COACH Andy Garner praised the "outstanding" contribution of central midfielders Jeff Hendrick and Craig Bryson in Derby County's victory over Bristol City.
Hendrick's volley in the first half set Derby on their way to a 3-0 win against the Championship's bottom club at Pride Park last night.
Top scorer Jamie Ward, who saw his third-minute penalty saved, scored the Rams' second shortly after half-time before substitute Ben Davies hit the third in added time.
"From the first to the last minute, we put on a very good performance," said Garner.
"The only disappointment was the penalty.
"If we had scored that, then I think we would have gone on and scored a few more.
"We created enough chances in the first 20 minutes to win a game on its own but as soon as we got the first goal then that settled us down.
"You never know with any teams in this division. We knew Bristol City would come and have a go."
On the display of Hendrick and Bryson, Garner said: "It was very close as to who was man of the match. Very difficult to choose between them – both were outstanding."
Ward, who has been struggling with a hamstring problem, was replaced after 69 minutes but Garner says the forward should be fit for the trip to take on Leeds United at Elland Road on Monday.
"He should be ok for Monday," added Garner. "It's good that he does come off as it gives him an extra 20 minutes' rest."
