Pompey progressing despite results - Pack

Marlon Pack says Portsmouth are making progress this season, even if the results don't reflect that.

Pompey lie 18th in the Championship, four points clear of the relegation zone, ahead of Saturday's trip to Birmingham City (15:00 GMT), but have just one win in their past eight ganes, with four defeats in that spell, including the past two in succession.

Pack told BBC Radio Solent: "I think we've been disappointed but, I might get slaughtered for saying this, it's also shown progression.

"We're obviously very disappointed in terms of our last two home games. Coventry were a really good side but we came away kicking ourselves with what-ifs, similar to Stoke - if we'd scored a goal earlier could we then apply more pressure, and then of course the manner we conceded the goals."

Of their opening 12 Championship games, 11 have ended in draws or been decided by a single goal.

Pack added: "The challenge for us is to turn those tight games and fine margins into points, whether that's draws or wins.

"I don't think we are too negative in the group but we are a little bit disappointed, because we have been in games.

"Weirdly, last season, when you get beat comprehensively, which we did at times, it's a little bit easier to take - you can hold your hands up and say 'they're better than us.'

"We're not a million miles away. It's about putting it all together in one complete performance.

"We've had halves, we've had moments, we've had spells, but we probably haven't had a clear dominant performance yet this season."

After missing the start of the season with a knee injury, 34-year-old Pack has now started the past five games and said: "The knee is good. I'm very pleased to be back in the side.

"I want to play. It's down to me to keep hold of my shirt. The way we're looking to play suits me. I had to break my way into the team this year.

"The results have been disappointing but I feel I've been consistent enough."

Listen to the full interview with Pack and more Portsmouth content on BBC Sounds.