The equation is simple. Beat Accrington next Sunday and Pompey will be in the League One play-offs.
A 3-1 victory at AFC Wimbledon – coupled with Charlton dropping points – means the club’s fate remains in their own hands.
It was the home side that took the lead when a slight flick off Ben Close allowed an offside Joe Pigott’s goal to stand.
But Ronan Curtis immediately levelled and Lee Brown then struck twice right at the end of the first half to secure all three points.
Danny Cowley was pleased with the overall display at Plough Lane and that Pompey still have plenty to play for.
The Blues boss said: “There were good aspects to our play, although credit to Wimbledon, who played with a huge amount of energy and aggression.
“We wanted to play the opening stages in their half and didn’t quite achieve that. There were a few tactical issues.
“But the group were able to resolve that, although the first goal we conceded was farcical. It’s not the officials’ fault, but the rule just complicates things and it’s shambolic.
"Ronan was moved out to the left and was a real handful, while the energy of Ryan Willims ran us into the game."
“The response was brilliant and it was a great equaliser, with Marcus Harness – who was exceptional down the right – doing really well and a great finish from Ronan.
“That gave us the momentum and confidence to push on and we were able to play some really positive football.
“We got that control in midfield, with Tom Naylor battling away and Ben Close making around 100 passes.
“Ronan was moved out to the left and was a real handful, while the energy of Ryan Willims ran us into the game.
“It’s going to be an exciting week now and I’m so pleased for our supporters. They can spend the bank holiday with their family and friends and look forward to a big game.”
Brown’s impressive brace reminded Cowley of another left-back who was known for his fine shooting ability.
He said: “When a player’s not involved they become better and better in your mind and I said to him in the week: ‘You’re not Lee Brown anymore, you’re Roberto Carlos.’
“There were certainly a couple of strikes that were reminiscent of him, although he needs to defend better at times.
“I’ve already told him that! But there were two very good goals and we were pleased with how he performed.”