Smith smiling after Pompey win

Walsall boss Dean Smith paid tribute to his side for coping with the Fratton Park atmosphere after they beat Portsmouth 2-1.

James Baxendale's long-range effort after 56 minutes put the Saddlers ahead before a cool side-footed strike from Florent Cuvelier doubled their advantage after 63 minutes. Pompey's Izale McLeod swept home Darel Russell's ball six minutes later, but Walsall held on comfortably for the three points. Smith said: "For some of them, that would have been the biggest crowd they've played in front of. "But I told them, 'don't play the crowd, play the match.' The game doesn't change, the pitch size is still the same, and it's still a white ball they're trying to get into the net at the other end. "We have a really good set of lads who want to learn and get better, and it's a pleasure to work with them."