Pompey were close to ensuring it would be a very Happy New Year with victory at Gillingham on the opening day of 2020.
Gareth Evans – making his first start for almost two months – gave the visitors a deserved lead at the interval.
But their in-form opponents were much better after the break and substitute Alex Jakubiak grabbed a late leveller.
It means that Kenny Jackett’s side have still secured just two league victories away from Fratton Park this season.
The Blues boss said: “We felt we were in control after riding the storm in the second half, but the ball has ricocheted and gone loose for their substitute.
“It’s a frustrating one for us because we really did feel like there were three points that were in our grasp. We’re disappointed that we didn’t see it through.
"You take the game in isolation and the fact they’ve won seven in a row at home – it’s a really tough one."
“We were going forward well late on and looking for the moment that would lead to a winner, but it wasn’t to be.
“You take the game in isolation and the fact they’ve won seven in a row at home – it’s a really tough one.
“But we had a hell of a lot of the game and lost at MK Dons and now we’ve drawn with Gillingham, so it’s one point out of six and leaves us playing catch up.”
Jackett was pleased with the performance of Evans, while he also gave Alex Bass a rare opportunity to impress between the sticks.
He said: “Gareth gave us fresh energy because there’s a lot of games in a short space of time at this stage of the season.
“There are more to come and it’s the case for every club, but Gareth is a hard-working and committed player.
“He’s probably our best set-piece taker, which was useful, and he scored a key goal, which we were very pleased with.
“I think I’ve got two good goalkeepers and since he’s been here, Craig hasn’t missed any when he’s been available.
“But it doesn’t do anyone harm to miss a game or two. I’ve got a lot of confidence in Alex and he showed why.”