Pompey vs Saints

Last updated : 28 August 2019 By Jim Bonner

Pompey defeated Queens Park Rangers 2-0 at Loftus Road tonight to set up a third round tie against Southampton at Fratton Park.

Second half goals from John Marquis (pen) and Marcus Harness were enough for Kenny Jackett's men to win what seemed to be a boring tie in West London as a makeshift back four containing Christian Burgess at right back and Tom Naylor at centre back were able to keep a clean sheet against a weakened QPR side.

Still, the fact that Kenny Jackett has somewhat redeemed himself for last Tuesday's debacle will be overshadowed by the news that Scummers are due to visit Fratton on the week commencing September 23rd.

Naturally, they'll be the favourites given that they're in the Premier League and their squad is worth millions but at the same time that places all the expectation on them. Although it would feel bad if Pompey lost, it would hardly be the end of the world (and they haven't beaten us for over fourteen years so it's difficult to remember how losing to them actually feels.)

However, could you imagine how hilarious it would be if they got beaten by a League One side? It would surely top either of the 4-1 thrashings and the David Norris equaliser at St. Mary's in 2012. It would be utterly humiliating for them and it's not an impossible task, either.

Norwich, Crystal Palace and Burnley were all knocked out by Crawley, Colchester and Sunderland so defeating a Premier League side in this competition can be done and playing at home can only be an advantage with Fratton Park guaranteed to be hostile.

Let's think of this as an opportunity to dish out one of the most dreadful results in Southampton's insignificant history. Someone could make themselves a hero come the week starting September 23rd.