Bryson’s blast gives Derby points

Craig Bryson gave Derby their third successive win over 10-man Nottingham Forest after Dexter Blackstock was sent off in an ill-tempered east midlands derby yesterday.

A player had been dismissed in each of the last three meetings between these sides and a fourth always looked likely once the bruising challenges flew in from the off in this npower Championship encounter and the red card proved the turning point.

The 10 men found themselves behind nine minutes later when Bryson swept home to round off a flowing move down the right.

Blackburn’s first game of the post-Steve Kean era finished in a 1-1 draw at Charlton.

Rovers, under the guidance of assistant manager Eric Black, took a 16th-minute lead through Dickson Etuhu at The Valley.

But captain Johnnie Jackson got the Addicks back on level terms in the 27th minute — making amends after having seen a penalty saved by former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson.

A wonder-strike from Chris Burke ensured Birmingham bounced back last weekend’s 5-0 defeat to Barnsley with an away win over leaders Brighton.

Huddersfield squandered the chance to go top of the table after losing 3-2 to Watford, while a brace by defender Matthew Connolly helped Cardiff maintain their 100% home record in the league with a 3-0 victory over Blackpool.

Emile Sinclair scored a hat-trick as Peterborough surprised Hull.