Overview
- Luke Graham met Ethan Galbraith’s free-kick early in the second half to score the only goal in a 1-0 victory at Pride Park on Saturday.
- Derby threatened late when Rhian Brewster struck the post and David Ozoh had a low drive superbly saved by Stoke goalkeeper Viktor Johansson.
- Derby’s injury problems deepened with Sondre Langas already sidelined until January, Alex Mowatt unavailable with a foot issue, and Lewis Travis leaving the match with an ankle problem.
- The defeat leaves Derby with one win in 11 league games and inside the Championship’s bottom three, increasing fan unrest and pressure on head coach John Eustace.
- Stoke’s win consolidates their place in the top eight and manager Mark Robins noted Derby’s heavy casualty list as a key factor in the contest.