Richardson revels in cup triumph
It has been a while since Pompey have been able to enjoy a run in the Emirates FA Cup.
Until this season they had not even won a game in the competition since reaching the final in 2010.
But now Paul Cook’s side find themselves looking forward to a fourth round visit from Premier League side Bournemouth.
They got there by beating Ipswich 2-1 in a Fratton Park replay, with Gary Roberts and Marc McNulty on target to dump out the second tier visitors.
And Leam Richardson was delighted that the Blues were able to impress against higher-ranked opposition.
Pompey’s assistant manager said: “It’s a fantastic result for us and it’s always special when you progress in the FA Cup.
“To beat Ipswich here is a great occasion for the players and for the fans, so we’re made up.
“We were pleased with how we applied ourselves in the initial match at Portman Road and we were happy to perform well again in the replay.
“The only disappointing thing was that we couldn’t keep the clean sheet, although it was a great strike from their kid.
“It meant that the game became a bit nervier towards the end, but the lads stuck to their task.
“We were playing against a top Championship side with good players, so it was a decent test for us.”
Richardson knows that Pompey will face a sterner test against a Cherries side currently sitting 15th in the top flight.
He said: “We’re going to be up against it once more and it’s a local tie, so there will be plenty of interest.
“Bournemouth have got a great squad and manager, but it’s a game we can all look forward to.”
Watch Richardson’s thoughts on the game below or subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for extended interviews with the assistant manager and Gary Roberts.