IT TOOK five minutes for Derby to take the lead when this Carabao Cup first-round tie was first played earlier this month before being called off because of heavy rain. It would take much longer this time, but the strength of Gary Rowett’s side would eventually show when Matej Vydra (right) converted from the spot in the 53rd minute. Russell Slade’s Grimsby can take a number of positives away from this one, though. Siriki Dembele was tricky in
TOM FARMERY
attack and troubled Derby’s defence. The Mariners had threatened to get back into the game despite Vydra putting Derby ahead after a pull in the penalty area. Ben Davies made the task more difficult when he was sent off for a second yellow card for a foul on Craig Bryson. Slade called the decisions ‘soft’ and said: ‘I’m not sure you’d always get that decision (the penalty) and then the sending-off for the first yellow as he’s got contact on the ball.’ Rowett, who will take his side to Barnsley in the second round, was pleased with their ‘professional approach’ in the victory.