Pompey's tough introduction to life back in the Championship continues when they welcome Sheffield United to Fratton Park on Saturday (3pm kick-off). John Mousinho's men will be looking to secure a first win of the season against a side who are enjoying a rich vein of form. The visitors are one of three sides in the division – along with Blackburn and leaders West Brom – who have yet to taste defeat. They head to the south coast on the back of a three-match winning run that includes last Saturday's 1-0 success over Derby at Bramall Lane. And the Blades would be higher than their current standing of fifth position were it not for a two-point penalty imposed for a financial breach during their last stay at this level. Chris Wilder returned to the club in January to replace Paul Heckingbottom, having previously taken the club from the third tier into the Premier League. He was ultimately unable to keep them there last season, with a dismal campaign seeing them collect just 16 points and concede a record 104 goals. Pompey have fond memories of the last time they faced Sheffield United in April 2013, even if it was just a few days after their relegation into the basement had been confirmed. It was the first game out of administration following a fan-led takeover and the celebrations continued on the pitch, with Shaun Cooper, David Connolly and Jed Wallace all scoring in a 3-0 victory. TEAM NEWS Ibane Bowat is set for a long spell on the sidelines after injuring his knee, while Colby Bishop is continuing his rehabilitation from heart surgery. Callum Lang and Kusini Yengi (groin) are both out, while there are doubts over the fitness of Mark O'Mahony (foot) and Conor Shaughnessy (calf). Oliver Arblaster (ankle) is missing for the visitors, but Tom Davies and Jack Robinson have both returned to training. VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM Read the thoughts of John Mousinho and Connor Ogilvie ahead of the big game. HEAD TO HEAD Overall Pompey: 27 wins Sheffield United: 39 wins 10 draws At Fratton Park Pompey: 21 wins Sheffield United: 11 wins 6 draws Last Fratton Meeting Pompey 3 (Cooper, Connolly, Wallace) Sheffield United 0 League One April 20 2013 TICKETS Seats have sold out, although the ticket exchange will remain open until two hours before kick-off. Click here to read our matchday guide to find out what is happening around the ground ahead of the game. OFFICIALS Referee: Matthew Donohue Assistants: Paul Hodskinson and Matthew Jones Fourth Official: Robert Madley Donohue last took charge of a Pompey game when they drew 2-2 up at Middlesbrough last month, showing five yellow cards to the visitors. MATCH COVERAGE Supporters based overseas can watch the game on Pompey+, either through a monthly/annual subscription or by purchasing a match pass. The matchday show is live before the game for Pompey+ subscribers and overseas fans with a video subscription/match pass. George Wedlake will be joined in the Fratton Park studio by Andy Awford and Danny Rose. Fans can get involved by sending messages and voicenotes to our Pompey+ WhatsApp channel* on +44 7457 413694 or via this link. Please note that the half-time and post-match shows are only available to watch for fans in regions where the game is being shown live on Pompey+. Audio commentary from Rob Sills and Guy Whittingham is available for Pompey+ subscribers or those who purchase an audio subscription/match pass. Click here for more details about using Pompey+, including the answers to some frequently asked questions. Locally-based fans who are not going to the game can listen as always via BBC Radio Solent or Express FM (not available online).
Sheffield United Starting Line Up:- Number1, M. Cooper Number14, H. Burrows Number15, A. Ahmedhodžić Number6, H. Souttar Number2, A. Gilchrist Number8, G. Hamer Number42, S. Peck Number21, Vinicius Souza Number11, J. Rak-Sakyi Number10, C. O'Hare Number9, K. Moore Substitutes: Number7, R. Brewster Number23, T. Campbell Number35, A. Brooks Number17, A. Davies Number34, L. Marsh Number3, S. McCallum Number33, R. Norrington-Davies Number38, F. Seriki Number16, J. Shackleton
Pompey have replaced Connor Shaughnessy at centre half with Tom McIntyre just before kick off, presumably due to Connor receiving an injury during the pre match warm up. Ryley Towler replaces Shaughnessy on the bench. Young Aussie left back Jake Farrell makes his league debut replacing Conor Ogilvie, and up front Christian Saydee makes way for fit again Brighton loanee Mark O'Mahony.
Mark O’Mahony header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right following a corner.
Half time. 0-0. Good first half from us. 11 corners to their 1 shows our attacking efforts. Sounds like Paddy Lane has been playing well in the number 10 role, behind striker Mark O'Mahony. Regan Poole excellent alongside Tom McIntyre in defence. Fingers crossed for a good second half for us, and dare I say it, our first win of the season!
HALF TIME MATCH STATS:- Overall Possession Portsmouth 42.8%Sheffield United 57.2% Shots Portsmouth 5Sheffield United 2 Shots on target Portsmouth 3Sheffield United 1 Shots off target Portsmouth 2Sheffield United 1 Blocked shots Portsmouth 0Sheffield United 0 Total touches in the box Portsmouth 7Sheffield United 14 Goalkeeper saves Portsmouth 1Sheffield United 2 Aerial duels won Portsmouth 3Sheffield United 10 Fouls Portsmouth 7Sheffield United 10 Corners Portsmouth 11Sheffield United 1
