Boss assesses Oxford stalemate
Pompey were unable to record a fourth successive league win for the first time this season.
But Andy Awford was not too unhappy with a goalless draw against Oxford at Fratton Park that extended their unbeaten record to seven games.
The hosts created the best opportunities, with United keeper Ryan Clarke making two fine stops to deny first Jed Wallace and then Matt Tubbs.
Awford, however, conceded that his side probably needed to show more quality in and around the box.
The Blues boss said: “At half-time we asked the lads to remain solid, while also trying to find that bit more quality in the final third.
“There were a few chances, but I don’t think we managed to open Oxford up enough.
“They didn’t play on Tuesday, so that it made even tougher for us, but everyone put a good shift in.
“It’s a good point at the end of the day – you’re not going to win every game.
“Both teams tried to play the right way and I thought it was a good advert for League Two football.
“When you score nine goals in the previous two games, I think some people turn up expecting it be easy to get goals.
“But Oxford made it very difficult for us and credit to them for doing that.
“Everyone’s still feeling confident, though, because we’ve taken a good tally of points in February and have gained some real momentum.”
Pompey are still nine points adrift of the play-off places, but Awford is not looking too far ahead.
He said: “We’re just taking things one game at a time currently and our next target is Northampton, who have just had a great result away at Shrewsbury.”