There are three games remaining for Pompey to nab a play-off spot – and two of them are against Accrington.
The first fixture in that double bill takes place at the Crown Ground this evening (7pm kick-off), with a frozen pitch stopping it from taking place as originally scheduled back in January.
Back then, the Blues were in contention for automatic promotion, while Stanley were sitting just outside the top six.
Both sides have had to readjust their ambitions since, however, with tonight’s hosts now down in 12th position.
The play-offs are not mathematically impossible for John Coleman’s side, although bridging the six-point gap seems unlikely.
And they showed they still have plenty of fight left, battling back from 2-0 and 3-2 down to snatch a 3-3 draw at Sunderland on Saturday.
Whatever happens in their final three fixtures, Accrington have still managed to – once again – defy expectations, having been named as one of the favourites for the drop last summer.
Pompey will not have fond memories of their most recent trip to the Crown Ground, having slumped to a 4-1 defeat last term.
TEAM NEWS
Lee Brown could make his return from a hamstring injury, but Alex Bass (foot), Ellis Harrison (knee), Jordy Hiwula (ankle) and Michael Jacobs (knee) are all out.
Pompey will also have to do without Jack Whatmough, who serves the third of a four-match ban for his red card at MK Dons.
The visitors will have to be way of striker Dion Charles, who has struck 20 times so far this term, while defender Ross Sykes is injured.
VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM
Read the thoughts of Danny Cowley and George Byers ahead of the game.
HEAD TO HEAD
Overall
Pompey: 6 wins
Accrington: 3 wins
6 draws
At Accrington
Pompey: 2 wins
Accrington: 2 wins
4 draws
OFFICIALS
Referee: Robert Madley
Assistants: Kevin Mulraine and Matthew Parry
Fourth Official: Benjamin Speedie
MATCH COVERAGE
Supporters in the UK can watch the action live – with graphics, commentary and replays – by purchasing a match pass for £10.
Subscribers will, as usual, be able to listen to listen to live commentary from Andy Moon and Guy Whittingham by signing into their account and visiting the match centre from 6pm.
Please note that subscribers based in the UK and Ireland will still need to purchase a match pass in order to watch the game live.
Click here for more information about using iFollow on a matchday and click here for information on downloading the app, so you can access content on your mobile device.
We will have updates throughout the game on Twitter and the match centre. You can also see behind-the-scenes content on our Instagram story.
There will be post-match reaction on the website and our official YouTube channel, with highlights to follow on Wednesday.
Local listeners can hear commentary by tuning in to either Express FM or BBC Radio Solent.
BETTING
Pompey are the 23/20 favourites with VBET to secure all three points, while the hosts can be backed at 5/2.
Click here to find a comprehensive list of odds for this evening’s game. 18+. Be Gamble Aware.
ALSO IN LEAGUE ONE
Games kick-off at 7pm unless stated
AFC Wimbledon v Rochdale
Burton v Fleetwood
Charlton v Crewe
Shrewsbury v Lincoln
Sunderland v Blackpool
Peterborough v Doncaster (7.45pm)
MEMORABLE MEETING