New head coach Danny Cowley said Pompey's players deserved the credit for the 2-1 win over Ipswich after what had been a tough week for them.

Cowley said he was highly impressed by their work ethic and commitment - but warned there was plenty to work on as he and his brother Nicky get stuck into their new roles at Fratton.

Goals by Tom Naylor and Marcus Harness downed the Tractor Boys to lift Pompey to seventh in the table and afterwards Cowley told the media: 'It’s a good start and an important win, but credit has to go to the staff and the players. We have to recognise the week they’ve had after losing the Papa John’s Trophy final at Wembley after extra-time.

'Then their manager — who the dressing room thought a lot of — has lost his job, followed by having to quickly go to Peterborough in the league. That takes a lot out of you, both physically and emotionally, but the commitment and the character were excellent.

'It was never going to be perfect, although I thought we were 10-out-of-10 in terms of our mindset and attitude. Ryan Williams’ work ethic — wow! If you look at his numbers for running this week, it shows incredible determination.

'I tried to light up their eyes on Friday and bring an energy and enthusiasm. There were some clear messages and you could see a real intensity. We didn’t play very well in the first half, but showed determination and grit to be able to get through that period. Sometimes you have to fight your way into games.

'There were some tactical tweaks after the break and we had better control, with more rhythm, although there’s still plenty to work on.'

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