It has been more than 1,000 days since Pompey last tasted defeat in an EFL Trophy match.
And a much-changed side made light work of extending their fine record by beating Southend at Roots Hall.
John Marquis broke the deadlock from the penalty spot, while Ronan Curtis added a goal in each half to seal a 3-0 victory.
And after changing to a 3-4-3 system and handing a debut to Danish defender Rasmus Nicolaisen, Kenny Jackett was pleased with the evening’s work.
The Blues boss said: “We really built up a head of steam and by the end, we could have scored even more goals if we’d been a bit more ruthless.
“The game gave us a chance to look at some of the players who haven’t had too many minutes yet this season.
“We haven’t got too many injuries at the moment, so it left us strong – and long may that continue because it could be key to success.
"We were also able to change the system to a 3-4-3 and have a look at that, to see if it can help us in the league."
“We were also able to change the system to a 3-4-3 and have a look at that, to see if it can help us in the league.
“Rasmus coming in a naturally left-sided centre-back does give us the option to go that way. It was a very solid debut for him.
“John worked really hard and led the line well for us. He scored one and was unlucky not to add even more. If he continues to work as hard as that, then the goals will definitely come.”
Jackett was also impressed with the performance of Haji Mnoga, who produced a lively display as a wing-back.
He said: “Haji did well down the right for us. He won us the penalty that led to the first goal and put in some really good crosses.
“He’s got a lot of potential and has benefitted from having his first pre-season with the pros – both as a player and a person.
“We’ve had offers to loan him out and that’s not necessarily something we want to do. You can see his progress and his confidence.”