Boss pleased with 6-0 win at Hawks
Two games, two wins, nine goals scored and none conceded.
Pompey’s pre-season results at Salisbury and the Hawks have so far painted an extremely encouraging picture.
The latter saw Conor Chaplin grab a hat-trick in a 6-0 rout, with Kal Naismith, Curtis Main and an own-goal ensuring a comprehensive margin of victory.
But Kenny Jackett knows that wins mean little at this time of year and it is all about getting ready for what lies ahead.
The Blues boss said: “The pitch was very good and for us it was a very useful pre-season workout. It was nice to see so many supporters.
“We’re thankful to Lee Bradbury and Havant & Waterlooville for inviting us over. We wish them all the best.
"We work hard in July to make sure that we’re successful in August."
“It’s a game that helps us on our way to the new campaign and in terms of performance, it was a step in the right direction.
“We’ll see where it takes us because we work hard in July to make sure that we’re successful in August and beyond.
“It’s a long and demanding season ahead of us and this time is all about preparing for what’s coming up.”
Chaplin missed the Salisbury game with a calf problem, but there was no sign of rust as he produced a clinical performance at Westleigh Park.
“He’d trained well all week and deserved his place,” said Jackett. “Now he has to keep building his fitness, sharpness and confidence.
“Those things are all like money in the bank for a footballer and he has to go again on Monday to make sure he’s ready for Rochdale.”
The only downside for Jackett was the sight of Matt Clarke limping off the pitch after just 16 minutes.
He said: “Matt came off with a groin problem which is frustrating, but injuries are part and parcel of football.”