Kenny Jackett warmed up for Wigan's visit to Fratton Park by praising the players whose 'massive' win at Walsall kept hopes alive of a strong end to the season and possible top-six spot.

The three points left Pompey just two points behinds the teams in the final two play-off spots and was their third away win on the bounce.

Gareth Evans won it with a lovely finish in the 79th minute and Jackett told the club website: 'It’s a massive win and it keeps our season alive. We’re two points off fifth, so that and sixth spot are very much available for us.

'That’s the case for a number of teams and our form from now until the end of the season will determine whether we can get into those play-offs.

'Walsall had very little in the way of scoring opportunities and that gave a solid base for us to build from. It was just a case of wondering where the goal was going to come from, but it was a great strike from Gareth.

'I was right behind the shot and it was in from the moment he hit it. It was well deserved from someone who’s a terrific professional. Coming off the back of an injury, the goal will give him a lot of confidence and hopefully he can have a strong finish to the season.

'It keeps our good run going and now we’re looking forward to Monday’s game and the others we’ve got moving forward.'

Wigan arrive in town as League One leaders and the game will see Paul Cook returning to Fratton 10 months after qutting and 11 months after saying he wouldn't.

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