Stanley Mills' first goal of the season earned Oxford United only their second Championship win of the campaign, a 1-0 victory over Derby County that was far narrower on the scoreboard than on the balance of play. The winger coolly converted midway through the first half at the Kassam Stadium, running on to Brian De Keersmaecker's incisive pass and sliding his finish past Jacob Widell Zetterstrom, who otherwise did more than anyone to prevent a heavier Derby defeat.
Oxford were largely dominant, racking up chances and attempts on goal while Derby struggled to seriously trouble Jamie Cumming. The Rams started assertively but were increasingly forced back, and although a late spell brought half-chances for Carlton Morris and danger from set-pieces, Gary Rowett's side were worthy winners. The result lifted Oxford three places, up to 19th pending later kick-offs, while Derby slipped to 21st, still with just one victory all season and now without a win in five games, breaking a sequence of three straight 1-1 draws and two league draws between these clubs last term.
Early Derby promise before Oxford seize control
Derby actually began with the greater purpose. With Chile forward Ben Brereton Diaz restored to the starting line-up and Andreas Weimann making his 100th appearance for the club, John Eustace's side initially pushed Oxford back. Brereton Diaz skinned Brodie Spencer down the left flank and cut the ball back towards Weimann, only for the shot to be blocked, a warning sign that briefly suggested the Rams might build on the run of draws that had preceded their visit.