Atangana’s maiden strike secures precious point

Nigel Atangana’s first goal for Pompey saw them come from behind to secure a 1-1 draw at Cheltenham Town.
Nigel Atangana, back centre, netted the Blues' equaliser at Cheltenham this afternoon   Picture: Joe PeplerNigel Atangana, back centre, netted the Blues' equaliser at Cheltenham this afternoon   Picture: Joe Pepler
Nigel Atangana, back centre, netted the Blues' equaliser at Cheltenham this afternoon Picture: Joe Pepler

The Blues midfielder was recalled with boss Andy Awford reverting to a 4-2-3-1 formation to address the recent frailties away from Fratton Park.

And Atangana delivered with a spectacular goal, firing home the equaliser early in the second half from the edge of the box via the underside of the crossbar.

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While Pompey looked likely to go on to claim all three points, they couldn’t find a clear opportunity to claim the win.

Pompey edged the first half in terms of possession and opportunities but still found themselves 1-0 down at the break.

Danny Hollands saw an overhead kick flash wide from Lee Holmes’ free-kick, while Nigel Atangana dragged a shot wide after some excellent build-up play.

But for the most part, Pompey’s final ball was lacking any real quality or conviction.

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With the game drifting along aimlessly towards half-time, Cheltenham broke the deadlock with their first real attempt on goal as Omari Sterling-James escaped the Pompey defence too easily and fired home at Paul Jones’ near post.

But Pompey certainly improved after the break and were the better side as they came back to claim a share of the spoils.

With a bit more quality in the final third, Awford’s side would have gone on to register the victory.

But a point on their travels can at least be a starting point for the forthcoming festive period.