‘Returning James gives calming influence’: The talking points from Bristol City’s 1-0 win over Derby

Bristol City claimed their third home win of the campaign as they saw off bottom side Derby County 1-0 at Ashton Gate.

Alex Scott’s first-half strike gave the Robins their three points to send the home fans happy, as well as strengthening their league position.

They moved up to 17th and are further distancing themselves from a relegation scrap, as this young team continues to gain some vital experience.

City were the better team for the first period but had to defend in the second-half, but ultimately their goal wasn’t breached.

Grit and Determination

Credit to City for not capitulating in this match. Derby were an opponent which on paper should be being beaten given their position, but they are much more than that.

The first-half was all City and Derby failed to muster up an attempt throughout it, but in the second-half, they had more about them, as they peppered Daniel Bentley’s goal.

Ultimately though, Bentley didn’t have to deal much throughout the match, as his defence did well to stop the threat of the likes of their captain Tom Lawrence.

One player who personified a gritty performance was Rob Atkinson, who was returning to the side in the place of Nathan Baker. FutMob has him ranked as the third best player on the pitch at 7.7, he won 13 of his duels, won all but one tackle and was a strong aerial presence.

The return of Matty James

Introduced for the final half-hour for Tyreeq Bakinson, it was a welcome return to the pitch for James.

Pearson kept his cards close to his chest but earlier in the week revealed that both him and Andy King were back in training.

His introduction was something that City needed as Derby were beginning to grow in confidence and were getting into attacking positions.

He was a calming influence in the midfield and was able to get on the advice needed to Han-Noah Massengo to manage the game.

Super starlet Scott

How far can Alex Scott go? The sky’s the limit. You wouldn’t know he’s just 18-years-old. He’s holding his own right now and City look to have struck gold. Much has been said about how the younger players need time to bed in, but this run in the side is a City fan’s dream.

This may be a season of transition but on days like this where the performance is good and players like Scott shine, it’s something to enjoy.

There is a hope that Scott will be here for some time but as he continues to perform well, he could have some suitors.

Ashton Gate is becoming a tough place to play

Once the deadlock was broken, City were on their way, as Derby hadn't won any away games when they've gone a goal behind. Bristol meanwhile won 53% of their matches when they led at home and with another win today, they've now got three wins, five draws and three defeats.

It was a case of just letting leads slip and drawing when they searched for a first home win but now City are doing the opposite of that and grinding out victories.