It was the kind of all-action display he promised upon his arrival at Pompey from Millwall.
And Ben Thompson’s debut performance against Oxford saw him named man-of-the-match by the sponsors – a decision most inside Fratton Park agreed with.
The midfielder covered plenty of the pitch in the 4-1 victory, which continued the Blues’ 100 per cent start to the league campaign.
And the man himself was just happy to be in action again, having been on the fringes of the side for his parent club.
Thompson said: “I haven’t played much football in the past year or so, so to get back out there and play in a game that really matters was enjoyable.
“The crowd were right behind us and the important thing is that we came away with all three points. I loved every minute of it.
"The adrenaline might have got me through it at the end."
“I’ve been working hard in training and doing a lot of running because I knew I’d be needed at some point.
“We got this loan move sorted and I was ready for it – the adrenaline might have got me through it at the end.
“My legs were cramping up a bit, but I’m sure I’ll be fine and ready to go again following a bit of recovery.”
Pompey and Peterborough are the only third tier sides to have collected maximum points so far and Thompson believes his new club can have a successful season.
He said: “I’ve played two previous campaigns in League One and we got to the play-off final both times.
“With the talent we had out on the pitch then I see no reason why this team can’t get there or even automatic promotion.
“They’re a great bunch of lads and have ensured I’ve settled in quickly, so hopefully I can make a difference.”