Pompey had just got the stuffing knocked out of them when Reeco Hackett was introduced off the bench for the final 10 minutes against Plymouth.
They were on course for victory when Josh Koroma rifled home, only for two goals in the space of five minutes to leave them trailing.
But there was plenty of stoppage-time drama to ensure the spoils were ultimately shared at a full Fratton Park.
Brendan Galloway was dismissed for a shove in the box and, moments later, Joe Morrell’s cross was nodded in by Hackett.
The forward said: “I didn’t really see what happened for the red card, but something obviously did for the referee to send him off.
“That ultimately left a few boys unmarked in the box and I just tried to put myself in the best position to get on the end of the cross.
"When you score it’s an emotional moment – especially when it’s so late in the game. There’s a lot running through your mind."
“It felt like I made a good connection with the ball and was obviously buzzing when I saw it hit the net.
“When you score it’s an emotional moment – especially when it’s so late in the game. There’s a lot running through your mind.
“I’ve been working hard and kept my head up when I’m not in the starting line-up. I try to take every opportunity when they come along.”
The draw ensures Pompey stay second in the standings and keep their unbeaten league record intact.
Hackett said: “We controlled the game for the most part and created a lot of chances, so probably should have gone in further ahead.
“It’s disappointing not win, but ultimately we showed plenty of character to come back and earn a point to remain unbeaten.
“So there are some negatives for us in the result, although we always try to walk away with the positives.”