Boss prepares for tough trip to Scunthorpe
Richie Barker wants to build on the momentum that the Blues have created in recent weeks.
Pompey have lost just two of their last 10 matches to move seven points clear of the League Two drop zone.
But they face a tough test this weekend with a trip to second-placed Scunthorpe.
And Barker wants a repeat of the desire shown by his troops in last Saturday’s home victory over AFC Wimbledon.
The Blues boss said: “We need to keep picking up points on a regular basis and it’s fair to say I’ve seen a different mentality in the players of late.
“At the moment we have picked up a little bit of momentum, but I’m aware that can easily come to a standstill.
“The fact we haven’t had back-to-back league wins this season probably accounts for the position we’re in.
“The top seven or so sides in the division are the ones that have put consistent runs together and have the mental desire to do that week in, week out.
“You talk about momentum, but Scunthorpe’s 15-match unbeaten sequence is real momentum, so we have to go there and really compete.
“We have to do that physically and mentally, as well as matching their desire and creating chances against a side that have conceded very few goals.
“There are a couple of difficult away games coming up, with a home match against Accrington in the middle.
“So we need to turn up and do the right things – all matches are winnable if you are able to do that.”
Pompey are 3/1 with Sky Bet to beat Scunthorpe. Sign up to an account at www.skybet.com/pompey for great offers and to earn money for the club.