Skipper praises Blues support
To take almost 1,000 fans to an away game so close to Christmas is impressive enough on its own.
But Pompey sold their entire allocation of Northampton tickets well before the game and could have shifted plenty more.
The trip to Leyton Orient on Boxing Day is also a sell-out, while January’s FA Cup test at Ipswich is heading the same way.
That fervent backing has not escaped the notice of Michael Doyle, who dedicated the 2-1 victory at Sixfields Stadium to the supporters.
The Blues skipper said: “The fans have had a few tough years watching the side go down the leagues, so it’s great to put a run together for them.
“Once again, we had an unbelievable following and their backing has been fantastic all season, so I’m delighted for them.
“We haven’t quite reached the position where we want to be, but it’s good for the fans to be able to celebrate such a positive result.
“It’s another three points and it’s against the league leaders, but we’re keeping our feet firmly on the ground.
“We believe in ourselves and that we’re as good as any side in the division, although we still knew it was a big game.
“There was a bit of luck that went our way for once and Northampton missed some chances, but overall I thought we were worthy of the victory.”
Conor Chaplin was Pompey’s hero, coming off the bench to score with his first touch in the closing stages.
Doyle said: “Conor is a credit to the football club and he’s so mature for someone who’s still so young.
“He’s always got a smile on his face, works hard and continually strives to improve and learn from the senior pros.
“That goal with his first touch just sums him up because he kept his composure and I’m sure he’ll have a great career.
“Credit to the manager as well because he stayed positive and threw on attacking players against a side that many teams would be happy to draw with.”