VILLA LEARN WHAT THEY WILL HAVE TO DO

THESE two teams could meet again in the play-offs, and this game gave some clear pointers of what the outcome of that might be.

The scoreline does not accurately reflect the possession Villa enjoyed or the chances they created, and with more clinical finishing they could have won comfortably.

But, that said, a point suits Derby well and keeps their play-off hopes in their hands on the final day, when a win against Barnsley should be enough barring a freak swing in goal difference.

Gary Rowett’s side defended resiliently, and Villa’s dominance of possession does not mean Derby did not deserve the point.

Should they meet in the play-offs a more open game will surely ensue – and if it does not, Villa will be favourites on the back of this showing.

Ultimately, however, both teams ended up with a result they were pleased with, and which affords them some momentum with the post-season jamboree looming. The key now is what they do with it going forward.