Pompey finished February with a goalless draw at home to Oxford Utd in front of the third largest crowd at Fratton this season of 16,355.

After scoring nine goals in their last two games, fans were in expectant mood, however Appleton’s Oxford frustrated the Blues’ with the best attempts from Jed Wallace and Matt Tubbs thwarted by Alex Clarke in the opposing goal.

Post-match Andy Awford said: “At half-time we asked the lads to remain solid, while also trying to find that bit more quality in the final third.”

“There were a few chances, but I don’t think we managed to open Oxford up enough. They didn’t play on Tuesday, so that it made even tougher for us, but everyone put a good shift in.”

“It’s a good point at the end of the day – you’re not going to win every game. Both teams tried to play the right way and I thought it was a good advert for League Two football.”

“When you score nine goals in the previous two games, I think some people turn up expecting it be easy to get goals. But Oxford made it very difficult for us and credit to them for doing that.”

“Everyone’s still feeling confident, though, because we’ve taken a good tally of points in February and have gained some real momentum. We’re just taking things one game at a time currently and our next target is Northampton, who have just had a great result away at Shrewsbury.”

So February ends with Pompey on the up – 6 places and 14 points better off, although the two away trips on the bounce of Northampton Town (March 3rd) and Accrington Stanley (Match 7th) will prove pivotal on how realistic a late surge towards play-offs could be.

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