Derby County 3-2 Reading: Player Ratings

Ali Al-Habsi – 5

I still get a heart in mouth moment every time he shakily gets the ball in the penalty area. Sadly, his lack of effective distribution caused us issues on Saturday. Loved seeing him up in the box towards the end of added time though, imagine the scenes if he was ever to score a goal.

Chris Gunter – 6

Looked really effective in that wing back role like he does for his country. Put in a couple of great, well timed tackles in the first half to deny Derby, and even could have nicked a goal himself.

Liam Moore – 5

Definitely an off day for one of our best players and was at fault for at least one of the goals. I’m sure it will be back to business as usual on Tuesday.

Paul McShane – 5

Glad to see the captain back, but like Liam Moore, not his most memorable afternoon. Made a decent block in the first half which Ilori cleared.

Tiago Ilori – 6

Impressive debut from the Portuguese defender. Looked so comfortable, composed and laid back on the ball, all in a very good way. I think he’s going to be a good asset to the team.

Jordan Obita – 5

Struggled to get forward as much as Gunter on the right, and I think both of his yellow cards were probably the correct decision.

Liam Kelly – 7

Ran the show in midfield and added two great assists. I have nothing but praise for him, yet another brilliant product of our wonderful academy.

John Swift – 6

Good finish from close range to put the Royals ahead after a great cross from Kelly but seemed to tire in the second half.

Danny Williams – 5

A quiet afternoon for the USA international. Seemed to have the ball a lot but not much of an end product.

Garath McCleary – 5

Should have scored from two yards out late on but managed to stab it just wide of the goal. Didn’t look as threatening as in previous games, but like Moore I trust this to be a one off.

Yann Kermorgant – 6

Worked hard up front and got back to defend where necessary. Stand Kermorgant performance.

Subs

Yakou Meite – 6

He was only on the pitch for 15 minutes but he looked great when he came on. Good, strong header for the consolation goal and put in a couple of good crosses. Shame he didn’t get longer on the pitch.

Dominic Samuel – 6

Didn’t really have long enough to make much of an impact on the game, but like Meite, looked lively when he came on.