Morris was impressed by his side's spirit against Essex

Derbyshire head of cricket John Morris was not downhearted despite his side's Pro40 defeat against Essex.

The Phantoms were set a huge target of 305 to win after centuries from Ravi Bopara and Jason Gallian saw the Essex Eagles make 304-1.

Derbyshire posted 279-8 in reply with Rikki Clarke top-scoring with 69.

"We fought hard. Chasing 304 was going to be a real challenge but we stuck at it and gave it a go and at least we put a performance on," said Morris

"They know they've been in a game. We probably let them get 40 too many but we'll take a lot out of the game."

Derbyshire have just one day off before they resume their County Championship season with a fixture against Northants in Chesterfield on Wednesday.

And the Phantoms play another Pro40 match at home to Surrey at Chesterfield on Sunday.