Derby County manager Paul Clement has praised his side's patience after they secured a 1-0 victory over Reading at the Madejski Stadium on Tuesday.
The Rams marched to their second consecutive win on the road, after seeing off Preston North End at the weekend, and those six points have taken them into the top half of the Sky Bet Championship table following a winless first five games.Boss Clement admitted the pendulum swung Derby's way after Orlando Sa was sent off for the home side just before half-time, but was pleased with the way his players broke Reading down.
"The sending off just before half time was a real turning point in the game and that gave us an advantage," he told Rams Player HD.
“It’s not always easy to break down 10 men because they were very defence-minded after that and they had everyone behind the ball, they were switched on and far more concentrated.
“We needed to be patient and we changed things tactically. We moved Jacob Butterfield a little bit further forward and brought Darren Bent on as well.
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“Also, we had to make sure that the balance was right at the back and not give Reading opportunities to counter. We tried to limit their set play opportunities as well. They had a chance towards the end from one of those set plays, but fortunately it was headed over the bar.
“Generally, our defending at set plays was very good. We were organised, we were strong and overall we were deserved victors on the night just because of the way we managed the game.
“It’s difficult to win any game in this league, but to come away from two consecutive away games with wins after the start we had is very important for us. All our focus is now on the game against Burnley."