Credit: Imago

Matthew Wilkinson

Mon 21 April 2025 17:10, UK Updated Wed 23 April 2025 10:38, UK

Portsmouth secured their Championship status with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Watford at Fratton Park.

The Blues gave their fans plenty to celebrate on Monday (21 April) when they picked up an impressive three points that guaranteed they will avoid relegation this season.

Heading into the game off the back of a thrilling 5-3 win against Norwich, John Mousinho’s men delivered a totally different style of performance to ensure they avoided the drop with two games to go.

This match was all about defensive resiliency, with Rob Atkinson and Regan Poole having particularly impressive performances, as they both boasted over 90 per cent pass accuracy.

Atkinson also dominated in the air by winning three aerial battles, all while having more touches than anyone else on the pitch.

At the other end, Colby Bishop continued his impressive run of form in front of goal by scoring the match winner, while also winning five aerial battles himself as he also provided two key passes.

Here, Pompey News has rated the performance of each player out of 10.

Colby Bishop once again delivers for Portsmouth

Nicolas Schmid – 7/10

Jordan Williams (off for Terry Devlin, 51’) – 5/10

Rob Atkinson – 8/10

Regan Poole (off for Conor Shaugnessy, ’87) – 7/10

Connor Ogilivie – 6/10

Freddie Potts – 7/10

Isaac Hayden – 6/10

Matt Ritchie – 7/10

Adil Aouchiche (off for Christian Saydee, 45’) – 4/10

Josh Murphy – (off for Callum Lang, 87′) – 7/10

Colby Bishop (off for Kusini Yengi, 76’) – 9/10

Substitutions

Christian Saydee (on for Adil Aou, 45’) – 7/10

Terry Devlin (on for Jordan Williams, 52’) – 6/10

Kusini Yengi (on for Colby Bishop, 76’) – N/A

Callum Lang (on for Josh Murphy, ’87) – N/A

Conor Shaughnessy (on for Regan Poole, ’87) – NA

Jordan Williams’ future remains uncertain

In a game of intense pressure, the Blues stepped up to showcase their quality overall in a performance filled with heart.

The defensive aspect of the team was crucial, but Jordan Williams struggled to make the impact fans hoped for as he was once again sacrificed early on.

The Huddersfield Town academy graduate has struggled to adjust to life at Fratton Park due to injuries and poor performances.

The right back failed to make any accurate crosses or long balls, while he lost half of his duels until Mousinho pulled him from the pitch.