Goalscorer delighted with rare Pompey start
Romain Padovani has had to show plenty of patience this season.
The French midfielder – a summer arrival from Monaco – had not started in the league since a draw at Mansfield back in August.
But Richie Barker handed him the perfect Christmas present with a start against Dagenham & Redbridge.
And the 24-year-old did not disappoint, heading home late in the first half to give Pompey their first win in 10 matches.
“The important thing is not that one player scored, but that the team did well”, said Padovani. “It doesn’t matter if it’s me that gets the goal or another player.
“We hadn’t won any of the last nine games, but this is a new start for us – and hopefully it is just the start.
“The manager gave me my chance and I think that I took it. I was happy to play and show what I can do on the pitch.
“Sometimes it’s frustrating when you’re not playing, but that happens in football and you have to be ready to take the opportunity when it comes.
“I have waited a long time, but I have always been ready. I kept working hard in the training sessions because things change quickly.”
Padovani is now hoping to get a run of games in the side to help Pompey climb back up the League Two table.
He said: “Hopefully I will play again on Sunday, but that’s the manager’s choice, so I’ll have to see.
“We needed a win and that was important, but we have lots of important games coming up and we need to continue doing well.”