Portsmouth maintained their pursuit of the League One title with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Oxford United.
A 67th-minute Christian Saydee goal saw John Mousinho’s side retain their seven-point gap at the top of the table during a feisty affair on the south coast.
Callum Lang had opened the scoring just two minutes into proceedings to kickstart what had initially seemed like a comfortable afternoon.
However, after Cameron Brannagan levelled the score from the spot, the visitors probably had the pick of the chances.
Nevertheless, as they have often done this season, Mousinho’s side again found a way.
Ten games stand between the Blues and a return to the Championship, and Will Norris has opened up on how many points he is targeting.
Will Norris sets Portsmouth points target
After Saturday’s victory, Norris told The News: “Oxford are organised, they are well-drilled and know their shape well, they know their pockets, they get out well and we had certain things to try to stop them, which we executed really well.
“Their recent run of one win in nine does surprise me, that probably doesn’t speak volumes of their performance against us. It was a great display from them and they’ll be all right, they’ll be up there.
“They’ve got willing runners, bright centre-forwards that can run and hold the ball up, and a very dynamic team and well coached.
“But we keep finding different ways to win games – and this was another one.”
“The target is ten wins, 10 games to go – we’re trying to win every game.”
As you were in the League One promotion race
It’s as you were in the League One promotion race.
Barnsley, Bolton and Derby all picked up wins to keep the pressure on the league leaders.
This does feel like another significant win for the Blues. Oxford have shown they are amongst the better sides in the division; if they perform like they did today, they will finish in the top six.
With Bolton facing Barnsley on Tuesday, this could be another crucial three points for Mousinho’s men.
Up next is a tricky trip to Blackpool, who are coming off of a 2-0 away win over Shrewsbury Town.