Derby County Secures First Win with Quality Finish from Salvesen

Darren Robinson hailed Derby County’s response to their stuttering start as “a quality finish” from Lars-Jorgen Salvesen finally delivered the Rams’ first win of the season against Portsmouth.

The former Derby midfielder singled out the Norwegian’s decisive strike, both for its execution and its timing, as Paul Warne’s side shook off a winless opening run.

“It was a quality finish in the way he came on to the ball and it was a confident finish,” Robinson said, reflecting on the winner.

Portsmouth had peppered Derby’s goal with efforts from range, but never quite found the precision to match their pressure. Robinson felt that contrast told the story.

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

The goal arrived just as the atmosphere threatened to turn. Fratton Park had stirred after the interval, Portsmouth feeding off a livelier spell and the home crowd sensing a breakthrough.

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

One thunderous strike, and Derby’s season suddenly has something solid to build on.