Patrick Agyemang netted two goals as Derby County secured a convincing 3-0 win against Sheffield Wednesday, who are struggling in the Sky Bet Championship.
The United States forward scored in both halves, adding to an early second-half goal from Liam Thompson, allowing Derby to break a three-match winless streak and ascend to 12th place in the standings, just four points shy of the playoffs.
Derby manager John Eustace revealed that Agyemang, who has now scored five goals for the team since his £7.3 million ($9.75 million) transfer from MLS’s Charlotte FC in July, was frustrated about missing out on a hat trick after a brilliant late save by Owls goalkeeper Pierce Charles. “He actually said to me, ‘I should have got the third.’ He was disappointed,” Eustace commented after the game. “But I’m thrilled. The more goals he scores, the better. His first goal was an outstanding finish. I didn’t think he was at his best before that.” Eustace added, “But that finish for his first goal was class, and I’m really happy for him to get the second as well. It was a typical poacher’s goal. His performances are really improving.”
Sheffield Wednesday’s search for their first home league win of the season continues, and they have extended their winless streak to 14 matches.
Wednesday remains in crisis following a 12-point deduction in October due to administration, along with a further six-point deduction earlier this month for additional financial infractions.
The team’s deficiencies were evident on the pitch as fans await news on which of the 12 interested parties in a club takeover has been granted exclusivity by the administrators.
The first half lacked excitement as both teams struggled with possession, leaving fans frustrated.
However, the match saw its first significant action in the 32nd minute when Derby finally made their mark. Rams midfielder Bobby Clark capitalized on a wayward pass from Wednesday and assisted Agyemang, who effortlessly evaded Dominic Iorfa and delivered a precise low shot into the far corner.
Derby took full control as halftime approached, with Ben Brereton Diaz’s effort from the edge of the box saved well by Charles, while Clark squandered a chance by shooting over the bar.
An early skirmish between Agyemang and Iorfa led to a brief flare-up, resulting in yellow cards for both players. Shortly after, Derby doubled their lead when Craig Forsyth’s free kick found Thompson inside the area, whose low shot nestled inside Charles’ left post in the 57th minute.
Derby sealed the match just five minutes later when Agyemang scored his second, finishing from close range after receiving a square pass from Rhian Brewster, further diminishing Wednesday’s confidence.
Agyemang’s attempt for a hat trick was thwarted by Charles’ remarkable low save, and Derby’s Kayden Jackson also faced resistance from the Owls goalkeeper as the visitors aimed to extend their lead.
Information from PA contributed to this report.