Post-Match Report

U-23s: Arsenal 5-0 Derby - How it happened

Willock and John-Jules

WHAT HAPPENED

We extended our unbeaten streak to seven Premier League 2 games with a comprehensive 5-0 win over Derby County on Monday.

Tyreece John-Jules struck twice, taking his tally up to 15 for the season across all competitions, while Ben Cottrell and Zak Swanson came off the bench to make their PL2 debuts.

The Rams defeated us 5-0 earlier this season - and it was clear that our boys were out for revenge, as they delivered a clinical performance from start to finish.

Pressing from the front, John-Jules regained possession high up the pitch and cut inside, before coolly finding the bottom left corner.

Shortly after he doubled his tally with a smart finish at the near post, following some exceptional wide play from Bukayo Saka.

By this stage we were in full flow, combining effortlessly in the final third - and this brought about our third of the evening, as Joe Willock latched onto Jordi Osei-Tutu’s delivery and fired a first-time volley past Henrich Ravas.

Following the break, we were handed a quick reminder of the visitors threat when Callum Macdonald rattled the crossbar with a thumping free-kick, but Arthur Okonkwo was on hand to deal with the rebound and claim the danger.

That reminder served us well, as Xavier Amaechi furthered our advantage shortly after the hour mark with a clinical finish from a tight angle. 

Substitute Zech Medley then went on to make it five with a powerful header, courtesy of a fine delivery from debutant Swanson.

WHAT IT MEANS

PL2 table

WHAT’S NEXT

Our next game is against Chelsea on Monday, April 15.

The game will take place at Stamford Bridge with kick-off at 7pm (UK time).