Pompey play host to Blackburn Rovers at Fratton Park - with the Blues keen to end a run of three straight defeats

Andy Cullen has issued a rallying call ahead of Pompey’s important Fratton Park game against Blackburn Rovers today.

The Blues chief executive is hoping Pompey’s unique spirit will be on full display for the visit of a fellow Championship struggler - both on and off the pitch - as the hosts attempt to claw their way out of the division’s relegation zone.

Confidence levels and belief among all factions of the club have been tested to the full this season as the team struggles for form in the second tier.

That was evident during the Blues’ last home game against Bristol City, when boos were heard around the ground following a dismal start to the game - and at the final whistle as a 1-0 defeat and a fifth Fratton Park loss of the season was recorded.

Head coach John Mousinho acknowledged this week that similar scenes could be replicated this weekend if the players do not live up to their side of the bargain.

The fans, however, have an important role to play, too, with their vocal presence and encouragement helping bread confidence on the pitch on a match-day.

That was in full display during Pompey’s League One title-winning season and last term when the Blues defied the odds to retain their Championship status.

With that in mind, chief executive Cullen has called for a united front and the passion Pompey is renowned for to tackle the challenge Blackburn Rovers will pose this afternoon.

What Cullen has said ahead of Pompey v Blackburn

‘We are privileged to enjoy such a huge home advantage at Fratton Park,’ Cullen wrote in his programme notes ahead of the game.

‘The passion and pride generated by you, our supporters, remain second to none. These factors were crucial towards taking us across the line in our promotion season and following a tough initial start to life back in the Championship last term, played a significant part in our recovery.

‘We equally respect that it requires us delivering consistently high standards throughout the club and when we fall short, we are deservedly held to account.

‘At home to Bristol City, we all acknowledge the start to the game was not good enough and the frustration from the stands was fully justified.

‘But the players’ return to the pitch following a short injury break after 25 minutes saw Fratton Park not fall silent, but instead generated a huge roar, helping to deliver an upturn in performance – if not the result that we arguably deserved after those disappointing early stages.

‘None of us underestimate how much your support and encouragement can play its part in delivering confidence and belief to those on the pitch.

‘It would be fitting to see that unique “Pompey spirit” shine though yet again today, both on and off the pitch, as we all come together to play our own part to achieve success.’

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