Derby County will take a one-goal advantage to Craven Cottage after a fine win over Fulham in the first leg of their Play-Off Semi-Final.
The Rams were excellent going forward in the first half, looking the more likely and getting their reward with 34 minutes on the clock.
Patient play saw the influential Tom Huddlestone find Craig Forsyth out wide, and the full back’s delivery was powered home by the in-form Cameron Jerome, who made it five goals in his last four games when his header flew in.
It came as no surprise to see Fulham take control of possession after the break, with Gary Rowett changing Derby’s shape to further frustrate them.
Kevin McDonald struck the woodwork with a fine effort, moments before Floyd Ayite volleyed the Cottagers’ best chance wastefully over the bar.
Skipper Tom Cairney came close for the visitors with long-distance efforts, while the Rams still offered a threat on the break.
However, neither side could find a way through, and the Derby held out for a 1-0 win ahead of Monday night’s second leg in London.