Derby County have taken a slender lead against Fulham as the race to be a part of the Premier League hots up.

The Rams defeated their opponents 1-0 at home courtesy Cameron Jerome’s 34th minute header in what was the first leg of their playoff semfinal tie.

Kevin McDonald came close to scoring for Fulham but his shot cannoned off the crossbar as his team ended on the losing side.

The second leg is scheduled to take place on Monday with the winner expected to face the winner of the second semifinal tie between Middlesbrough and Aston Villa to determine who takes the final Premier League spot for next season.