Defender revels in Pompey’s solid showing
Pompey are not necessarily known for their backs-to-the wall defensive displays.
But that was needed more than fancy footwork in order to pick up a maximum haul of points at Cambridge.
Conor Chaplin headed the only goal in what was, at times, an attritional contest and Amine Linganzi’s red card forced the visitors to play the final half hour with only 10 men.
Christian Burgess – who provided the assist for the winner – was part of a back-line that superbly protected David Forde’s goal.
And he was delighted to see a battling display from the Blues enable them to hold on for victory.
Burgess said: “I got a couple of knocks and it was a really hard-fought win. It was a great team performance.
“Everyone stuck to their jobs, especially when we went down to 10 men. We had to dig in and are delighted with the result.
“Cambridge went a lot more direct and it was a challenge we had to adapt to. You’ve just got to keep your concentration to make sure they don’t nick one.
“I didn’t know what time of the game it was when the red card happened, but I knew we’d come under pressure.
“The full-backs and midfielders have to come inside a bit more to help, so we just had to make sure we won our headers and concentrated on second balls.”
It was a superb deep cross from Burgess that allowed Chaplin to loop a header over Cambridge keeper Will Norris.
The centre-back said: “I just peeled off and hit the ball into the box, but all credit to the young lad because he’s the one who made it what it was.
“It was a great finish from Conor and he’s absolutely flying at the moment. I’m delighted for him.
“He’s already shown that he’s good with his head with the goal against Wycombe. Long may it continue.”