John Mousinho made three changes and switched to a back three for the trip to a cold Highbury Stadium and deservedly took the lead through a classy Abu Kamara goal in a first-half they controlled.
It was more open and ragged after the break, but the Blues managed to retain their lead, albeit with Will Norris having little to do, and here are our Pompey player ratings...
5. Terry Devlin - 8
Asked to play right wing-back and certainly didn’t look out of place. Full of energy, effort and commitment, the youngster is developing into a player the head coach can rely on. Really shone. Photo: Jason Brown
6. Paddy Lane - 7
Started off at left wing-back and put absolutely everything into the match, particularly in the second half when the game became more ragged. Did well defensively when called upon too. Photo: Jason Brown
7. Marlon Pack - 8
Pompey’s in-form player at present and didn’t his team need him in the second half when they had lost the control they possessed in the first half. Dictated the tempo and always in the thick of the action. Photo: Jason Brown
8. Joe Morrell - 7
(Replaced by Christian Saydee on 46 mins) Received a knock late in the first half and also on a booking for tugging a player back. Not sure whether either influenced his half-time substitution, but certainly he was having a very good impact on the Blues during that period. Photo: Jason Brown