Derby County beat spirited Barnsley

Derby County made it three wins from four league games after earning a hard-fought victory against Barnsley at Pride Park this evening.

Richard Keogh and Conor Sammon tested Luke Steele in the early stages as Nigel Clough's side looked to continue their impressive home form.

The visitors grew in confidence throughout the first half and had chances of their own through Jacob Mellis and Tomasz Cywka.

Derby piled on the pressure after the break and their dominance told on the hour when James O'Connor headed home from close range.

The Rams saw off a late spell of Barnsley pressure and made the game safe in stoppage time when Nathan Tyson finished coolly to secure the points.

A home win moves Derby to move within three points of the playoff places, while Barnsley slip closer to the relegation zone with a disappointing defeat.