Nathan Thompson felt Pompey’s experience was key in a dramatic 3-3 draw at Rochdale.
The visitors looked to be hurtling towards defeat, only for Matt Done to head into his own net in stoppage-time.
Brett Pitman had earlier bagged yet another brace, as they had to battle from behind on three separate occasions.
And Thompson believes the Blues are now benefitting from a number of players returning from injury.
The right-back said: “You look back over the course of the season and there are always defining moments – this could be one of them.
“It keeps our unbeaten run going and means we can take some momentum into the game against Plymouth next week.
"Experience has been vital in recent weeks and we probably would have lost this game at times during the season."
“The football we played probably wasn’t what we’ve come to expect, but the result could be important.
“Danny Rose is still out, but our squad is pretty much back to full strength now and there’s plenty of grit and determination in the team.
“We’ve had a very young side at times and there were moments when we went behind and it chipped away at our confidence.
“So experience has been vital in recent weeks and we probably would have lost this game at times during the season.
“Rochdale have taken points against sides like Shrewsbury recently and are a dangerous side, so to come back with minutes to spare means it is a good point.”
Thompson was full of praise for team-mate Pitman, who has now notched 22 goals for Pompey this term.
He said: “The last time he went on a run like this at the back-end of the season, he went on to win promotion with Bournemouth.
“He’s been brilliant for us and leads from the front, with his goal return being so vital. He can provide that little bit of inspiration.”