It was his first start for Pompey and just his second overall as a senior professional.
And Harvey White marked the occasion in style by scoring the only goal of the game to secure a League One victory at Oxford.
The Tottenham loanee struck early in the second half, expertly guiding home a header from Callum Johnson’s delivery.
There was certainly no playing down the moment after the final whistle, with White revelling in his contribution.
He said: “I’m over the moon to get the three points, as well as score my first senior goal in my first league start.
“I’ve been working hard for this since the age of six, so it really is a dream come true. It’s an amazing feeling.
"“I’m over the moon to get the three points, as well as score my first senior goal in my first league start."
“To be honest, I didn’t see the ball hit the back of the net. It came across, I’ve headed it and got a little push.
“I thought it must have gone in, so I’ve celebrated. All the lads have come over with me and that made it special.
“I didn’t know I had that in my locker. In terms of heading, I’m only really known for dealing with second balls. We’ve seen the future – now I can score more!
“We knew this was a massive game for us and have been able to hold on for three points after a couple of defeats.
“We’re always told not to get too high when things are going well or too low when they aren’t because there’s another game around the corner.”
White was handed a role wide on the left in a 4-4-2 system and adapted to the task with apparent ease.
He said: “Whenever I get on the pitch it’s an opportunity. I didn’t play in my normal position, but if the gaffer and Joe give me that confidence, I’ll go anywhere.