Mark Catlin: Portsmouth fans the inspiration behind remarkable Exeter comeback
The Fratton faithful rose in Pompey’s time of need to inspire that remarkable Exeter fightback.
That’s the verdict of Mark Catlin, who is convinced the Blues support carried them through to another Wembley appearance.
When Christian Burgess put through his own net on 89 minutes, it floored players and fans alike.
Pompey were contemplating a 2-1 defeat in Tuesday’s Leasing.com Trophy semi-final at the hands of the League Two visitors.
Then something special occurred.
No criticism, no recriminations, no boos or jeers, just an eruption of the chant ‘Blue Army’.
And Pompey’s chief executive is adamant that moment was pivotal to the finale which resulted in a dramatic 3-2 home triumph.
Catlin said: ‘I thought the fans were absolutely astounding.
‘When Exeter's second goal went in I put my head into my hands, it was like my world had caved in for a couple of seconds. I feel like that when anyone scores against us, by the way.
‘It was immediately greeted with chants of “Blue Army”. There wasn’t any dissent, everybody got behind the team, and I’m sure that made a big difference in the end.
‘The fans were straight back supporting, which was amazing, and that’s what Pompey stands for.
‘I thought that had a massive effect, giving us the momentum to get the equaliser – and from there Exeter couldn’t hold on.’
Pompey will now face Salford in the Leasing.com Trophy final on Sunday, April 5.
As holders, it offers the opportunity to become the first side in EFL Trophy history to retain the honour.
Now Kenny Jackett’s side must head to Fleetwood on Saturday for the resumption of their League One promotion bid.
Catlin added: ‘Tuesday was an amazing night, I don’t think I have ever been personally involved where a team has come from behind and scored two late goals.
‘Thankfully the team’s resilience, spirit and character came through in the end.
‘Now we’ve got trip to Wembley. It’s not our priority and we have to quickly switch back and focus on the league and put that open on the back burner.
‘It’s six weeks away and we have a lot of big games in the league to deal with before then.’