Danny Cowley highlighted the determination, resolution and personality that saw Pompey to victory at Burton - their sixth straight win in League One.

An own goal forced by Dane Scarlett and a fine Colby Bishop finish earned the Blues the three points that kept them level with Ipswich at the top.

Delighted Cowley, speaking as he starts to prepare his team to face Plymouth on Saturday, told the club website: 'It was a solid away performance and it’s never easy coming to Burton on a Tuesday night — especially when they have a new manager.

'We knew they would play with more energy and intensity, but I thought we were determined and resolute. There was also enough personality on the ball from us to find those important moments that won the match.

'We had a good way into the game and Dane threatened on the counter on a couple of occasions in the first 15 minutes. Then it got a bit too direct and we couldn’t stamp our authority on it. There were a lot of fouls and we couldn’t find our rhythm.

'But we came out strongly in the second half and there were some good performances, with Owen providing a real spark. Sometimes you need the side to have a solid display and then one or two to just make that little difference.

'The two centre-halves were colossal and it wasn’t easy for the back four because we lost Joe Rafferty, who injured a stomach muscle against Peterborough, but we adapted to that.'

Photo: Action Images

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