It was a point that could yet prove valuable when the League One promotion spots are confirmed next month.
But John Mousinho was left wondering what might have been following Pompey’s goalless draw at Blackpool.
The home side had to play just over half the game with just 10 men following what looked to be a harsh sending off for Jordan Rhodes.
Despite creating plenty of chances and hitting the woodwork three times, however, Mousinho men’s could not make a breakthrough.
The Blues boss said: “We’re disappointed with the point because we always want to win and were playing against 10 men for around 55 minutes.
“I thought the sending off was harsh. He leads with his arm, but we’d be aggrieved if it was given against us.
“The challenge on Callum Lang from Norburn was far worse. He went in to hurt him and did the same to Myles in the first half.
“There are a lot of pleasing parts of the performance against a side with one of the best home records in the league.
“Considering the fact they sat in and defended well, I thought we created plenty, while having to be patient at times.
"We turned down chances to cross the ball or take players on, but after the break we made sure their keeper went away with man-of-the-match."
“There were some good opportunities, although it was frustrating that we couldn’t get the ball out quickly to Abu at times.
“I heard some moans and groans from the fans when we didn’t get it forward in the first half and I understood that.
“We turned down chances to cross the ball or take players on, but after the break we made sure their keeper went away with man-of-the-match.
“We changed shape and got Christian and Kas on with, the former a real livewire and the latter hitting the post. It was one of those afternoons when things didn’t quite drop for us.”
Connor Ogilvie did not feature at Bloomfield Road after joining the queue for the treatment room, while both Lang and Jack Sparkes went off during the game.
Mousinho said: “Callum’s not great. He’s turned his ankle and it’s too early to say what prognosis is, but it’s another occasion when a poor challenge has led to an injury for us.
“Connor twisted awkwardly in the box against Oxford and was able to play on without getting any treatment.
“We feared that it might be something worse, but it’s going to be about three or four weeks, which isn’t the best news. He’s been so unlucky this season.
“I don’t think it was a poor challenge on Jack, but he caught him and the ankle was gushing with blood. Hopefully it’s just a contact one and he’s okay for Tuesday.”