Phil Lythell
Sport News 24/7Portsmouth relying on seasonal goodwill
By Phil Lythell, on 19th November 2009, 12:51 UTC
Portsmouth FC will be glad to have got their first win of the season under their belts as they are about to enter an extremely demanding phase of the campaign.
The festive season is something of an endurance test for all teams but the next few weeks look tougher than usual for the south coast club and could prove pivotal in struggle for Premier League survival.
The period starts with the visit of champions Manchester United on 28th December and is followed a week later with what looks to be a must-win game at home to Burnley.
December might seem a bit early to start talking about relegation six-pointers but in the precarious position that Portsmouth find themselves in they surely have to emerge from that clash with three points.
After a trip to Sunderland, Manager Paul Hart then takes his players to Stamford Bridge to take on Carlo Ancelotti and his Chelsea team on Wednesday 16th December and will treat any points picked up there as a bonus.
Three days later they return to Fratton Park to take on Liverpool who, though not having the greatest of seasons, will be another massive test.
Pompey finish 2009 with two tough looking fixtures against London opposition. First they go to Upton Park on Boxing Day to take on a West Ham side that finds itself in the lower reaches of the table while on the 28th Arsenals footballing fantasistas arrive on the south coast.
It certainly looks to be a key month in their season and Portsmouth will be hoping for a few seasonal gifts to come their way.
Check out the website for details on tickets to all these matches.
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