Derby County's Strong Response in Win Against Portsmouth

Darren Robinson hailed Derby County’s response to their stuttering start after the Rams finally kicked their season into gear with a hard-earned win over Portsmouth – sealed by a thunderous strike from Lars-Jorgen Salvesen.

The former Derby midfielder was struck by the sheer conviction of the Norwegian’s winner.

"It was a quality finish in the way he came on to the ball and it was a confident finish," Robinson said, underlining the difference in composure between the two sides in front of goal.

Portsmouth peppered Derby’s area with efforts from range, but never truly pierced them.

"There were lots of shots from distance, particularly from Portsmouth, but they lacked that cutting edge," Robinson noted. "But you watch that finish by Salvesen. He comes on to it and he absolutely thumps it - it was still rising as it hit the back of the net."

The timing, as much as the technique, changed the afternoon. Fratton Park had started to swell with noise after the break as Portsmouth pushed for a breakthrough, sensing Derby’s fragile confidence after a winless opening to the campaign.

"It was an important time to score because the crowd were building a bit of energy," Robinson said. "Portsmouth had given that reaction after half-time and that really burst the bubble."

One strike, hit on the rise and full of certainty, turned a nervous early-season narrative on its head.