The Blues boss was delighted at seeing the side return to winning ways at no better a place than the home of their local arch rivals.
"We've played well in a lot of games so far this season and haven't got the rewards," the Blues boss said after the game.
"Its been a frustrating time because we've played well in games, especially at home, and not had that little bit of luck you need or got the goals which you obviously require at this level.
"Today we had four or five good chances in the first half and the game could have been dead-and-buried. It could of been and should have been all over at the break but they always make me sweat, that's for sure!"
Thomas Sorensen's howler allowed Clinton Morrison to open the scoring for Blues after just nine minutes, a start which delighted the Blues boss.
"In a big game it's lovely to get off to a good start and that little bounce of the ball which we've got today is what has been eluding us," said Bruce.
"It's been tough over the last few weeks, a lot has been written and said about the players but I know we're a decent side and I hope this result will give us the spark to kick-start our season.
"I know for a fact that I've got a bigger and better squad than what I've ever had. It's been a difficult start with having to blood-in five or six new players and with the horrific injuries we've had.
"Lets just hope that this is the springboard ahead of another local derby against West Brom on Saturday."