G.M's Match Preview: Rams Will Inflict First Defeat On High Flying Seagulls
Saturday, 12th Dec 2015 06:54 by George Martin

Derby host Brighton in what is sure to be an exciting and tense encounter in front of a packed house at the iPro.

Brighton are still unbeaten in the league this season after coming from behind in their last game to beat Charlton 3-2.

Derby are likely to field an unchanged line-up from the side that started against Sheffield Wednesday. This means Lee Grant will continue in goal for the injured Carson with Warnock being fit to resume at left back, despite being substituted after a heavy knock in the Wednesday game.

The midfield three of Thorne, Butterfield and Johnson will hope to dominate and influence the game, something they struggled to do at Hillsborough.

The front three were again average to poor in the last game. Martin found it difficult to get in the game and most fans do not really know what to make of Ince at the moment. Both Ince and Weimann are sometimes anonymous for large parts of a game but hopefully being back at home will work in their favour.

Bryson is again out injured. He has barely played in the past 12 months since signing a 5 year contract which must be a concern for the Manager who would be hoping to have him fit and available as the lengthy Championship season rolls on.

Chris Houghton has done an outstanding job since taking over at Brighton. They have Bong, Baldock and LuaLua out injured and are leaving it as late as possible for Calderon.

Look out for Kayal and Wilson influencing the attacking play, with Greer and Dunk to be solid at the back.

Martin needs to be clever with his movement and position, as well as getting support early from Butterfield, Johnson and the wide men. Otherwise Dunk will keep him at bay and thwart Derby's attacks.

Prediction :

Brighton have a habit of drawing matches when away and winning at home, hence their top of the table league position. They will be well organised and hard to break down so both Rams players and fans will need to be patient.

Last week shows they will concede goals if pressured so it is up to Derby to be on the front foot and take the game to them.

There is nothing to fear. Win and put down another marker.

Derby to win 2-0 and Thorne to score.

Anyone know a Bobby Zamora song?!

Please be in your seats for 2:50 and support the DERBY1884 fans group.