Pompey and Bristol Rovers were both left with an unwanted break from football last weekend.
The freezing temperatures meant that Kenny Jackett’s side did not even set off on their long journey to Crewe
Their next opponents, meanwhile, saw their scheduled home clash with Swindon postponed a few hours before kick-off.
Tonight’s clash at the Memorial Stadium is a result of another cancellation, with an outbreak of Covid-19 in the Blues squad putting paid to the fixture just after Christmas.
So the teams will be especially eager to take to the pitch, with both requiring points for different reasons.
Other results went Pompey’s way on Saturday and Sunday, ensuring they remain in fourth position and are a single point adrift of the automatic promotion spots.
But the Pirates are only outside of the League One drop zone on goal difference, having failed to taste victory since their opening match of 2021.
It means that they are only a couple of points above bottom club Burton and are searching for a new manager following the dismissal of Paul Tisdale last week.
He had only replaced previous boss Ben Garner in November, with head of recruitment Tommy Widdrington taking temporary charge.
The sides drew 2-2 in last season’s corresponding fixture, with the Blues unable to hold on after goals from Gareth Evans and Ronan Curtis had given them the lead.
TEAM NEWS
Jack Whatmough is available again after completing a three-match ban, while Rasmus Nicolaisen could also return following the birth of his child.
Paul Downing is back in training after a hamstring injury, although Alex Bass (leg) and Michael Jacobs (hamstring) are still sidelined.
Bristol Rovers are likely to have a fully fit squad to select from, with Ed Upson returning from a hamstring problem.
VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM
Read the thoughts of Kenny Jackett and Ronan Curtis ahead of the game.
HEAD TO HEAD
Overall
Pompey: 23 wins
Bristol Rovers: 11 wins
10 draws
At Bristol Rovers
Pompey: 8 wins
Bristol Rovers: 9 wins
6 draws
OFFICIALS
Referee: Christopher Sarginson
Assistants: Kevin Howick and James Vallance
Fourth Official: Ravel Cheosiaua
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.
Please note that current BBC guidelines mean commentators are not allowed to travel outside of their regions for games.
The BBC Radio Solent team will still be providing commentary from their studio, but there might be a slight delay between the pictures and the audio.
Supporters can use the settings cog to switch to local Bristol Rovers commentary if they prefer.
BETTING
Pompey are the 17/20 favourites with VBET to secure all three points, while the hosts can be backed at 10/3.
Click here to find a comprehensive list of odds for this evening's game. Please gamble responsibly.
ALSO IN LEAGUE ONE
Games kick-off at 7pm unless stated
Tonight
Gillingham v Peterborough (6pm)
Blackpool v Rochdale
Ipswich v Northampton
Wednesday
Wigan v Hull (5.30pm)
Doncaster v Accrington
LAST MEETING