Sheffield Wednesday staged a thrilling comeback against Portsmouth, clinching a 2-1 victory that was capped off by Michael Smith’s sensational 25-yard strike. In a game that saw both teams battle for control, it was Smith’s goal that ultimately decided the match, moving the Owls up in the Championship standings and leaving Portsmouth still searching for their first home win.
Portsmouth’s Strong Start Fizzles in the Second Half
Portsmouth came out determined, displaying a promising start that initially gave them the upper hand. The hosts kept the pressure high, putting Wednesday’s defense on alert with several near-goals and forcing the Owls’ goalkeeper James Beadle to stay vigilant.
- First Half Highlights:
- Callum Lang’s free-kick from 30 yards was a powerful attempt, saved by Beadle.
- Tom McIntyre’s defensive error nearly handed Wednesday an early lead, but Smith’s shot was deflected.
Portsmouth’s breakthrough came just before halftime. Defender Connor Ogilvie found the net from a tight angle, pouncing on a corner kick that slipped past Wednesday’s backline. Despite entering halftime with a lead, Portsmouth couldn’t carry the momentum forward, and Wednesday responded quickly as the second half began.
Sheffield Wednesday’s Tactical Adjustments Turn the Tide
Sheffield Wednesday returned from the break with renewed energy and a tactical shift that brought quick rewards. Just 10 minutes into the second half, Wednesday equalized when Barry Bannan’s cross reached Smith, who skillfully headed it down for Josh Windass to smash home from close range. This goal marked Windass’s third league goal of the season, giving Wednesday the confidence to push forward.
Smith’s form continued to shine as he quickly took advantage of a pass from Yan Valery with just over 20 minutes left. This time, Smith unleashed a powerful 25-yard strike that soared into the top right corner, earning him applause from the 2,137 traveling Wednesday fans and giving Wednesday a critical 2-1 lead. His goal wasn’t just a display of skill but a statement that Sheffield Wednesday could compete with anyone in the league.
| Key Players | Team | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Michael Smith | Sheffield Wednesday | Goal, assist, and crucial playmaking |
| Connor Ogilvie | Portsmouth | Opening goal, strong defensive work |
| Josh Windass | Sheffield Wednesday | Scored equalizer with a powerful shot |
Portsmouth’s Frustration Mounts as Home Struggles Continue
The loss to Sheffield Wednesday extended Portsmouth’s winless streak at home, where they have yet to secure a single victory this season. Manager John Mousinho, who made five lineup changes including benching captain Marlon Pack, expressed disappointment over the team’s lack of execution.
“It’s frustrating,” Mousinho said post-game. “We had the lead and a strong first half, but in the end, it just wasn’t enough to pull off the win.” The home crowd’s frustrations echoed those sentiments, as boos filled Fratton Park at the final whistle.
Portsmouth’s late attempts to salvage the game, including Lang’s missed shot from six yards, underscored a lingering issue. For a team that won League One last season, their current position at the bottom of the Championship signals a difficult adjustment to the new league’s challenges.
Sheffield Wednesday Sees Positive Growth Under Danny Rohl
For Wednesday, the win marked a second impressive comeback in consecutive games, following a similar turnaround against Coventry. Manager Danny Rohl praised his squad for their resilience and adaptability, noting the improvement in their play since the start of the season.
“This win is a step forward in our development,” Rohl remarked, emphasizing the team’s tactical changes after halftime. “Coming from behind shows our growth, and this performance is proof we’re heading in the right direction.”
While Rohl avoided overstating the win’s importance, he acknowledged that the three points allowed Wednesday to climb eight spots in the league standings. Yet, Rohl remains focused on further progress, signaling that while the victory was significant, there is still room for Sheffield Wednesday to improve as the season progresses.
