It was a first defeat of pre-season for Pompey following five successive victories.
But Kenny Jackett was not feeling too deflated following a 2-1 reverse to Bournemouth at Fratton Park.
Lys Mousset gave the Premier League side an early lead and although Conor Chaplin levelled after the interval, Benik Afobe’s back-heel sealed victory for the Cherries.
Ten members of the home side played the full 90 minutes and Jackett felt there were plenty of positives.
The Blues boss said: “There were encouraging signs for us and I was pleased with the performance of our players.
"There were good things for us in and out of possession."
“We made a poor start and didn’t defend our box as well from corners and wide free-kicks as I would like us to.
“But we came through that and as the game wore on, there were good things for us in and out of possession.
“My team selection is working towards the Rochdale game and playing full games is something you can’t replicate in training.
“We’ve worked them hard and I was pleased with both their fitness levels and their application on the pitch.”
Jackett is also happy with the burgeoning relationship between strikers Brett Pitman and Chaplin.
He said: “We’re looking for that link up between them. It’s still early days in their partnership, but I’m encouraged with what I’m seeing.
“Conor’s only 20, so he’ll need someone experienced like Brett to help him develop into the player we want him to be.”