Boss looks ahead to Cheltenham test
The celebrations after Pompey’s victory at Notts County last month will certainly live long in the memory.
But there could be an extra reason to party if they can finish the season by beating Cheltenham on Saturday.
That would be enough to claim the League Two title should Plymouth and Doncaster both drop points.
Paul Cook wants to see Pompey end the 2016/17 campaign on a high, although he knows they have already achieved their ultimate objective.
The Blues boss said: “It should be a celebratory day and we have to win our match. Will both the other teams slip up? Who knows.
“Football’s a funny game and there’s a script written for someone. I genuinely believe that could be us.
“But whatever happens, when we look back on the campaign after the final fixture, I think we can all have a positive mindset.
“We made our number one target quite clear at the start of the season and being knocked out of the cups early was probably a benefit.
“The squad’s in great shape and everyone’s hungry to play on Saturday, so it’s hard to pick a team. I can only pick 11 and those I choose can only do their best.”
Pompey will face a side with nothing but pride to play for after the Robins beat Hartlepool last Saturday to end any relegation fears.
Cook said: “Cheltenham will be satisfied that their League Two future is secure, so they can come to Fratton and enjoy the occasion.
“They’ve done fantastically well with the medical problems their manager had – and we wish Gary Johnson the best with his recovery.
“So for them to stay up is a good achievement and it should stand them in good stead for next season.
“To have an away fixture at Fratton Park on the final day in front of such a big crowd is something that they should enjoy.”
Watch Cook’s thoughts on the game below or subscribe to Pompey PlayerHD for full pre-match video content.