PORTSMOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB

by Neil Weld Pompeys final match of 2012 summed up a dismal year at Fratton Park. A 2-1 home defeat to Yeovil kept the Blues in the League One drop zone, with a 10-point penalty yet to be applied. But there were signs in the second half that Pompey might yet be able to turn things around. Following an abject showing in the opening 45 minutes, the Blues came out after the break and produced a gutsy display, although ultimately fell just short. And Guy Whittingham hopes that can inspire his troops to a positive result at Swindon on New Years Day. Although Pompey finally exiting administration is the number one priority for the caretaker Blues boss. He said: The last 45 minutes we played in 2012 gives us hope that we can produce better performances in the new year. We can say that, but now the players have to go out and do it on the pitch. But itll be a relief when the decision is made about where this club is going thats the big picture. Thats what we all want were all desperate to know whats going to happen to this great club. Hopefully thatll be the positive thing to come out of this year. We keep plugging away the staff and the players. Well keep doing that to the best of our abilities. Swindon currently lie sixth in the League One table and are in the hunt for a second successive promotion. But Paolo Di Canios side saw their last two scheduled games claimed by the weather and have not played since thrashing Tranmere 5-0 before Christmas. Whittingham said: It would have been a tough game anyway, but theyve had a bit of a rest over Christmas. Sometimes that doesnt do you any good, though, as when youre doing well you just want to keep playing. Weve got to patch ourselves up and produce a good performance up there. Weve got to think about how we can compete against them and hopefully collect three points. Paolo did a fantastic job with them last year and we know that his team are going to be tough to beat because they work their socks off for him."