Boss looking forward to Leyton Orient clash
Pompey fans can enjoy Christmas knowing that their side are well-placed for a promotion challenge.
They sit fourth in the table – three points behind league leaders Plymouth – ahead of a Boxing Day trip to Leyton Orient.
Paul Cook is revelling in the positive mood that is currently sweeping round this section of the south coast.
But with the season not quite yet reaching the halfway point, he is certainly not feeling complacent.
The Blues boss said: “Boxing Day’s a great time for football and we’ve sold a lot of tickets once more.
“Our fans will be very excited about whether we can win again and we’re certainly looking forward to the game.
“The important thing is that there’s a genuine sense of belief about the side – I think last Saturday’s result helped with that.
“Once you’ve got the supporters believing then you’ll see a noticeable turn-up in the atmosphere.
“There will be highs and lows during a season – at the minute we’re on a crest of one of those highs.
“We’re enjoying where we are and there’s a good spirit among the players and staff, but the vital thing is that we keep working hard because you don’t win anything by Christmas.”
Pompey’s Boxing Day opponents began the campaign with five successive league victories.
But they have been unable to maintain that fantastic form and are now 10th, having failed to win any of their past five matches.
Cook said: “Orient are on a bit of an indifferent run at the moment after an amazing start to the season.
“They were the early pacesetters and taking on everyone that stood before them – the early reports we had said they were the strongest team in the division.
“Every side has their ups and downs during a long campaign, but I still think they’re one of the best sides and will be in the top seven come May.
“There are players in their group who can certainly hurt you and it will be a difficult test for us.”
Watch Cook's thoughts on the game below or subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for extended interviews with manager and Gareth Evans.
Watch Cook's thoughts on the game below or subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for extended interviews with manager and Gareth Evans.