Pompey's dangerous duo will terrorise defences

Johnny Ertl has backed Pompey's little and large strikeforce to be League Two's worst nightmare.
David Connolly, left, and Patrick Agyemang, centre, on the attack last season. Picture: Allan HutchingsDavid Connolly, left, and Patrick Agyemang, centre, on the attack last season. Picture: Allan Hutchings
David Connolly, left, and Patrick Agyemang, centre, on the attack last season. Picture: Allan Hutchings

Ertl believes David Connolly and Patrick Agyemang will have opposing defences running for cover next season.

Connolly and Agyemang formed a potent partnership for Guy Whittingham’s side as they finished the League One campaign strongly.

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The 10 games the pair linked up for had much to do with Pompey’s improved form, as they helped them to a run of just one loss in nine.

The duo helped themselves to 10 goals in total as they formed a dangerous combination.

Both players have committed themselves to Pompey’s bid to bounce out of League Two at the first attempt this season.

And that has delighted captain Ertl, who believes they will continue to do damage to opposing sides, with the likes of Tom Craddock and Ashley Harris pushing them for starting minutes.

He said: ‘I’m really happy Agie is staying.

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‘He was unplayable at times last season and I think he is going to be a key man.

‘And we all know David Connolly is brilliant.

‘David brings so much experience to the dressing room.

‘He’s a professional through and through.

‘That’s why he has played at such a high level.

‘His touch is different class and that is why he has played in the Premier League and has caps for Ireland.

‘The youngsters can learn from David.

‘He brings so much professionalism in to the club. He’s 36 and he is running around like a young kid.

‘That shows what goes around comes around.

‘I think the two of them can do really well – and then we have some youngsters to back them up who can always break through and show what they can do.

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‘In League Two, Patrick and David can play a lot of games and score a lot of goals.

‘They are always a threat in the box.’

Ertl highlighted the love of Pompey fans in playing a key role in Agyemang’s renaissance at Fratton Park last season.

The Blues support immediately took Agyemang to their hearts following his arrival on loan from Stevenage, with his hard-working efforts appreciated. And, as the confidence flowed, so did the moments of brilliant skill from the Ghana international.

Ertl said: ‘Agie said he didn’t play a lot at Stevenage but then came to Pompey and showed he was relishing that challenge.

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‘He scored goals and set up goals and had the appreciation of the fans.

‘He was one of the first players to sign and put pen to paper.

‘That shows he feels really comfortable at the club.

‘The fans love him because he works his socks off.

‘He got his appreciation from the fans and I know how that can make you feel.

‘When the fans are behind you it makes it really easy because you don’t have to think twice about things.’