'An extremely welcome three points for Pompey'

[BBC] Fratton Park was an emotional place on Saturday afternoon with a perfectly observed reflection on the life and contributions to both the city and the football club of 'The Legend' Alan Knight, who we incredibly sadly lost this week. Pompey fittingly kept a clean sheet for the first time this season, just as Knightsie did as a teenager on his debut for the club in 1978. It was an extremely welcome three points after a rough couple of weeks of results. Fratton Park was at its loud, proud best in the early September sunshine. Pompey's start to the first half wasn't particularly strong. There was an initial reluctance to play a pass or be brave on the ball - only natural perhaps, given this was our third home league game having lost the previous two. Conor Shaughnessy's stunning header really settled us and from there we played well until the break. You could see by half-time that this was two sides up against each other who will likely be competing in the bottom half of the Championship this season. John Mousinho's side completely personified 'get a goal early' after the restart, and from there looked likely to add one or two more. Marezi's expertly guided header ruled out for offside was a real joy to be present for and had Abu Kamara's effort landed a touch lower than the crossbar, then there's a dead cert for goal of the season. Cardiff weren't without their opportunities, prevented by a number of big saves from Daniel Bielica in just his second game for the club. Jayden Meghoma's debut was a worthy player of the match performance, alongside a newfound long throw specialist in Tyrese Shade. A potential level-changer in Pompey's goal threat this season. It's not perhaps the points return from what, on paper, looked to be a favourable opening month or so. But positive outcomes from both a big test at The Valley and another crucial home game against Blackburn before we pause for international action and Pompey can deem their start to the season an acceptable one. Find more from Tom at the Fournilwrittenalloverit YouTube channel.