Jermain Defoe and Peter Crouch served notice to top-flight defences last night, as they tore Bournemouth apart in Pompey's 4-1 win against the League Two side.

The £18.5m duo grabbed three of the goals between them in a second-half super show which offered a mouth-watering glimpse of what is to come next season.

It was the first time the pair had linked up together for 90 minutes and augurs well for what lies ahead.

Crouch, who grabbed his first goals since his return to the club from Liverpool, feels the England men can go on to develop a devastating understanding.

He said: 'Myself and Jermain worked well together. I was really pleased with how it went. Three goals in one game together isn't a bad start. Hopefully we can continue like that.

'I was involved in Jermain's goal which was important, too.
'Our all-round game together was good. We were linking up well and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

'It is important to build up a good understanding.

'Hopefully we can forge a good partnership. It certainly went well, although there is more to do.

'Come the start of the season I'm sure we will know each others' games inside out. That will prove to be good for Portsmouth.

'It's the first time we played together and we were enjoying it.'
Defoe grabbed his third goal in as many pre-season starts as Pompey seized control of the clash with the Cherries after an even first 45 minutes.

And it was that fourth goal which augured well for the future, as the pair produced a delightful interchange to open the space for Defoe to score.

The £7.5m arrival from Spurs believes the previous experience they have of playing together will prove a huge benefit to Pompey.
Defoe added he feels Crouch's underrated ability will prove the perfect foil for his predatory instincts.

He said: 'Me and Crouchie linked up well. I've played with him before and we work well together.

'For a big man he has great feet. He is someone I can definitely hook up with. He has played at the top level, he is a good footballer and he is clever. Now we are really looking forward to the season. I've played with him at senior international and under-21 level, and that will help

'I'm happy with the way I got my goal. It shows we can play together.'