It looked like being one of those days for Pompey when they went in trailing at the interval against Burton.
Despite creating numerous chances at the Pirelli Stadium and taking a second-minute lead through Marcus Harness, a Lucas Akins leveller and Tom Naylor own-goal proved a boon for the Brewers.
But the visitors took total control after the break to record their first League One victory of the season.
Harness netted twice more to complete a hat-trick against his former club, either side of Jack Whatmough’s finish.
And Kenny Jackett was pleased with the way his side fought back to secure a win that takes them up to 11th in the standings.
The Blues boss said: “It’s a first win in the league this season – and we did need it. I’m sure the players will gain confidence from that.
“We played very well in the first half and created plenty of chances, but then gave two bad goals away.
“But we closed the back door in the second period and looked a lot more solid defensively, allowing us to really push on.
"We have to look to build on that, with the games coming thick and fast throughout October."
“The previous week at Wigan saw us lose our way a little bit and we were determined not to let that happen again.
“I was pleased with our commitment and attitude – and now we have to look to build on that, with the games coming thick and fast throughout October.
“You can’t take anything for granted and we want to keep as many of these guys as fit as possible because we want to kick on.”
Jackett was pleased with the performance of Harness, who took his personal goal tally for the season to five.
He said: “They were terrific goals and he linked very well with Ellis Harrison. He works hard on his finishing and it was a good all-round performance.
“If we can keep getting him into the right areas, then he’s shown with that display that he can score for us.”