Boss pleased at reaction to falling behind against Wycombe
Pompey had fallen behind at Southend seven days earlier and accepted defeat with a whimper.
So Andy Awford was delighted with their reaction to conceding against Wycombe at Fratton Park.
Sam Wood had put the Chairboys ahead early in the second half, only for substitute Johnny Ertl to smash home an equaliser.
The hosts pushed forward in search of another goal to turn one point into all three.
And although they ultimately came up short, Awford was pleased with the overall display from his troops.
The Blues boss said: “It was the character of the side that pleased me the most.
“When we fell behind at Southend we didn’t look like creating anything, but our reaction was a lot better this time around.
“It was a frantic game and both sides tried to play at a very high-tempo with plenty of desire. It was an entertaining spectacle for the fans.
“We had a few chances that we couldn’t take and also hit the bar, so you’re wondering whether it’s going to be one of those days.
“But we got the goal and then might have gone on to score again with the opportunities that came our way.
“Unfortunately couldn’t find that second goal, although I thought that, overall, a draw was a fair result.”
Ertl’s goal – a fierce finish into the roof of the net – was his second for Pompey and his first at Fratton Park.
Awford said: “It was a great performance from Johnny. He performed well at centre-half and then again when we moved him further forward.
“He’s an unlikely scorer for us, but he popped up with a goal and I’m delighted for him because he’s such a top pro.”