Josh Murphy played a pivotal role as Portsmouth secured a 2-1 victory over QPR at Fratton Park on February 22, 2025. This win marks Portsmouth's third consecutive victory, moving them nine points clear of the relegation zone and showcasing their improved form.
Murphy, who has had quite the season, opened the scoring just after halftime. He picked up the ball from Andre Dozzell, skipped past defender Jimmy Dunne and bent a beautiful shot past QPR's keeper, Paul Nardi, for his sixth goal this season. Murphy doubled his side's lead just three minutes later by delivering a pinpoint low cross for Matt Ritchie, who finished with ease from close range.
Despite the commanding lead, Portsmouth's victory was not without its scares. QPR pulled one back through Dunne, who expertly lobbed the ball over Portsmouth's keeper Nicolas Schmid after chesting down Ilias Chair’s pass. The goal injected life back to the visitors, as they pushed for an equalizer but fell short.
Both teams faced challenges throughout the match, with the first half marked by missed opportunities and defensive stalemates. Portsmouth struggled to convert possession, managing to register no shots on target, and frequently battled QPR’s pressing game. Connor Ogilvie’s early header was diverted wide, and the half ended scoreless.
Portsmouth head coach John Mousinho addressed the team's performance with enthusiasm, stating, "It was really important last week when we got the away win so we weren't just relying on our home form. But to come back here and to win was the most key thing. There were elements of the performance... superb." Mousinho acknowledged the nerves late after QPR’s goal, but expressed satisfaction with how his players handled the pressure.
Meanwhile, QPR's head coach Marti Cifuentes was less enthused by his team's display. He described the outcome as “disappointing” and noted, “It was not easy to impose our way of playing, to try to put the ball on the ground and activate the third man, because they press so intensely.” Cifuentes pinpointed the disastrous start of the second half as the turning point. "Murphy scored a really good goal and the key for us was the way we reacted,” he added. “Unfortunately it took too long until we understood how to respond.”
Though Portsmouth struggled initially, their swift reversal of fortune after the interval highlighted their resilience and tactical switches. Murphy's second half brilliance not only lit up the game but also served as a reminder of his growing importance to the squad, especially after his tumultuous years following his stint in the Premier League.
Mousinho praised Murphy, stating, "He was absolutely superb. We have been encouraging him to get on the inside shoulder. The goals were the only things he has been missing this season. It has been amazing to see his renaissance." With six goals and nine assists this season, Murphy has established himself as one of Portsmouth's most valuable assets.
Despite QPR's setback, they remain within reach of the playoff spots. Cifuentes, pragmatic as ever, insisted, “I don’t talk about play-offs; I want to focus on how we can win, starting with achieving the 50 points for safety. If we win the next four games, we can dream.”
Portsmouth's performance against QPR marks their longest winning streak of the season, signaling their potential to remain competitive as the season continues. The team's newfound confidence is evident, and supporters hope this will translate to success as they fight to solidify their position away from relegation fears.
With momentum on their side and key players coming together, Portsmouth looks forward to continuing this run. Emphasizing caution, Mousinho reminded everyone, "There are still plenty of points to play for so we have to be on it for every minute of every day." This victory is yet another step forward for Portsmouth, but with the grind of the league still underway, their focus needs to remain sharp.