With a tight game at Prenton Park seemingly heading for a goalless draw, the midfielder produced a moment of individual quality to clinch three points for Neil Critchley's team.
The young Reds now hold a healthy lead over nearest challengers Leicester City, with a trip to Tottenham Hotspur next up.
Derby had inflicted a first defeat of the season on the U23s back in October, and underlined their intention to complete a league double in the opening stages.
Jayden Bogle saw an effort well blocked by George Johnston inside the box early on before Kyron Stabana passed wide when he might have done better after intricate play in the hosts' area.