Derby-County.com

Former Forest player Kris Commons scored the winner as Derby came from two behind to win their FA cup fourth round replay.

Derby were two down in the first quarter of an hour, Cohen ant Tyson scoring the goals for the home team. The Rams responded well and got back into the game in the 27 minute with a goal from Rob Hulse. Paul Green equalised on the hour and Commons got the winner 16 minutes from the end with a long range strike.

The Rams will play Premiership leaders Manchester United at home in the fifth round, a team they have already beaten at Pride Park this season.

Nigel Clough had a disappointing first league match as Derby manager, seeing his new team lose 2-0 at home to Queens Park Rangers. Rangers scored twice in the first half and Derby rarely threatened to get back into the match.

Nigel Clough saw his new team, managed for the match by David Lowe, beat champions Manchester United in the first leg of the league cup semi final.

Kris Commons scored the goal that separates the teams, with a great shot from 25 yards that gave the keeper no chance.

Derby’s lead never really looked threatened, and it could have even been 2-0 if Hulse had converted a late chance.

I’m sure Man Utd will play better in the second leg, but if Derby can repeat tonight’s performance anything is possible and Rams fans will tonight be dreaming of a trip to Wembley.

Nigel Clough is the new manager of Derby County.

Young Nigel has been managing non-league Burton Albion for the last ten years. Burton are currently top of the Blue Square Premier division.

Rams chairman Adam Pearson said: “Nigel is the ideal choice at this time. It is going to be a great challenge for him and all of us at Derby County, but one that we are all looking forward to.  His track record at Burton Albion is top-drawer and has improved their standing every season he has been at the club, along with being an excellent man-manager. It is that kind of progress we are looking for now – someone to grow with the club and lead us in the long-term towards success.”

The Football League has launched a nationwide search to find the ‘EA SPORTS Fan of the Year’ run in conjunction with BBC Radio Five Live, with the winner to be honoured at a spectacular gala dinner at the Grosvenor House on Park Lane on Sunday 29^th March 2009.

The Football League Awards are held in conjunction with FourFourTwo magazine and supporters are now being asked to put forward fellow fans for consideration for this award by submitting nominations via www.footballleagueawards.com.

Anybody who knows a fan who has gone above and beyond the call of duty, and shown extraordinary dedication to their club is encouraged to put their nomination forward, along with the reason why they feel their nominee should win this prestigious award. Voting closes on Wednesday 14^th January 2009.

The fourth annual Football League Awards event will recognise footballing excellence both on the field and behind the scenes – with clubs and players awarded alongside the fans. There will be 20 categories in total, including a range of football awards and industry specific honours.

The nominations for the Football League Fan of The Year Award will be judged by an expert panel, including representatives from The Football League, EA SPORTS and FourFourTwo.

The Football League’s Commercial Director, Stewart Thomson said: “The Football League Awards has become an important fixture on The Football League calendar. Once again, this year’s ceremony will present us with an opportunity to recognise the outstanding contributions made to The Football League by fans, players, clubs and sponsors alike.

“The Football League relies on the support of dedicated fans, and the awards are a fantastic way for us to identify and reward such loyalty, and hard work behind the scenes. I would encourage fans to put forward any individuals they believe should be in contention for the award, and give them a chance to receive the recognition they deserve.”