Pompey Academy 2 Southampton Academy 1
Pompey recorded their second league victory of the season by beating league leaders – and fierce rivals – Southampton at the Wellington Sports Ground.
It did not look good for the Blues when Sam Hoskins fired the visitors ahead after 26 minutes.
But Andy Awford’s side soon hit back, levelling 15 minutes later courtesy of Ashley Harris’ fine free-kick.
And they secured victory late in the game when Ryan Williams (pictured) netted his third goal of the season.
Awford said: “It was a battle – it always is in derbies. Both sides gave it a real go and we played our part in a good match.
“We showed plenty of commitment and I’m delighted with the attitude shown by the lads.
“We went 1-0 down after giving away possession but fought back well and Harris scored a wonderful free-kick. Then it was game on.
“They hit the post and we rode our luck but then we also struck the woodwork in the second half. Both sides created chances but it was a decent finish by Williams to win the game and we defended manfully to hold on in the final few minutes.
“The result is good for the lads’ self-belief and will raise everyone’s confidence. It’s the first step on the ladder and hopefully we can build on this.
“It’s not all about winning at this level but we’re pleased with the victory – especially as it’s against our big rivals.
“Now we need to replicate this performance when we host Charlton next week.”
Pompey: Gledhill; Tallack, Magri, Tsovolos, Grant; Seeley (Jennings 56), Stockford (c), Harris, Butler; Walshe (Antelmi 90), Williams
Subs not used: Fitzharris, Bennett, Vine
Southampton: Mowthorpe; Chambers, Foot, Turnbull, Shaw; Holder-Spooner (Young 58), Moore, Ward-Prowst, Iserove; Hoskins, Curtis (Robinson 58)
Subs not used: Martin, Nicholas, O’Sullivan