Gary Rowett has revealed how Derby County's match-winner Matej Vydra should not have taken the penalty that sank Preston North End.
Vydra converted his spot kick after 58 minutes to give the Rams a 1-0 victory at Pride Park Stadium last night.
But it was team mate David Nugent who was the designated penalty-taker.
"Nuge was meant to take it," Rowett said.
"Vyds took the ball and stepped up, and I just felt with his confidence that was a really pivotal moment.
"I am sure if the keeper would have saved it, which he probably should have done, then I'm not sure Vyds would have come back from that!"
The penalty was awarded for Preston defender Paul Huntington pulling back Curtis Davies at a corner.
Rowett felt it was the right decision.
Most Read
"The referee warned the player on two or three occasions," Rowett added.
"Once you grab in the box, you leave yourself open especially when the referee is warning players not to do it.
"I don't think there was any argument about it."
It was a first start of the season for match-winner Vydra who has been troubled by thigh and hamstring injuries.
"I was really pleased with him," Rowett said.
"His lack of match sharpness and match fitness but you can see what he gives you when he plays in that No.10 pocket particular with Nuge's energy ahead of him.
"We just looked a different type of threat and I think the game suited those players much more than it might have done the ones on Saturday."