Pompey notched a famous pre-Christmas win in front of their own fans when they beat Sunderland 3-1 on Saturday.

But at Christmas, games come thick and fast and by this time next week the Blues will be another three games further on in their hunt for promotion from League One.

If they don't follow the home victory over the Black Cats with some measure of success in a festive treble bill at Gillingham and Fleetwood and at home to AFC Wimbledon, then those second-half heroics will be forgotten.

It's a state of affairs boss Kenny Jackett is only too well aware of as he prepares his team for the trip to Preistfield - to face one of only two sides to have beateh the Blues in the league so far this season.

Gillingham won 2-0 at Fratton in October and that result may well form part of Jackett's team talk before he sends his team out for revenge.

Jackett told www.portsmouthfc.co.uk: 'We don’t underestimate — or overestimate — anyone and always think that if we get our game right, we can collect points. There have already been two previous meetings with Gillingham this season, with the fixture in the Checkatrade Trophy, so both sides know a bit about each other.

'We know it will be tough and well done to them for beating us in the league match at Fratton Park, but it’s a different game on Boxing Day. This is a key period with two fixtures on the road in quick succession and we have to make sure that everyone’s ready.'

Pompey are sweating on Ronan Curtis's fitness after the forward was withdrawn in the second half of the win over Sunderland.

Follow @Pompey_Fans

Click here to sign up for an account and reserve your username! You can then post on the Forum and add your comments to articles

Please report offensive, libellous or inappropriate posts by using the links provided.

Portsmouth Polls