Goal hero revels in Daggers display
There were nine players – and a manager – making their first appearance at Fratton Park.
But it was Kyle Bennett who stole the limelight against Dagenham & Redbridge.
The winger netted two fine second half strikes and set up another goal for Gareth Evans to cap a dream debut.
Although he was more concerned with helping his side open their campaign with a three-point haul.
Bennett said: “The victory is the main thing because we wanted to get the season off to a good start.
“I’m delighted for the lads and obviously myself. I got into the positions to hit the ball and thought why not just do that?
“Luckily it was my day for scoring goals this time and I’m sure someone else will do the same on another day.
“It was frustrating in the first half when Dagenham were sitting back a bit and letting us pass, but we were confident in what we were doing.
“We’d started like a house on fire – the movement was good, the passing was good and the defending was good.
“At the break the gaffer told us to stay patient and just stick to what we had been doing.
“In the second half it opened up a bit more for us and we were able to get the first goal through Gareth Evans.
“I said before the game that if we stick to what we’re good at then teams won’t be able to come near us.”
Watch reaction from Bennett and Paul Cook below or go to Pompey PlayerHD for the full interviews.
Watch reaction from Bennett and Paul Cook below or go to Pompey PlayerHD for the full interviews.