Pompey and Doncaster were both left to lick their wounds following last season’s League One play-offs.
While the Blues were narrowly beaten over two legs by Sunderland, Rovers suffered a penalty shoot-out defeat to Charlton.
But it is the south Yorkshire outfit who appear to have made the quicker recovery from the disappointment of missing out on Championship football.
Darren Moore’s men are currently sitting ninth in the table and – like their next opponents – have games in hand on most other sides in the division.
Part of the reason for that is Bolton’s controversial decision to postpone August’s scheduled fixture, which might still see Wanderers punished.
Doncaster have lost just one of their six league fixtures on home soil so far this term, with Peterborough the latest side to leave empty-handed a fortnight ago.
They are seeking a return to the second tier for the first time since their brief stay in the 2013/14 campaign.
Both of last season’s fixtures finished all square, including a goalless encounter at the Keepmoat Stadium.
That game saw the home side finish with midfielder Ben Whiteman between the sticks following keeper Marko Marosi’s late dismissal.
TEAM NEWS
Lee Brown is back in contention after returning from injury following six weeks out with an Achilles injury.
It means that Bryn Morris (groin) and Jack Whatmough (knee) are the only players currently missing for the Blues.
Alex Baptiste (Achilles), Matty Blair (groin) and Cameron John (ankle) are all sidelined for the hosts, who also have doubts over Niall Ennis (hamstring) and Kazaiah Sterling (leg).
VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM
Read the thoughts of Kenny Jackett and James Bolton or register for a free iFollow account to watch the below videos.
HEAD TO HEAD
Overall
Pompey: 10 wins
Doncaster: 6 wins
6 draws
At Doncaster
Pompey: 5 wins
Doncaster: 3 wins
3 draws
TICKETS
Pompey have sold out their initial allocation of tickets, but fans can pay on the day at the Keepmoat Stadium. Click here for more details.
OFFICIALS
Referee: Andy Haines
Assistants: Simon Clayton and Craig Taylor
Fourth Official: Abbas Khan
MATCH COVERAGE
Domestic iFollow subscribers can listen to live commentary from Andrew Moon and Guy Whittingham by signing into their account and visiting the match centre from 2pm on Saturday.
Overseas subscribers and match pass holders can watch the action and commentary will begin from around 10 minutes before kick-off.
Click here for more information about using iFollow on a matchday and click here for information on downloading the app, so you can access content on your mobile device.
We will have updates throughout the game on Twitter and the match centre. You can also see behind-the-scenes content on our Instagram story.
There will be post-match reaction on the website, iFollow and our official YouTube channel, with highlights to follow on Sunday.
Local listeners can hear commentary by tuning in to either Express FM or BBC Radio Solent.
BETTING
Doncaster are the 7/5 favourites with Sky Bet to secure all three points, while Pompey can be backed at 13/8.
Click here to read our full betting guide and visit www.skybet.com/pompey to earn money for the club when you place a bet. Please gamble responsibly.
ALSO IN LEAGUE ONE
Kick-off 3pm unless stated
Saturday
Accrington v Oxford
AFC Wimbledon v Rochdale
Fleetwood v Ipswich
Gillingham v Southend
Lincoln v Sunderland
MK Dons v Burton
Rotherham v Coventry
Tranmere v Shrewsbury
Wycombe v Peterborough
Monday
Bolton v Blackpool (8pm)
LAST MEETING