Search for consistency continues as Pompey seek answers

Consistency '“ Paul Cook's stubborn headache which refuses to be resolved.
Paul Cook. Picture: Joe PeplerPaul Cook. Picture: Joe Pepler
Paul Cook. Picture: Joe Pepler

At the Abbey Stadium, the Blues’ put in a heroic rearguard action to secure victory with 10-men.

Such was the extent of the impressive display, it dared to suggest those defensive ills may have finally been cured.

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The following 45 minutes were branded the worst during Cook’s time as Pompey manager.

Wycombe arrived at Fratton Park and dominated the hosts, particularly during the first-half.

The final 2-1 scoreline in the Chairboys’ favour was deserved and could not be disputed.

Pompey face Bristol Rovers in the Checkatrade Trophy tonight (7.45pm).

And for Cook, that worrying pain continues to linger.

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He said: ‘Notts County in the first half was as good as we have played since I came to the club – the next home game against Wycombe is the worst.

‘They are the cards we have been dealt at the minute, we have to get consistency at this club, that is the biggest challenge.

‘We are showing little things in our play that come out quite regularly and need to become more consistent.

‘We were poor on Saturday, Wycombe were the better team, we thoroughly deserved to get beat, no excuses.

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‘Yet we will go into Saturday’s game fifth in the league, three points off being automatically promoted after 15 matches – and you would think the world is about to end.

‘Portsmouth Football Club comes with a prestige in this division where everyone wants to beat you. We saw on Saturday if you are not up for the game you will be rolled over.

‘We got rolled over comfortably on Saturday, there was one team on the pitch who really wanted to be there and wanted to win a cup tie – and there was another who didn’t.

‘We got what we deserved.

Pompey can still qualify from the group stages of the Checkatrade Trophy – although even victory may not see them through.

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They will need to defeat Rovers and hope Yeovil suffer a loss against group leaders Reading under-23s.

At that point, goal difference would then also come into play.

Cook added: ‘The lads have trained well and I’m looking forward to a match against a good club.

‘Fratton Park is in great condition, great credit to the groundsman, and I am sure it will be a good game.’