Boss happy with Bognor work-out
Pompey’s players were certainly given a good work-out against Bognor.
The entire 17-man first team squad and five development players were given 45 minutes at a scorching Nyewood Lane.
Goals from David Connolly, Romain Padovani, Ricky Holmes and Tom Craddock saw the Blues triumph 4-2.
And Guy Whittingham was happy to see his side continue to build their fitness ahead of the season opener against Oxford on August 3.
The Blues boss said: “It’s all about getting 45 minutes of fitness into your players – you don’t go into the technical and tactical side of things too much at this stage.
“It was a really hot day, but the referee was sensible and allowed a few breaks for drinks.
“There were a few little knocks, but I think everyone’s okay and overall it was a very useful exercise for us. I’m very pleased.
“There was a great turn-out of fans and I think there were probably a few red bodies going home after the game!”
Pompey’s squad will now head off to Colchester for a week-long training camp – a trip that Whittingham believes is key.
He said: “We’ve had such an influx of new players here and it’s vital that they’re able to get together and learn more about each other.
“They’ve all got on really well with each other so far – there’s a closeness and a bond really starting to take shape.
“That side can be difficult, but we made sure that as well as getting the right footballers, we also got the right characters.”
No player has featured for more than 45 minutes in pre-season so far, but Whittingham has hinted that will change in Tuesday’s match at Braintree.
He said: “Most of the players have now got two sets of 45 minutes into them and now we’re looking to push on in the next game.”