The Blues missed a string of chances as they produced their best away performance of the season against the second-placed Sheffield United.
Colby Bishop, Colby Bishop and Connor Ogilvie failed to take glorious opportunities, before substitute Jesurun Rak-Sakyi won it in the 73rd minute.
Earlier, Ogilvie converted the impressive Josh Murphy’s cross to level three minutes after Gustavo Hamer had opened the scoring. And here are our Pompey player ratings...
9. Matt Ritchie - 7
(Replaced by Adi Aouchiche on 72 mins) Another high-octane performance from the new skipper, who is instrumental in the Blues’ pressing game. Had appeals for a second-half penalty rejected and always a threat from dead-ball situations. Photo: Jason Brown
10. Callum Lang - 8
Callum Lang - How did he miss? Will be having nightmares about the open goal from three yards out, but it didn’t weigh on his mind and his constant chasing and harrying didn’t give the United defence a moment’s peace. Photo: Jason Brown
11. Josh Murphy - 9 - MOM
Absolutely on fire, largely United couldn’t handle him. Raced back to make one great covering challenge on Diaz in the first half, which was well received by Pompey fans. Yet it was his attacking play which stood out. Assist for Ogilvie’s goal, struck the bar from 25 yards and Ogilvie and Lang missed other chances he laid on a plate. Photo: Matt McNulty/Getty Images
12. Colby Bishop - 7
Wasted an early one-on-one and in the second half had a goal rightly ruled out for offside. There was also another when Robinson produced a good covering challenge. Misses aside, came the hosts a thoroughly uncomfortable afternoon physically. Photo: Jason Brown