Portsmouth Fan Fiction

Fan Fiction based on the 2011-12 season in the nPower Championship.                                                                                                                                                               **DISCLAIMER** All contents, posts and stories on this site are fictional. I do not own any of the images of PFC and the fixtures list is owned by the Football League. var sc_project=7304257; var sc_invisible=1; var sc_security="396e21ab";

[portsmouthfc]

10/12/11 - Burnley FC Vs Portsmouth FC

Portsmouth arrive at Turf Moor on the back of a solid 2-0 win against Coventry. Greg Halford returns from injury, and replaces Ben-Haim at right back, who moves to the bench. Hayden Mullins is still suspended, and Varney is out with a stomach bug. Huseklepp starts with Futacs up front, and Kacaniklic starts on the left wing. Liam Lawrence is still recovering, and is on the bench, with Kitson & Benjani.

First Half:-

Burnley start the first half looking for a fourth successive win. Rodriguez makes a bold run through the field, pushing away Thorne and Pearce, but Mattock manages to come across to meet him. Stanislas uses his pace on the left, knocks it past Halford, and takes a swinging cross that challenges Henderson, who runs back and tips it over the bar. A Burnley corner finds Trippier's head, but Pearce clears it. Ward links a pass to Futacs who uses his size to storm past Edgar, he lays the ball off for Ward to take a shot, it's powerfully hit, and Grant has to react quickly to parry it wide. Portsmouth corner from Halford finds the head of Futacs who heads it down to the feet of Kacaniklic, who swings a shot in, but Duff can clear from the line. Wallace with a Burnley free kick outside the box is hit straight towards goal, and Henderson makes a huge diving save, the ball comes back off him straight to Paterson, who pokes it in the goal, and it's in! The referee quickly blows his whistle though, quickly killing the Burnley celebrations as it was a clear offside caught by the linesman. Burnley try to attack again as the first half comes to the closing stages. McCann threads a neat ball to Wallace on the right who turns the ball around Mattock and chips the ball to the edge of the box, to the feet of Rodriguez who puts a quick shot away, but it's wide. Norris connects with Kacaniklic on the left who makes a great run, beating the Burnley right back. He plays it across neatly to Huseklepp who fires a shot at goal, Grant clears, but Futacs can pick it up, he hits a shot and it deflects off of Edgar, the deflected ball is in the air, and Huseklepp is there to jump and poke into the net with his knee, it's a GOAL!!! Huseklepp poached that from Burnley, and Pompey take the lead just before half time.

GOAL - 44th Minute - Erik Huseklepp - Portsmouth FC - Burnley 0-1 Portsmouth

Burnley restart, and straight away plays a long ball to Stanislas on the left, but Halford intercepts and plays it forward to Thorne, as the whistle blows, it's half time, and Portsmouth have the lead.

Half Time= Burnley 0-1 Portsmouth

Second Half:-

Portsmouth start the second half, looking to preserve their lead. Thorne and Norris move up the field, and connect to Kacaniklic on the left, who picks up the ball and moves with pace. Kacaniklic then tries moving back into the centre, past Trippier, he skillfully makes a trick pass to Huseklepp leaving Burnley slow to react, Huseklepp has plenty of space but on a tight angle, and his shot is stopped by Grant. Paterson picks up a long ball out of the air, and quickly finds Rodriguez, he makes a big charge into the box, but Pearce puts in a heavy tackle. The ref comes over, and Pearce gets shown the yellow card. Wallace takes the free kick, another powerful shot at goal, it strikes the cross bar and over though. Portsmouth make their first substitution of the day, with Marko Futacs coming off, for Dave Kitson. Stanislas and McCann string passes together and plays a ball to Paterson. It's a bad pass and the ball goes straight to Rocha, Paterson though storms into Rocha, knocking him down and picking up the ball, there is no free kick despite the calls from the Pompey team, Paterson hits a shot into the bottom corner, and Henderson gets down low to block it. A long ball from Halford finds Norris, who heads it blindly forward, Duff goes to pick up the loose ball but it bobbles off his foot, and Kacaniklic storms in to pick up the ball, but Grant reacts, runs out, and dives to collect. Burnley makes a change now, as Bartley comes off for Dean Marney. Burnley get a corner now, and it goes long, past the box. Stanislas picks it up and tries to move into the box, he gets around Halford but Rocha is straight in, and picks up the ball. Not long left in the game, and Portsmouth will be desperate for the scoreline to remain the same. Thorne plays a great pass to Ward who moves into the middle, he chips it over Burnley defence to Kitson who meets it, and stops for control. He plays the back pass to Norris who curls it into the box, Huseklepp tries to jump and tap in with his foot, but Grant can get to it and parry it away. Portsmouth make another change now as Ward comes off, for Liam Lawrence who is trying to get back to full fitness. McCann works a ball from midfield to Stanislas out wide, Halford applies the pressure, and Stanislas kicks it to him for the rebound, winning Burnley a corner. It comes in towards the goal and Henderson goes to punch away, he doesn't get to it cleanly low, and the ball is not away, and Portsmouth have an empty goal. Marney heads the ball long towards the goal, but Pearce makes a bold save, to clear it away. 3 minutes of added time being awarded by the fourth official. Norris plays a ball to Kacaniklic, but it's a weak pass. Thorne is tackled late on, with a free kick likely to be the last play of the game. Lawrence plays a long ball into the box, with Kitson getting up high to connect to it, but his header is just whiskers over, as the final whistle blows, Portsmouth take all 3 points for the second week in a row, setting them up nicely for the South Coast derby next week.

Full Time= Burnley 0-1 Portsmouth 

Team:

S.Henderson 7

G.Halford 7

R.Rocha 7

J.Pearce 7

J.Mattock 6

J.Ward 8 (L.Lawrence 80')

D.Norris 6

G.Thorne 8

N.Kacaniklic 7

M.Futacs 6 (D.Kitson 62' 7)

E.Huseklepp 7

Subs not used:

J.Ashdown

T.Ben-Haim

Benjani

Man of the Match: J.Ward 8

Always key when Portsmouth went forward, great link up from the back four to the guys up front, and always supporting the active player.

13. Leeds 21 10 2 9 29

14. Portsmouth 21 7 7 7 27

15. Leicester 21 6 9 6 26

Other Results:

Southampton 0-1 Blackpool

Birmingham 5-0 Doncaster

Millwall 1-1 Cardiff

Coventry 1-1 Hull

Reading 2-1 West Ham

Watford 0-1 Leeds

Barnsley 2-1 Ipswich

Middlesbrough 0-0 Brighton

Nottingham Forest 1-0 Crystal Palace

Derby 1-3 Bristol City

Leicester 0-1 Peterborough

[portsmouthfc]

3/12/11 - Portsmouth FC Vs Coventry City

,

Michael Appleton is still looking for his first win as Portsmouth manager, after 3 games and only 2 points collected, Portsmouth need a strong start to the month of January. Greg Halford didn't manage to pass his late fitness test this morning, and the back four remains unchanged. Liam Lawrence is out after a groin injury in the week, so Ward moves to the right midfield, and Erik Huseklepp starts on the left. New loan signing Alexander Kacaniklic is on the bench. Marko Futacs makes his first start at Portsmouth, starting next to Luke Varney up front. 

First Half:-

Portsmouth start the game looking to fight from the get go. Ward and Ben-Haim are lively on the right wing, but the match pace is still slow. Ward plays a neat ball off to Norris who strides towards the outside of the box, and takes a low strike, but Murphy gets down low to parry it wide. A corner for Portsmouth, Pearce gets a good head to it, but it's just whiskers over the bar. Coventry try to attack Portsmouth, McSheffrey on the right wing tries to push past Mattock, and find Jutkiewicz in the middle. A stumble for control by Jutkiewicz allows Rocha to clear the ball from his feet. Thorne plays a long ball to Huseklepp on the left wing, and with one touch, controls it past Cranie, and into the box, but Erik couldn't get a clean finish to it, and Murphy manages to collect the ball. Baker managed to dribble past Norris, but had to pass the ball across the field as Ward put the pressure on. Clingan picked up the ball and went for a long ball into the box, Henderson bravely runs out of the goal mouth, and plucks the ball out of the air. A slow first half to say the least and neither side gets any chances. Wood puts a heavy tackle on Varney and gets booked. Norris decides to play the free kick short to Futacs, who gets around Cranie and swings his foot around for the shot, it strikes the post, and it's a goal kick for Coventry. Murphy plays a long ball up, which Pearce heads, but in the wrong direction, and Henderson storms out and clears the ball  to get rid of the panic, as the first half whistle blows, it's all level at Fratton Park, 0-0.

Half Time= Portsmouth FC 0-0 Coventry City

Coventry get the second half started as there are no changes at half time. McSheffrey takes the ball from the right wing, and storms to the centre of the field, but Rocha picks him off with ease outside of the box, the stray ball falls to Baker who takes a huge shot from far out, but it flies over the bar. Ward and Norris link up well, and Norris threads a ball to Varney who has to chase it out to the wing. Varney gets the ball under control and moves just outside of the box and chips the ball in, Murphy runs out of goal and tries to catch, but he misses the ball, and the tall Futacs is there to head the ball with venom into the empty goal, it's a GOAL!!! Futacs scoring on his first ever start at Portsmouth.

GOAL - 51st Minute - Marko Futacs - Portsmouth FC - Portsmouth 1-0 Coventry

Coventry restarts now, and holds possession in the midfield to try and change the tempo of the game. Jutkiewicz uses his skill to play a ball around Ben-Haim and scuffle with Rocha, but still manages to get a shot away, Henderson parries it away, but Pearce has to be there to clear. Portsmouth make their first change of the match, as Erik Huseklepp comes off for Alexander Kacaniklic, the new loan signing makes his debut. Coventry are caught napping by Portsmouth, and Thorne places a beautiful pass to Varney who runs onto it, put carries too much pace and is met by the Coventry defence. A little lay off to Norris allows him to hit a powerful shot into the bottom corner, Murphy can't meet the ball and it smashes against the back of the net, it's a GOAL!!! Pompey are flying now, and well on their way to 3 points.

GOAL - 66th Minute - David Norris - Portsmouth FC - Portsmouth 2-0 Coventry. 

Coventry restart the match with a tough task for them. McSheffrey and Jutkiewicz link passes well, and McSheffrey gets a deep cross in, McDonald gets his head to it, sending Henderson into the air, but it's just wide. Kacaniklic picks the ball up, and makes a charge down the left wing, flying around Clingan, and playing it around Wood leaving him in a daze. Kacaniklic sends a cross into the box for Futacs, who heads it down towards the path of Ward, who tries to smoothly stroke it into the net, but Keogh dives in low and blocks it with his foot. Another substitution for Pompey now as Luke Varney is off. He is replaced by Benjani. A corner comes in from Norris, Futacs heads and it hits the cross bar, but it falls straight back into the goalkeepers hands. Not long left now as Coventry play a long ball to Jutkiewicz upfield. Pearce puts a heavy tackle in, and the referee calls for a free kick, but no card is shown. Clingan takes a free kick, but it deflects off the wall and out for a corner. Norris seems to be hobbling about at the moment, he tries to run it off but he looks in pain. A corner for Coventry which Henderson punches clear. Kacaniklic picks up the punch and makes a run for it, he charges down the pitch with great speed, but Cranie is back for Coventry, and the two will clash. Cranie takes a sliding tackle to Kacaniklic, and the youngster loses possession. Pompey substitution now with only minutes left, as Norris comes off for Mokoena. Thorne moves across the middle of the field, to thread a pass to Benjani, he picks it up, and knocks it away from a Clingan sliding tackle, but his cross attempt is collected by Murphy. The fourth official announces there will be three minutes of added time. Baker has the ball in the midfield, but lacks options, he looks for Clingan, but Mattock is marking him all the way, letting Pearce pick the ball up as Clingan stumbles. A long ball to the over side of the pitch finds, Futacs who tries to head it across the field to Ward, but he can't reach it, and the ball goes out. The final whistle blows, and it's all over here at Fratton Park, Portsmouth get the three points they need, and Appleton will enjoy this winning feeling.

Teams:

S.Henderson 7

T.Ben-Haim 6

R.Rocha 7

J.Pearce 8

J.Mattock 7

J.Ward 7

D.Norris 8 (A.Mokoena 87')

G.Thorne 7

E.Huseklepp 7 (A.Kacaniklic 55' 8)

M.Futacs 8

L.Varney 7 (Benjani 74' 6)

Subs not used: 

J.Ashdown

D.Kitson

Man of the Match: M.Futacs 8

Marko managed to get his first start in a Pompey shirt after impressing displays from the bench. Appleton's decision paid off, as he tore the Coventry defence up, and netted his first goal.

14. Leeds         20 9 2 9 26

15. Portsmouth 20 6 7 7 24

16. Barnsley 20 6 6 8 23

Other Results:

Crystal Palace 2-0 Derby

Leeds 1-0 Millwall

Doncaster 1-0 Southampton

Ipswich 3-3 Watford

Bristol City 0-0 Middlesbrough

Blackpool 0-1 Reading

Brighton 1-2 Nottingham Forest

Hull 1-1 Leicester

Peterborough 0-1 Barnsley

West Ham 0-2 Burnley

Cardiff 2-1 Birmingham

[portsmouthfc]

Kacaniklic joins Pompey on deadline

Portsmouth have signed Swedish midfielder Alexander Kacaniklic on loan from Fulham, on the emergency loan deadline. The loan is a short term deal lasting one month, where Michael Appleton can decide whether to extend the deal or not in January. It was rumoured that Watford FC was interested in the former Liverpool youth player, but they wanted to wait until January, and Alexander was keen on finding a club of a higher calibre. Kacaniklic, you likes to play on the left wing, joined Fulham in 2010, after 3 years in the Liverpool academy system. The 20 year old has been given the number 14 shirt. Michael Appleton said on his arrival, "i'm really happy we came to a deal, he's an exciting player. I hope with the added youth the team can really benefit, I always think if you're good enough, you're old enough".

[portsmouthfc]

Varney wins Player of the Month for November

Luke Varney has been given the Player of the Month award for November. The forward started all 5 matches in the month, scoring 3 goals, and picking up 2 man of the match awards. It has been announced that the Official Player of the Year award will be given to the player who wins the most Player of the Month awards, if there is no clear winner, then it will go down to the usual process of fans groups meeting to vote for a number of possible candidates. 

[portsmouthfc]

29/11/11 - Birmingham City Vs Portsmouth FC

Michael Appleton gets to experience his first mid week game with Pompey, under the lights at St.Andrews. A number of changes for Appleton tonight, with new loan signing George Thorne replacing the suspended Hayden Mullins in midfield. Greg Halford is still out with injury, so Ben-Haim moves to right back, with another new loan signing Joe Mattock starting at left back. Huseklepp is dropped to the bench as Ward replaces him at left midfield, leaving potentially 3 strikers on the bench with Erik, Benjani and Marko Futacs, sitting alongside Jamie Ashdown and Aaron Mokoena.

First Half:-

Portsmouth start the game hoping to start strong, and Lawrence and Norris carry most of the possession. A through ball to Varney doesn't pan out as Davies intercepts. Burke seems lively on the wing, and makes a move around Mattock, Pearce bravely gets stuck in, and puts the ball out for a corner. The corner comes in, Marlon King gets a head to it, but he couldn't get the ball down, it's a goal kick. Ward is playing in an unusual role on the left, but makes quick work of Stephen Carr. He plays the ball across the box to Thorne who chips it over to Kitson, but it's just too long for him to connect to it. A tackle outside of the box on Varney gives Pompey a free kick. Lawrence curls it over the wall, and Myhill punches it wide. A sweeping corner comes in, but Caldwell dives low to clear out of the box. Ben-Haim rushes to collect however and plays a cross which Ward heads, but Spector clears off the line. The long clearance by Spector is well placed for Redmond who latches on to it, and makes a run. He has King for assistance, and it's two on two as they charge towards the Pompey box. Redmond makes a swift move around Rocha and lays it off to King. Henderson charges out, but King was aware, and put the ball around Henderson and into the back of the net, it's a GOAL!!!

GOAL - 25th Minute - Marlon King - Birmingham City - Birmingham 1-0 Portsmouth

Pompey restart now with it all to do at St.Andrews. Ward and Thorne link up and well and make a lot of movement around the Birmingham midfield. A ball towards Kitson allows Varney to run into a space as Kitson holds the ball. Instead he backpasses to Lawrence on the right who crosses the ball in, but it's just too far from Varney. Mutch tries making a long pass to Burke on the right wing, but Mattock gets up high to intercept, and try to counter Birmingham. They come at Pompey again though, this time King, who powers his way through Ben-Haim, but Rocha meets him. He passes it back to Mutch who's in better space, and a long ball into the box to Burke connects, he fires a shot but Henderson can block it, the ball is parried back into the box though, with an empty goal, but Pearce dives in and clears to avoid any more trouble for Pompey. Norris has possession in the middle of the field but options are limited for him as Birmingham have closed down the defence. He struggles to make a pass but it's too late, the first half whistle blows, and Portsmouth go into the second half a goal down.

Half Time= Birmingham City 1-0 Portsmouth FC

The second half begins with Birmingham started, looking to hold onto their tight lead. Redmond uses his pace to get through the middle of the park, but Rocha and Pearce and holding the back line well. Redmond lays off a pass to Fahey who fires a rocket it, which is just inches over the bar. Pompey on the attack now as Norris works with Varney to break Birminghams defence. Varney makes a great run through and into the box, he is shut down though and plays it back to Norris, who twists around Caldwell, and squeezes a shot in a tight angle, but Myhill gets down low to collect. Birmingham make a substitution now as Keith Fahey comes off, and is replaced with Wade Elliot. Burke is on the wing trying to out pace Mattock, he takes a cross but it's deflected off of Mattock. The ball falls to the feet of Mutch outside of the box who plays a through ball to King who makes a long run, the calls for offside are ignored and he fires a shot at goal. Henderson manages to parry it though, and Ben-Haim clears for a corner. Birmingham corner now and it's crossed in. Rocha heads it away, but Elliot on the edge of the box headers it long towards the goal, the ball glides over Henderson, and Caldwell leaps in to poke it over the line and into the net, it's a GOAL!!! Pompey are facing mission impossible now.

GOAL - 67th Minute - Gary Caldwell - Birmingham City - Birmingham 2-0 Portsmouth

Portsmouth restart now looking more and more despaired. Long balls from Ward into the box can't find a good connection with Kitson, and it's no trouble for the defence of Birmingham. Portsmouth to make their first change of the match now, as Futacs replaces Kitson. Elliot connects with a Redmond pass, and tries a long run down the left wing. Ben-Haim makes sure he's equal to it however, and plays a long ball down the wing to Lawrence to clear. Lawrence with one touch plays it around Carr and leaves him in a spin. Varney makes a run into the box, but as soon as he picks up the pass from Lawrence he is tackled. A yellow card is shown to Davies, as Pompey get a free kick right on the edge of the box. Another substitution for Pompey now as Ward is off for Erik Huseklepp. Futacs wants to take the free kick this time, and he does, making a powerful shot straight towards goal, which Myhill deflects it over the bar. Lawrence crosses the corner in, and Futacs gets a head to it, but Murphy clears off the line. The ball gets to Redmond again, who wants to make another quick counter attack. He's going alone this time and has Rocha and Mattock to contend with. He doesn't get far as the Pompey defence close in, and reclaim possession. Not long left now, and it looks like the 3 points are all but settled. Thorne and Norris string a few passes together, looking for a forward to pick the ball up. Norris puts a ball through the legs of Caldwell and Varney picks it up, he runs a bit to far and has to take a shot at an almost impossible angle. 2 minutes of added time is announced by the fourth official. Huseklepp tries taking a ball down the wing, and moves around a tired Spector with ease, he strides into the box, but is shut off, he lays it off to Norris who takes a powerful shot, but it's just wide. That's the final action of the game as it's full time here, Birmingham will be pleased with that, a 2-0 win.

Full Time= Birmingham City 2-0 Portsmouth FC

Team:

S.Henderson 6

T.Ben-Haim 7

R.Rocha 6

J.Pearce 8

J.Mattock 7

L.Lawrence 7

G.Thorne 7

D.Norris 8

J.Ward 7 (E.Huseklepp 76')

D.Kitson 6 (M.Futacs 71' 7)

L.Varney 7

Subs not used:

J.Ashdown

A.Mokoena

Benjani

Man of the Match: J.Pearce 8

Had a lot to deal with for the whole 90 minutes, and stayed strong throughout, made Birmingham really work for their 3 points.

14. Leeds 19 8 2 9 23

15. Portsmouth 19 5 7 7 21

16. Millwall 19 5 6 8 21

Other results:

Leicester 2-2 Blackpool

Middlesbrough 2-1 West Ham

Southampton 1-0 Hull

Watford 0-2 Bristol City

Burnley 3-0 Ipswich

Nottingham Forest 0-1 Leeds

Millwall 2-0 Doncaster

Reading 0-0 Peterborough

Derby 1-0 Brighton

Coventry 0-2 Crystal Palace

Cardiff 1-1 Barnsley

[portsmouthfc]

Joe Mattock and George Thorne join Pompey

Michael Appleton has had his wish fulfilled, as he announced today two new loan players have joined the club from his former club West Brom. Joe Mattock and George Thorne are two familiar faces to the gaffer, who worked with the duo at West Brom at youth, reserve and full team level. Both players will be with Portsmouth until the end of the current season. Michael Appleton said he was pleased to bring the duo in, and said "they're eager, they'll want to get playing straight away". Joe Mattock will be given the number 21 shirt, whilst George Thorne will be given number 20.

[portsmouthfc]

26/11/11 - Portsmouth FC Vs Leicester City

It's the first home game for new boss Michael Appleton, who would love to get 3 points at the Park. He sticks with the 4-4-2, and makes one change from the team that held Watford to a draw last week. Joel Ward replaces Aaron Mokoena at right back, as Halford is still absent through injury. Herman Hreidarsson makes a rare promotion to the bench, to replace Bjorn Helge Riise, who returned to his parent club Fulham in the week. 

First Half:-

Leicester get the game underway, but Portsmouth go at them right from the beginning showing a lot of enthusiasm. King and Fernandes keep the possession between them in the middle of the field, and look for Nugent to connect a pass. Mullins reclaims possession strongly, but a long ball attempt to Lawrence goes too far. Pompey get a free kick near the corner flag, which Lawrence will curl in, Peltier heads it clear, but Ward picks up the loose ball, he passes to Kitson who holds the ball, and allows Ward to find a free space towards the post, Ward recollects and fires a shot, it deflects off of Mills and Schmeichel can only watch as the ball hits the back of the net, it's a GOAL!!! Ward gets his first goal of the season, even if it was a deflection.

GOAL - 12th Minute - Joel Ward - Portsmouth FC - Portsmouth 1-0 Leicester

A rarity at Fratton Park as Portsmouth net a goal early on. Leicester restart and try to get back at Pompey. King and Dyer connect well, but Ben-Haim gets a hard tackle in and can clear the ball. Wellens has a chance on the box, trying to find space but the Pompey defence has closed right up, he fires a shot but it bounces off of Pearce, the ball goes right back to Wellens and he tries another shot, this time just past the post. Ward and Lawrence link passes together, and finds Norris in the middle. Norris tries a ball towards Huseklepp on the left, but St.Ledger can head clear. Dyer makes a long run along the right wing, and out paces Ben-Haim, Pearce closes in, and Dyer passes it back to King. King goes for a swooping pass into the box, and Nugent is just a whisker away of making contact, as the ball goes out for a goal kick. Norris has the ball again and strides up the pitch looking for a pass. He finds Kitson, but Kitson crumbles under the pressure of Mills. A long ball from Peltier finds Wellens who heads it over Rocha, and Beckford runs in to meet the ball, he strikes with his left foot, and Henderson gets down low to put the ball wide. A Leicester corner right before the first half comes to an end. The ball is crossed in and Nugent gets a clean head, but Rocha somehow knee's the ball off the line, and Mullins now goes for a counter attack with a long pass to Huseklepp. It's two on two now, with Huseklepp and Varney with support. Huseklepp puts a ball down one side of St.Ledger, and runs around the other side to meet the ball, putting the Leicester defender in a spin. Huseklepp takes strides towards the box, and hits a shot, Schmeichels parry puts the ball up to the air, Varney attempts the header but he can't keep it down, and it goes over the bar, as the first half whistle blows, Portsmouth go into half time in the lead.

Half Time = Portsmouth FC 1-0 Leicester City

No changes at half time as Leicester look to salvage something this afternoon. Portsmouth start, and straight away go to attack with Lawrence and Norris working up the field. Konchesky tackles Lawrence hard, and it's a free kick, as Konchesky is shown the yellow card. Lawrence plays the ball short to Norris, who fires a shot just over the bar. Leicester try getting some momentum now as Fernandes plays a long ball to Dyer, who with one touch sends Ben-Haim the wrong way, and Nugent can get to it, Pearce stops Nugent in his tracks, but it's a free kick for Leicester. King hits the free kick, and Henderson has to tap it over the bar. A Leicester corner now, and Rocha heads it clear, Gallagher collects but Ward puts him under pressure, and he plays a poor pass to Dyer which Rocha collects and clears up field. Huseklepp tries to work around Peltier but he struggles for space, he finds Varney who plays the ball back to Mullins and makes a run, Mullins chips it over the Leicester defence and Varney runs through. He chests the ball down, and fires a shot at a tight angle, but Schmeichel collects. Leicester to make a change now as Fernandes comes off for Danns. Portsmouth get another chance as Kitson picks up a long ball from Ward. He turns the ball around Konchesky, and passes to Lawrence who takes a long run up and a cross, Mills heads it behind him, and Huseklepp runs on to it, he hits a shot but it smashes against the side netting. Portsmouth to make two substitutions now as Futacs comes on for Kitson, and Williams replaces a tired Huseklepp. Leicester try to come at Pompey again, as Beckford is full of pace and storms past Ward and Rocha, he fires a powerful shot, but Pearce dives in front of it to block, Henderson quickly fires it away from the box. Danns sets up Nugent for a shot outside the box this time, and the shot beats an outstretched Henderson, but brushes past the post. Pompey try to counter a heavy offence, but a long ball from Ward finds Futacs, who tries to head it down for Lawrence to collect, but Konchesky meets it first. Dyer makes run along the right wing, but Ben-Haim puts him under pressure. A long throw in from Peltier bounces into the box, and Beckford taps the ball, only for Henderson to block it with his body, and Rocha can clear. Leicester trying desperately for a last minute goal now, as King strides past Norris and heads towards the box, Mullins recklessly dives in and it's a clear foul. The ref heads over to him now for a chat, and pulls out the red! Red card for Mullins, and Portsmouth are now down to 10 men. Peltier goes up to take a swooping free kick, Nugent rises above Ward in the box and gets a strong header to the ball, Henderson can't get to it, and it's into the back of the net, it's a GOAL!!! Just what Leicester needed with only minutes to go.

GOAL - 87th Minute - David Nugent - Leicester City - Portsmouth 1-1 Leicester

Not long left as Leicester crawl back to level. Portsmouth restart now, and Williams picks up the loose ball, and tries with his pace, to move up the field. He's past Wellens but Peltier stops him. Portsmouth with a free kick from it though, and Henderson takes it with not long left. A long ball right into the box but Schmeichel can collect. 3 minutes of added time is announced by the fourth official. Danns tries to find Beckford with a long ball, but Pearce intercepts, and quickly passes away to Lawrence who rallies his players to head upfield. He plays a ball across the field to Norris who finds Varney. Varney makes a run through St.Ledger and chips it around Konchesky. He recollects and looks for support. He finds Futacs who controls the ball and looks for a pass. He passes it to the side for Lawrence to cross in. Varney just can't reach the high cross though, and Peltier collects and plays the ball up the field. Before any body can collect the ball, the full time whistle blows, and it's game over here, it ends a goal a piece as Portsmouth goes another game without a win.

Full Time = Portsmouth FC 1-1 Leicester City

Team:

S.Henderson 7

J.Ward 7

R.Rocha 8

J.Pearce 7

Ben-Haim 6

L.Lawrence 6

D.Norris 7

H.Mullins 5

E.Huseklepp 7 (R.Williams 66' 6)

D.Kitson 6 (M.Futacs 66' 6)

L.Varney 7

Subs not used:

J.Ashdown

H.Hreidarsson

A.Mokoena

Man of the Match: R.Rocha 8

Rocha put in a strong performance as he usually does, keeps the back four solid, and makes life a lot easier for Henderson in goal.

13. Leicester 18 6 7 5 24

14. Portsmouth 18 5 7 6 21

15. Leeds 18 7 2 9 20

Other results:

Doncaster 1-0 Watford

Bristol City 0-1 Southampton

Cardiff 3-0 Nottingham Forest

West Ham 2-1 Derby

Ipswich 0-2 Reading

Brighton 2-1 Coventry

Crystal Palace 3-1 Millwall

Hull 0-2 Burnley

Leeds 0-1 Barnsley

Peterborough 1-2 Middlesbrough

Blackpool 2-3 Birmingham

[portsmouthfc]

Post-Watford and Pre-Leicester Press Conference

Michael Appleton spoke about his teams goalless draw against Watford, in his first game in charge. "I think we have to be pleased with the point, i'm still learning everyday, and our composure was very good." He was also asked about loanee Bjorn Helge Riise leaving, and new possible loan players coming in. "I was disappointed not to have more time with Bjorn, but i've got a couple of players in mind i'd like to bring in, if I get the permission from the owners, I would love to see some young players get into the mix here".

Speaking ahead of the weekend clash against Leicester at Fratton Park, he said, "I'm excited, first home game, and I get to see the fans at home, I can't wait". "I think after Watford's result we need to push on now, and I want to be more attacking, more aggressive, you don't win any prizes for draws, we need to capture the wins."

[portsmouthfc]

Riise finishes loan stay

Bjorn Helge Riise has today left Portsmouth after his one month loan deal expired. New boss Michael Appleton decided not to extend the deal, as he wanted to bring other players to the club. The club thanks Bjorn for his hard work and commitment to Portsmouth Football Club.

[portsmouthfc]

David Norris wins Player of the Month for October

David Norris has received the clubs Player of the Month award for October. Norris started all 5 games in the month, scoring once in the 4-0 thrashing of Barnsley, and was also named as man of the match for that fixture. David was also awarded the man of the match when Portsmouth travelled to Elland Road at the beginning of October.

[portsmouthfc]

19/11/11 - Watford Vs Portsmouth FC

Michael Appleton takes his first game in charge after being named the new first-team manager in the week. Pompey stick with a 4-4-2 line up, with Mokoena replacing Halford at right back, who was injured during the game against Nottingham Forest. Joel Ward is back from injury, but is on the bench for today. Huseklepp moves to the left as youngster Ryan Williams is dropped, and Kitson starts, accompanying Luke Varney up front. 

First Half:-

Portsmouth start off lively, with Ben-Haim and Mullins sending balls up towards the opposition, but no one can pick anything up. There is a freak moment of panic when Norris makes a pass back to Mokoena, only for Mokoena to slip and miss. Marvin Sordell quick as a flash picks up the ball, and makes a long run up the field whilst Pompey scramble players back. Rocha makes a brave dive in, and cleanly recollects the ball. Norris gets a free kick given outside the box, which Lawrence takes. A deflection off the wall gives Portsmouth their first corner. Lawrence swings the ball in and Mariappa heads away. Huseklepp can pick it up but isn't well positions, and his shot goes wide. Kightly is on the right wing, giving Ben-Haim lots to deal with. A ball from Hogg goes above the head of Ben-Haim and Kightly chases it on, he goes for the cross but Henderson knocks it over the bar. Watford corner, but Pearce gets to it first and clears it away. Mullins and Huseklepp well and Erik sends a long ball to Kitson, who heads it across the field where Varney quickly collects, he gets around Dickinson with ease, and pulls the ball in for a shot, but Loach makes a heroic save. Another Portsmouth corner which Norris heads out to the edge of the box, Mokoena collects and attempts the shot, but it's over the bar. Watford make another attempt with the first half coming to a close. Hogg slides a ball through Mullins and Pearce and Sordell controls, he hits it with his weaker foot, and Henderson scrambles to make the save. He kicks the ball up the field after his goal kick as the first half whistle blows, it's all level at Vicarage Road.

Half Time= Watford 0-0 Portsmouth FC

Second Half:-

Watford start the second half, with both teams unchanged. Yeates and Hogg pass the ball around trying to set the tempo, and try to find Kightly on the wing, but Ben-Haim keeps him at bay. Huseklepp makes a long run up the wing, getting around Yeates and Nosworthy and plays the ball along the field. Kitson controls and holds the ball, and then lays it off for an incoming Norris, who fires a shoot with strikes the crossbar with power. The ball falls to Mariappa who quickly clears. Watford make a substitution as Deeney comes on for Hodson, asserting Watfords desire for the 3 points today. Hogg and Yeates manage to play the ball around Mullins, and attempt to find Iwelumo, but Rocha stops him in his tracks. Watford get a free kick, which is crossed towards the box, Sordell runs clear of the wall and connects to the cross, past the keeper and it's in the back of the net, it's a goal! But the whistle blows, before he can celebrate. The linesmans flag is up, and he was deemed to be offside. Portsmouth make a substitution now as Mokoena comes off for a returning Ward. Not long left now, and Portsmouth would love to steal it late on. Mullins and Varney manage the ball well, and Kitson comes to support. A long ball goes to Lawrence who controls, and chips it into the box. Kitson doesn't make contact with it, but Huseklepp collects out wide, he rolls the ball back in and fires with his left foot. Loach gets his body in the way and it's a Pompey corner. Lawrence with a ball incoming, Kitson gets a rough head to it, but Nosworthy clears off the Watford line. Kightly trying one last effort to put Watford ahead, a long shot from outside the box gives Henderson something to tackle, but a huge dive across goal stops the shot, and Ward can clear. A heavy tackle on Lawrence gives the ref to think about, and he gives Dickinson the red, after a heavy two footed tackle. Another substitution for Portsmouth now, as Riise replaces Mullins. Lawrence plays a short free kick to Norris, who plays a swift ball through the defence, and Huseklepp is there to connect, he makes a skillful turn around Hogg, and hits a shot, Loach parries it away, and Kitson tries to poke it into the goal, but Mariappa clears it. 2 minutes of added time left indicated by the fourth official. Yeates plays a long ball towards Iwelumo, Pearce heads it, but only to the feet of Sordell, who uses his pace to get space past the defence, and hit a powerful shot. Another great save by Henderson keeps Pompey out of trouble. Henderson fires the ball upfield as the final whistle blows, a stalemate at Vicarage Road, it ends 0-0.

Full Time= Watford 0-0 Portsmouth FC

Team:

S.Henderson 8

A.Mokoena 6 (J.Ward 71' 6)

R.Rocha 7

J.Pearce 7

T.Ben-Haim 7

L.Lawrence 7

H.Mullins 6 (B.H.Riise 84')

D.Norris 7

E.Huseklepp 8

D.Kitson 7

L.Varney 6

Subs not used:

J.Ashdown

R.Williams

Benjani

Man of the Match: E.Huseklepp 8

Always on hand to give Pompey a bit of added flair, it seemed if Pompey where ever going to find a goal, it would come from him.

14. Leeds 16 7 2 8 20

15. Portsmouth 16 5 6 6 20

16. Coventry 16 6 3 8 20

Other Results:

Coventry 1-0 West Ham

Southampton 2-2 Brighton

Reading 0-2 Cardiff

Nottingham Forest 2-0 Ipswich

Burnley 0-0 Leeds

Barnsley 1-2 Doncaster

Birmingham 1-1 Peterborough

Middlesbrough 0-1 Blackpool

Derby 1-3 Hull

Millwall 1-0 Bristol City

Leicester 4-1 Crystal Palace

[portsmouthfc]

Michael Appleton becomes new first-team manager

Michael Appleton has agreed a three-and-a-half year deal to become Pompey’s new first-team manager. The 35-year-old arrives from Premier League West Bromwich Albion, where he has been assistant head coach to manager Roy Hodgson. Appleton has worked his way through the coaching ranks at The Hawthorns, helping them secure promotion from the Championship to the top flight in 2010.

[portsmouthfc]

5/11/11 - Portsmouth FC Vs Nottingham Forest

Former Pompey boss Steve Cotterill comes up against his old club, in his new position as Nottingham Forest manager. Guy Whittingham and Stuart Gray decide to go with a 4-4-2 formation, something Cotterill wasn't keen on doing with Pompey. Joel Ward is still not fully fit, but does get onto the bench. Benjani is out after getting a hernia in training just a few days ago. Henderson keeps his spot in goal, and the back 4 is unchanged. Youngster Ryan Williams makes a surprise start after impressing during training.

First Half:-

Portsmouth start the first half firing towards the Milton End. Ryan Williams is all over the place on the left wing, and tries to get the ball towards his side of the pitch. Unfortunately for him, Pompey were more occupied at the other end of the pitch, defending against Forest's advances. Ishmael Miller takes a bold shot from out side of the box, but Henderson watches as it flies past the post. Forest have a free kick out wide, which is put into the box by Greening, McGugan gets his head to it, but Pearce heads it away, where Ben-Haim can clear with ease. Portsmouth have a chance to attack now as Norris brushed through Forest's midfield, and looks for Huseklepp. He chips the ball over the defenders for Erik to chase, but Lee Camp bravely dives for it and collects. Forest get a corner, which Henderson punches away, it only goes to Derbyshire however, how rolls it around Mullins and into the box, he tries to fire at goal but he doesn't get a clean hit on the ball, and Henderson knocks it wide. Another corner for Forest but this time Henderson collects. Portsmouth tries to attack once more as the first half comes to a close. Lawrence links well with Norris, who finds Varney out wide, he pulls the ball back towards the box, plays it around Chambers and gets clips it into the box, it goes over everyone's heads, but Williams can collect outwide. He takes a few steps towards the goal, and finds space to fire a shot, but it's just wide, and smashes the side netting, as the half time whistle blows.

Half Time = Portsmouth FC 0-0 Nottingham Forest

Second Half:-

Portsmouth make a rare half time substitution, with Greg Halford coming off for Aaron Mokoena, it could be due to an injury from a tackle in the first half. Forest get the half underway, but quickly lose possession to an enthusiastic Pompey. Ben-Haim moves up the field with support from Mullins, and then passes to Williams. Williams makes a speedy run up the wing, but is too confident, and Wes Morgan easily regains the ball. Portsmouth try again though, with Lawrence on the wing, pulling across into the box, and crossing the ball in, Varney heads and Camp punches the ball into the air. As the ball falls, so does Camp as Varney hits the ball into the net, the referee is quick to blow his whistle though, as Varney is penalised for pushing Camp. Forest make a change, with Miller coming off for Blackstock. Forest get a free kick from outside the box, Greening curls it in over the wall, and it bounces off the post, and out for a goal kick, Portsmouth are under pressure now. Forest are still on the attack, as Derbyshire finds Greening out wide, he moves around Williams and Ben-Haim with ease and crosses the ball in. Pearce headers the ball away, but only into the feet of Derbyshire, who quickly reacts and hits it low and hard into the corner, past Henderson, and it's a GOAL!!! Portsmouth need to reassemble now. 

GOAL - 68th Minute - Matt Derbyshire - Nottingham Forest - Portsmouth 0-1 Forest

Portsmouth make a substitution now as Huseklepp comes off for Marko Futacs. Pompey restart, and Williams quickly collects the ball on the wing, only to lose out to Chambers. Forest gets a ball long towards the left wing of McGugan, but Mokoena reacts, and clears. Norris now dribbling the ball from their half into Forest's half, and finds Lawrence out wide, he sends the ball up to Varney who gets around Gunter and lays it back to Lawrence, who plays a low cross to Futacs who connects, but Camp somehow reaches it, and knocks it wide. A corner from Lawrence comes in, Pearce fires a header, but Camp tips it over the bar, for another corner. Another corner which this time is short. Mokoena plays it back to Lawrence who crosses it far for Williams, who heads it outside the box to Norris, who chest the ball down to control, and fire a shot, but it's just past the post. Another substitution for Forest this time, with Marcus Tudgay replacing an exhausted Derbyshire. Portsmouth trying as hard as they can to equalise before full time. Varney collects from Mullins and chips it over the defence for Futacs to run onto, he fires at the goalkeeper, and it hits Camps body, and the ball flies up, and hits the crossbar. As the ball drops again, Varney chases with all his speed to knock the ball into the empty net for the leveller, it's a GOAL!!! Not long left now, and Varney gets the whole crowd going wild.

GOAL - 83rd Minute - Luke Varney - Portsmouth FC - Portsmouth 1-1 Forest

Forest restart the match, after failing to hold onto their lead. Gunter and Greening work the ball past Mullins, and slides the ball towards the box for Blackstock to run onto, his first touch is too heavy though, and Henderson collects. Lawrence tries to make another run along the wing, but is struggling with Cunningham. The fourth official announces 3 minutes of added time. Morgan tries to push Forest up the field, but is stopped by a heavy tackle from Mullins. The ref goes over, and has a word with Mullins, before pulling out a yellow card. The last chance of the game fell to Portsmouth after a long ball from Rocha, which Futacs heads wide to Williams, he runs around Morgan, but slips up, and Chambers clears up field, as the final whistle goes. It's one point a piece at Fratton Park, as Portsmouth fail to capitalise on their away win against Crystal Palace from Tuesday.

Full Time = Portsmouth FC 1-1 Nottingham Forest

Team:

S.Henderson 8

G.Halford 6 (Mokoena 45' 6)

R.Rocha 7

J.Pearce 7

T.Ben-Haim 6

L.Lawrence 8

D.Norris 8

H.Mullins 6

R.Williams 6

L.Varney 9

E.Huseklepp 6 (Futacs 69' 7)

Subs not used:

J.Ashdown

J.Ward

D.Kitson

Man of the Match: L.Varney 9

Another classy performance from Luke highlights him as a key player to the Portsmouth squad. 3 goals in 2 games sets him up as a big Championship figure.

14. Leeds 16 7 1 8 19

15. Portsmouth 16 5 5 6 19

16. Watford 16 5 4 7 19

Other Results:

Middlesbrough 4-1 Watford

Hull 0-0 West Ham

Peterborough 1-0 Derby

Coventry 0-2 Southampton

Bristol City 1-1 Burnley

Blackpool 3-0 Millwall

Cardiff 2-2 Crystal Palace

Ipswich 0-1 Doncaster

Leicester 1-0 Leeds

Reading 1-2 Birmingham

Brighton 2-3 Barnsley

[portsmouthfc]

Abouna's contract ends

Jean-Patrick Abouna's 1 month contract will not be extended, it emerged today. The Cameroon international joined Portsmouth on a short term contract after a trial period, where he played in the Yaroslavl charity match against FC Rostov. Jean-Patrick made two appearances from the bench, but failed to break into the starting 11. 

[portsmouthfc]

1/11/11 - Crystal Palace Vs Portsmouth FC

Guy Whittingham & Stuart Gray were in charge once again as Portsmouth travelled to Crystal Palace for the mid week game under the lights. A new formation was used to replace the 4-4-2 used in previous games, instead a 4-1-2-3 was used in a bid to play more attacking football. Joel Ward is out injured due to a hamstring tear in injury a couple of days ago, Pearce comes back into the squad & Henderson replaces Ashdown in goal.

First Half:-

Portsmouth start the game more defensive than Crystal Palace, trying not to concede early on. Wilfried Zaha took a brave shot outside the box but it flew over. Mullins working as the holding midfield trying to give the defence some ease but a ball from Ambrose slips through, Rocha was on alert to pick up the ball though. Portsmouth tried to move forward with Lawrence on the wing trying to find space but was pushed off for a throw. The throw goes to Halford who finds Norris, he looks to the left as Varney is in space, Varney moves around into the box and shoots but it smashes against the side netting, the angle was way too tight for Varney. First real chance of the game comes for Pompey then. Clyne took an adventurous run for Palace getting past Norris and Mullins, he finds Scannell who chips the ball over Rocha it goes to Zaha put Pearce puts a heavy tackle in to clear the danger. A corner for Palace as Ambrose whips the ball in, Ramage in space and finds the header, Henderson makes a great save, but the defence were too open there. Huseklepp and Lawrence link up well to get around Moxey and Huseklepps in space now, he cuts back in and takes the shot but it's just wide. Even game so far at Selhurst Park. Pompey have a free kick outside the box, Halford to take, he hits it hard and it bounces off the wall back to Lawrence, he crosses it long, Kitson heads it but it's just over. Portsmouth all attack now as the first half draws to an end. Garvan now in the middle, Mullins fails to get the ball and a long ball to Ambrose on the wing, he crosses long, Zaha just misses to finish it, and Ben-Haim has to clear. Last chance for Palace now before the break, Zaha finds Scannell in the box, he heads back towards Williams, it's a long shot and Henderson knocks it over, great save. 1 minute of added time announced with the Palace corner coming up. Ambrose plays it short to Moxey, he plays it to Garvan who set's up for the shot but Pearce is in there strong with the tackle, clears it upfield as the first half whistle blows, it's still 0-0 here.

Half Time = Crystal Palace 0-0 Portsmouth

Second Half:-

No changes for either side as the second half starts. Palace start off quick with Garvan moving around Lawrence and Mullins, he finds Scannell outside the box, but he's under too much pressure from Rocha, he chips it into the box, there's so much room for Zaha, he runs it and strikes it, and it's a GOAL!!! A powerful shot straight after the break, Portsmouth are trailling now.

GOAL - 48th Minute - Wilfried Zaha - Crystal Palace - Crystal Palace 1-0 Portsmouth

Portsmouth need to regroup now as they push to equalise. Varney with lots of pace on the wing flies around Moxey, back to Norris who's under pressure, he see's Huseklepp out wide who controls the ball, cuts back in and shoots, oh but great save by Speroni. Portsmouth have a corner but Lawrence plays it far too long for anyone. Palace keep going for attacking moves but Pearce and Rocha not letting anything through. Halford finds Lawrence who spins around Williams, Gardner tackles heavily, and it's a free kick. Lawrence isn't getting up as the physio's come on, this doesn't look good. Portsmouth forced to make a change now as Lawrence comes off, Bjorn Helge Riise comes on. Portsmouth free kick as Halford launches it long, Speroni collects, but fumbles, the ball is in front of an empty goal mouth now, but McCarthy clears it, close call for Palace then. Norris with the free kick, it's cleared by Palace, but only to Varney on the edge of the box, he touches for control, and fires a shot low and wide, and it's in, it's a GOAL!!! Speroni couldn't see anything with the Palace players in his way, and the ball somehow finds the bottom of the net.

GOAL - 62nd Minute - Luke Varney - Portsmouth FC - Crystal Palace 1-1 Portsmouth

It's all level now, with Ambrose attempting a run on the wing, he gets around Halford, but Rocha comes in heavily and clears it wide. Both teams to make changes now, with Iversen replacing Williams for Palace, and Benjani comes on for Kitson who hasn't really found his rhythm tonight. Norris and Huseklepp cut right through Palace into the box, a shot is fired but Speroni knocks wide, the Palace defence were really asleep then. A Norris corner is collected by Speroni. Zaha tries an attack on the wing but Ben-Haim is defending well, he cuts inside and finds Scannell who tries a shot but scuffs it and Henderson collects. Portsmouth attacking once more with Varney working in the middle, finds Riise who plays to Benjani just outside the box, finds room and shoots, but Speroni blocks, the ball parries out though in perfect line for Varney who fires it in for another, it's a GOAL!!! Portsmouth haven't stopped trying, and it was the right place at the right time for Varney's second.

GOAL - 76th Minute - Luke Varney - Portsmouth FC - Crystal Palace 1-2 Portsmouth

Final change for Portsmouth now with Huseklepp coming off for Kanu, great game for Erik tonight. Palace restart, desperate to level it. Long balls to Zaha and Ambrose don't really work and Palace might need to try another method. Riise connects with Halford well and tries a cross, Benjani tries to head but Speroni collects. Clyne and Zaha work well together and try to push past Ben-Haim, a pass to Iversen creates room and he has a great shot on target, but Henderson saves it well, and it's a corner. Maybe the last chance for Palace with this corner with not long to go, it goes in and Garvan volleys it towards goal, it's past Henderson and Pearce's diving header clears it off the line, great commitment from the lad there. 2 minutes of stoppage time to play as Portsmouth try one last time, long ball by Riise to Kanu, he get's around Moxey back to Norris, a shot outside the box and it's just over. Speroni with a goal kick up field but it's too late, the final whistle goes as Portsmouth are declared the winners at Selhurst Park.

Full Time = Crystal Palace 1-2 Portsmouth

Team:

S.Henderson 8

G.Halford 7

R.Rocha 7

J.Pearce 9

T.Ben-Haim 7

H.Mullins 7

L.Lawrence 6 (B.H.Riise 56' 7)

D.Norris 8

E.Huseklepp 8 (Kanu 78' 6)

D.Kitson 6 (Benjani 64' 7)

L.Varney 9

Subs not used:

J.Ashdown

A.Mokoena

Man of the Match: L.Varney 9

A great performance by Varney, always trouble on the wings cutting in, and two goals on the score sheet will make him very happy.

14. Watford 15 5 4 6 19

15. Portsmouth 15 5 4 6 18

16. Leicester 15 4 5 6 17

Other results:

Millwall 0-2 Coventry

Burnley 1-1 Leicester

Doncaster 1-0 Middlesbrough

West Ham 3-1 Bristol City

Watford 0-0 Brighton

Nottingham Forest 2-3 Reading

Southampton 4-2 Peterborough

Barnsley 0-1 Hull

Leeds 0-2 Blackpool

Derby 1-1 Cardiff

Birmingham 2-1 Ipswich

[portsmouthfc]

29/10/11 - Derby County Vs Portsmouth FC

Guy Whittingham and Stuart Gray make a few changes ahead of the away clash at Derby. Jamie Ashdown returns in goal, with Greg Halford replacing Jason Pearce, and Dave Kitson starting ahead of Benjani. Luke Varney also gets a chance up front in the 4-4-2 with Erik Huseklepp on the left.

First Half:-

Derby start the game looking strong, making numerous attempts at long passes to their strikers in and around the box, the Portsmouth defence seems to be on tune though today and aren't giving them anything. Mullins and Huseklepp advance up the pitch together and Mullins lays a ball off for Norris to fire a shot, and it flies over the bar, first shot of the match coming from Pompey. Lawrence tries a cross on the right side but there are too many Derby in the box for anything to come of it. Tyson and Jamie Ward connect well to get around Norris and then Joel Ward, a cross from Bailey has Ashdown punching the ball away, only to go to Tyson, he takes a shot but it goes wide, he rushed himself there. A heavy tackle by Rocha gives Derby a free kick outside the box, and Rocha goes into the book with a yellow card. Davies with the kick, it's around the wall and Ashdown fully extended knocks in wide, great shot, great save. Derby corner now and it's cleared by Ben-Haim. Huseklepp has the ball on the left with plenty of room to run, he cuts back in on Shackell and shoots, Fielding blocks it, it bounces out and Kitson running to get on the end of it, but Brayford's there. Not much left of the first half now with both teams creating chances. Huseklepp plays a ball to Varney who turns with the ball around Barker with lovely skill, he fires a shot, it hits the post and goes wide, best chance for Pompey so far. Derby attacking now with Cykwa and Davies working well together stringing passes, Tyson makes a run through the defence and picks up the ball, shoots on the turn and Ashdown makes a great save, Ben-Haim clears the rebound and the first half whistle goes, it's goalless here at Pride Park.

Half Time = Derby 0-0 Portsmouth

Second Half:-

No changes at half time for either side as the second half gets under way. Ward hits a long pass to Kitson who heads it back towards Norris, two touches of control and a powerful shot just shaves the post and goes wide, fans are really behind Pompey now. A free kick from Halford is punched over by Fielding, but a Lawrence corner is cleared easily. Jamie Ward chips a ball to Tyson who is covered in Portsmouth players he back heels it to Davies who finds Pearson coming round on the right, the ball goes to him and the defence are occupied, a cool shot over Ashdown and it's in, what a GOAL!!! Great build up by Derby there, Portsmouth are now trailling.

GOAL - 54th Minute - Stephen Pearson - Derby County - Derby 1-0 Portsmouth

Portsmouth to make a change now with Abouna replacing Huseklepp. Portsmouth need to find a goal now and Norris has a shot on goal blocked by a defender, Mullins picks the ball back up, finds Varney in space, makes the pass but it's been called offside. Derby on the attack again with Cykwa's long shot going wide, and a cross from Jamie Ward comes close but Rocha clears comfortably. Both Portsmouth and Derby to make changes now, with Mason Bennett coming on for Nathan Tyson, and for Portsmouth, Kanu replaces Kitson. Lawrence is tackled on the wing by Brayford. Lawrence curls in the free kick, Shackell head the ball clear but it goes to Kanu, turns and finds Abouna on the left, he runs around Brayford and gets some space, he takes a shot but Fielding saves. Bennett on the attack now for Derby, great pace to get around Mullins and Ben-Haim, plays the ball back to Pearson who crosses it in Ashdown goes out to punch but misses and there's an open goal now for Derby, and Jamie Ward dives in for a header but it's just wide, how did he miss that. Final change for Pompey with just over 10 minutes left, Marko Futacs is coming on for Liam Lawrence. Portsmouth don't have much time left and will need to go all out attack. Abouna using his pace on the left wing to get around Brayford passes to Mullins, he chips the ball into Kanu who heads it back to Varney who goes for the shot but Shackell dives in front of the shot and it goes for a corner. Portsmouth corner goes over everyone in the box, and too wide for Joel Ward to collect. Davies and Jamie Ward link up well and cross the ball in to Cywka, looks for space in the box but Rocha tackles hard, and regains possession. Only 1 minute of extra time now, last chance for Pompey. Joel Ward finds Kanu who passes to Futacs on the edge of the box, he plays it back to Mullins who finds Abouna on the left, a long cross misses Varney and Kanu but Futacs collects, turns with the ball and shots at the bottom corner, Fielding fumbles it, but Roberts clears it up field as the final whistle goes, Derby take 3 points today, and Portsmouth will be disappointed to come away with nothing.

Full Time = Derby 1-0 Portsmouth

Team:

J.Ashdown 6

J.Ward 7

G.Halford 6

R.Rocha 7

T.Ben-Haim 6

L.Lawrence 6 (M.Futacs 79')

D.Norris 7

H.Mullins 7

E.Huseklepp 6 (J.P.Abouna 55' 6)

D.Kitson 6 (Kanu 63' 6)

L.Varney 6

Unused subs:

S.Henderson

J.Pearce

Man of the match: H.Mullins 7

Always composed around the box, delegating balls and looking for opportunities, is the bit of class in midfield Portsmouth need every game.

16. Bristol City 14 5 1 7 16

17. Portsmouth 14 4 4 6 15

18. Peterborough 14 3 6 5 15

Other results:

Barnsley 0-1 Bristol City

Birmingham 2-1 Brighton

Crystal Palace 2-0 Reading

Doncaster 0-1 Coventry

Millwall 2-2 Ipswich

Nottingham Forest 0-1 Hull

Southampton 2-0 Middlesbrough

Watford 2-1 Peterborough

West Ham 1-1 Leicester

Burnley 2-0 Blackpool

Leeds 0-3 Cardiff

[portsmouthfc]

Lawrence: Results will come

Portsmouth skipper Liam Lawrence believes that they'll see good results soon, if they continue with their good performances of recent. "I know we didn't get a good result against Ipswich or Doncaster, but the performance was solid, and everyone knows we're improving everyday, we have to remain confident, and the results will come to help move us up the table. The Championship is tight, if we got a draw against Ipswich and got 3 points against Doncaster we'd be one win off of the play off zone, so we need to stay hungry, and optimistic, the season is still new and we can go on and do great things this season."