Pompey will be coming up against the meanest defence in League One this season.
Only promotion favourites Wigan can match the measly total of three goals that Scunthorpe have conceded.
Kenny Jackett’s side, meanwhile, have seen plenty of goals flying in at both ends of the pitch.
And he insists that Pompey will not be sitting back to try to snatch a point at Glanford Park this weekend.
The Blues boss said: “Scunthorpe are hard-working and an established League One team. They’ll be a force again this term.
“We’ve come up from the fourth tier last season and want to be competing against sides like them at a higher level.
"We always set out to try to win the game and our pattern has to be consistent from one match to the next."
“They’ve got a very good defensive record and it will be a decent achievement for any side that goes to their place and comes away with a win.
“I’m sure they’ll be hard to beat on Saturday as they have been all season, but – while respecting them – we won’t change our approach.
“We always set out to try to win the game and our pattern has to be consistent from one match to the next.
“We’re always very appreciative of the fans who come to watch us and aware of the responsibility of putting on performances to encourage that.”
Brett Pitman will be hoping to add to his impressive six-goal tally against The Iron, with his desire to find the net against Fleetwood last week resulting in a boot to the face that left the striker with a broken nose.
Jackett said: “His goalscoring record is something that he’s kept up at every club and was a big attraction for us.
“We feel that he can get a really good total for us and he also provides experience. He’s got quality and will be keen to build on a good start.
“It was a very brave first goal last week and he showed his commitment to the cause by not wanting to come off.”
Damien McCrory’s afternoon did not last as long, but Jackett is confident that the left-back will make a quick recovery.
He said: “He twisted his knee in a block tackle and will miss Saturday’s game, but we’re hoping that he’ll be fit next week.
“We’ve had a run with injuries for defenders this season, so we’re pleased that this one’s not too serious.
“I was impressed with the job that Dion Donohue did in that position when he came on against Fleetwood.
“He’s been waiting patiently for a chance after making his debut at Wigan, but he certainly didn’t let himself – or the team – down.”