Brandon Haunstrup knew Pompey would be in for a tough evening at Harrogate Town.
The full-back had experience of playing on an artificial surface during a brief loan spell with Sutton three years ago.
So he was pleased that the Blues were able to battle from behind to secure a 2-1 victory over their National League opponents.
Haunstrup scored the equaliser before a stunning winner from Ronan Curtis and felt the result was the most important factor.
The academy graduate said: “It was a difficult night and, although people might think it’s an excuse, it’s going to be difficult playing on these surfaces.
“I remember when I was at Sutton and they just didn’t lose at home – I’m guessing Harrogate also have a good record at their place.
"It was a difficult night and, although people might think it’s excuse, it’s going to be difficult playing on these surfaces."
“It’s difficult to get the ball down and play, but the important thing was to get the job done and be in the next round.
“I’m sure Harrogate were saying in the dressing room that we wouldn’t fancy it with the wind and rain after a long journey.
“They managed to unsettle us in the first 10 minutes and the big man up front is very good at what he does. We had to adapt to that and got better at dealing with it in the second half.”
Haunstrup opened his goalscoring account on his 50th Pompey appearance with a fine curling finish from the edge of the box.
He said: “It was a good bit of play, although I was on the floor and can’t actually remember seeing the ball go in.
“I was happy to score it and it’s always a special moment to get your first goal – now I want one at Fratton Park.
“I’ve played at right-back as a scholar and it’s somewhere I feel confident. I can cut inside and there always good options when you’ve got Ryan Williams in front of you.”