Cameron McGeehan thanks classy Portsmouth fan reaction after pivotal Oxford penalty miss

The Blues’ Championship ambition perished during a Kassam Stadium play-off semi-final shoot-out last month.

It was McGeehan, the loanee from Barnsley, whose miss from the spot proved decisive, saved by keeper Simon Eastwood.

It ensured Oxford United ran out 5-4 winners to reach the Wembley final against Wycombe, where they lost to Gareth Ainsworth’s side.

For McGeehan, that represented his final touch in a Pompey shirt and he has since joined KV Oostende.

Yet, reflecting on that heartbreaking moment, he praises the immense support given to him by Pompey fans also in mourning.

McGeehan told The News: ‘We were so disappointed we didn't get through to the final – and I was gutted that I missed the penalty.

‘The reaction I actually got from the fans was so positive. I’ve rarely missed a penalty, but there was a lot of positive stuff, such as “Thank you for your efforts”.

‘I saw those messages and it meant a lot. I would like to say thanks to those people.

‘The only person who had a go at me was my old man. He told me I should have gone down the middle instead of shooting to the left.

‘I was trying to go hard and low, but unfortunately the keeper saved it.

‘I have always taken penalties throughout my career and scored in quite a few big games, so I’m pretty confident on them.

‘But sometimes you miss. I just wish it wasn’t in that game for Pompey.’

John Marquis, Gareth Evans, Lee Brown and Oli Hawkins all successfully converted during that second leg shoot-out.

It signified successive play-off semi-final eliminations for Kenny Jackett’s side, who must now launch another promotion attempt.

McGeehan added: ‘When I joined in January we had a good chance to get promoted automatically and then go on and do well in the Championship.

‘I was gutted that didn't materialise.

‘I thought promotion was going to happen – and I had thought about it a lot. Obviously it didn’t turn out that way.

‘The lads were top notch the whole way through. I’ve made some good friends there and hopefully they can kick on this year and make it.

‘Pompey have so much quality in that team.’

MORE: McGeehan reveals how he would love a Pompey return.

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