A goalless draw at Stevenage proved frustrating in a tight match of few goal-scoring opportunities, particularly for the Blues.
There was also the twin dismissal of Joe Rafferty and Jake Forster-Caskey in the 56th minute, following a skirmish between the pair.
Overall, a point at the Lamex Stadium was disappointing – and here are our Pompey player ratings...
9. Gavin Whyte - 5
(Replaced by Alex Robertson on 69 minutes) Positioned as a number 10 behind Bishop and there were encouraging flashes, but couldn’t contribute enough in attacking terms. Pompey still trying to bring the best out of the Irishman. Photo: Jason Brown
10. Colby Bishop - 5
Not quite clicking for him yet, despite a couple of goals so far, although that could be a criticism of the balls played into him. Some decent moments but influence not as great as last term yet. Photo: Jason Brown
11. Jack Sparkes - 5
(Replaced by Paddy Lane on 65 minutes) Marked his full league debut for the Blues on the left-hand side of midfield. A couple of times agonisingly unable to reach a cross from the right at the far post, especially in the first half, but otherwise struggled to get involved. Photo: Jason Brown
12. Portsmouth defender Conor Shaughnessy (18) during the EFL Sky Bet League 1 match between Stevenage and Portsmouth at the Lamex Stadium, Stevenage, England on 26 August 2023.
Pompey defender Conor Shaughnessy rises high in the first half against Stevenage. Picture: Jason Brown/ProSportsImages Photo: Jason Brown