Derby rise to seventh as Clarke's header proves the difference | OneFootball

Derby County beat Sheffield Wednesday 2-1 at Pride Park Stadium to climb from eighth to seventh in the Championship, with Matthew Clarke's header on the stroke of half time settling a lively game.

Ben Brereton Díaz opened the scoring in the 11th minute, racing onto Rhian Brewster's through ball and finishing from the centre.

Jerry Yates levelled with a close range header from Jamal Lowe's cross (17.). Josh Vickers then saved smartly from Yates before the break as Derby absorbed pressure.

Clarke restored the lead with a glanced header from Joe Ward's corner (45.). After David Ozoh came on, Derby found more set piece threat, with Brereton Díaz forcing Pierce Charles into a low save (66.).

Joel Ndala was introduced as the Owls chased a reply, but Derby's defence held firm. Charles claimed several high balls and punched clear under pressure after the restart.

Derby registered 13 attempts, with four on target, and saw 55.2% of the ball. The Owls produced seven attempts, three on target.

The Owls remain 24th. Derby visit Millwall next. The Owls host Watford next.