Derby closed to within two points of second-placed Bolton and four of League One leaders Portsmouth with a 3-1 win over Fleetwood on Saturday.
After the Cod Army missed a handful of early chances in Charlie Adam’s first home game in charge, Nathaniel Mendez-Laing struck a clinical opener just before the half-hour to put Paul Warne’s side in front.
The in-form James Collins connected with a corner from the right to glance a second – and his 16th of the season – on the stroke of half-time.
The Rams were shot-shy for much of the second half, which set up a tense finale once Jayden Stockley had headed home a cross from Shaun Rooney, but Tom Barkhuizen finished the job late on after an excellent run by Max Bird.
While Derby climb as a result of their ninth win in their last 11 league games, Fleetwood stay rooted to the bottom of the table, five points from safety.
More to follow…
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Nathaniel Mendez-Laing’s clinical finish gives Derby the lead against Fleetwood.
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James Collins’ header doubles Derby’s lead just before half-time against Fleetwood.
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Jayden Stockley header gives Fleetwood hope against Derby
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Max Bird and Tom Barkhuizen link up to seal the match for Derby against Fleetwood.
What’s next?
Derby are back in action at 7pm on Tuesday January 9, when they face Bradford in the last-16 of the Bristol Street Motors Trophy.
Fleetwood return at 3pm on Saturday January 13, when they travel to face Cambridge at the Abbey Stadium in Sky Bet League Two.