Rose: Pompey need to show killer instinct

The Blues midfielder believes his side have to be sharper in front of goal after their 0-0 draw at Bristol City.

Paul Cook’s team impressed in their dress rehearsal for the new campaign at Ashton Gate.

But they failed to convert any of the host of chances which fell their way.

Rose was pleased with Pompey’s overall performance, but knows they have to be more clinical.

He said: ‘They were tough opposition but we more than held our own without getting the goal we needed.

‘There are still things we need to work on like finishing teams off when we do have those spells of possession.

‘We need to be killing teams off.

‘We will have possession when teams sit behind the ball, so it’s about getting the goals.

‘We need to kill teams off.

‘There will be teams who play counter-attack against us, so we need to have the right shape .

‘When we had good possession they respected what we’re about.

‘They were getting frustrated on the pitch which was pleasing to see.

‘But we do need to grab those goals when we have the chance.’

Rose returned to his home city for Saturday’s clash.

He featured for the Robins as a youngster, even if the 28-year-old is a fan of their rivals Bristol Rovers.

Rose enjoyed the match at Ashton Gate where he caught up with friends and family.

He said: ‘I played here a couple of years ago for Oxford and we won.

‘But it’s nice to see some familiar faces here.

‘An old school teacher, Mrs Cook, has come down to see me.

‘It’s nice for my family to come to watch as well, because they have a way to travel to Pompey for the home games.

‘The stadium has been improved massively.

‘I was at the club as an under-13 and under-14 so to see where the club has gone from then to now is impressive.

‘They are aspiring to be in the Premier League.

‘That’s where they should be – and that’s where Portsmouth should be.’

The focus turns to Saturday’s League Two curtain-raiser with Carlisle.

Rose is confident he and his team-mates are where they need to be.

He added: ‘It’s the fitness aspect and doing what we need to do to be right for Carlisle.

‘We’ve done a lot of hard work and days without the ball, which is required.

‘But, fitness-wise we’re where we need to be.’

– JORDAN CROSS