Pompey are aiming to halt a run of three successive League One losses when they host Plymouth this evening (7.45pm kick-off).
The tightness of the division at this early stage, however, means that a win could see them climb from 15th to 6th.
Standing in their way is an in-form Argyle outfit that know three points of their own would secure top spot.
Ryan Lowe’s men have only been beaten once in third tier so far this term – a 2-0 reverse at Rotherham on the opening day.
Their other games on the road have resulted in a 3-0 success at Shrewsbury and 1-0 win over AFC Wimbledon.
A cool finish from Ryan Hardie early in the second half proved enough to secure a maximum haul at Plough Lane on Saturday.
It means that fans will be confidently eyeing a challenge for the Championship and certainly an improvement on last season’s finish of 18th.
Both of the 2020/21 meetings between the sides finished all square at 2-2, with late goals from Ronan Curtis and James Bolton salvaging a point for the Blues at Fratton Park.
TEAM NEWS
Connor Ogilvie (quad) and skipper Clark Robertson (hip) will both miss out after collecting injuries ahead of Saturday’s game.
The defensive duo join long-term absentees Jayden Reid (knee) and Liam Vincent (shin) on the sidelines.
An ankle problem will deny James Bolton the chance to feature against his former club, while Plymouth are also missing George Cooper (knee) and Niall Ennis (hamstring).
VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM
Read the thoughts of Danny Cowley or watch the video below.
HEAD TO HEAD
Overall
Pompey: 28 wins
Plymouth: 25 wins
16 draws
At Fratton Park
Pompey: 18 wins
Plymouth: 10 wins
6 draws
TICKETS
Pompey fans can purchase tickets online here or by the visiting the Anson Road ticket office, which will remain open for 30 minutes after the final whistle.
From 5pm this evening, tickets can also be bought from the booth behind the Fratton End. Please note that there is an increase in price for tickets bought on the day of the game.
Supporters are reminded that this game is not included in season cards and has not been loaded onto any cards.
Fratton Park is now a cashless stadium, with contactless payments will be required in all food kiosks and hospitality areas, as well as for the purchase of tickets.
Portsmouth Football Club respectfully ask all supporters to adhere to the Code of Conduct to ensure an enjoyable and safe matchday experience for all.
OFFICIALS
Referee: Carl Brook
Assistants: Stephen Brown and Michael Webb
Fourth Official: Justin Amey
MATCH COVERAGE
Supporters at home and abroad can watch the contest live – with four-camera coverage – by purchasing an iFollow match pass and visiting the match centre.
Domestic iFollow subscribers can also enjoy audio commentary from Andrew Moon and Guy Whittingham, but will need to purchase a match pass if they want to watch the game.
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 21/20 favourites with VBET to secure all three points, while the visitors can be backed at 14/5.
Click here to find a comprehensive list of odds for this evening's game. 18+. Please gamble responsibly.
ALSO IN LEAGUE ONE
All games kick-off at 7.45pm
Crewe v Morecambe
Gillingham v Charlton
LAST MEETING