Richardson delighted with Luton win
It was a result that closed the gap on the top three to just four points.
And Pompey’s 1-0 victory over Luton also ensured they got 2017 off to the perfect start at Fratton Park.
Christian Burgess scored the only goal of the game in the first half when he headed home from Carl Baker’s free-kick.
It might have been more convincing, but substitute Gary Roberts blazed a penalty over the bar in stoppage-time.
Leam Richardson, however, was still pleased that the Blues were able to see off one of their promotion rivals.
Pompey’s assistant manager said: “It’s a game we were very eager to win and Luton pushed us right until the very end.
“We’ve been putting pressure on our defenders to chip in a bit more and they all work tirelessly.
“We were very good in possession during the first half and we had to be ruthless out of it in the second when our opponents gambled a bit more.
“The whole game was a good spectacle and the lads stuck at it throughout – they applied themselves very well.
“Luton are a good side who move the ball around well and can adapt to different formations, so our players deserve a lot of credit for taking six points off them this season.
“They asked us a lot of questions, but we enjoy playing in those open games with the individuals we’ve got.
“But this festive schedule is tough and it’s a big challenge, so we’ll be in again on Tuesday to prepare for the Doncaster match.”
Roberts might have had a moment to forget, but Richardson believes he can shine in the second half of the season after being rested over Christmas.
He said: “We felt it was good for Gary to have a break over the festive period, so he could come back feeling fresh and I’m sure we’ll see the benefits of that. “
Watch Richardson’s thoughts on the game below or subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for full post-match content.