Pompey will look to stretch their winning run into double figures when they go back on the road to face Coventry this evening. But their opponents are also enjoying a fine run of form, having not lost in the league since before Christmas. They left it late to beat Bolton at the weekend, though, with Max Biamou grabbing a last-gasp winner. That saw the Sky Blues climb back above Kenny Jackett’s side and into fourth spot in the League One standings. Issues with the owners of the Ricoh Arena mean that Coventry are currently having to groundshare again – this time with Championship club Birmingham at St Andrew’s. That ensured there was the bizarre instance of the tenants playing host to their landlords in the FA Cup last month. The higher-ranked side eventually triumphed on penalties after a replay, although promotion was always the priority for boss Mark Robins. There was a dramatic meeting between the clubs on the south coast back in August, as the visitors fought back to draw 3-3, despite being reduced to nine men. But Pompey came out on top in last season’s corresponding fixture – albeit at a different ground – with Ronan Curtis’ strike enough to settle the contest. TEAM NEWS Andy Cannon is still sidelined with the glute injury that kept him out on Saturday, although the midfielder could be fit for the weekend. Oli Hawkins has recovered from the head injury he suffered in a recent reserve game at Exeter and is available for selection. Bryn Morris is running outside again as he continues to step up his recovery from a long-term groin problem. Reise Allassani, Dan Bartlett, Wesley Jobello and Jodi Jones are all missing for Coventry with serious knee injuries. But the hosts are hopeful that Matty Godden (groin), Kyle McFadzean (groin) and Callum O’Hare (head) will be able to feature. HEAD TO HEAD Overall Pompey: 13 wins Coventry: 15 wins 7 draws At Coventry Pompey: 4 wins Coventry: 10 wins 2 draws TICKETS Pompey sold out their initial allocation of 1,200 seats, but fans can buy on the night (cash only) at the away turnstiles. It is the same location for supporters who are collecting tickets. OFFICIALS Referee: Scott Oldham Assistants: Darren Wilding and Simon Shaw Fourth Official: Karl Evans BETTING Pompey can be backed at 7/4 with Sky Bet to secure all three points, while the hosts are available at 8/5.
Attempt saved. Liam Walsh (Coventry City) right footed shot from outside the box is saved. 6 minutes.
Attempt blocked. Ryan Williams (Portsmouth) left footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by James Bolton. 8 minutes.
Attempt missed. Liam Walsh (Coventry City) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left. 13 minutes.
Attempt blocked. Callum O'Hare (Coventry City) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Fankaty Dabo. 14 minutes.
Attempt missed. Liam Walsh (Coventry City) left footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the left. Assisted by Amadou Bakayoko. 23 minutes.
Attempt saved. Callum O'Hare (Coventry City) right footed shot from outside the box is saved. 30 minutes.
Attempt missed. Ben Close (Portsmouth) right footed shot from outside the box is too high following a corner. 37 minutes.
Half time match stats:- Home Team: Coventry ..............Away Team: Portsmouth Possession: Home 51% Away 49% Shots: Home 6 Away 2 Shots on Target: Home 2 Away 0 Corners: Home 2 Away 2 Fouls: Home 0 Away 8
Attempt blocked. Cameron McGeehan (Portsmouth) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Ben Close. 52 minutes.
Attempt missed. Jamie Allen (Coventry City) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left. Assisted by Amadou Bakayoko. 53 minutes.
