Derby County were handed a rude awakening on Saturday afternoon as Aston Villa blew them away at Pride Park.

Frank Lampard has done a fine job with the Rams, helping them into promotion contention in the Championship after 17 fixtures of the season.

The Rams headed into their clash with Aston Villa on a fine run of form, whilst their visitors were still searching for their best following the appointment of Dean Smith.

In 11 second-half minutes Villa, who were fully deserving of their victory, blew Derby away.

John McGinn, Tammy Abraham and Conor Hourihane were on the scoresheet for mid-table Villa, who will now have eyes on Derby and the rest of the top-six.

Although the 0-3 scoreline highlights what a disappointing afternoon it was for Derby, there are positives to take.

Here at FLW, we take a look at THREE positives Lampard’s side must take Saturday’s defeat…

The defeat was Derby’s first at Pride Park since Leeds swept them aside 4-1 back in August.

The reaction to that defeat was superb, particularly at home, with the Rams putting together a good run of results.

Expect the same now in the lead up to the festive period.

The Championship is as tight as ever, with Derby still sitting in a strong position in the play-off places.

Of course, defeat on Saturday means there are a number of teams in hot pursuit, but Derby will be encouraged that they are still very much in the mix not just for the play-offs, but also automatic promotion.

Derby had been on an excellent run of form, with positive results against Sheffield United, West Brom, Middlesbrough and Birmingham.

A touch of complacency might’ve been sneaking into their game, but Saturday’s defeat will have been a huge wake-up call for Lampard’s side.

At this stage of the season that isn’t a bad thing at all.

As mentioned, Lampard will demand a reaction after the international break.

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