Derby County’s first away win this season, according to defender Curtis Nelson, was a “massive” step forward for the Championship club.
The Rams held on to beat Coventry City 2-1 on Wednesday, snapping a seven-game road losing streak since returning to the second division.
“We are just really happy to get the three points on the road because it has been a long time coming,” Nelson said on BBC Radio Derby.
“It is huge. I couldn’t tell you what clicked; we had our backs against the wall at the end of the half, but we simply defended superbly. And that’s how away days may be.
Jerry Yates had a significant impact on the victory, capitalizing on some weak Coventry defending to score the opener before forcing the own goal that ultimately settled the game.
Derby now leads Coventry by three points and is 13th in the table after 14 matches.
Rams manager Paul Warne was thrilled to collect all three points on the road for the first time this season, having only two points from a possible 21 away from Pride Park before Tuesday.
“I believe all of our performances have had merit; we have competed against the greatest teams and have picked up points, maybe not as many as I would have liked, but I am realistic.
“I have to offer huge credit to the guys. Sometimes hard work and grit result in a bit of luck.”
