Pompey made an encouraging start to life in League One by finishing eighth last season.
Kenny Jackett’s side ended just five points adrift of the play-offs, as they quickly adapted to life at a higher level.
It was a largely uneventful campaign – at least compared to recent seasons – that left many supporters more than satisfied.
But Matt Clarke knows that more will be demanded of the Blues this term and it is a challenge he is happy to accept.
The defender said: “It was our first time in this division last season and almost a free-hit for us – I think most fans would have been happy with mid-table.
“But now we’ve made a few signings and have some experience at this level, so I think the expectation will grow.
“That’s among us players, as well as the fans. Everyone at this club now wants to push on and make progress.
“We’ve got to stay positive after starting the season with two wins, although obviously we would like to have built on that with victory in the cup earlier in the week.
"Everyone at this club now wants to push on and make progress."
“There’s the old cliché that we can focus on the league now and I think overall we can be happy with how we’ve done.”
Pompey will now look to make it three league victories in a row by beating Oxford at Fratton Park on Saturday.
He said: “It was a good game for us last season. We got the penalty and went on to win, so I’m sure they’ll be looking to get one over us now.
“Hopefully it will be an entertaining contest and one in which we can come out on top to build on a decent start.
“Three victories would be a decent platform for us as we look to keep progressing and continue that run.
"Oxford haven't made the best start in the league and will be keen to improve. They've got a good squad and will be a tough test for us."