Curtis Davies is disappointed that the team Derby County lost their lead following their 1-1 draw at Pride Park Stadium. The player admitted that they could not match the energy levels of Sheffield United, hence their inability to win the first game of the year 2018.

The Rams went ahead through Matej Vydra in the 24th minute but Leon Clarke drew level for The Blades before the half hour mark. The visitors fought hard throughout the encounter and deserved a share of the spoils.

The result means Derby could not close the gap with league leaders Wolverhampton Wanderers. However, they continued their fine unbeaten run to seven games and counting. Despite the fixtures during the festive season, they kept the results favourable, winning twice and playing two draws.

“I’d say we’re disappointed, just because of the fact that we were 1-0 up and usually when we get a lead, we’re good at holding on to it. But if I’m being totally honest, they deserved their point, at least, because they were the better side,” Davies said of the game.

The experienced defender confessed that Sheffield had “more energy” and threw everything at them. He said Sheffield, unlike other teams they have played against, didn’t even try to settle into the game, they came with a lot of energy from the get-go.

On the equalizer, Davies said it was “disappointing” that Clarke was able to get a free header in the six yard box to end 972 minutes of not conceding a goal in open play. He said overall he enjoyed the game and was happy that they continued with their unbeaten run.

With fatigue being fingered as the cause of the slowdown, Davies said it was similar for the other teams so they could not complained. He was rather sympathetic to midfielders that had to move about constantly compared to him as a centre half.