CRAIG Bryson's fifth goal of the season has given Derby County a 1-0 lead at half-time in their Championship clash with Peterborough United.
Bryson, back in the side after missing the midweek draw with Barnsley due to injury, broke the deadlock at Pride Park in the 41st minute.
The Rams dominated the opening period, winning 16 corners to Peterborough's one.
Paul Coutts went close to opening the scoring in the second minute when his cross from the right caught out keeper Robert Olejnik and smacked against the near post.
Jeff Hendrick saw a goalbound effort headed away by Gabriel Zakuani, while the recalled Conor Sammon curled a shot inches wide from 20 yards after a good run.
Coutts' fierce drive was parried by Olejnik but Derby went ahead four minutes before the break.
Ward combined well on the left with Sammon, whose cross was turned into the roof of the net by Bryson from close range.
Peterborough had offered little themselves but almost levelled on the stroke of half-time.
Jake Buxton, on the stretch, failed to cut out a hopeful ball forward by Craig Alcock and Dwight Gayle fired an angled drive just wide across the face of goal.
