How a few half-time clips from Eustace helped Rams end wait for a home win

FIRST-HALF FOOTAGE AND A CHANGE PROVED PIVOTAL IN SECURING IMPORTANT VICTORY

- By LEIGH CURTIS

DERBY County secured their first home win of the season as they inflicted further pain on Norwich City boss Liam Manning with victory at Pride Park.

Norwich were out of the blocks quickly and could have taken the lead inside the opening two minutes when Oscar Schwartu forced a fine save from Jacob Widell Zetterstrom.

The visitors kept the ball alive, which led to some frantic defending inside the box, but moments later Schwartu was through on goal having been picked out by Josh Sergent.

The winger drew aim but smashed his effort into the side netting amid a loud roar of concern from the fans in the South Stand.

Derby did summon a response as nice approach play from Patrick Agy-emang saw him find Max Johnston who had joined the attack from fullback. The right-back took a touch before dragging his effort across the face of goal before Carlton Morris then won a free-kick through his endeavour but Rhian Brewster's delivery was easily dealt with.

Jovonn Makama then saw a shot fail to trouble Zetterstrom as the visitors enjoyed the bulk of possession.

In return, Derby produced their best move when Ozoh freed Morris, who reached the byline, and cut the ball back for Brereton Diaz, whose shot was blocked.

Eustace made a switch to a back three at halftime as Sondre Langas was introduced for Rhian Brewster.

The switch paid dividends as Brereton Diaz, switched to the right-hand side, crossed superbly for Agyemang, who touched back to Morris, whose shot was somehow saved by Kovacevic.

But moments later Derby were celebrating when Agyemang bundled his way past a challenge and touched the ball into the path of Ozoh who curled a terrific effort into the top corner. Derby then nearly found a second when a doozy of a cross from Brereton Diaz found Agyemang, whose header was tipped away by Kovacevic.