Kenny Jackett unconcerned if Sunderland set up to counter-attack Portsmouth for Wembley spot

Kenny Jackett is unconcerned if Sunderland set up to hit Pompey on the counter-attack at Fratton Park.
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The Blues must overcome a one-goal deficit if they’re to reach the League One play-off final tonight.

Jackett’s men fell to a 1-0 defeat in the semi-final first leg at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

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It means Jack Ross’ men could look to protect their lead and wait for opportunities to break swiftly rather than pushing to extend their advantage.

Pompey boss Kenny Jackett. Picture: Joe PeplerPompey boss Kenny Jackett. Picture: Joe Pepler
Pompey boss Kenny Jackett. Picture: Joe Pepler

But Jackett insisted Pompey must concentrate on their own game-plan rather than what the Black Cats might do.

The Blues boss said: ‘Either way, the tactics of it are simple – we need to try to win.

People saying there’s a balance between attack and defence.

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‘Every game is 50 per cent off the ball and 50 per cent on it.

‘We have to win and, of course, you’d rather a one-goal advantage but can we turn it around? Yes we can.’

Coventry implemented counter-attacking tactics when they made the trip to League One last month.

Despite the Sky Blues taking a 1-0 lead into the interval, Pompey conjured up a second-half comeback to deliver a 2-1 victory.

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Jackett added: ‘It’ll be different type of game with it being in the evening.

‘Of course, you always learn a lot.

‘Before we beat Coventry, they’d won six of their eight way games and their front four were in a rich vein of form.

Sunderland have some good choices like Will Grigg to come on.

‘It’s Sunderland Football Club and they’ll always have good players and choices.’