Paolo Sousa's men had 70 percent possession on Friday night, yet it took all of 81 minutes to finally find a way to goal, Federico Bessone ensuring Derby went home with exactly what they deserved: nothing.
Victory swept The Swans to the lofty heights of third in the Championship ahead of Saturday's fixtures, but Sousa warned his team they will face many more barricades in the weeks ahead.
"It was like trying to break down a brick wall, and it is not easy when all a team does is come here and defend," said the Portuguese.
"We had 70% of the possession and were the only side wanting to win the game.
"They came looking for a point, as most teams usually do when they come here, and we take that as a compliment, but it was a great strike by Federico Bessone to win us the game."
Nathan Dyer, Craig Beattie and Cedric van der Gun all wasted chances as The Swans chased an 11th consecutive game without defeat, Dyer in particular causing absolute panic in the visitors' defence.
Eventually a goal would come, Bessone sweeping home a cross-field pass to bring that Derby wall crumbling down.
"We were close to a point, and defended well, but we were not good enough going forward, as we couldn't hold on to possession," said Derby manager Nigel Clough.
"Our rearguard action almost won us a point, but we lost concentration for one minute, and that was that.
"We are not in the right mentality at the moment, and tonight it has cost us dearly."
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