Head Coach John Eustace praised a ‘professional performance’ after Derby County won their final pre-season friendly against Atromitos before the 2025/26 Sky Bet Championship season kicks off next weekend.
Derby got ahead of their opponents through Corey Blackett-Taylor, who continued his goalscoring form in pre-season by netting his fifth in as many games from the penalty spot.
The lead was then doubled by Kenzo Goudmijn in the second half after he watched his corner kick curl directly into back of the net.
The match concluded the Rams’ 2025/26 pre-season programme, with Stoke City now awaiting Derby in the Sky Bet Championship at the bet365 Stadium on Saturday 9th August (3pm kick-off).
Eustace spoke to RamsTV after the conclusion of the final pre-season fixture at Pride Park Stadium.
On a win to close out pre-season…
I thought the performance was professional. We’ve had a tough six weeks and it’s nice to finish off with a win today. The attitude of the boys was very good. It was great to see Ryan Nyambe come back and play his first 45 minutes for us as well. Carlton Morris did well, gaining more minutes in his legs. Young Isaac Gordon did very well coming on, too. It was a really positive day.
On Corey Blackett-Taylor getting on the scoresheet again…
I’ve been pleased with him, of course. He had a terrible time with injury last year, so it’s great for him to come back and do well. There are still things we need to work with Corey, and he’ll be the first to say that.
He’s been really positive when he gets the ball, and he’s taking people on. He’s earned three penalties and scored a couple of goals, so it’s a real plus for us.
On being ready for the season to start next week…
We can’t wait. It only seemed like a couple of days ago when we played Stoke at home three months ago in that massive, vital game. We’re looking forward to next week, and we’re looking forward to the challenge of the Championship.
