Timely win was Chest the ticket for Brucie
JAMES CHESTER’S first goal for Aston Villa enabled Steve Bruce’s side to record their first victory in 11 games and a first in 2017.
The change in fortunes will be a major relief for Bruce following five successive defeats.
For Derby it was a familiar outcome at Villa Park where they have now lost on each of their last 10 visits.
It was, however, far from a conclusive win for the home side.
As usual they found themselves under strong pressure in the last 20 minutes, defending a lead carved out by Chester’s 25th-minute strike.
Their anxiety was increased two minutes into added time when Leandro Bacuna was sent off following a coming together with a linesman.
Early in the proceedings only the brilliance of goalkeeper Scott Carson kept Derby in the game.
He produced a superb save to keep out a goalbound header from Villa’s skipper and man of the match Chester.
But in the 25th minute the hosts finally made the breakthrough.
Following a right-wing corner from Henri Lansbury the ball bobbled around and it was a determined Chester who forced the ball into the net from close range.
Villa had to endure some relentless pressure in the second half with keeper Sam Johnstone rising to the occasion to secure what could prove a crucial win for the home side.
Bruce said: “It wasn’t pretty and it wasn’t going to be. It’s a relief for everyone concerned.
“We have got a lot of improving to do and we understand that.
“The supporters have gone home today having seen their team roll up their sleeves.
“The club’s had a tough time for years and I am not going to change that in 16 weeks. But I will change it – I just need time.”
Derby boss Steve McClaren said: “I think we deserved something and I can’t believe we’ve lost but if you don’t score goals you don’t win games.” C.Pawson