By kickspoll 
Tom Cannon, the loanee from Leicester City, will be remembered as Portsmouth’s chief destroyer, yet the true source of their downfall was self-inflicted. Cannon scored four goals in a sensational performance for Stoke, but it was Portsmouth’s shocking collapse just before half-time that laid the foundation for their 6-1 thrashing at the hands of supposed relegation rivals.
The scoreline was 1-1 after 43 minutes, with Mark O’Mahony cancelling out Cannon’s opener, and Pompey enjoying their best spell. However, a throw-in from Zak Swanson in Stoke’s half led to Pompey conceding five goals in the next 11 minutes. The sixth goal, scored by Andrew Moran, epitomized the team’s collapse as he ran unchallenged down the middle before scoring.
Portsmouth’s performance lacked heart, belief, and fight, and they appeared every bit a League One side. Despite the dismal showing, the 1,721 travelling fans continued singing until the final whistle, refusing to turn their backs on the team.
John Mousinho had spoken of signs of improvement before the match, but at the bet365 Stadium, Pompey delivered the worst performance of his 20 months as head coach, marking their largest defeat. Will Norris was at fault for several goals, and while some decisions, such as Cannon’s second-half penalty, were contentious, Pompey’s overall display was dreadful.
The loss has raised questions about Portsmouth’s recruitment strategy and summer spending, as it’s clear they now face a season-long battle to retain their Championship status.
Mousinho made two changes to the starting lineup, with Connor Ogilvie returning and Harvey Blair making his full debut. Enda Stevens, a former Pompey player, lined up for Stoke. Despite an early scare when Ben Wilmot hit the bar and Stevens forced a save from Norris, Pompey responded, with O’Mahony equalizing after a swift counter-attack led by Josh Murphy.
However, Pompey’s capitulation began when Swanson’s throw-in led to Stoke regaining possession, with Cannon scoring again after getting the better of Tom McIntyre. Another goal followed just before half-time, leaving Pompey 3-1 down.
The second half began disastrously for Portsmouth, with Cannon scoring a contentious penalty. Pompey’s misery continued as they conceded twice more, with Cannon completing his four-goal haul and Moran scoring unopposed. Mousinho made a triple substitution in the 56th minute, but the damage was already done.
As the match wound down, the traveling fans kept their spirits high with chants, but the reality remains: Portsmouth are in a relegation fight this season.