Adrian Segecic’s double mistake gifted Hull a narrow victory at Fratton Park.
The away-day specialists had been restricted to just one shot until the 73rd minute, such was the dominance of John Mousinho’s men.
Then Segecic was caught in possession to allow John Lundstram into the box and, when he made amends, produced a short backpass to put Nicolas Schmid in all sorts of trouble.
When Oli McBurnie slid in to challenge the keeper, the ball fell to Matt Crooks to finish into the empty net and secure a 1-0 victory.
Like Sheffield United, it was more agony for the Blues, who had plenty of the ball, a large number of corners and vastly more shots than the visitors.
Here are our Pompey player ratings…
1. Hull City forward Oliver McBurnie (9) challenges Portsmouth midfielder Marlon Pack (7) during the EFL Sky Bet Championship match between Portsmouth and Hull City at Fratton Park, Portsmouth, UK on 28 February 2026.
Oli McBurnie challenges Marlon Pack in Pompey's 1-0 defeat against Hull. Picture: Simon Roe/ProSportsImages | Simon Roe/ProSportsImages
2. Nicolas Schmid - 6
Made a superb point-blank save from Gerhardt after just 45 seconds, then was picking the back out of the net on 73 minutes after Hull’s second shot. Sold short by Segecic’s pass back, with McBurnie getting in a block and Crooks finished. Photo: Graham Hunt
3. Terry Devlin - 7 - MOM
(Replaced by Madiodio Dia on 90 mins) A model of consistency and another strong showing from the right-back who always wants to get involved, whether offensively or defensively. Can do no wrong at present. | Alun Roberts/ProSportsImages
4. Regan Poole - 7
Will reflect on another really good defensive display, yet, ultimately, undone by an individual mistake elsewhere in the side. Strong, dominant and his distribution on the ball is always useful. | Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages