The derby began as anticipated—high energy and aggressive pressing forced Bradford to defend deep in their own half. The atmosphere at Pride Park intensified, with the noise swelling with each forward movement.
Jake stood still, hands clasped behind his back, betraying no reaction to the early pressure. This was expected; he had prepared for it.
Bradford absorbed the pressure with remarkable composure. There were no hasty clearances or desperate tackles—just disciplined positioning and patient decision-making.
When the first transition occured, Bradford executed their plan flawlessly. Munteanu claimed a cross and immediately found Chapman with a rolled pass to the right. One touch to control, another to find Silva in the half-space.
The Brazilian remained calm, drawing two Derby players toward him before releasing Rasmussen on the left. The Danish winger timed his run perfectly, accelerating into the space behind Derby's right-back.
