Pompey wouldn’t have wanted the two week break to come round so quickly after they ended a dismal winless run with victory over Sunderland.
Prior to washing the Black Cats away in torrential rain, Danny Cowley’s side endured a horrific eight game streak which included defeats to Cambridge and Burton.
Despite such a run, a few players still performed consistently while others struggled to produce their best.
Click through to see the average ratings of the Blues squad so far this season.
9. 7 - Kieron Freeman 6.8
Kieron Freeman has had to adapt in a royal blue shirt following the arrival of Mahlon Romeo. The former Sheffield United defender has slotted in on the right-side of a back three and ,despite a costly error against Plymouth, has looked comfortable in a relatively unknown position. Photo: The News
10. 6 - Joe Morrell 6.8
The Wales international has been one of the Blues' standout performers in recent weeks after struggling earlier in the season. One of 14 summer signings, Morrell was arguably man-of-the-match against Plymouth and hasn't looked back in the following fixtures. Photo: The News
11. 5- Mahlon Romeo 6.9
Mahlon Romeo has looked a cut above the rest of League One since his arrival from Millwall in the summer. He dislodged Freeman from right-back and continually looks a threat going forward while adding defensive stability at the back. Photo: The News
12. 4- Ronan Curtis 6.9
The Republic of Ireland international struggled earlier in the season while speculation regarding his future refused to go away. Since the window closed he has started to show glimpses of the form that saw him linked with the Championship. Scored a sensational strike in the 2-2 draw with Charlton. Photo: The News