Yet until the 51st minute, they struggled to break down Forest Green before Owen Dale’s far-post header from Joe Rafferty’s excellent cross.
The winger should have then had a hat-trick, while the Blues failed to add to their tally, yet now find themselves three points off the play-offs – and here’s our on-the-whistle player ratings...
5. Clark Robertson - 7
(Replaced by Ryley Towler on 81 minutes) - Good ability on the ball so useful with Blues dominating possession and defensively very sound. But another injury, seemingly a hamstring, forced him off. Photo: National World
6. Connor Ogilvie - 7
Barely asked to defend, such was Pompey’s domination, yet always on hand to attack down the left flank. In the moments when challenge defensively, so comfortable and in command. Photo: National World
7. Portsmouth midfielder Joe Morrell is fouled during the EFL Sky Bet League 1 match between Portsmouth and Forest Green Rovers at Fratton Park, Portsmouth, England on 1 April 2023.
Joe Morrell tries to find a way through in the first half against Forest Green. Picture: Jason Brown Photo: Jason Brown
8. Ryan Tunnicliffe - 7
(Replaced by Marlon Pack on 71 minutes) Operated from deep and allowed time on the ball to dictate play. One delightful pass to Jacobs in the second half almost produced a goal. Photo: National World