Why Joe Gallen can feel the Portsmouth unity

And the Blues assistant manager feels the growing link between players and fans can play a big role in building a memorable campaign.

Pompey go to Doncaster on Saturday looking to equal the best start to a season in the club's history.

A fifth successive league win will be needed to match the record of the 1979-80 campaign under Frank Burrows.

The midweek victory at Bristol Rovers delivered the latest win and saw scenes of celebration between supporters and the Blues squad on the final whistle.

That followed on from chants of '˜we're on our way' being sung as Oxford were put to the sword at Fratton Park last week.

Gallen can see momentum is gathering and has no doubt how powerful a sense of unity and belief can be.

He said: '˜Our fans are second to none. People think you would say that, but they are. But even I feel a little extra something. We've got some new players and they've taken to them,

'˜The other night in particular I felt there was a strong feeling between the fans and players. The celebrations for the second goal were a good sign, I wouldn't deny that,

'˜I did think woah (when fans sung 'we're on our way'), but you'd rather it that way. The fans are brilliant and they aren't stupid. Maybe they can sense a feeling or something. Maybe they are thinking we can have a good season.

'˜I know what it's like in the city and the fans are pretty excited. That's a good thing.

'˜Let's maintain the performance and keep them excited. That's our aim.'

Despite belief currently being high, Gallen knows Pompey have a manager who will keep the squad on an even keel.

He added: '˜Wins breed confidence. You can feel the confidence level is high from. the players. The four league games have given us confidence, but it's the next one.

'˜We're all guilty of talking and thinking we can get on a run as the season goes on.

'˜I always think why can't we get on a run now? Let's get it going. It's great we've been able to do that.

'˜But over the course of the season there will be some disappointments along with some great performances.

'˜We do have a manager who will just stay on a level. He will be the same whether we win, lose or draw.

'˜He'll keep it level and not too much emotion. That keeps everyone else pretty grounded. That's how it's going to be - and that's the way it should be.'