Derby showed why they are tipped to make a quick return to the Premiership as three of their stars scored to see off Reading at Pride Park.

Rob Lee and Fabrizio Ravanelli found the net within two minutes of each other just after the hour.

And Malcolm Christie wrapped up the points with 18 minutes remaining as Derby got off to the perfect start.

Tempers then flared as both Warren Barton and Martin Butler were booked following a furious reaction to the Derby player's challenge.

Opportunity

Ravanelli was also shown a yellow card for protesting, but the Italian went on to play a leading role in the first half.

It was his free-kick from outside the box that hit the bar in the 38th minute after a good run from Lee.

And just before the interval Ravanelli missed a great opportunity when his header went over from six yards out.

The Rams kept the pressure up after the break as Ravanelli forced a brilliant save from Phil Whitehead.

But there was a growing sense of frustration as the half progressed and Derby failed to capitalise on their dominance.

Lee finally broke the deadlock with a fierce strike from 25 yards in the 61st minute.

And the game was put beyond Reading two minutes later when Ravanelli fired into the top corner with his left foot.

Christie added another in the 72nd minute with a cool finish after good work from Adam Bolder, and Derby coasted to the final whistle.