Striker calls for more calm after Newport defeat
Craig Westcarr says Pompey have to do more to break sides down.
The Blues suffered their first league defeat of the season, as Andy Sandell’s late free-kick secured all three points for Newport at Fratton Park.
A physical County side made life difficult for the hosts throughout the afternoon.
And Westcarr wants to see Pompey display more patience as they look to find a breakthrough.
The striker said: “We didn’t play too well in the first half and their game-plan of stopping the rhythm of the match worked.
“We just have to find a way to not get as frustrated as we did at certain times.
“We’re the home side, so we have to look to overcome those hurdles and play at a high-tempo.
“They’re the away team and it’s up to us to break them down, so fair play to them.
“I thought the second half was a lot better, but they scored a bit of a lucky goal at the end.
“We probably should have created a lot more, but we need to move on now.”
Pompey will look to rediscover the winning feeling when they visit Yeovil in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy on Tuesday.
Awford said: “Every game’s a chance to either keep your form going or bounce back, so it’s vital.
“We want to get back to winning ways, so we’re all looking forward to it.”