Ronan Curtis: We could have scored four against Bristol Rovers in great response by Portsmouth players

The Irishman’s first-half strike settled the Fratton Park contest to relegate Joey Barton’s visitors to League Two.

However, the Blues failed to add to that tally, despite opportunities for Sean Raggett, John Marquis, and a late chance for Curtis.

Nonetheless, it represented an important victory for Danny Cowley’s men having gone four matches without a triumph.

And with three matches remaining, the Blues remain firmly part of the hunt for a top-six place.

Curtis told The News: ‘It was an important win, we created a lot in the last two games, but, coming off the back of two defeats, it’s easy to let yourself go.

‘However, the mindset was right among the lads, every one of them dug deep, everyone was chasing after lost causes, winning flick-ons, doing the nitty-gritty stuff and that’s where the goal from.

‘We could have beaten them by two or three, maybe even four, but we dug in deep and I don’t think Craig had that many saves to make.

‘At the top end of the pitch we are working every day in training to get into opportunities where you can shoot and score – and that’s what I’m trying to do.

‘Hopefully we’ll win every one of the remaining three games and then we’ll be there.

‘We just have to take it one step at a time, game by game.

‘Now it’s Accy next, a tough place to go, but confidence is high among the lads, we all have each others’ backs.

‘We’re there to do a job on Tuesday night – and hopefully will turn them over.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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