Don Goodman notes Portsmouth ‘achievement’ despite winless Championship start
Portsmouth have produced an “achievement” to sit on three points in four games back in the Championship, according to Don Goodman.
Pompey began life back in the second tier with three draws on the spin against Leeds United, Luton Town and Middlesbrough, before going down 3-1 at home to Sunderland.
Unbeaten West Brom are Sunday’s visitors to Fratton Park in a very tough opening run of fixtures for John Mousinho’s side, something Goodman acknowledges when delivering his analysis.
Speaking exclusively to Pompey News, the established EFL pundit said: “I remember doing a preview show for Sky Sports before a ball was kicked and I saw Portsmouth’s first seven fixtures and thought ‘somebody doesn’t like them’. For a promoted club to play Leeds, Luton, Middlesbrough and a flying Sunderland, followed by West Brom, Burnley and Sheffield United.
“For them to have got three points so far is quite an achievement, I’d say given that run of fixtures. You can take the negative of them yet to win a game and flip it into a positive. They may not have won but they have shown they can compete, which gives me cause for optimism.
“It wouldn’t surprise me if they pick up a win over the next few games and I’m not overly worried for them as long as they retain that positive mentality that shows they can compete against the stronger sides in the league. If they take the positives from that, they’ll be absolutely fine.”
Portsmouth endure ruthless start
The fact that Portsmouth are essentially facing the likeliest projected top seven to begin the Championship season is truly madness.
The away draws at Leeds and Middlesbrough were excellent results, tainted by the agony of giving up winning positions in injury time of both games.
Luton at home was a frustrating one – the Hatters began the game on top and Pompey had goalkeeper Will Norris to thank, but after his opposite number Thomas Kaminski was sent off, the hosts dominated and were kicking themselves not to have taken the win.
Sunderland outclassed Mousinho’s men, and West Brom have been expected to do the same, before a trip to Burnley beckons the following week – it is well and truly ruthless, but it will shape the side.
On early showings, it can be fairly assumed that there will be at least three worse off teams than Portsmouth this year, which will establish the club longer-term at the level.
In other Portsmouth news, Mousinho explains the latest on Colby Bishop.
For more Portsmouth news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.