It was heartbreak for John Mousinho’s men who levelled through substitute Paddy Lane with 16th minutes left – only for Luke Thomas to secure the points at the death.
It was a real mixed bag from Pompey, with some disappointing displays amid so encouraging performances – and here are our player ratings...
9. Abu Kamara - 7
Raised his game in the second half and caused some problems down the right with his pace and directness. One excellent run saw him pull the ball back for Saydee, who should have scored. Photo: Jason Brown
10. Colby Bishop - 6
Yet to return to his form before the ankle injury at Burton, while one misjudgement of a clearing header in the second half resulted in Rovers striking the bar. Still ploughed away and can never be faulted for effort. Photo: Bryn Lennon
11. Gavin Whyte - 6
(Replaced by Kusini Yengi on 72 mins) - Handed his first league start in more than three months and there were glimpses, including a second-half shot over the bar. Photo: Jason Brown
12. Portsmouth forward Abu Kamara (25) is tackled by Bristol Rovers midfielder Harvey Vale (19) during the EFL Sky Bet League 1 match between Bristol Rovers and Portsmouth at the Memorial Stadium, Bristol, England on 26 December 2023.
Abu Kamara is challenged by Bristol Rovers midfielder Harvey Vale in the Boxing Day clash. Picture: Jason Brown/ProSportsImages Photo: Jason Brown