In front of 28,444, the Blues twice fought back from falling behind through two Colby Bishop penalties, only to finish on the wrong end of a 3-2 scoreline.
Despite the disappointment, there were some worthy displays at Portman Road – and here are our ratings for the Blues...
9. Josh Koroma - 6
(Replaced by Ronan Curtis on 66 mins - Disappointing. Struggled to effect the game in an attacking sense, while too often left Robertson exposed to Wes Burns defensively. Photo: None
10. Colby Bishop - 8
Twice hauled Pompey level from the spot, the second time more comprehensive than the first, to cap another hard-working display. Photo: NationalWorld
11. Dane Scarlett - 7
Blistering pace won Pompey their penalty and in a match when given little to work with in attack he stuck at it with excellent attitude and work-rate. Photo: NationalWorld
12. Ronan Curtis - 7
(Replaced Josh Koroma on 66 mins). Good introduction from the bench with energy and pressing and won the second penalty with his persistence. Photo: National World