Derby County's First Win: Lars-Jorgen Salvesen's Thunderous Strike

Darren Robinson hailed Derby County’s response to their stuttering start to the season after the Rams finally claimed their first win, edging past Portsmouth thanks to a thunderous strike from Lars-Jorgen Salvesen.

The former Derby midfielder was glowing in his assessment of the Norwegian’s decisive moment.

"It was a quality finish in the way he came on to the ball and it was a confident finish," Robinson said, underlining the assurance that had been missing from Derby’s earlier performances.

Portsmouth had peppered the Derby goal with efforts from range, but never quite found the precision to match their pressure.

"There were lots of shots from distance, particularly from Portsmouth, but they lacked that cutting edge - 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, Robinson stressed, mattered as much as the technique. Fratton Park had begun to swell with belief after the break, the home side pushing hard for a breakthrough.

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

One strike, rising all the way in, to puncture a growing storm and kick-start Derby’s season.