A strong Pompey line-up needed a goal from sub Brett Pitman to carry them to victory in their Football League Trophy opener at home to Crawley Town.

Pitman converted from close range from a corner as the Blues successfully began their defence of the trophy they won at Wembley last March.

Kenny Jackett raised a few eyebrows with a stronger starting XI than expected although young forward Leon Maloney was given his first Pompey start. Ellis Harrison, James Bolton, Sean Raggett, Alex Bass and Gareth Evans also returned.

The first half was fairly even if not too memorable, and efforts from Evans and Maloney represented the Blues' best chances before the break.

George Francomb and Ashley Nathaniel-George went close for Crawley, who were giving as good as they got.

Evans was replaced by Pitman for the second half and it was the supersub Pitman who hooked in the opening goal from a Haunstrup corner.

Pompey: Bass; Bolton, Downing, Raggett, Haustrup; Maloney, Naylor (c), Close, Evans (Pitman 46); Harrison, Marquis. Subs not used: McGee, Casey, Burgess, Hancott, Walkes, Flint.

Referee: James Linington

Attendance: 3,784 (96 away fans)

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