Portsmouth Football Club News

Tony Adams believes Pompey can count themselves unlucky to have only drawn against Bristol City. The Blues defence of the FA Cup started with a stalemate against the mid-table Championship side. It was a game of few chances at Fratton Park – but the hosts had the better of them. Sylvain Distin went close three times in the first half with two shots cleared off the line and another saved by Robins keeper Adriano Basso. Bristol City’s best opportunity came from a Bradley Orr header that was expertly saved by David James. But Adams felt that on another day his side would have come away with the victory, and is confident that Pompey can finish the job in the replay at Ashton Gate. “I thought we could have won with the chances we had,” said the Blues boss, “but it was important to keep a clean sheet. “We had the majority of the opportunities. Sylvain Distin had a few attempts, as did Niko Kranjcar and David Nugent. “We created enough to win the game but we’re still in the hat and we’ve got something to build on. “On another day we would have won the game, but it’s important to stay in the cup. “Bristol City are a difficult team to break down. They’re very organised and resilient. “But I think we can turn Bristol City over at their place. Why not? I think we’ve got a little bit too much for them. “But they’re a good team. Gary Johnson has got a good group of players who did a good job.” Adams was also pleased to see his side keep a clean sheet – their first since the 3-0 UEFA Cup triumph against Heerenveen on December 17. He said: “Lately at home we’ve been committing suicide, so it was good not to concede. “It’s all too easy to throw on another striker trying to score and then lose by three or four. “But it’s important that we don’t do that. We need to stay strong and keep clean sheets because that wins you football matches. “It’s a positive step in the right direction.”

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