It was a result that will ensure a very Merry Christmas for Pompey and their supporters.
Kenny Jackett’s side began the day behind Hull in second position, but leapfrogged their opponents with a 2-0 victory at the KCOM Stadium.
Both their goals were credited as being scored by the home side, with Jacob Greaves and Josh Magennis the ungrateful recipients.
And Jackett was thrilled with the appetite shown by his troops to secure another impressive victory on the road.
The Blues boss said: “It was a really big performance and we got off to a great start with the opening goal.
“Hull have a lot of players with Championship experience and you could see that with the way they moved the ball at times.
“Having said that, we hung in there and earned what was a very hard-fought victory. We’re delighted with the result and the spirit shown.
"The players should be very pleased with what they’ve produced so far this season and gain in confidence."
“I’m not sure about the first goal, but without Sean’s runs and his presence there, then it wouldn’t have gone in.
“We’ve scored a good number and kept some clean sheets, so it’s important we keep coming out on top in both boxes.
“The players should be very pleased with what they’ve produced so far this season and gain in confidence, but now we look forward to the games ahead.
“They’ve got a few days now where they can spend time with their families, but then we’ve got an important match against Swindon to focus on.”
Jackett was not bothered by the statistic that, with two own-goals, his side did not have a shot on target.
He said: “You have to trust what you can see. You can have a lot of chances from 35 yards and if the keeper drops his cap on it, then it doesn’t count for a lot.
“We were delighted with the areas we were able to get into and some of our build-up play was very good.”
Pompey were missing Jack Whatmough, who was replaced at the heart of defence by Danish loanee Rasmus Nicolaisen.
Jackett explained: “He was ill in the morning of the game and didn’t feel he could do himself justice, so we sent him home.
“It was a big chance for Rasmus. I thought that was his best game for us as he adjusts to English football.”