Do you agree with how Blues writer Jordan Cross saw it in the dress rehearsal for the Championship curtain-raiser at Oxford United?
5. Regan Poole 6
Looks like the starting central defensive pairing for Oxford is established, with Poole and Conor Shaughnessy favoured over Hayden Matthews. Evidently a long way to go to return to title-winning form, but gladdening steps being taken in right direction - with a second-half drive forward a highlight. Photo: Simon Roe
6. Connor Ogilvie 6
Thou shalt not pass. Textbook dogged Connor Ogilvie display amid renewed left-back starting threat from Jacob Farrell. Helped Pompey get higher up pitch in second half while being totally dependable. | Simon Roe/ProSportsImages
7. Andre Dozzell 6
Looks like he’s at the top of the midfield pecking order - at present. Very competent and tidy display driving forward well at times, as Dozzell looks to lay down a marker amid heightened competition. | Jason Brown
8. John Swift 6
Still signs of rust evident with new boy still behind his team-mates in terms of his pre-season progress. Played Andre Dozzell into trouble on one occasion, but clearly happy to take the ball in tight spaces and that was clear as he game improved across the afternoon. | Paul Phelan/ProSportsImages