Pompey and Southend meet for the third time in a little over two months on Saturday (12.30pm kick-off). And visiting fans will be hoping for more of the same following a couple of 2-0 victories in those previous meetings. The first was in the league at Fratton Park before Christmas, while last month’s Roots Hall clash saw the Blues progress in the Checkatrade Trophy. There will be a few more eyes on the latest contest, however, which is being broadcast live on Sky Sports. Pompey are looking to claim all three points for the first time since AFC Wimbledon were beaten on New Year’s Day. Their opponents are currently sitting 14th in the table and only six points clear of the drop zone after 32 games. Chris Powell’s men have lost their past four games on home soil and suffered a 3-0 defeat at Doncaster in their most recent outing. Pompey will be hoping for a faster start than their last trip to Roots Hall in the league almost exactly 12 months earlier. They found themselves two goals behind with just 12 minutes on the clock and were eventually beaten 3-1. TEAM NEWS Andy Cannon (quad), Luke McGee (wrist) and Jack Whatmough (knee) are all missing for Pompey, while there is a doubt over Dion Donohue (ankle). Southend will be without Sam Barratt (knee), Ben Coker (knee), Tom Hopper (knee), Rob Kiernan (knee), Harry Kyprianou (Achilles), Mark Oxley (back) and John White (groin), with Dru Yearwood suspended. HEAD TO HEAD Overall Pompey: 18 wins Southend: 11 wins 8 draws At Southend Pompey: 5 wins Southend: 9 wins 4 draws BETTING Pompey are the 19/20 favourites with Sky Bet to secure all three points, while the hosts can be backed at 14/5.
Pompey really need a win before they forget what it's like to pick up 3 points. If it's any consolation I've put Saaaaarfend to win on the predictions game - hoping I'll remain rooted to the bottom of the table!
0-1 to Pompey in the 8th minute !!! Bryn Morris with his first goal for the club, from a cross from Jamal Lowe.
Attempt saved. Christian Burgess right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom left corner. 12th minute.
0-2 to Pompey, with a goal from Ben Close in the 20th minute. That's his second goal in consecutive matches.
Another goal from Pompey disallowed !! Offside by Omar Bogle, after a great run by Anton Walkes. 24th minute.
0-3 to PFC Oli Hawkins scores his 8th goal of the season, made by Bryn Morris who hits the left post with a right footed shot from outside the box.. 31st minute. We are rampant !!!