Dan Bardell makes Portsmouth fans claim after slow start to Championship campaign
Dan Bardell believes Portsmouth fans are taking a “sensible” outlook on matters after a slow start to the Championship season.
Pompey endured a ruthless start to the campaign thrown at them by the fixture computer, but have since failed to win in their opening nine games and lie second-bottom of the table.
Sky Sports broadcaster Bardell remarked John Mousinho’s team did not take their opportunities against his former club Oxford United on Saturday (5 October), but that steady progress is underway.
“Well on Saturday, they didn’t take their chances, but I believe progress is being made and that a win will come soon,“ Bardell exclusively told Pompey News.
“Pompey have a sensible fanbase, they will know it’s a process and that if they stick with the team they have a better chance of results.”
Portsmouth must begin to pick up the wins
It’s not panic stations yet – the fixtures Portsmouth have faced have been widely acknowledged – but to head into the October international break without a win under their belts will disappoint the Blues squad.
It is a long time to wait to attempt to pick up a three-point return, especially when every other Championship club has managed to claim a victory from somewhere – even basement boys Cardiff City, who prop up the table on goal difference to Pompey.
Some creditable performances and results have however offered some positives for Mousinho and the Fratton faithful, with five points emanating from five draws – including away at Leeds United and Middlesbrough.
The Blues were wasteful against Oxford and should have had enough to overcome the visitors – it felt similar to against a 10-man Luton Town side when they just could not find a way through.
The next two games after the internationals are against the two clubs with whom they occupy the relegation zone – QPR and Cardiff – and there has to be a win from somewhere.
Sheffield Wednesday at Fratton completes October, and panic will really set in if Pompey are heading into November having extended their barren run.
In other Portsmouth news, the Under-18s are showing great improvement.
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.