Portsmouth – West Ham

Portsmouth host league leaders West Ham in what promises to be a stark test of the south coast side’s resilience. Sitting 18th with just seven points from six games – two wins, a draw and three defeats, and a narrow –1 goal difference (7‑8) – the Fratton Park outfit will need to tighten up at the back against a West Ham team that sit top of the table on 14 points, having recorded four victories, two draws and only one loss while boasting a healthy +11 goal margin (20‑9). The gulf in form is evident, but Portsmouth’s recent win and draw show they can still snatch points, whereas West Ham will be keen to extend their unbeaten run and cement their lead. A gritty defensive display from Portsmouth could keep the match within reach, but the odds heavily favour a dominant performance from the league leaders.