John Mousinho’s had lost eight consecutive matches on the road, yet Andre Dozzell and substitute Mark O’Mahony secured a 2-0 triumph to boost survival hopes.
In a poor game lacking quality for much of it, the Blues dug in defensively and took advantage of rare scoring chances which came their way, although there was a concerning injury to Callum Lang.
Regardless, Pompey have put themselves further away from the relegation zone – and here are our player ratings...
1. Nicolas Schmid - 8
Important save at his near post in the 33rd minute to deny Brannagan when the scoreline was goalless. But his best was the last-gasp fingertip stop to deny Lankshear’s shot from distance. Photo: Paul Phelan
2. Jordan Williams - 7
Strong and no-nonsense, yet always looking to attack down the right flank. Very solid and hopefully we can now see an injury-free run from him. Photo: Steve Bailey
3. Regan Poole - 8
The pick of the defence and looking like the Regan Poole of old after a strong pre-season. Produced one brave header to clear Mills’ cross on the stroke of half-time and seemed to produce block after block. Photo: Simon Roe
4. Conor Shaughnessy - 8
Great to see the old partnership with Poole reunited and the pair looked very solid together. A spell of sloppy passing in the first half, which was very uncharacteristic, but superb in the air, especially against the threat of Oxford’s long throws. Photo: Nigel Keene