Key goal reminds Pompey they've got Roberts

Paul Cook saluted a special landmark in Gary Roberts' Pompey career.
Gary Roberts celebrates his goal. Picture: Joe PeplerGary Roberts celebrates his goal. Picture: Joe Pepler
Gary Roberts celebrates his goal. Picture: Joe Pepler

The Blues boss praised the attacking talent for giving supporters a moment to savour in Saturday’s victory at Carlisle.

Roberts produced a 73rd-minute piece of magic to send his team on their way to a crucial 3-0 win at Brunton Park.

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The 32-year-old has endured a difficult time of late with his form dipping after being given time out of Cook’s starting line-up.

But the Scouser produced an exquisite run and lofted finish to help his team to the three points.

Cook feels the moment could well prove key for the 2015 arrival from Chesterfield.

He said: ‘That was a big moment for Gary. He needed that in front of those fans.

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‘It’s about time! I could’ve left him over with those supporters all night.

‘They are special moments for a player in their career.

‘There were 1,200-plus fans in the ground begging for him to be successful.

‘They are begging for him to score a goal of that magnitude.

‘That’s what Gary Roberts has been brought in to do – to create moments like that.

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‘He managed to do that and I’m delighted for the kid he was able to do that.’

Cook knows Roberts has struggled to consistently show what he’s capable of producing for Pompey.

But he stated giving evidence of what he’s capable of will also buy patience from the Fratton faithful.

Cook said: ‘They are the moments which get you time and grace.

‘If you don’t win games as manager you come under pressure.

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‘As a player if you don’t give the fans enough of those moments they don’t believe in you.

‘Gary has not had enough of those moments in his Pompey career.

‘But one thing is for sure – he has quality. He has shown that.’

Amine Linganzi and Jack Whatmough were the other Pompey goalscorers – both with their first efforts for the club.

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Linganzi cracked home a 25-yarder with four minutes remaining.

And then Gosport lad Whatmough had a moment to remember as he smashed in a stoppage-time third after being introduced in the 72nd minute

Cook said: ‘What was I thinking when Amine had his shot? Get back in defence now!

‘Jack gets rotated on the bench with Tom Davies – so he probably won’t even be sub on Tuesday!

‘It’s a great moment for the lad and I’m absolutely delighted for them both.’