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It was a win that saw Pompey move within three points of the League One play-off places.

And John Mousinho was delighted with the result of a contest for Fratton with Forest Green, though he admitted the performance wasn’t perfect.

The hosts had to be patient to subdue their stubborn opponents, with Owen Dale heading Joe Rafferty’s crucial goal shortly after half-time.

Mousinho wanted to see more ambition from him after that point, although he was certainly pleased with the win.

The Blues boss said: “We got the goal and maybe sat around a bit, while Forest Green took off their shackles and then they started playing.

“I don’t think we handled it particularly well and we didn’t end the game by taking advantage of the chances we created.

“But generally three points is the most important thing and I think we controlled the pace in the first half.

“Finally, we got the goal from that quality cross and we’re obviously happy to come away with the win and a clean sheet.

“We knew we would be three points behind Bolton if we won and considering the gap between the teams in January it’s a good position to be in.”

“Forest Green is very well organized and very hard to break, we saw that last week when they managed to beat one of the best teams in the division.

“So we knew we would have to work hard and move the ball quickly, but they are tough games to play and you have to keep looking for those opportunities.

“I don’t remember them getting a lot of clear chances, but if something goes awry on somebody and they go in, then you say we got what we deserved because we hadn’t got that second or third goal.

“We knew we would be three points behind Bolton if we won and considering the gap between the teams in January, it’s a good position to be in.

“There are seven games left and we will have to play a little better to keep pushing, but we are still alive.”

There were concerns when captain Clark Robertson left the pitch in the second half, having recently returned from a long layoff.

Mousinho said: “He had cramps from his calf to his hamstring, but it’s not a big problem, not surprising considering how long he’s been out.

“Reeco Hackett was out due to injury after taking a knock to his knee that hardened during the week. It’s a shame for him, but nothing too serious.”