Pompey had just 30 per cent of the possession in their latest League One test against Crewe.
But they were ultimately the better side in both boxes to earn a comfortable 4-1 victory at Fratton Park that saw an ascent to fourth in the table.
Ronan Curtis bagged a brace before the break, with Tom Naylor and John Marquis adding further goals before Oli Finney converted a consolation from the spot for the Railwaymen.
And Kenny Jackett was delighted that the home side’s game-plan ultimately worked to such devastating effect.
The Blues boss said: “We did very well, although it was cat and mouse at times and we took our opportunities.
“We thought that if we won the ball back in the right areas, there would be space for us to exploit and that’s what got us the three points.
“With the players out there on the pitch – as well as Ryan Williams and Michael Jacobs – there’s so much potential in those attacking positions.
"We thought that if we won the ball back in the right areas, there would be space for us to exploit."
“If we can keep using them and getting them into the correct positions, then we’ll continue creating chances.
“You always work on your plans in and out of possession and we’re pleased with the result against a Crewe side who have got some big wins lately.
“Ronan was lifted by his games for his country and it’s his club form – and the same for Marcus Harness – that earns the recognition. He gave us a bit more natural balance.”
Pompey have now found the back of the net on 25 occasions in the league – more than any other side in the division.
Jackett said: “It’s a good statistic and our goal difference is encouraging as well – hopefully it’s a sign of things to come.
“We have to keep being hungry and also selfless because everyone wants to score and they have to buy into the team process.”
Haji Mnoga was handed his full league debut, but the teenager and fellow full-back Cam Pring were replaced during the interval.
Jackett explained: “Haji’s done very well in training, but Crewe’s movement was giving both of them problems and we needed two more experienced players.
“There may be other occasions when we need to go for youth and energy, but at that particular point of the game I thought Lee Brown and Callum Johnson would help us for the rest of the game.
“It’s nothing against Haji or Cam and both of them should be pleased with their contribution to get us to 2-0 at half-time.”