'It's understandable why Pompey were so angry'

Blaming officials can appear an easy way out after a defeat but it's understandable quite why Portsmouth were so angry with the penalty awarded in the second half.

The challenge by Freddie Potts was clearly outside the box and referee Geoff Eltringham needed a discussion with his assistant before awarding it.

The assistant simply didn't have the view to see it clearly.

Up until that point Pompey had successfully frustrated Watford and had the lead thanks to Zak Swanson's fine finish.

A huge amount of mental and physical energy are required for a performance like that.

To have come away with nothing will hurt.

The challenge now is for Pompey to pick themselves up again at Bristol City on Sunday (15:00 GMT).