Cambridge United 1 Pompey 3: Paul Cook’s men pass test

Having drawn a blank in a disappointing home stalemate with Yeovil Town last time out, the onus was on the Blues to break down a resilient opponent on the road.

Their task was made even harder when the U’s led early on through Robbie Simpson’s controversial opener, which saw referee Sebastian Stockbridge wrongly overrule his linesman’s flag.

But having been handed a way back into the game at the half-time whistle – when home skipper Mark Roberts was sent off for a heated altercation with Blues assistant boss Leam Richardson, who also saw red, the visitors’ attacking quality told in the second half.

A Leon Legge own goal levelled matters before Matt Tubbs’ double ensured another away win for the free-flowing promotion-chasers.

‘We want to pass the ball and we want to entertain people,’ said Cook.

‘We don’t want to engage in a fight or a war.

‘We are a football team and our fans want to see us play attractive football and that’s what I am paid to do – get the best out of them.

‘I thought at times we did that really well on Saturday.’

While Roberts’ sending off turned the game in Pompey’s favour, Cook – who saw his side win for a fourth time on their travels this term – believes they were already in control of proceedings.

He added: ‘After they scored, we dominated possession in the first half and the game was going that way.

‘If you just keep the way you are playing, your habits should get you home – our habits are strong.

‘We are 12 games in now and have 23 points, so we are going alright.’