Rochdale 1-3 Portsmouth: they said what?

Goals from Jamal Lowe, Brett Pitman and Matt Clarke handed Kenny Jackett's side victory, after Aaron Wilbraham gave the hosts a fourth-minute lead.

Here's what those closest to the action had to say about the game.

Pompey assistant manager Joe Gallen

The most pleasing thing is winning away from home and keeping the run going.

I understand it takes us back to the top of the league '“ which is good.

'˜But winning up here at Rochdale '“ where I've always found it tough to get a result '“ and winning convincingly, scoring three goals, is the most pleasing aspect.

It was a bit of a goal out of nothing, but a terrific goal from Wilbraham.

We could have wobbled for five or 10 minutes after that, but I'm glad to say we didn't wobble at all.

We controlled the game in the first half, played very well, our passing was good, we got the ball wide numerous times for crossing into the box and deservedly got ourselves level.

If anything, we should have been ahead at half time and weren't, we were a little bit disappointed. It was a terrific reaction to going a goal down at a tricky place.

Rochdale played well at the start of the second half and we didn't quite get going, but got our defending right and you never go away from home and have 90 minutes, it's never going to happen.

We had to defend our box and didn't quite look a threat offensively up until we scored '“ but got that win.Rochdale boss Keith Hill

The difference between the two sides is that they made better decisions on the pitch than us.

I thought we played some nice stuff at times but I'm disappointed with the result.

There wasn't a lack of energy, work-rate, endeavour or honesty, I just feel as though they were probably better than us in every department, and there's no shame in that.

Brett Pitman

 I want to start but the team has been doing well.

But it was nice to come into the side and get a goal.

I don't think you can disrespect Rochdale.

They're certainly better than an ugly side and play some nice football.

So we had to work hard for the win and we're pleased to get it.

News chief sports writer Neil Allen

Pompey came from a goal behind to return to the top of League One.

The Blues recovered superbly after falling behind on four minutes to deservedly claim a 3-1 win.

With the scoreline at 1-1, there were some testing moments in the second half.

But, inspired by Brett Pitman on his 50th Blues appearance, the visitors claimed the triumph.

News Pompey report Jordan Cross

It was billed as a test of Pompey's promotion credentials - and one they eventually passed with flying colours. The success at Rochdale wasn't one achieved smoothly, however, as Kenny Jackett's side came from behind to grab the win which sees them return to League One's summit. Brett Pitman was central to picking up the three points as he provided a goal and an assist on his return to the starting XI on his 50th appearance for the club. And the fact the it's 10 league games without defeat is not insignificant- as it surpasses the nine-game unbeaten start of Harry Redknapp's Division One title winners in 2002-03.