Boss looking for complete performance ahead of Exeter test
Pompey might be unbeaten in the league this season and sitting at the top of the table.
But Paul Cook feels there is plenty of work to be done before his side are firing on all cylinders.
They reached the League Two summit with a 2-1 triumph at Bristol Rovers at the weekend.
And Cook hopes Pompey can knit together all the positive aspects of recent displays when Exeter visit Fratton Park on Tuesday night.
The Blues boss said: “Saturday was probably the nearest we’ve come to a balanced team performance this season.
“We had a good attacking threat combined with a defensive stability, although it was a bit disappointing that we didn’t score more goals.
“Now we need to bring all the elements of our recent performances into one game.
“We’ve offered something in each of them – we took control of the second half at Oxford and were excellent in the first half at Bristol Rovers.
“There have been those glimpses of our team starting to take shape and hopefully we’ll see that across 90 minutes soon.
“That’s what we’re all looking for and if it happens against Exeter, then great. But if not, then we’ll just keep working towards that goal.”
Exeter have lost their last two matches, but Cook is expecting a close contest against the Devon outfit.
He said: “You know what type of test you’re in for because of the way the club’s been moulded by (director of football) Steve Perryman and (manager) Paul Tisdale.
“The way they want the game to be played is refreshing and it’s a set of beliefs that I share.
“I think the fans can look forward to watching a good football match, although hopefully we can come out on top.
“But we’ll certainly have to work hard for the win because Exeter are excellent at what they do.”
Watch Cook’s Exeter preview below or subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for the full interview.