Pompey fans were left with a blank weekend after the freezing conditions put paid to last Saturday’s scheduled match at Accrington.
Many will have instead done some Christmas shopping before settling down to watch England’s World Cup quarter-final in the evening.
Not that it was a relaxing day off for the players and staff, with training and scouting missions taking over.
Cowley did make it back in time to see the Three Lions’ narrow loss to France, though, and was proud of their efforts.
The Blues boss said: “The postponement was disappointing, but it happened on the Friday morning and we were thankful to Accrington for an early decision being made.
“We were grateful because it stopped us – and particularly our supporters – from making the long journey.
“That allowed us to have a tougher session and then on Saturday we were thankful to the Navy, who allowed us to use their all-weather facilities.
"I personally believe Gareth Southgate has done an outstanding job for a number of years and the team is a credit to our nation. We should be proud of them."
“The lads also did a second session in the gym, while the staff went out to watch some games, so we got our football fix.
“There was no chance I was going home because I know what Saturdays look like in December! My job meant I saw MK Dons play instead.
“Then I got back and watched the England game. They played well, got it right tactically and looked the stronger team.
“Football is all about small margins and everyone wants to blame someone, but I don’t think it’s appropriate because we were on the wrong side of a close match.
“I personally believe Gareth Southgate has done an outstanding job for a number of years and the team is a credit to our nation. We should be proud of them.”
Pompey now host in-form League Two side Stevenage this evening, with a place in the Papa Johns Trophy quarter-finals up for grabs.
Cowley said: They’ve made a brilliant start to the season and credit to Steve Evans, whose promotion record speaks for itself.
“He has an experienced team with competition for places and lots of firepower. It’s a tough draw and we have to find the balance between winning and development.”