Southampton booed their team at the final whistle after failing to unlock a Blues defence led brilliantly by man-of-the-match Regan Poole and Conor Shaughnessy.
John Mousinho’s men even had to change their goalkeeper on 26 minutes, with Ben Killip replacing Nicolas Schmid, yet the substitute barely had a save to make.
Indeed, Andre Dozzell came closest with a ninth-minute shot which struck the bar and, despite the match becoming more open in the second half, Pompey claimed a deserved point.
And here are our Pompey player ratings..
1. Nicolas Schmid - 8
When he was needed, stood up superbly, bouncing back from that Watford mistake. Crucial 12th-minute save from Armstrong with his feet in a one-on-one and even better not long after with a diving stop from the same player. Left exposed on the break for Southampton’s goal. Photo: Graham Hunt
2. Terry Devlin - 8
Nerveless as ever and relished the occasion, thundering into tackles, full of heart and passion. One of the Blues’ most popular players at present for a reason. Photo: Graham Hunt
3. Ibane Bowat - 6
(Replaced by Jordan Williams on 66 mins) Handed a shock recall with Pompey’s centre-half operations so restricted and acquitted himself well. Unfortunately, unsuccessfully played the offside trap for Scienza’s opener. Photo: Graham Hunt
4. Zak Swanson - 7
Surprisingly named in the centre of defence in Poole’s absence fpr a third different position in three starts. One brilliant interception and pass at the start of the second half. Never lets Pompey down. Photo: Graham Hunt