Portsmouth breathed new life into their survival bid with a gritty 1-0 away win at promotion-chasing Middlesbrough. A victory against another high-flyer, Ipswich Town, on Tuesday night would be a massive statement, opening up a crucial four-point cushion over the relegation zone.
For Ipswich, the stakes are just as high at the opposite end of the table. The Tractor Boys are on a formidable nine-game unbeaten streak and a win at Fratton Park would solidify their automatic promotion push, moving them five points clear of third place with a game in hand.
History, however, favors the visitors. Portsmouth are winless in their last five league meetings with Ipswich, and the Suffolk side will be aiming for their first league double over Pompey in over a decade, having already won the reverse fixture 2-1 in September.
Adding to the narrative, Portsmouth have struggled in midweek Championship fixtures, failing to win in their last nine. Ipswich, meanwhile, have found wins hard to come by on their recent travels. This clash promises a compelling battle between a home side fighting for momentum and an away team chasing consistency on the road.
Keep an eye on Portsmouth's Colby Bishop, who seems to save his best for Ipswich. The striker has netted six Football League goals against them, more than against any other opponent, and will be eager to add to that tally in this pivotal fixture.
