Darren Robinson Praises Derby County's Response After Shaky Start

Darren Robinson hailed Derby County’s response to their shaky start, picking out Lars-Jorgen Salvesen’s decisive strike against Portsmouth as the moment the Rams finally found their edge.

The former Derby midfielder was struck by the conviction of the 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 assurance in Salvesen’s technique.

Portsmouth had peppered Derby’s goal from range, but Robinson felt their efforts never truly carried the same menace.

"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 strike itself. Fratton Park had started to stir after the break, with 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 ruthless hit, and Derby’s season finally had lift-off.