Man City 0-0 Liverpool

606: DEBATE Your thoughts on the action

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By Chris Bevan

1805: Well, that's all from me for today and 2007 too. Thanks to you all for making it a memorable end to the year, even if Manchester City and Liverpool didn't...

I wish you all a very happy new year....keep the chat coming and remember that Alan Green is taking your calls on BBC 5 Live's 606 as I write.

1804: "And then there were 3 (title contenders)"
Anon via text

1800: So Blackburn's David Bentley scores the last Premier League goal of 2007. Who will get the first goal of 2008 though? Find out on New Year's Day folks...

1758: Low scores all round in the Player Rater but Manchester City's Richard Dunne leads the way on scores after 90 minutes with a mark of 6.85. Lowest is his team-mate Geovanni on 5.33. Your top man for Liverpool is Jamie Carragher on 6.67.

1755 FULL-TIME Man City 0-0 Liverpool
The final whistle can't come soon enough for the players or the fans. It's not been a great end to 2007 but City are probably happier with their point than the Reds. Both City and Liverpool go into 2008 in the top five of the Premier League.

1753: One last attack from Liverpool and the ball is bouncing madly around the area. It's eventually cleared though and City are playing out time now.

1752: A mazy run into the box from Yossi Benayoun, which reminds me of John Barnes circa Brazil 1984. It doesn't have the same end product though as Richard Dunne puts a foot in to clear.

1751: Three minutes of stoppage time for Liverpool or Manchester City to find one last GOAL for 2007. What do you reckon? I can't see it myself.

1750: Ryan Babel cuts in from the left but hangs on to the ball too long and the ball is cleared. It's all Liverpool at the moment though and City are hanging on.

1747: More pressure from Liverpool and they come their closest yet to finding the net. Dirk Kuyt's header is clawed away by Joe Hart but the ball is bouncing goalward until Richard Dunne hooks it clear from virtually under his own crossbar.

1746: A great tackle by Nedum Onuoha stops Dirk Kuyt in his tracks as he runs into the box.

1745: Liverpool striker Fernando Torres goes into Uriah Rennie's book for a lunge at Micah Richards.

1743: "Today's matches coupled with the abysmal defending of yesterday points to the fact that these players are TIRED! Its about time a winter break of a couple of weeks is implemented in the Premier League."
redandblackT (had it won until Hamann came on) on 606

Both teams are looking very tired indeed now. They can't wait for the final whistle, and neither can I to be honest...

1740: Close shave for Manchester City as Richard Dunne hauls down Fernando Torres as he bears down on goal. Not sure it was a clear-cut foul but I've seen them given.

1738: "Have Bianchi and Elano swapped places, Elano has become bad, and Bianchi has become good. How did that happen?"
dirk-kuyt18 on 606

1737: Nedum Onuoha shows some good determination to win possession but Manchester City really don't have any ideas in the final third of the field.

1736: "Bianchi on. Scarf stays on the bench."
redandblackT(had it won until Hamann came on) on 606

1735: First change for Liverpool. Ryan Babel is on, replacing Harry Kewell. Geovanni is on for Darius Vassell for Manchester City too.

1734: Flu or not, Fabio Aurelio is having a stormer. He releases Fernando Torres with a great ball but Torres, under pressure from Richard Dunne, cannot control the ball.

1733: "Chris, my mate thinks Liverpool will cruise into a 4-0 victory in the last 20 minutes of the game , tell him he is wrong."
boydy262 on 606

I'm not going to tell him, but I suspect a few other people might!

1732: Yossi Benayoun tests Joe Hart again but his low shot does not have enough power to trouble Joe Hart.

1731: Rolando Bianchi is on for Manchester City, replacing Elano. Let's just say the Brazilian has not had his best game in a sky-blue shirt. I've barely noticed him.

1729: Richard Dunne muscles Fernando Torres off the ball as the Spaniard runs into the area. A decent tackle and Torres does not make a fuss either. Good to see.

1728: The Manchester City fans are making some noise at last, probably because Rolando Bianchi is about to come on.

1725: "Liverpool are the most frustrating team in the Premier League."
Wazza, from Boro via text

1724: No doubt that Steven Gerrard is playing further forward now for Liverpool but he certainly has not got those shooting boots on that I was talking about earlier. His latest effort is a sidefoot that flies hopelessly high and wide. Oh dear!

1723: "There is no use playing one striker up front if the midfielders dont push up to offer support. Darius Vassell is completely isolated."
redandblackT(Santa Got Sleighed) on 606

1721: Liverpool have men over on another attack but they can't release the ball quickly enough and the chance is gone.

First change of the match and it is Gelson Fernandes who is replacing Stephen Ireland for Manchester City.

1720: Suddenly it is end to end stuff and with Liverpool breaking away the ball falls to Yossi Benayoun who has a venomous 25-yard shot tipped over the bar by Joe Hart. A good effort, and a decent save.

1718:Weather update: It's raining at Eastlands now. Not goals though, obviously.

1717: Half a chance for Manchester City at last. Darius Vassell runs at Javier Mascherano on the edge of the area but he is swatted off the ball like a troublesome fly.

1715: "We are outplaying them! I can't believe we aren't ahead!"
Torres' right peg on 606

1713: Not much this half so far from Manchester City. At this rate it will be next year before Elano gets a touch.

1711: Oh so close for Liverpool. Steven Gerrard's free-kick bends over the wall....but also wide of Joe Hart's post.

No news on what happened to Valeri Bojinov yet by the way.

1710: Micah Richards catches Fernando Torres outside the box. A free-kick to Liverpool and in a dangerous central position too.

1709: Another chance for Liverpool goes begging, and this one is the best of the match so far. Steven Gerrard frees Fernando Torres who sprints clear and although his shot goes through City keeper Joe Hart's legs, it rolls wide.

1708: Steven Gerrard seems to have been deployed a little further forward so far in the second half. A good chance for Liverpool goes astray when Fabio Aurelio crosses but Dirk Kuyt and Fernando Torres can't convert.

1707: "As a flu scientist, i can guarantee that Fabio Aurelio doesn't have the flu. A bad cold maybe, but not the flu. Otherwise he'd be on his back quicker than Ronaldo would be after a long unproductive run into the box."
Anon via text

1706: Right, the last 45 minutes of Premier League action are under way. Let's have some goals, please!

1705: "Chris, are you any relation of Scott Bevan? He's currently between the sticks at Kidderminster Harriers and being the best keeper in the conference!!!"
ollie1harriers on 606

Sorry to disappoint Ollie. Although I'm no stranger to playing between the sticks, I'm also no relation to Scott - although glad he is upholding the Bevan name by doing well for Harriers.

1700: "While tactically the game's been decent there's either a lack of ambition or too much fear for both teams. One mistake could let in a goal and hopefully that'll open up the game."
49 and that's a wrap on 606

I think there's been a lack of ambition AND too much fear so far...mind you, Tottenham v Reading was only 1-1 yesterday and look what happened there.

1657: "Chris, what happened to Bojinov?! He was on the bench wasn't he?! Why isn't he there now?"
Souljaboy_crankthat on 606

Valeri Bojinov was indeed originally on the Man City bench. Gelson Fernandes is there instead now. I will try to find out why.

1655:Hmmm, we're not exactly seeing 2007 out with a bang as I hoped. More of a whimper actually.

Your scores in the Player Rater reflect the lack of entertainment so far at Eastlands, with Liverpool striker Fernando Torres top man at the moment with a lowly 7.02, while Manchester City defender Michael Ball (5.52) has not impressed many so far either.

1652: "Are shooting boots any different to tackling boots or passing boots."
Andy via text

1650 HALF-TIME Man City 0-0 Liverpool
Not exactly a classic so far at Eastlands but both sides have had a handful of chances with City keeper Joe Hart making a couple of decent stops. Let's hope things improve in the second half.

1648: Another shot on goal by Yossi Benayoun, but the Israeli slips as he lets fly and the ball rolls wide of Joe Hart's goal.

1647: "You were expecting an entertaining match!? Liverpool play defensive boring long-ball football."
shimmyshimmy on 606

I don't think Manchester City's tactics are helping to make this game much of a spectacle either shimmyshimmy!

1644: "Fabio Aurelio's playing great! Chris, please mention that he has the flu! He's doing really well considering!"
Red_Rampage on 606

I've got the lurgy myself so hats off to Fabio, he's running around a lot more than I am for a start.

1643: That long ball is still being sent up to Darius Vassell by Manchester City, with no luck. Meanwhile, Steven Gerrard has barely ventured past the centre-circle for Liverpool.

1642: "Man City rely too much on Martin Petrov for their counter-attacks. They need at least one more winger."
U7400594 on 606

1640: Both teams look content to sit back at the moment. The midfield is getting pretty congested.

1638: A free-kick for Manchester City in a promising area but Micah Richards cannot get a proper contact on Elano's delivery to the far post. They should have done better with that really.

1638: The ball is richocheting around the Manchester City penalty area again, but the ball just won't drop for a red shirt at the moment.

1637: Liverpool defender Fabio Aurelio has bought his shooting boots with him, that's for sure. He escapes Martin Petrov before firing in a fierce 30-yard shot that Joe Hart deals rather better with, tipping the ball over at full stretch.

1635: Fabio Aurelio tries his luck from long range and Manchester City keeper Joe Hart rather nervously watches it bounce just wide of his post.

1634: Harry Kewell escapes down the left again and his cross finds its way to Dirk Kuyt. Micah Richards reacts well again to close the shot down.

1633: "Can't BELIEVE five changes again by Liverpool, this is a game we needed our strongest team considering City's home record. At least it keeps the burglars guessing."
Andy, Southport via text

1632: Stephen Ireland is involved again, this time finding Elano in the area but Jamie Carragher slides in to dispossess the Brazillian.

1631: "Liverpool's offense definitely have class, but their defending's suspect at the moment. City has to take advantage if they want to stay in the game."
49 and that's a wrap on 606

1630: I told you this one would open up. Manchester City's turn to attack sees Stephen Ireland's curling cross just evade Darius Vassell who hurls himself at the ball in front of goal.

1629: Another chance for Liverpool. Dirk Kuyt tees up Harry Kewell for a skidding shot that Joe Hart collects at his near post at the second attempt.

1628: A great block by Micah Richards denies Dirk Kuyt who was running into the box to meet Fernando Torres' knock-down. A nice move by Liverpool though.

1626: This time Harry Kewell beats Nedum Onuoha on the left and sends in a deep cross that falls for Steven Gerrard. The less said about Gerrard's shot the better though - he completely scuffs it.

1624: "Why is Steven Gerrard playing so deep , you want see him at his best in that position. RUBBISH RAFA!!"
mdfactor on 606

Both teams are pretty cagey at the moment. The game could still open up though.

1623: "Javier Mascherano is one of the best at marking a player out of the game !"
chris-harding69 on 606

Not good news for Elano then.

1621: Liverpool's Steven Gerrard pings out a couple of lovely long diagonal passes to Harry Kewell out on the left wing. Both times he runs at Nedum Onuoha, but gets little joy.

1620: "As a neutral, I'd say that this is the sort of game Liverpool have got to win if they are going to live up to their tag of 'title contenders'."
Jason051984 on 606

1617: Manchester City have deployed Darius Vassell as a lone striker and have started sending long balls up towards him. The diminutive Vassell is hardly what you would call a target-man, so that tactic is not exactly proving a success.

1616: More danger for Liverpool. Martin Petrov finds the on-rushing Elano inside the penalty area with a low cross but Fabiano Aurelio gets across to cover.

1614: It's been a scrappy start by both teams. Manchester City's Brazillian playmaker Elano is being closely marked by Liverpool's Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano and we have not seen much of him yet.

1612: A lucky escape for Liverpool and goalkeeper Jose Reina in particular. Darius Vassell beats him to a loose ball in the box but his header bounces wide. That was a good chance for City.

1610: "Oh my God, Valeri Bojinov is on the bench! How exciting is that?!"
John H, via text

Bojinov, a �6m summer signing from Fiorentina, has not been seen in action for Manchester City since suffering a nasty knee ligament injury in City's derby win over Manchester United on 20 August.

1607: Micah Richards and Fernando Torres collide outside the area. It looks nasty but no foul is given and both players are back on their feet.

1606: Martin Petrov gets his first sniff of the ball for Manchester City on the left flank. No doubt that Rafa Benitez will have heard all about his display against Blackburn on Thursday so expect some tighter marking today.

1604: The first chance falls to Liverpool. Steve Finnan drives a dangerous cross across the face of goal. The Manchester City defence hesitates but they ride their luck because no Liverpool player can reach the ball.

1603: "Reply to super-keano. I want City to win. I actualy detest Liverpool that much. Berbatov for Old Trafford!"
Chris, Belfast via text

1602: Liverpool kick off and we are up and running.

1559: The teams are coming out of the tunnel at Eastlands.

1559: Keep the texts coming in too by the way. That earlier technical problem has now been sorted out.

1557: This is the big battle for fourth place by the way. If Manchester City win they leapfrog Liverpool in the table. If the Reds win, they stay where they are but move to within two points of third-placed Chelsea.

1555: "I predict a shocking 2-1 win for Man City today. Liverpool will have 69% of the possesion but City will break at speed and nick a couple of goals courtesy of Stevie Ireland and Martin Petrov. Fernando Torres to score within the last 10 minutes but Man City's defence to hold firm just like against Man Utd. PLEASE POST THIS CHRIS BEVAN."
Manblue4lyfe on 606

OKAY, NO PROBLEM! You don't have to shout next time though...

1553: "Best moment of 2007 was when the 19-year-old Leo Messi completed his hat-trick in El Classico against Madrid by scoring a spectacular last-minute equaliser! Worst was Raul Tamudo's 89th-minute equaliser to deny us (Barca) the title. we were leading our city rivals Espanyol 2-1. That was absolutely heartbreaking."
Elfenomeno_9 on 606

Nice to have a European perspective on the last 12 months, so thanks for that Elfenomeno_9.

1550: "YEY! Huddersfield? Thanks for Jon Stead a couple of years ago, we would have been dangling in the Championship if it wasn't for his goals. Can't forget a good deed!"
hero3279 on 606

1549: "Question to Man Utd fans...Who do you want to win in this match? Must be split, bearing in mind the title race as well."
super-keano on 606

1547: "Typical Sven - playing Darius Vassell when there are better players. Typical Rafa - changing his team around to confuse things!"
arsenal_potty on 606

1545: Well, we had a flurry of goals in he first-half at Pride Park but it was not the high-scoring encounter some of you were predicting. Will Manchester City versus Liverpool be a goal-fest then?

1544: "I have been in this country for 23 years and it has not been the best times for Manchester City - but it is good to see them doing well this season and they could be set for a bit of success."
Former Liverpool midfielder Jan Molby on BBC Radio 5 Live

1542: "There isn't anybody out there who fancies taking over a famous old Yorkshire club in peril called Huddersfield Town is there?"
Real_Giant_Terrier, via text

1537: Blackburn manager Mark Hughes is happy enough with his side's display: "We've shown great courage in coming back and if we had taken our chances we would have won more comfortably."

1535: More Player Rater chat from Pride Park. Not surprisingly, Blackburn's David Bentley was top man on 90 minutes with a score of 8.36. It is hardly a shock either that Derby's Steve Howard was rated bottom of the pile with just 4.34. Keep the marks coming in.

1530: TEAM NEWS Man City v Liverpool
Man City welcome back Dietmar Hamann and Elano but Rolando Bianchi is left out. Liverpool make five changes with Alvaro Arbeloa, Javier Mascherano, Harry Kewell, Yossi Benayoun and Dirk Kuyt all coming in.

Man City: Hart, Onuoha, Richards, Dunne, Ball, Ireland, Hamann, Corluka, Petrov, Elano, Vassell. Subs: Isaksson, Bojinov, Geovanni, Bianchi, Garrido.
Liverpool: Reina, Finnan, Carragher, Arbeloa, Aurelio, Benayoun, Gerrard, Mascherano, Kewell, Torres, Kuyt. Subs: Itandje, Riise, Voronin, Alonso, Babel.
Referee: Uriah Rennie (S Yorkshire)

1523 FULL-TIME Derby County 1-2 Blackburn
Derby end 2007 with another defeat, leaving them rock-bottom of the Premier League with just seven points. Steve Howard's missed penalty cost them dear and Blackburn's margin of victory should probably have been more comfortable than 2-1.

1522: Derby's Benny Feilhaber tries his luck from the corner of the area but his shot rolls miserably wide.

Blackburn are eating up time now, bringing on David Dunn for Tugay.

1520: There are three minutes of time-added-on to be played. Derby send over a couple of corners but they just don't have any inspiration in the final third of the pitch.

1518: Another Derby chance comes...and goes. Jon Macken crosses for Claude Davies but he cannot get enough power behind his header and the ball flies wide anyway. Time is running out.

Another Blackburn change sees Matt Derbyshire on for Benni McCarthy.

1516: I mentioned shooting boots earlier and, of the Derby team, only Matt Oakley appears to have brought his. The Rams goalscorer, who also forced Brad Friedel into a fine first-half save, goes close with a first-time effort from the corner of the area that flies just over the crossbar. Was worth a try.

1515: Blackburn make their first change and 19-year-old Swedish Under-21 international Martin Olsson comes on for Morten Gamst Pedersen, to make his Premier League debut.

1513: "The writing is on the wall, a late Derby leveller unless we can wrap it up. Come on Blackburn!"
hero3279 on 606

1511: Just 10 minutes left for Derby to turn this one around now. Blackburn are looking more likely to get a third than concede a second but you never know.

1510: The Derby fans groan as Eddie Lewis completely miscues a left-wing cross. That almost went out for a throw-in, on the left!

1509: A rare shooting chance for Derby as Giles Barnes tees up Craig Fagan inside the area. He pokes the ball goalwards but his effort is blocked.

Rams boss Paul Jewell is making his final change too. Striker Jon Macken, back from a loan spell at Barnsley, is on for Kenny Miller.

1507: "As a Welshman I'm just pleased to see Lew Price get a good workout! Stephen who for England?"
John, Swansea via text

1504: A Roque Santa Cruz header is tipped over the bar by Lewis Price as Blackburn break quickly and, from the ensuing corner, Benni McCarthy's shot is hacked off the line before David Bentley rattles Price's left-hand post with a fierce shot. That would have wrapped it up.

1503: Tugay concedes another free-kick and this time Derby do threaten from a set-piece. Eddie Lewis' cross is met by Steven Howard but the ball is cleared.

1502: "As a Nottingham Forest fan, I can safely say I am chuffed to bits at Derby's dire displays, it makes me feel that little bit better knowing we could meet them next season. That's if we dont lose to teams like Gillingham 3-0!"
wildsnooker_loopy on 606

1500: It's become a very open game but neither side seems to have the quality to make the most of the space that has appeared.

1458: Stephen Warnock crosses for Benni McCarthy but this time the Derby defence closes the South African striker down well. Again, the Rams break but Kenny Miller and Steven Howard fail to capitalise on a promising position.

1456: Derby are not lacking effort and Tyrone Mears deserves better after making a fine run down the right flank. But the end product is still sadly lacking.

1455: "Poor Derby, this must be the worst team that has graced the Premier League. I really respect Paul Jewell, and if he manages to get more than 20 points with this Derby team, it'll be a phenomenal success. "
U7400594 on 606

1454: Not for the first time today, Derby have a free-kick in a promising position...but then completely waste the opportunity. Giles Barnes also fires hopelessly high and wide and it seems the Rams have forgotten to bring their shooting boots.

1452: "If Benni McCarthy can grab a goal real soon, they will flood in, and with Roque Santa Cruz banging them in, I think this partnership has the potential to be one of the best we've seen at Rovers since the infamous SAS strikeforce. "
hero3279 on 606

That would be Alan Shearer and Chris Sutton. Not Sooty and Sweep.

1450: Morten Gamst Pedersen sends a free-kick swerving inches wide as Blackburn go close again to grabbing a third goal.

1449: Another change for Derby. The injured Michael Johnson is brought off and on comes Craig Fagan. Jay McEveley moves into the centre and Eddie Lewis is now at left-back.

1448: Oh dear. Tugay has scored some fantastic long range goals for Blackburn but his latest effort, a wild 30-yard volley straight from a corner, is currently heading towards Nottingham.

1446: "Derby have got a renewed character since Paul Jewell has come to Pride Park; they won't be capitulating like they would have done a month ago."
LFC-Sissoko on 606

A good point well made. I don't fancy Derby's chances if Blackburn do get another one though.

1444: A golden chance for Blackburn to make it 3-1. David Bentley feeds Benni McCarthy inside the area but Derby goalkeeper Lewis Price sticks out a leg and deflects his shot away from goal.

1442: "Send the Derby defenders to Colchester. They have to be better than our lot!"
Brad via text

Fantastic news. The technical issues with reading your texts are over! Get involved on 81111.

1440: The chances are coming thick and fast now. Morten Gamst Pedersen chooses to shoot when his Blackburn team-mate Benni McCarthy is better placed and Derby clear to the other end where Kenny Miller runs clear but loses control of the ball at the crucial moment.

1439: Derby substitute Benny Feilhaber makes for the edge of the area before letting fly with a stinging shot that Brad Friedel is glad to push away.

1438: Rumours in the press box suggest that this is Steve Howard's last game for Derby. He is off to Leicester City apparently. That penalty miss is not a fitting way to say goodbye, seeing as his goals got the Rams up last year.

1437: Derby are looking lively and are seeing most of the ball but none of it is in the final third and, so far, it is easy for Blackburn to soak the pressure up.

1436: "This is not over, Derby will be a different side in the second half. Rovers can't afford to be complacent now. "
hero3279 on 606

1435: Midfielder Benny Feilhaber replaces defender Dean Leacock for Derby and the Rams get the second half under way.

1434: "Derby's defenders are just not good enough - too slow, no idea, not committed and they dont seem to care. Paul Jewell must get rid and quick."
funnyitsonlyagame on 606

Not looking good for Derby is it?

1432: "Derby will rue that penalty miss. It would have knocked Blackburn's confidence, which could have led to Derby closing the gap on the teams above, which is vital to them staying in the Premier League"
jimmya123 on 606

1430: "You can see the size of job Paul Jewell is taking on. Derby are really lacking in confidence. They need to tighten up at the back, mark better and provide more support to the strikers."
Former Northern Ireland boss Bryan Hamilton on BBC Radio 5 Live

1428: Some Player Rater chat for you now from Pride Park. Top men are Blackburn's Roque Santa Cruz (8.09) and David Bentley (7.82) but another Rovers player, Stephen Warnock, has the lowest score with 5.00 so far. Get your marks in guys and gals.

1425: "What a turning point that missed penalty was, my oh my Derby really are down and out now."
dirk-kuyt18 on 606

1423: "David Bentley is awesome."
dangermouse852 on 606

1421: My mistake...Derby have kept TWO clean sheets in the Premier League this season - the other coming when they beat Newcastle 1-0. That won't be much consolation for Rams fans now though.

1419 HALF-TIME Derby County 1-2 Blackburn
Half-time at Pride Park and Derby are left to rue what might have been. Steve Howard missed a penalty that would have put the Rams 2-0 up and instead they go in at the break trailing to quickfire Blackburn goals by Roque Santa Cruz and David Bentley.

1417: "Derby just don't close players down. If you stand off you will pay the price. Derby are in a little bit of bother. Paul Jewell will be looking for the half-time whistle."
Former Northern Ireland boss Bryan Hamilton on BBC Radio 5 Live

1415: Derby are still coming forward though and Matt Oakley is unlucky not to get his second goal of the match when Brad Friedel just manages to push his shot round the post.

1413: GOAL Derby County 1-2 Blackburn
Blackburn are not finished yet either. More agony for Derby as the impressive David Bentley cuts inside before firing home a low bending shot past Rams goalkeeper Lewis Price and into the bottom corner.

Looks like Pride Park is going goal crazy too!

1413: Derby have managed only one clean sheet in the Premier League this season - against Fulham on 20 October. They are not going to get another one here, obviously!

1411: GOAL Derby County 1-1 Blackburn
Talk about being punished for not taking your chances. Seconds after Howard's penalty miss, Benni McCarthy's shot is pushed away by Lewis Price but the in-form Roque Santa Cruz is there to slot home the loose ball.

1409: MISSED PENALTY Derby County 1-0 Blackburn
Steven Howard steps up but his penalty is too near Blackburn goalkeeper Brad Friedel and Eddie Lewis can't quite convert the rebound. Blackburn breathe again.

1408: PENALTY Derby County 1-0 Blackburn
Ryan Nelsen tangles with Kenny Miller in the box and Derby have a chance to double their lead.

1407: "Just imagine, double figures for Derby in the points column. But still 60 minutes to go. Thank God Blackburn have no Steven Gerrard."
ypsylon on 606

1405: Another chance for Blackburn. Benni McCarthy tees up David Bentley but his snap-shot is deflected just wide of Lewis Price's right-hand post.

1403: Eddie Lewis takes the free-kick but his shot clips the top of the Blackburn wall and is cleared to safety.

1402: The Pride Park crowd are a lot louder now and Blackburn are looking nervous. Ryan Nelsen fouls Kenny Miller on the edge of the box for a free-kick to Derby in a dangerous position.

1400: Blackburn manager Mark Hughes is unhappy that Matt Oakley shoved Ryan Nelsen in the build-up to Derby's goal. Bit late for that now.

1358 GOAL Derby County 1-0 Blackburn
Out of nowhere, Derby are ahead. Matt Oakley twists into space and collects a neat pass from Giles Barnes before firing home. The Rams' fightback starts here!

1357: "Derby's central defenders have to get closer to Benni McCarthy and Roque Santa Cruz."
Former Northern Ireland boss Bryan Hamilton on BBC Radio 5 Live

1356: Derby are living on the edge right now. Plenty of gaps are opening up in their defence and Benni McCarthy has galloped clear a couple of times only to be hauled back by marginal offside decisions.

1355: "David Bentley will be the new Rolls Royce of English Football. Watch the ex-Gooner take the World by storm under Capello's tactics. Whats the odds on Bentley with top assists in 2010?? Agree Chris? "
WackyGooner on 606

Bentley is certainly having a good game here so far WackyGooner.

1353: Blackburn are well on top now. Worth mentioning that Mark Hughes' side have only won one of their last nine games. It would explain why Rovers have slipped down the table in recent weeks despite scoring a hatful of goals.

1352: Blackburn's Roque Santa Cruz rises to nod the ball home at the far post but it won't count. David Bentley had done brilliantly to send over a cross from the left but the ball had curled out of play.

1350: A first sight of goal for Blackburn striker Benni McCarthy, who turns well inside the box but sees his shot fly straight at Lewis Price in the Derby goal. A good spell for Rovers.

1349: "I find it strange that Robbie Savage isn't in the 16 for Blackburn. When the team are going through a difficult time he can run around and inspire them."
Former Northern Ireland boss Bryan Hamilton on BBC Radio 5 Live

1348: Brett Emerton escapes James McEveley on the right wing and darts into the area, but the Rams defender recovers to make a marvellous - if slightly risky - sliding tackle. It's scrappy stuff so far.

1346: "I have this sparkling feeling that Derby are gonna finally get that win that their endeavour recently deserves, Derby to win 2-1! "
naburgess on 606

1343: Eddie Lewis swings in another dangerous free-kick for Derby but this time Steven Howard can't get near it. Howard does manage to accidently clout Aaron Mokoena on the head when the ball flies back into the area though. Ouch!

1340: Another fact about Blackburn's prolific striker Roque Santa Cruz. Yes, he has scored seven goals in his last four games but, no, Rovers won none of those matches. They need three points almost as badly as Derby do.

1338: Blackburn haven't taken too long to get going either though. David Bentley's corner fizzes dangerously across the penalty area but Tyrone Mears hacks it away at the far post.

1336: "I hope Giles Barnes does not leave Derby too early. A couple of seasons with the Rams would do him the world of good"
redandblackT(Santa Got Sleighed) on 606

1334: The first meaningful goalmouth action sees Derby defender Tyrone Mears launch a free-kick into the Blackburn area. Steve Howard and Matt Oakley both get something on the ball but it bounces harmlessly out of play.

1333: "Paul Jewell has a decision to make - does he go for it in the January transfer window and buy four or five players or does he bow out gracefully and build again in the summer?"
David Pleat on BBC Radio 5 Live

1330: Blackburn kick off to get today's action under way.

1328: The teams are coming out at Pride Park. Derby have won precisely one of their first 19 Premier League games, so the only way is up for Paul Jewell's side in the second half of the season.

1326: "Stephen Bywater...Derby keeper. Does he deserve an England call-up?"
MrDebatable on 606

1323: "Chris, will the pundits be writing Liverpool's title hopes off AGAIN today should they drop points at Eastlands?"
martinscroftWire on 606

Far too early to write anyone off completely, but surely Liverpool need to start closing the gap?

1318: "I would rather see Gabriel Agbonlahor in the England team than Dave Kitson "
chris-harding on 606

Agbonlahor has scored seven Premier League goals for Aston Villa this season by the way. The same as Wigan's Marcus Bent and Liverpool's Steven Gerrard.

1314: "Chris Bevan, why are you posting souljaboy_crankdat's message and not the rest of us here on 606? I love Caroline and can't wait for her to be back from "vacation".."
simplywalata on 606

Sorry if you are 'cheesed off' with me simplywalata. I love Caroline too though.

1312: "Kitson is highly underrated, he's a good player and judging by Englands performance in the qualifiers for Euro 2008, he should get into the squad with flying colours."
Mikeyk1990 on 606

So, Kitson is getting the thumbs up then?

1310: TEAM NEWS Derby v Blackburn
Derby have a number of players out injured including keeper Stephen Bywater, so Lewis Price continues in goal. For Blackburn, Tugay and Aaron Mokoena replace David Dunn and Steven Reid in midfield. Striker Benni McCarthy is restored to the starting line-up and defender Stephen Warnock returns from a ban.

1309: Hmmm. Having a few technical problems which means I can't see your texts. Very frustrating and apologies if you have texted me already. I'll let you know if the techies can fix the problem!

1307: "Dave Kitson has proved that he is worth a shot"
King-Maldon on 606

1304: "Chris Bevan, who do you think will go down this season and do you think that Derby will do a West Brom and stay up?"
gavt1976t on 606

If anyone can keep Derby up, Paul Jewell can. I can't see it happening though - just too many points to make up.

So, my three to go down: Middlesbrough, Wigan and Derby. Agree or disagree?

1300: Here's some chat for you. Who is the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season?

Reading's Dave Kitson, that's who (with eight goals). So, should the 'Ginger Ninja' be in Fabio Capello's England squad then? Your thoughts please!

1258: "Dreams 2008: Chelsea get J.Mourinho back somehow! AND MAN UNITED GET RELEGATED!"
ILoveFooty on 606

1253: "Chris Bevan, where do you think Everton will finish in the league this year?"
souljaboy_crankthat on 606

I'd love to see the Toffees break up the Big-Four party and they are probably one of the few teams capable of doing so. But fifth place is my bet. More Uefa Cup action next season for you lot anyway!

1248: "Dreams for 2008: Man Utd and Arsenal drop tonnes of points and Chelsea go top unbeaten. Also Chelsea to sign Dimitar Berbatov and a centre-back!!"
tom_hayward91 on 606

We can all dream Tom!

1246: "Worst moment of 2007? England - Croatia game. Best moment: Poland - Belgium game. All connected with Euro 2008. I think Derby will win today, after boring and ugly match with one goal. I hope that City versus Liverpool will be much better and Gerrard will score hattrick. I need this for fantasy football."
kelahcim on 606

1244: "This is for Chris Bevan. Who do you fink is going to win the title?"
somaalo on 606

A tricky one somaalo but, for me, the title is definitely between Arsenal and Man Utd - I'm hardly sticking my neck out there though am I!? If I really had to choose one way or another then, based on what I've seen so far this season, it's the Gunners all the way.

1240: "Normally I'm always up for a day of football but yesterday's tragic death of Phil O'Donnell has really put football into prespective. Football never was and never will be more important than life or death. R.I.P Phil O'Donnell- my thoughts are with you and your friends and family."
greatgunnersrule on 606

1236: And while we're looking back at the last 12 months, let's not forget the tragic events at Fir Park yesterday that saw Motherwell captain Phil O'Donnell collapse and die during their match with Dundee United.

There will be a minute's applause before today's Championship game between Hull City and Sheffield Wednesday (KO 1300 GMT) in honour of O'Donnell, a former Wednesday player.

1233: "Best Moment of 2007: Everton: One Night In Ukraine. Metalist Kharkiv vs Everton :D"
Souljaboy_crankthat on 606

1230: "Derby better not do anything stupid like go and win; their defeats form an integral part of my weekly betting!"
spudPT on 606

1226: "My best moment of 2007 - beating Chelsea in the Champions League semi final, to get to the final. My worst moment of 2007 - loosing the final to Milan"
dirk-kuyt18 on 606

1224: Ah, apologies if some of my 606 links were sending you astray - all my fault. Whatever you do, don't tell Cheesy though - she'll never forgive me.

1221: First up today is Blackburn's visit to Derby at 1330 GMT. The Rams will begin the new year bottom of the table even if they beat Rovers, but will 2008 be any better for Paul Jewell's side?

Since the Premier League began in 1992, only one team propping up the rest at the turn of the year has gone on to survive - West Brom in 2004/05. If Derby are going to emulate the Baggies, then today is definitely a good time to start.

1216:Predictions from dangermouse852 on 606:
Derby 1-5 Blackburn
Man City 3-3 Liverpool

Hmmm, It seems everyone is going goal crazy, not just me and fatboy!

1213: "For some reason, I fancy Derby to sneak a win against a tired Blackburn. However I feel a high scoring game is also on the cards!"
fatboyjohnmulhern on 606

I hope you're right about the goals fatboy. Not sure Blackburn fans will agree with your prediction though - don't forget Roque Santa Cruz is on fire for Rovers with seven goals in his last four games.

1209: So how was it for you then? I want to know your best and worst football moments from 2007 - and your dream football moment for 2008 too. Text me on 81111 or get involved on 606.

1203: After an avalanche of goals yesterday, let's hope we can go out with a bang too. Two more games for your enjoyment today - bottom side Derby County take on Blackburn Rovers before Manchester City host Liverpool for the honour of beginning 2008 in fourth place.