This season was the first time in five years that Pompey did not begin on home soil.
So Christian Burgess is excitedly looking forward to the first Fratton fixture against Tranmere on Saturday.
Okay, there was the small matter of a Carabao Cup victory over Birmingham on the south coast earlier in the week.
But the ground will be full for the visit of newly-promoted Rovers and Burgess cannot wait to get started.
The centre-back said: “I watched Tranmere a couple of times in League Two last season and know that they’re a very good side.
“It’ll be a tough test for us, but I’m looking forward to getting back to Fratton Park for the first time in the league.
"It’s always brilliant – but especially so in that opening game – so hopefully the sun is shining and we can get the job done."
“The stadium will be full and there’s going to be a great atmosphere – the place should be absolutely rocking.
“It’s always brilliant – but especially so in that opening game – so hopefully the sun is shining and we can get the job done.
“Our boys are all hungry to take their chances and show the gaffer just what they can bring to the side.”
Ellis Harrison bagged a brace, with Ben Close also on target as Championship side Birmingham were brushed aside in the cup.
Burgess said: “It was nice to keep the clean sheet and I’m sure Ellis will take a lot of confidence from the goals he scored.
“The performance was really solid for us and it’s certainly one we’ll look to build on when we face Tranmere.”