Burnley surrendered top spot in the Championship with a laboured 0-0 draw at Pride Park, as Derby County’s recent resurgence continued with another valuable point in their battle to avoid relegation.
The Clarets, unbeaten in 28 league games, lacked their usual spark and now sit second in the table, trailing Leeds United on goal difference following the Whites’ win at Middlesbrough. Zian Flemming came closest to a breakthrough, but Derby’s defensive discipline frustrated the visitors throughout a largely uneventful contest.
Derby Stand Firm, Burnley Falter
Vincent Kompany’s side started brightly, and Flemming twice threatened early on — one rasping shot was superbly turned away by Jacob Widdell Zetterstrom, while another curled effort drifted narrowly wide.
Yet Derby, unbeaten in six and now on 42 points, settled after a nervy opening and carved out the best chance of the half through Jerry Yates, whose low drive was denied by James Trafford’s reflex save.
After the interval, both teams cancelled each other out in a fragmented second period. Matt Clarke might have snatched victory in stoppage time but couldn’t direct his header on target from close range.
Rams boss John Eustace has overseen a resurgence from his side, and was visibly proud of his players at full time.
“I am very proud of the group – and the fans,” he said. “We went toe-to-toe against a very good team and on another day we could have nicked a winner.”
Burnley will be disappointed not to have capitalised on slip-ups from Sheffield United, who remain two points behind. Their only concern beyond the result came in the form of a shoulder injury to Lyle Foster, who lasted just six minutes after coming off the bench.
While the game may have lacked goalmouth action — just three shots on target in total — both clubs had reasons for optimism. Derby’s shape and determination under John Eustace once again stood out, while Burnley still control their own destiny with five games to play.
Writer’s View
Burnley will rue missed chances but more so a flat second-half display that lacked conviction. Zian Flemming was a rare spark on a dull night, but the Clarets must rediscover urgency quickly if they are to reclaim top spot. For Derby, the fight and focus shown here could prove critical in the scrap for survival. They’re growing into a team that’s tough to break down — just ask Burnley.
