Pompey dominated possession and had the territorial advantage in their Fratton contest with Blackpool.
But the simple fact is that aside from a Rasmus Nicolaisen effort that was cleared from the line, they never really looked like breaking the deadlock.
Their opponents did not create much either, but Jerry Yates made the most of a rare chance to ensure the points would be heading back up north.
And Joe Gallen admitted that the Blues did not do enough in the final third of the pitch to really hurt the visitors.
Pompey’s assistant manager said: “We had the majority of the second half, but without creating enough chances and Blackpool defended resolutely.
“It was disappointing not to take any points or have enough opportunities for the possession and territory we had.
“We’re not going to deny that it’s frustrating when you lose because you do put so much work into it.
“There are high and low points over the course of the season and we have to get this side believing in themselves again.
"We had the majority of the second half, but without creating enough chances."
“We’re going to need to start to put consecutive wins together again – are we capable of doing that? Yes we are. The top two is still open for us, but we have to go on a run.
“Our job is to build confidence and belief on the training ground and I do believe that our forward players will start scoring again. I’d be very surprised if it’s not sooner rather than later.”
Pompey had looked solid for much of the contest, with Nicolaisen impressing alongside Sean Raggett at the back.
Gallen said: “James Bolton picked up an injury in training on Friday – it was a small one, but enough to keep him out.
“We went for Rasmus because the left foot gives us a bit of balance. He was able to bring the ball out and I thought he played very well, as did Sean.”
There was an unscheduled appearance from manager Kenny Jackett, who attended just a couple of days after undergoing surgery.
Gallen said: “It was a bit of a surprise that Kenny was at the game. It takes a lot to keep him away from the football club, but we were pleased to see him.
“I did say that he’d be back sooner rather than later – but even I didn’t think that it would be this quick!”