A midweek game in the Papa John’s Trophy presented Kenny Jackett with the opportunity to rest most of his first team squad.
So he hopes that decision means they will be firing on all cylinders for Monday night’s televised trip to Plymouth.
The sides are currently separated by just two points in the early League One standings, with Pompey a couple of places higher, having played a game more.
And with plenty of miles being racked up over the past few weeks, Jackett is pleased that their Devon trip precedes three successive home fixtures.
The Blues boss said: “It’s a great opportunity for us in front of the television cameras and it’s an occasion we’re looking forward to.
“Plymouth’s home record is excellent – with five wins and a draw – and they are very well coached, while they also have momentum after coming up last year.
"Having a little bit of a breather can hopefully get a few of the guys fit and ready because the matches are coming thick and fast again."
“Both sides are within touching distance of the top of the table with so much of the season still to go and a good run can get you right in there.
“With the game being played on the Monday, it has given most of the first team lads a bit of a break, although not from training.
“Having a little bit of a breather can hopefully get a few of the guys fit and ready because the matches are coming thick and fast again.
“There’s been a lot of travelling, but we’ve got a couple of home fixtures coming up against Crewe and Oxford, followed by King’s Lynn in the FA Cup.”
Jackett has a couple of new injury concerns ahead of the Home Park clash, although might be able to welcome back two players.
He said: “We’re waiting for news on a few people, with Andy Cannon and Jack Whatmough possibly returning to fitness and having a chance.
“But Tom Naylor and Sean Raggett both have knocks, so it’s been a busy weekend for us to see where those guys are. We’ll have to see how they clear up.
“Either way, though, the side we put out at Plymouth on Monday will be ready for the game and looking forward to it.”