Josh Murphy's first-half goal secured a 1-0 Fratton Park triumph to put the Blues seven points above the relegation zone.
On a day when so many of their relegation rivals also won, it made the triumph even more important from a match of few goal-scoring opportunities.
And here are our Pompey player ratings...
9. Conor Chaplin - 8
More like the Chaplin we know and love in his favoured number 10 position. Excellent energy, drive, used the ball well and always a threat. Also supplied the right-wing corner headed home by Bowat for the winner. Photo: Stephen Flynn
10. Josh Murphy - 8
Fired in the first shot of the game, with a seventh-minute attempt which drew a save out of Pears. Yet again, always Pompey’s best bet for creativity and it was his cross which supplied Lang’s equaliser. Captain in Pack’s absence. Photo: Graham Hunt
11. Callum Lang - 8
Started the match up front before switching to the right flank at the break, where he looked far more effective. Sure enough, Lang levelled on 62 minutes with a far-post finish for his first of the season. Photo: Graham Hunt
12. John Swift (8) of Portsmouth on the attack during the EFL Sky Bet Championship match between Portsmouth and Blackburn Rovers at Fratton Park, Portsmouth, England on 13 December 2025.
John Swift on the attack against Blackburn. Picture: Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages Photo: Graham Hunt