Striker happy with rare away win
There has not been too much to celebrate on the road for Pompey this season.
And yet there were still more than 1,000 visiting fans at Mansfield for the final trip of the 2014/15 season.
They were rewarded with just a third away league triumph as Matt Tubbs and Jed Wallace found the target.
The former opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Stags skipper Ritchie Sutton had been sent off for a foul on the latter.
And Tubbs was delighted to be able to return home with three points tucked safely in the bag.
The striker said: “We knew it wasn’t going to be an easy game, but we’re determined to finish the season on a high.
“Our last away win was at Cambridge, so it’s been a long time coming, but we were able to grind out a result.
“We dominated and kept the ball really well without really having any end product – that was a bit frustrating at times.
“But it was a great defensive display, with Johnny Ertl and Adam Webster proving that they’re decent players.
“Hopefully we can get another three points next Saturday to give us something positive to take into next season.”
Tubbs has now scored 23 goals in a prolific campaign and was grateful that Wallace allowed him to add to his tally at the One Call Stadium.
He said: “Jed’s brilliant to play alongside because he’s got the ability to unlock teams with one pass or a goal from long-range.
“He’s the penalty taker at this club, but I’m chasing the golden boot and credit to him for handing the ball over to me.
“I’m sure he wanted it, but deep down knew that it was the right thing to do and that shows he’s coming of age.
“At that age he’s probably the most confident lad I’ve ever come across and I’m pleased he was able to get another goal.”