Cambridge performance delights midfielder
Danny Hollands hailed Pompey’s battling qualities following their 2-1 victory over Cambridge.
The Blues had taken the lead through Ryan Taylor’s header, only to have Adam Webster sent off for a second bookable offence just before the break.
But a Tom Bonner own-goal in the second half strengthened their lead before Kwesi Appiah set-up a tense finale.
Pompey hung on the secure all three points, however, and Hollands believes their character was key.
The midfielder said: “We’re delighted to get the three points and I thought we really deserved it in the end.
“It’s always tough when you go down to 10 men, but we stuck together and did the ugly things well.
“People will say the second goal was a slice of luck, but just before that their keeper pulled of a couple of smart saves.
“It was nice to go 2-0 up because it gave us a bit of a cushion, although then we conceded and the pressure was back on.
“But we dug in to get the result and a few of the lads said we might have crumbled in that situation last year.
“Cambridge aren’t a bad team at all – I have no doubt that they’re going to do well this season.
“They’ve got two big target men who are a handful and caused us a few problems, but we stood up to the test.
“We showed our character and now hopefully we can push on and look to get another three points on Tuesday.”
Hollands was also impressed with the performance of the Fratton faithful, especially during an incredible second half of non-stop chanting.
He said: “The fans were fantastic. It gives you an extra drive when you’re running up and down the pitch.”