Pompey's long-awaited Island return

The Isle of Wight finally have the opportunity to play hosts '“ a decade on from Pompey's last visit.
David Nugent in action against Newport (IW) in 2007 Picture: Laura HolmeDavid Nugent in action against Newport (IW) in 2007 Picture: Laura Holme
David Nugent in action against Newport (IW) in 2007 Picture: Laura Holme

Last week, Kenny Jackett’s side booked a fixture with Newport (IW), representing an addition to the pre-season schedule.

The Port will play St George’s Park hosts on Tuesday, July 18 (7pm).

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It means the Blues venture over there for the first time since August 1, 2007.

On that occasion, Harry Redknapp’s men ran out 7-0 winners over the then-Southern League outfit.

As the scoreline reflected, Newport came up against a strong Pompey side, with David Nugent the notable figure.

The £6m summer recruit from Preston marked his sixth appearance with his first goals for the club – netting a double in the hammering.

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Having struggled to convince during his early pre-season appearances, the one-time England international was finally up and running.

There were also goals from Gary O’Neil (two), Hermann Hreidarsson, Martin Cranie and Franck Songo’o in front of a 3,500 crowd.

Twenty-four hours earlier Redknapp’s side won 4-1 at Bournemouth – and many of that squad also turned out at St George’s Park.

Jamie Ashdown, Matt Taylor, Andy O’Brien, O’Neil, Hreidarsson and Nugent started both fixtures.

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Meanwhile, Pedro Mendes and Benjani were unused substitutes against the non-leaguers.

There was also a July 2001 encounter between the sides during Graham Rix’s first pre-season in charge.

Summer recruit Peter Crouch netted on his Pompey debut for what proved to be the only goal of the contest.

A £1.5m arrival from QPR, it would be the start of five goals in six matches during pre-season for the towering striker.

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There was also a first outing for Neil Barrett, having arrived from Chelsea on a free transfer.

A crowd of 3,000 were in attendance for the opening pre-season fixture ahead of a campaign which Rix wouldn’t see out.

Instead, director of football Harry Redknapp stepped in during March 2002 and would ultimately play such a key role in Pompey’s history.

The side which won 1-0 at St George’s Park that day also included Scott Hiley, Jamie Vincent, Stefani Miglioranzi, Kevin Harper and Michael Panopoulos.

The Blues’ following match was a 5-2 defeat to Spurs, with Crouch scoring twice.