Eustace explains half-time Derby change as he issues 'disappointing' verdict

CommentsSportLeigh Curtis Derby County Writer22:33, 10 Mar 2026John Eustace was disappointed not to come away with at least a point as Derby County were beaten at Millwall at the New Den.

Josh Coburn's header was enough to seal all three points as the forward struck just before half-time when he rose to meet Tristan Crama's cross.

Derby responded positively after the break and created numerous chances with Patrick Agyemang hitting the post and also sliding a chance past the upright after a smart turn on the edge of the box.

Carlton Morris sent a header inches past the upright and Sam Szmodics was also close to finding the net against a Millwall side who are on the coattails of second-placed Middlesbrough.

Eustace felt Derby were much improved after making a change at half-time when David Ozoh was replaced by Bobby Clark and conceded that he felt his team were worthy of some reward.

"I was obviously very disappointed to lose the game," he said. "In the second half we were excellent and we have to be better in both boxes.

"First half, I thought we dealt with a lot of pressure, but we weren't probably competitive enough in midfield.

"I just didn't think we won enough second balls so it was a little bit passive.

"We made a good change at half-time, which certainly allowed us to be more competitive and more on the front foot so I was disappointed not to at least come away with a point."