Boss reflects on Notts County defeat
The possession and shooting statistics were all in Pompey’s favour.
But that counted for nothing as Notts County launched a smash-and-grab raid to leave Fratton Park with all three points.
A brace from Adam Campbell undid the hosts, despite a first half leveller from Conor Chaplin.
And Paul Cook was left frustrated by his side’s ability to build on a positive first half performance against the Magpies.
The Blues boss said: “It’s disappointing to lose a second home game in succession and to concede when we were under no pressure at all.
“Overall, though, I thought we were sensational in the first half – it was as good as I’ve seen us play this season.
“But we didn’t get going after the break. It was very bitty and when we get embroiled in contests like that we normally come off second best.
“There didn’t seem to be any momentum, our passing had gone and there were a lot of stoppages. I’m sure it was awful to watch.
“You have to give Notts County credit. They’ll be delighted to come here and win, but I thought it was quite a cheap one.
“We had a couple of good chances to equalise late on, but we shouldn’t be losing these kind of games.
“We felt that we were building a platform to kick on from, but we haven’t, so we lick our wounds and work hard to come back stronger.”
Chaplin’s goal – his fourth of the season – came a day after he extended his Blues contract until the summer of 2019.
Cook said: “I’m delighted for Conor and it’s been a good week for him. He’s a smashing kid, but we’re still all disappointed.”
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