In a dramatic comeback, Sheffield Wednesday overcame Portsmouth 2-1, handing the Championship’s bottom side yet another frustrating home defeat.
Michael Smith’s phenomenal 25-yard goal sealed the deal after Wednesday initially trailed, denying Portsmouth their long-sought victory at Fratton Park and leaving the hosts winless in six consecutive league games at home.
Second-Half Surge Turns Tables on Portsmouth
Portsmouth started the match with high energy, determined to reverse a run of poor home results. Connor Ogilvie found the net just before the half-time whistle, seizing on a corner kick that reached the far post and firing it into the back of the net.
The visitors, reinvigorated in the second half, responded quickly. Ten minutes after the restart, Josh Windass scored from close range, his third goal of the season, following a deft knock-down from Smith.
The pivotal moment arrived just 20 minutes before the final whistle. Smith, receiving a central pass from Yan Valery, unleashed a perfectly-placed shot from outside the box, curling it past goalkeeper Jordan Archer into the top right corner. The stunning strike sent the traveling Wednesday fans into raptures and proved insurmountable for Portsmouth, who struggled to regain composure.
Portsmouth’s Search for Stability
Portsmouth’s ongoing struggles at Fratton Park have left fans frustrated. Despite a few promising attempts, including Callum Lang’s two efforts from free kicks, they couldn’t convert chances into goals. Wednesday keeper James Beadle saved Lang’s first shot, while his second—a rebound off the wall—was cleared off the line by Pol Valentin.
Even in the dying seconds, Portsmouth nearly leveled the score when the ball fell to Lang just six yards out. But the forward blasted it over, sparking audible frustration from the home fans.
“I’m disappointed, especially with the nature of losing after going a goal up into half-time. It was a contrasting performance from Tuesday night at Cardiff but ultimately we haven’t done enough to win the game and weren’t quite good enough to do it,” Portsmouth boss Mousinho told BBC Radio Solent.
This latest defeat compounds the pressure on Portsmouth, as Mousinho acknowledged that improvement is vital if his squad hopes to turn their season around.
Writer’s View
Portsmouth’s home form remains a significant concern, with the team struggling to maintain momentum despite some bright spots. Smith’s strike was a testament to Wednesday’s resilience, highlighting the gap between Portsmouth’s potential and execution. If they are to escape the Championship’s relegation battle, Portsmouth must convert chances and tighten defensive gaps.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
