Derby County have been conquered twice this season by the inconsistent but dangerous Leicester City Football Club. As I say, the Foxes have been all over the place; yet still have some quite impressive (considering the overall quality of the LCFC squad) victories under their collective belt.
City have now climbed above one of their closest Midlands rivals, closing the gap to the Playoffs as well. Leicester's new position is 12th; while the Rams are now in their foe's former English Football League Championship table spot of 14th.
For some reason I felt compelled to predict a 2-1 win for last night's encounter. In spite of Marti Cifuentes' team's up and down form during this campaign, I simply felt to go against the grain.
I am sure the Blue Army fan base will agree that it is 'very Leicester' to get the three points when basically everyone expects their downfall. In contrast, the King Power outfit have often lost, drawn or underperformed when forecast to easily bypass what is believed to be a lesser opponent. Murphy's Law is an interesting theory!
But enough of my views on the strange situation evolving on Filbert Way. Let's have a look at how a committed, local journalist and a media outlet rated the Foxes players from the slightly unexpected result versus derby.
Foxes winners and losers from Leicester City's crucial derby win over Derby County
Let's start at random with City's Player of the Season so far: Jordan James. I absolutely love this midfielder: he's a refreshing throwback with a modern touch. He possesses an exceptional skill set, not to mention dedication to his teammates.
If Leicester have any chance of signing James - they must grasp it with both hands! Jordan Blackwell handed the Welshman a 7/10; noting less influence early on, however.
Ben Nelson was Leicester Mercury's Man of the Match. He was given an 8. Luke Thomas (7) is certainly improving, and getting forward frequently. Below is insight on the lowest scored Fox:
"Jordan Ayew: Not great. He lost the ball by tripping over his own feet at times, and his bid to win free-kicks rarely worked. His good moments came in the press for James’ goal, and with a few clearances from corners. 4"Blackwell, LCFC Live