'Plenty to be positive about' despite Luton defeat

Derby County's defeat at Luton Town on Friday evening was cruel but that is the game.

I've seen the Rams do that to so many teams over the 40 years I have been watching them, and when it happens to you it is no less gutting as it always has been.

Derby's second-half performance at Kenilworth Road is what should take everyone's attention.

They controlled the game away from home, scored a brilliant goal, and defended to the 90th minute.

Not scoring that second has hurt them on several occasions this season, and the Hatters' two deflected strikes - on a goal that hadn't been busy all evening- stopped the Rams from registering their second away win.

I saw Paul Warne today at Moor Farm. He has a new branded bobble hat so was in fine form. He is a realist and will not sugar-coat his answers.

The conversation steered through reflections on Friday, before assessing the threats of West Bromwich Albion. I apologised for telling him that Derby have a good record at home to the Baggies and then we addressed his plans for Christmas Day.

He said everyone has to do a run, video it, and stick it in the group chat as proof. I really think he is just the personal trainer I need come 1 January.

The supporters' reaction to Friday's result has been fair. Clearly, they are all upset by the manner of the defeat, but the sensible fans will see the effort that was put in and the misfortune of the goals conceded.

As we approach the halfway point of the season the Rams are improving, but need to score a second goal and kill teams off with better game management. But there is still plenty to be positive about.