In a thrilling Championship clash, Stoke City emerged victorious against Derby County, securing a 2-1 win thanks to a late header from captain Ben Gibson. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams showcasing impressive moments throughout the encounter.
Stoke City took the lead early on in the ninth minute, with Tom Cannon converting a penalty after being brought down by Derby’s goalkeeper, Jacob Widell Zetterstrom. The penalty was awarded following a delightful through ball from Enda Stevens that found Cannon’s advancing run, leaving him with no choice but to go down in the area. Cannon confidently dispatched the spot-kick into the bottom right corner, giving Stoke a deserved early advantage.
The momentum, however, shifted dramatically in the second half as Derby County found an equalizer in a bizarre turn of events. Gibson, attempting a header, saw his effort deflect off his own goalkeeper, Viktor Johansson, and trickle into the back of the net. Despite Johansson’s desperate attempt to recover, the goal stood, leveling the scoreline and putting Derby back in contention.
The drama continued as Stoke pressed for a winner. Brighton loanee Andrew Moran missed a golden opportunity to double Stoke’s lead, his left-footed shot sailing wide. However, it was Gibson who ultimately stole the show, securing a vital three points for the home side with a decisive header in the 82nd minute.
Following a pinpoint inswinging corner from Bae Jun-ho, Gibson rose above the Derby defense to guide the ball past Zetterstrom, sending the Stoke fans into raptures. The goal solidified Stoke’s dominance, marking their second league win under manager Narcis Pelach since his appointment in September.
The victory will be a huge boost for Stoke City as they continue their climb up the Championship table. Derby County, on the other hand, will be disappointed with their inability to hold on to their equaliser and will be looking to bounce back in their next fixture.
