Top duo Mark Catlin and Kenny Jackett deliver key message to Portsmouth fans

His sentiment was also backed by manager Kenny Jackett, who claimed his players rely on the fantastic support of the Fratton faithful.

The top Blues duo were speaking directly to supporters at the inaugural News Pompey Fans’ Forum, which was held in the Victory Lounge at PO4.

The event was held on the eve of tonight’s League One game against Rochdale – a fixture that could allow Pompey to move up to third in the table if yet another home win is recorded.

The Blues remain unbeaten in the league at Fratton Park this season, with 11 victories registered from 16 matches.

Their away form is less profitable, however, with Jackett’s side suffering eight losses in the same number of games.

That’s ensured there’s been many twists along the way this term.

Although, Pompey’s form since the turn of the year has seen them secure 22 points from the 28 available.

With another 36 points up for grabs between now and the end of the season, there’s still plenty to play for.

And both chief executive Catlin and Jackett believe it’s important the fans stick with the team as they attempt to negotiate the tricky path to the Championship.

Catlin told those supporters gathered at Fratton Park last night: ‘I think it’s important to take every game as it comes now.

‘There will be ups and downs, twists and turns, and we’re going to lose a game, and everyone’s going to think the wheels have come off.

‘But they haven't. We just have to put that to bed and move on to the next one.

‘It is an exciting time, Friday night, Monday against Arsenal.

‘You know, the Wembley final is in the distance, and I think we have to put that one away for now, not worry too much about that.

‘But every game seems to be exciting, and as I say, just keep backing us, like you do, and give us the best chance of where you want us to be.’

Catlin added that support would provide Pompey the greatest prospect of promotion.

‘There will continue to be twists and turns, but we're not going to win the league if we win (against Rochdale),’ he said.

‘We're not going to not go up if we lose.

‘You know, it’s one game, there’s still points to be won and we know in the past, the year we went up in League Two, we looked down and out the home game against Crewe, where everyone wanted Paul Cook sacked and there wasn't that long to go.

‘We then went to Crawley, turned it round, and went on an amazing run.

‘I think one of our advantages is the depth of our squad and, touch wood, there seems to be players coming into fitness and form at the right time.

‘We've just got to keep nurturing that along, treat every game as it comes, not get too high, too low, and see where it takes us.

‘But most importantly, just stick with us, please.

‘That will give us the best chance of success.’

Speaking on behalf of the players, Jackett said his team were desperate to deliver a second promotion campaign for the club in four seasons.

He added the squad he has assembled are giving their all to the Pompey cause.

But the manager said the players needed the fans’ backing to help them complete the job.

Jackett said: ‘The link between the players and the fans is a key one, and that link’s been good.

‘The players really appreciate it, that’s what I feel, and for all of us, we’re talkers, I know I can influence greatly, but they’re the ones who do it.

‘So keep backing those lads because, believe me as well, they really want it.

‘They’re a committed group, they want success this year and they're giving it everything – so keep backing them.’

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