Pompey were certainly not over-awed against Peterborough.
But Kenny Jackett felt that missing a cutting edge ultimately proved the difference in a 2-1 League One defeat.
Marcus Maddison provided the assist for Jack Marriott to open the scoring, while Matt Clarke and Kal Naismith can argue about who got the final touch to accidentally convert the midfielder’s free-kick.
And although Conor Chaplin came off the bench to reduce the deficit, Jackett does not believe that his side created enough.
The Blues boss said: “For all our play up to their box, we seemed to be lacking a cutting edge.
“We didn’t get enough shots away in those positions, although Curtis Main had a good effort that hit the post.
"We just couldn’t be incisive enough in the danger areas."
“Jamal caused problems, but was unable to find that extra half a yard or delivery – the second half was typical of that.
“They also struck the woodwork around the same time, but I thought we negated Peterborough quite well in the first half.
“They have got dangerous forwards and showed that they can produce something out of nothing.
“There were long spells when we were on top and looking threatening, but the key moments went against us and that was frustrating.
“We just couldn’t be incisive enough in the danger areas and get the shots away that we needed to.”
Brett Pitman was a notable omission from the side at London Road and Jackett revealed that he will also be unavailable against Plymouth.
He said: “Brett felt his hamstring on Saturday and he certainly won’t be fit for this weekend’s game, but we’re hopeful for the week after.
“Goalscorers decide close matches and so I have to make sure we have enough firepower at that end of the pitch.”
Burgess will also miss out against Argyle after collecting his fifth booking of the season against Peterborough.
Jackett said: “Injuries and suspensions will always come along, but we have enough to cover him with Hawkins and Clarke. You have to be strong enough to deal with it.”