At 2-0 after 79 minutes, the Blues looked out of it until substitute Reeco Hackett pulled one back and threatened to inspire a remarkable late comfortable.
However, in stoppage time, Plymouth hit the visitors on the break to seal their victory and a return to the top of the table, yet there were some positive Pompey performances.
Here are our on-the-whistle player ratings...
5. Ryley Towler - 6
Shaky start when he missed one through ball, but settled down again to his credit. Given a testing afternoon against Ryan Hardie and Sam Cosgrove but continues to impress. Photo: None
6. Connor Ogilvie - 7 - MOM
A couple of excellent clearances in first half while covering, including a fantastic block, and defensively helped keep Blues together during some testing moments. Photo: National World
7. Josh Oluwayemi (21) of Portsmouth makes a save during the EFL Sky Bet League 1 match between Plymouth Argyle and Portsmouth at Home Park, Plymouth, England on 11 February 2023.
Pompey goalkeeper Josh Oluwayemi pulls off a first-half save against Plymouth at Home Park. Picture: Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages Photo: Graham Hunt
8. Marlon Pack - 7
The pick of the midfield. Always wanting the ball, always trying to be constructive, never goes hiding. Even in defeat he emerges with plenty of credit. Photo: National World