Richardson reflects on Hartlepool win
It was certainly not the most dominant display of the season.
But Pompey shaded their meeting with Hartlepool at both ends of the pitch to leave with a 2-0 victory.
Top scorer Kal Naismith coolly converted Enda Stevens’ cross early in the game to take his tally for the season to 11 goals.
The Scot – who played up front for most of the second half – then teed-up substitute Gary Roberts to secure all three points after the interval.
And Leam Richardson was pleased to see the Blues come out on top in a Victoria Park contest that saw chances arrive at both ends.
Pompey’s assistant manager said: “We faced a Hartlepool side who have threats all over the pitch and were pleasing on the eye at times.
“So we had to be switched on defensively throughout the game, while we got our goals at the other end and were thankful for the three points.
“It would have been a good spectacle for a neutral because both teams looked dangerous whenever they had the ball.
“We’ve seen Enda linking up well both Kal and Kyle down that side this season. He’s picked him out well and it’s not an easy finish, but he guided it into the net.
“Kal’s very versatile – he can play at left-back, further up or in the hole. It’s great to have someone like that at the club.
“The past 12 months have been a big learning curve for him and now he’s getting his rewards.
“We’ve worked hard for the result against a side who gave a good account of themselves and now we turn our attention to Yeovil.
“At this stage of the season you have to take each game on its own merits and just look to tick each one off with a win.”
Pompey did not leave the north-east unscathed, with striker Noel Hunt stretchered off just before the break.
Richardson said: “That’s the only disappointing thing about the day. We need to clarify exactly what happened, but we think he popped his shoulder and dislocated it.
“He was in a lot of pain at half-time, but some of our lads went to A&E with him and we were hoping to pick them up on the way home.
“But we’ve built a good team ethic here and have players like Roberts, Chaplin and Kabamba who can all come on.”
Watch Richardson's thoughts on the game below or subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for full post-match video content.
Watch Richardson's thoughts on the game below or subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for full post-match video content.