Derby Football 2nds Falter On The Road

The University of Derby Football Second Team’s 2017/18 campaign got off to the wrong start as they suffered a 3-0 defeat away to Aston University on Wednesday afternoon.

Pablo Mills’ side, who won promotion to the Midlands 3A League as champions last season, couldn’t find their rhythm against the current holders who put on a fluid attacking display to dominate the game.

Both teams had opportunities to break the deadlock in the opening exchanges, but it was Aston who drew first blood.

The home side broke from Jonny Lappert’s goal kick and Anton Alexander rounded off a team move when through on goal, and doubled their lead at the stroke of half-time with an effort from distance.

Aston added a third five minutes after the restart through Harry Sanders’ header after Lewis Clark’s initial attempt was blocked.

Derby lost the battle in midfield and frustrated in front of goal while their opponents ran riot. There were a couple of late chances to score a consolation goal, but captain Thomas Smith’s free kick hit the crossbar and the resulting corner was cleared by the Aston defence.

Mills will hope that his team can bounce back next week and get their season on the right track. He said: “I’m quite disappointed to lose 3-0. I didn’t think we performed anywhere near to the level I thought we could. We had some chances but I think it’s probably a fair result.”

The team’s next fixture is against the University of East Anglia’s first team on 18th October.

BY HRITIKA SHARMA