Boss says Blues deserved more at Plymouth
A point on the road against the league leaders is not exactly a disaster.
But a late leveller denied Pompey the chance to claim a maximum haul from their latest trip to Plymouth.
The visitors certainly did not look over-awed, fighting from behind to lead thanks to fine strikes from Kyle Bennett and Danny Rose.
Just as in the play-off clash five months earlier, however, the Devon outfit struck late on, with Connor Smith’s effort ensuring a share of the spoils.
It was a frustrating end to proceedings, but Paul Cook had nothing but praise for how his troops performed at Home Park.
The Blues boss said: “It was a very entertaining game between two sides who were going at it.
“Apart from the disappointment of conceding another last-gasp goal at Plymouth, I thought we were comfortably the better team.
“We deserved the three points, but we didn’t get them and good luck to our opponents. They’ve set the pace for a reason – they’re a very good group.
“But our lads deserve great credit and I think Plymouth will know that we’ll be a threat this season.
“It was a big test for both teams – and both would probably have been happy with a point before the game.
“But it’s not about the sides we face, it’s about how we play – that’s the important message for me.
“And I was pleased with our players because we’re showing signs of being a good team after 13 games.
“I never felt uncomfortable in the second half because we were in control. Now we’ve got to make sure we keep that work-rate and desire
“Irrespective of the result, I’m very proud of them. I think if you were a Pompey fan at the game then you left pleased with how your team performed.”