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…
9. Harvey Blair - 6
(Replaced by Gustavo Caballero on 58 mins) Handed a start in place of Caballero on the right wing and showed a couple of glimpses, but couldn’t consistently cause problems. Injured his right shoulder early in the second half, but continued after treatment. | Alun Roberts/ProSportsImages
10. Adrian Segecic - 5
Replaced the injured Swift in the number 10 role and, crucially, was responsible for the mistake which lost Pompey the game. Handed corner responsibilities from both sides, with some excellent deliveries and buzzed around, but one error definite his performance. | Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages
11. Millenic Alli - 6
Largely didn’t make the most of some decent positions, but always offers a threat even on days when not at his most effective. Just sometimes he needs to distribute the ball quicker. | Graham Hunt/ProSportsImages
12. Colby Bishop - 5
Another poor display. Strong penalty appeals rejected after Hughes appeared to pull Bishop back as he attempted to follow up after Devlin’s shot was spilled by the keeper. Had a left-footed first-half shot pushed away, but struggled to impose himself. Photo: Graham Hunt