Skipper thrilled with victory on his Pompey return
Johnny Ertl made his first start in exactly three months at Newport.
And the skipper played an integral role as Pompey won 2-1 to move five points clear of the League Two drop zone.
Since playing 83 minutes of a goalless draw with Northampton just after Christmas, Ertl has had to make do with just a couple of late cameo roles from the bench.
But caretaker boss Andy Awford restored him to the side at Rodney Parade and the Austrian was delighted to help the Blues collect a vital victory.
Ertl said: “It has been difficult, but I always respected the manager’s decision. I kept myself fit, so I was ready for selection.
“I’m not the sort of person to give up because you’re going to go through ups and downs in your career.
“The most important for us was getting the three points as a team and we did that by working hard and showing plenty of spirit.
“We played with a lot of confidence and everyone was prepared to roll their sleeves up.
“We worked hard on the training pitch on Friday and had a game-plan and it was good to see that pay off.
“We’re fighting right until the end and it helps when you have tremendous support like we do.
“But it’s just the first step and now we have to make another one. It’s a good feeling now, but there’s plenty of hard work ahead.”
Ertl was impressed with the performance of central midfield partner Danny Hollands, who made his Pompey debut after arriving on loan from Charlton.
He said: “Danny had a great game and has fitted into the squad very well. I was pleased for him and he’s been welcomed into this fine club.”