Richardson enjoys Hartlepool triumph
There was plenty of festive cheer as Pompey hosted Hartlepool in their last home game before Christmas
Two goals in each half earned the Blues a resounding victory to maintain their League Two promotion charge.
Caolan Lavery opened the scoring with a fine strike before Adam Jackson turned Ben Davies’ cross into his own net.
Gareth Evans added a third after the break before the impressive Marc McNulty deservedly rounded things off at the death.
And Leam Richardson was encouraged by a performance that leaves Pompey three points outside the automatic promotion places.
The Blues’ assistant manager said: “It’s a good result, another win at home and we’ve scored a few goals – so overall we’re very happy.
“Hartlepool are a decent side and we had to work hard to earn everything we got out there.
“At the start of the week you set out to collect the three points, so the number of goals and the clean sheet is just a bonus.
“You could see the quality of our front line and we’ve got more natural scorers on the bench.
“We’re okay with where we’re at currently, although we’re always striving to be better and will continue to work hard.
“Our fans turn out for every game and are magnificent – they’re one of the reasons we’ve got such a good victory.”
The only sour note for Pompey was when Christian Burgess limped off after being fouled by Hartlepool substitute Mikael Mandron.
Richardson said: “It doesn’t look great. He’s hurt his ankle and will be wearing a boot, although we’ll know more in a few days.
“But we’ve got vibrant young centre-halves at this club and they’ll continue to push each other.”
Watch goalscorer McNulty's reaction to the win below or subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for full post-match reaction.
Watch goalscorer McNulty's reaction to the win below or subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for full post-match reaction.