John Mousinho’s men bounced back from a dreadfully dull first half to raise their game in the second half and should really have taken the lead through Makenzie Kirk.
However, the striker, marking his full debut, failed to convert substitute Josh Murphy’s cross from five yards out – and moments later Stoke claimed the decisive goal after heading Sorba Thomas’ cross into his own net.
The Blues failed to respond to that 71st-minute set-back and Stoke cantered to victory. And here are our Pompey player ratings...
18. Makenzie Kirk (25) of Portsmouth on the attack during the EFL Sky Bet Championship match between Portsmouth and Stoke City at Fratton Park, Portsmouth, England on 25 October 2025.
Makenzie Kirk on the attack against Stoke. Picture: Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages Photo: Graham Hunt
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