 34th minute for a second bookable offence. Playing over an hour with a numerical disadvantage, the Baggies dug in. Head coach James Morrison, who took charge in April, saw his side defend resolutely. They limited Derby to few clear chances, with David Ozoh's dangerous pass across the goalmouth one of the home side's best openings. Morrison said he was "very proud" of his players' commitment after the final whistle.
This was West Brom's first win at Derby in 23 years, a significant milestone for a club that endured two managerial sackings and a points deduction last season. The victory sends them to the summit of the Championship, a remarkable turnaround from their previous troubles.
The loss is Derby's fourth of the campaign and their goal difference has worsened to minus five, having scored five and conceded ten. They now sit seven points behind the early leaders. The frustration from the Pride Park crowd at full-time was palpable. The club's injury list is also a factor, with key players like Craig Forsyth, Derry Murkin, Matt Clarke, and Rhian Brewster currently sidelined. Fans can check the latest availability on the club's injuries page.
There is little time to dwell on this setback. Derby must prepare for their next Championship fixture at home to Birmingham City on September 12. Birmingham are currently 14th in the table, providing another tough test. A quick response is essential to climb away from danger. The full schedule for the coming weeks is available on our fixtures page.
In midfield, Alex Mowatt faced his former club West Brom but was unable to inspire a comeback. For the visitors, substitute Nolan Galves suffered an injury early in the second half, adding to their list of concerns despite the three points. Derby's league position and recent form of LWLDL will be a primary focus for Eustace ahead of the Birmingham game. The current standings show the tight nature of the division.
