Grounds for optimism

PLENTY TO SHOUT ABOUT . . . Lee Croft and Robbie Simpson lead the celebrations following Athletic’s match-winning goal.

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Portsmouth 0, Athletic 1

Latics all smiles as defender paves the way for vital win

QUESTIONS had been posed of Athletic’s mettle in the lead-up to this clash — and they were answered by a display full of grit and determination that earned three deserved points.

Jonathan Grounds’ cross was turned into his own net by Portsmouth defender Johnny Ertl to hand the visitors a second-half winner at Fratton Park.

Though Paul Dickov’s men then had to repel a Pompey side roared on by vociferous support – after both sides had been reduced to 10 men – the final whistle significantly eased the pressure cranked up by chairman Simon Corney’s criticisms earlier in the week.

Cristian Montano encapsulated Athletic’s riposte to the criticism.

A player thrown in on the opening day at Milton Keynes when obviously short on fitness was a rampaging menace here.

The winger showed he has the potential to stretch back-lines at this level with pace and dribbling ability.

Fellow winger Lee Croft was also influential when the visitors moved forward.

It was his ball that created the room for Grounds to cross, Ertl inadvertently diverting it beyond his keeper and sending the travelling supporters into raptures.

Matt Smith was another player whose confidence will have risen visbily after this gane.

After Slew’s retirement, Smith was a constant pest for the Portsmouth defence.

The 23 year old attracted plenty of attention from referee Carl Berry. Once he was even penalised while waiting for the ball to arrive at his feet.

But Smith wasn’t as wronged as Byrne. He was sent off for his supposed part in an incident yards from where he was standing!

Connor Brown was the guilty party as he thrust an arm out in tangling with Portsmouth striker Jordan Obita.

The decision to dismiss Byrne came only after Obita had already walked. Fourth official Mark Pottage apparently informed Berry the Dubliner was the man responsible.

The reduction to 10-a-side lifted the home supporters. Athletic were forced to soak up the pressure as Pompey sought an equaliser in the final half-hour.

Pompey had plenty of the ball but failed to make possession count. In truth it was a fairly comfortable ride for Athletic




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