Early Pompey relegation challenge after late Championship drama

League One now a genuine possibility for Pompey after late drama

Portsmouth’s hopes of avoiding a relegation battle were dented on Saturday as they suffered two late goals to lose 3-1 at home to Wigan Athletic, who edged closer to the automatic-promotion places in the Sky Bet Championship.

Pompey were the better side for long periods at Fratton Park and deservedly took the lead through Reeco Hackett midway through the first half, but conceding twice in the final 10 minutes and again in stoppage time condemned Danny Cowley’s side to a third defeat in four matches.

Pompey were unlucky

Pompey came close to a second goal on several occasions but lacked a clinical edge in front of goal and they were made to pay by Wigan, who took a big step towards sealing an immediate return to the Premier League following their relegation last season.

The result leaves Pompey just five points above the relegation zone ahead of Tuesday night’s trip to in-form Burnley and they could be dragged into a relegation scrap if they are not careful, although Cowley is refusing to panic.

Pompey in bad form

Pompey have won just one of their last six matches and have dropped to 18th in the table, albeit with games in hand over the teams below them.

But Cowley knows his side need to start picking up points soon if they are to avoid a nervy end to the season.

“We’ve got to continue to believe and keep working hard,” Cowley said.

"We’ve got a lot of games to play and we’re not going to give up.”

Pompey must improve

Pompey will be looking to get back to winning ways when they travel to Burnley on Tuesday night.

The Clarets have won their last six matches and will be tough opposition, but Pompey will need to be at their best if they are to get a result at Turf Moor.

Pompey will also be looking to improve their home form, having won just four of their last 12 matches at Fratton Park.

Their next home game is against Swansea City on Saturday, March 4.