It was certainly not Pompey’s most assured display of the what has so far been a successful season.
But they eventually got the job done at Spotland to book their place in the third round of the Emirates FA Cup.
Fellow League One outfit Rochdale provided a stern test and both sides struck the woodwork as a replay loomed into view.
Substitute Andre Green got the all-important goal in the 90th minute, however, and Kenny Jackett was pleased to see his side secure their spot in Monday evening’s draw.
The Blues boss said: “We played them at the end of last season and have already met once this term, so both sides know a lot about each other.
“It was a case of cancelling each other out to some extent – I felt we had the better of the first half and they had the better of the second.
"I’m delighted with the result and that we found a way to win, which is something we’ve been able to do a lot this season."
“It’s important not to underestimate anyone and we know Rochdale are a very good side with a top manager, so they were always going to make it tough for us.
“Our keeper made some vital saves at key moments, but that’s what he’s there for and in the end, we’re the ones who have hit the target.
“I’m delighted with the result and that we found a way to win, which is something we’ve been able to do a lot this season.
“You don’t really want a replay – especially with the schedule we’ve got – but if we’d have needed one, then we would have dealt with that.”
Sides from the Premier League and Championship now enter the FA Cup and Jackett is hoping the draw will hand Pompey a top tie.
He said: “You’re always looking for one of the big boys at this stage of the competition and want a game that the fans can get excited about.
“There’s no point trying to second guess things, but I’ll be watching the draw with interest and we’ll take whatever comes our way.”