City back in top six as Sturridge strike denies Derby

DANIEL STURRIDGE’S first Barclays Premier League goal moved Manchester City back into a UEFA Cup spot as they denied Derby a long overdue victory at Pride Park.

Sun Jihai’s own goal less than a minute into the first half put Rams boss Paul Jewell within touching distance of his first league victory.

But Sturridge nipped in to fire his second goal in as many games, which proved enough to move City back into the top six. After just three minutes Claude Davis’ underhit backpass sent Darius Vassell clean through but the City striker pulled his effort wide.