McCann lauds Posh's character in Pompey win

After a goalless first half, Jack Marriott’s 58th-minute strike and an own goal from Kal Naismith 20 minutes from time snapped the Blues’ three-match winning streak.

Conor Chaplin came off the bench to give Pompey a lifeline in the 78th minute but the Posh held on for all three points.

McCann was delighted with his troops’ second-half performance and lauded Peterborough’s resolve.

The Posh manager told the club’s website: ‘The boys dug deep. We didn’t play the most exciting, attractive football at times but we showed great character and commitment.

‘In the second half, we were first class.

‘The first half was a bit subdued from both teams. It was a bit like a boxing contest, both waiting to see who would make the first move.

‘But in the second half we were much better. We changed our shape, we got (Marcus) Maddison playing more and it caused them problems.

‘It was a really good performance in the second half.

‘Our game plan was to play quickly and to get Maddison active. We didn’t quite find him in the first half and didn’t move the ball as quickly as we should have done.

‘In the second half, we did and looked more of a threat on the break.

‘We upped our levels, energy and the pressing was much better.’