Derby hold firm as Szmodics strikes early at Fratton Park | OneFootball

Derby County beat Portsmouth 1-0 at Fratton Park as Sam Szmodics' early strike extended the hosts' winless run to five in the Championship.

In the eighth minute, Sam Szmodics finished from the centre of the box after a corner to put Derby in front.

Joe Ward then struck the bar with a direct free kick (58.). Richard O'Donnell frustrated the hosts with nine saves as the visitors' defence made 55 clearances.

After changes, Portsmouth pushed on, with John Swift's delivery finding Colby Bishop for a header that missed the target (87.).

There was a stoppage for treatment to Derry Murkin before he was replaced, and in the seventh minute of second half stoppage time, O'Donnell saved from Adrian Segecic.

Portsmouth had 67.9% possession and 27 attempts, nine on target. They also forced 11 corners.

Derby are eighth in the table. Portsmouth are 20th. Next, Portsmouth visit Queens Park Rangers. Derby host Birmingham.