FA Cup Sat 090116: Town 2 Portsmouth 2

I went to the match today.

Before the game at Portman Road

The first half was DREADFUL. It started in quite a rainy downpour and Town could have been 3-0 down at the end of the half. Poor finishing from an otherwise good Portsmouth side kept the game goalless at halftime. Town had made several changes to the starting selection, with Digby and Malarczyk at the back and Vardy up front. The whole team were simply awful! They couldn’t do anything right with so many missed passes and lack of possession and spirit, in total contrast to Portsmouth, who played well as a team. Any neutral observer would have thought Portsmouth were the Championship side. Town could not even get the basics right. Chambers throws in to Skuse who under no pressure played the pass back into touch! Town were left aimlessly clearing balls upfield which were easily dealt with by Portsmouth.The Portsmouth fans were great too.

First half Town vs Portsmouth 0-0

Town started the second half much better and the rain had eased off and Town took the lead with a goal from Tommy Oar. At that moment all the Town team and supporters felt great relief. Unfortunately, the Town team just switched off completely and a quick Portsmouth attack ended with an equalising goal just minutes after Town’s opening goal. That was really unprofessional and poor from the new look Town team. Portsmouth were now right back in the game and looked the more likely winners.

Second half- Town 2 Portsmouth 2

Town made changes, with Digby and Maitland-Niles off for Smith and Fraser and Sears on for Vardy. Portsmouth made a change too with Chaplin coming on and he scored a fine goal to put Portsmouth ahead.
At that stage it didn’t look hopeful for Town but at least the Town tried to attack especially with Sears and Fraser giving the Town some hope. Town then equalised from a free kick from Fraser in the 88th minute.

There were 5 minutes of added time which were the best 5 minutes of the game with both sides pressing for a winner but it ended in a draw, and there will be a replay at Fratton Park on Jan19th.

It is quite obvious Town will need to put out a strong team on Tuesday against Leeds and play better.
COME ON YOU BLUES!!