Winger delighted with Grimsby winner
A huge roar erupted behind the goal when the ball looped over the wall and hit the back of the net.
Kal Naismith had only been on the pitch for 10 minutes when his finely-executed free-kick handed Pompey a late winner.
Prior to that it looked like a dominant display against Grimsby at Blundell Park would only yield a solitary point.
But Naismith ensured that turned into all three with a moment of magic to lift the mood of everyone associated with the Blues.
The winger said: “It was pleasing just to see all of the lads happy and smiling again.
“We were all disappointed after the last result, but now everyone is in high spirits – not just because of the result, but also the performance.
“It’s a great feeling to see the ball hit the back of the net – probably the best you can get. It was even more special because it was the winning goal.
“I just tried to stay positive. I knew that if I hit it how I wanted – which doesn’t always happen – then I’d have a chance.
“I was at the bottom of a pile after it went in and it was great to see the reaction from everyone, including the manager and coaches.
“We knew that we still had a job to do in order to see the game out, but it’s also great to have those celebrations.”
Naismith will hope to add to his tally when Hartlepool visit Fratton Park next week, but knows there are plenty more players capable of finding the net.
He said: “I’ve obviously not scored enough goals for Pompey in the past, so hopefully they will now keep coming.
“Michael Smith is absolutely flying up top and the performances he’s putting in are outstanding.
“Next week it might be him that scores the winner, or Hunty, Conor or Robbo. We’ve got lots of great players.”