Peter Crouch scored twice to lift Portsmouth away from the drop zone and give boss Paul Hart a real boost.

 

After going behind, the spirit shown to fight back and take all three points pleased Hart with the performance and general all-round play of Crouch a particular plus point.

"After a poor start, I thought we were excellent," said Hart after witnessing his side react to Leighton Baines’ stunning opener, "we were all over the place but we got it together, composed ourselves, and started to play."

Of Crouch he said "I have seen this boy since he was 16 and I've nothing but admiration for him. He plays at the sharp end of the team and he does a great job.|”

Despite the Toffees having been beaten only once in more than a dozen games, the result at Fratton Park was not altogether a surprise as the FA Cup holders appear to be finding some form at the right time. However, Hart is not underestimating the task that remains as along with five or six other clubs, a bad run could still spell a bottom three finish.