Ian Foster: Mixed night for Pompey in Checkatrade Trophy

Kyle Bennett was named as skipper for Pompey's Checkatrade Trophy clash with Reading under-23s Picture: Joe Pepler

A turnout of 1,355 were present this evening for a 2-2 draw with Reading under-23s in the much-maligned Checkatrade Trophy.

Curtis Main struck twice in six second-half minutes as the Blues fought back from two-goals down to claim a point in the group match.

However, they lost a penalty shoot-out 4-3, missing out on a further point.

And, most concerning of all, Adam Buxton was forced off in the 44th minute with an aggravation of the injury to his right ankle.

First team coach Foster said: ‘It’s the same ankle he injured against Southend in the Premier League Cup, he has rolled it again in the tackle, which was unfortunate and we’ll assess him overnight and hopefully it won’t be too bad.

‘But on the flipside of that, Brandon Haunstrup has not played in a first-team game since Bournemouth in pre-season, Jack Whatmough and Matt Clarke turned out as well so there are a lot of positives from tonight.

‘A lot of match minutes have gone into players’ legs which they need, with Ben Close and Amine Linganzi others to benefit.

‘Both goalkeepers made fabulous saves in the penalty shoot-out and I always think if you are brave enough to step up and take one then you can’t criticise anyone.

‘The lads have done their best and unfortunately come second on penalties.’