PORTSMOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB

Pompey’s season had stalled slightly following successive league defeats.

But the engine was purring once again as they returned to winning ways at Leyton Orient.

The margin of victory was only one goal, with Christian Burgess heading home Carl Baker’s corner after the interval.

In truth, however, it turned out to be a fairly comfortable afternoon, with the hosts never really threatening an equaliser.

And Paul Cook was just as happy about Pompey’s hunger and desire as he was their neat attacking play.

The Blues boss said: “I thought that was one of our best performances of the season so far and I’m really pleased for everyone.

“We tried our best to be good in possession and dominate the ball, while restricting Orient to few clear-cut chances.

“There were contentious penalty decisions at both ends, but I was pleased for the lads because they worked so hard.

“We’re a fit team and they train well every day. Their appetite for the game was clearly evident out there.

“It’s not really about the opposition for us – I’m more concerned with how we play.

“All our flair players were able to get on the ball and we had good team shape. We looked really sharp.

“Chaplin and Roberts were excellent, and were supported really well by Bennett and Baker, but we looked quite solid behind them as well.

“The only disappointing thing is that we couldn’t score again because we had a number of breakaways and have to be more clinical.

“But I can’t really be critical of the lads and we had fantastic away support once again – they’re a credit to the club.”

Amine Linganzi was handed a first league start at Brisbane Road, with Danny Rose dropping to the bench.

Cook said: “Amine’s been very patient, but he gives us that physically we need in the middle of the park and was excellent.

“But I also thought that Danny was great when he came on and his attitude at being left out was absolutely class.”

Watch Cook's thoughts on the game below or subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for full post-match content.