First half penalties down Blues
Pompey Academy’s unbeaten start to life in Merit League One came to an end as they were beaten 2-0 at Luton.
Daril Ngwala netted both goals from the penalty spot in the first half as the Hatters claimed all three points.
The first was awarded when the Town striker was fouled by Calvin Davies and the second for a James Granger trip on Isaac Galliford.
Pompey improved after the interval and had a number of chances to get back into the contest, only to find keeper Liam Gooch in impressive form.
Academy coach Mikey Harris said: “Our first half performance simply wasn’t good enough – it was nowhere near what we’re capable of.
“The defending for both penalties was disappointing and I’ve got no complaints with the referee’s decisions.
“We had trained hard in the week and everyone had their objectives, but we weren’t able to put them into practice.
“So we had a chat at the break and the players realised that they needed to take more responsibility.
“I then saw a definite improvement in the second half and we had quite a few opportunities, but we just couldn’t beat their keeper.
“It was certainly a lot more spirited from us – it’s just a shame we had already shot ourselves in the foot.
“But I must give credit to Luton, who looked a pacy and powerful side. They played well and our lads will have learnt a lot from coming up against them.”
Pompey: Hunt; Davies, Field, Haunstrup; Rwakarambwe, Granger, Haitham, Oxlade-Chamberlain (Scutt 60), McDowell (Widdrington 60); Sayers (B.Joseph-Buadi 46), May