Derby County pulled off a shock result to win its first match of the season against Newcastle United in their Premiership clash on Monday.

Derby had registered just one point from five matches and were on a run of four defeats, including the 6-0 thrashing by Liverpool last week. However Kenny Miller's strike in the 39th minute ensured that Billy Davis' men pulled off a shock result to register their first victory of the season.

Derby went on the attack right from the kick off and Steve Harper had to be alert to parry Steve Howard's attempt in the opening minute. Howard had another chance from the resultant corner, but was unable to direct his header on the target.

Tyrone Mears created another chance in the 10th minute when he dribbled past David Rozehnal before launching a drive towards the goal but Harper was equal to the challenge and managed to block away the shot.

Newcastle's first real chance fell to Rozehnal after James Miler had done well to find the defender from the left flank but the defender was unable to hit the target with Stephen Bywater hopelessly out of position.

Newcastle pressed forward but Derby defended well with Matt Oakley and Teale putting in hard tackles to break up the attacking moves. With six minutes remaining before half time, Derby raced to a shock lead as he released a stinging drive over Harper that smashed into the roof of the net.

Obafemi Martins replaced an ineffective Michael Owen as Newcastle made a desperate attempt to find the equalizer. The visitors had a penalty appeal turned down after Rozehnal was fouled by Leacock in the area leaving Sam Allardyce fuming on the sidelines.

With Newcastle unable to create any chances to get back into the game, Derby held on to the one goal lead to win its first match of the season. The win lifts Derby from the foot of the table and though not yet out of the relegation zone, the win will provide a massive relief to Billy Davis who was under pressure following the disastrous start to the season.