Home games are played at Pompey's training ground, Hilsea. 11am KO, unless stated.

Latest league table can be viewed here.

Read about the new batch of scholars who will be representing the U18's during the 2026/27 season.

For the latest news and updates follow the hashtag #PompeyAcademy on Twitter/X, Facebook and Instagram.

This article will be updated regularly through the season with latest results and fixtures.

AUGUST


Sat, Aug 8 - AFC Wimbledon (A) W 3-4


Tue, Aug 11 - Watford (A) EFL YA Cup L 1-2

Sat, Aug 15 - Bristol Rovers (H) D 2-2

Sat, Aug 22 - Plymouth Argyle (A) L 2-4

Sat, Aug 29 - Luton Town (H) W 3-2

SEPTEMBER

Sat, Sept 5 - Newport County (A)

Tue, Sept 8 - Havant & Waterlooville (A) Hampshire Senior Cup 2nd round 7:45pm

Sat, Sept 12 - Swindon Town (H)

Sat, Sept 19 - Barnet (A)

Sat, Sept 26 - Bristol Rovers (A) EFL YA Cup

TBC Plymouth Argyle (H) 12 midday

OCTOBER

Sat, Oct 3 - Bromley (H)

Sat, Oct 10 - Stevenage (A)

Sat, Oct 17 - Wycombe Wanderers (H)

Sat, Oct 24 - Northampton Town (A)

Sat, Oct 31 - Exeter City (H) 12 midday

NOVEMBER

Sat, Nov 7 - Cambridge United (H)

Sat, Nov 14 - Gillingham (A)

Sat, Nov 28 - Exeter City (H)

DECEMBER

Sat, Dec 5 - Cheltenham Town (A)

Sat, Dec 12 - Oxford United (H)

Sat, Dec 19 - MK Dons (A)

JANUARY

Sat, Jan 9 - Watford (H)

Sat, Jan 16 - Leyton Orient (A)

Sat, Jan 23 - Bristol Rovers (A)

Sat, Jan 30 - AFC Wimbledon (H)

FEBRUARY

Sat, Feb 6 - Luton Town (A)

Sat, Feb 13 - Plymouth Argyle (H) 12 midday

Sat, Feb 20 - Newport County (H)

Sat, Feb 27 - Swindon Town (A)

MARCH

Sat, Mar 6 - Barnet (H)

Sat, Mar 13 - Bromley (A)

Sat, Mar 20 - Stevenage (H)

Home games are played at Pompey's training ground, Hilsea. 11am KO, unless stated.

Latest league table can be viewed here.

Read about the new batch of scholars who will be representing the U18's during the 2026/27 season.

For the latest news and updates follow the hashtag #PompeyAcademy on Twitter/X, Facebook and Instagram.

This article will be updated regularly through the season with latest results and fixtures.

AUGUST


Sat, Aug 8 - AFC Wimbledon W 3-4


Tue, Aug 11 - Watford (A) EFL YA Cup L 1-2

Sat, Aug 15 - Bristol Rovers D 2-2

Sat, Aug 22 - Plymouth Argyle (A) L 2-4

Sat, Aug 29 - Luton Town (H)

SEPTEMBER

Sat, Sept 5 - Newport County (A)

Tue, Sept 8 - Havant & Waterlooville (A) Hampshire Senior Cup 2nd round 7:45pm

Sat, Sept 12 - Swindon Town (H)

Sat, Sept 19 - Barnet (A)

Sat, Sept 26 - Bristol Rovers (A) EFL YA Cup

TBC Plymouth Argyle (H) 12 midday

OCTOBER

Sat, Oct 3 - Bromley (H)

Sat, Oct 10 - Stevenage (A)

Sat, Oct 17 - Wycombe Wanderers (H)

Sat, Oct 24 - Northampton Town (A)

Sat, Oct 31 - Exeter City (H) 12 midday

NOVEMBER

Sat, Nov 7 - Cambridge United (H)

Sat, Nov 14 - Gillingham (A)

Sat, Nov 28 - Exeter City (H)

DECEMBER

Sat, Dec 5 - Cheltenham Town (A)

Sat, Dec 12 - Oxford United (H)

Sat, Dec 19 - MK Dons (A)

JANUARY

Sat, Jan 9 - Watford (H)

Sat, Jan 16 - Leyton Orient (A)

Sat, Jan 23 - Bristol Rovers (A)

Sat, Jan 30 - AFC Wimbledon (H)

FEBRUARY

Sat, Feb 6 - Luton Town (A)

Sat, Feb 13 - Plymouth Argyle (H) 12 midday

Sat, Feb 20 - Newport County (H)

Sat, Feb 27 - Swindon Town (A)

MARCH

Sat, Mar 6 - Barnet (H)

Sat, Mar 13 - Bromley (A)

Sat, Mar 20 - Stevenage (H)

By Freddie Webb

Sweltering heat did not stop a Royal Navy Commander from walking hundreds of miles to his spiritual home of Fratton Park - raising thousands for a “worthy cause”.

Lifelong Blues fan, Commander Andrew “Scooby” Plenty, set off from Cornwall on August 1 and completed his exhausting journey on Saturday (August 15). Supporters gave him a rousing reception as he turned into Frogmore Road just before 2pm.

Scooby said arriving at the stadium after several days and hundreds of miles of gruelling effort was an emotional moment. He told The News: “You have a vision of what it’s going to be like, and when it happens, you well up. It does mean a lot.

“There were moments where I didn’t think I’d make it. That vision kept me going. I’m a lifelong Pompey fan so this means everything to me.”

Pompey fans gave the Commander a guard of honour as he made his way towards the turnstiles. Scooby smiled and shook hands with supporters, dripping in sweat after his long trek. His journey wasn’t easy, having to camp out in the open and contend with blistering heatwave temperatures which climbed above 30C.

The father-of-two said the first thing that popped into his head when he saw Fratton Park was a cold pint of cider. “It has been a long and arduous journey in the brutal heat,” he said.

“Dorset was pretty brutal in this extreme heat. Having to keep hold of enough water before getting to the next village, and making sure I had enough electrolytes and fluids on board, was a big challenge. I set up camp every night when all I wanted to do was book into a hotel.”

The Isle of Wight native has served in the Royal Navy for more than 33 years, regularly travelling to Portsmouth FC home and away fixtures. He joined the force in 1993 as a Naval Airman 2nd Class Meteorological and Oceanographic Observer before commissioning as an Air Traffic Control Officer in 2001. He now serves as the Air Traffic Management SO1 in Force Generation Naval Aviation Division at Navy Command Headquarters.

Scooby took on the endurance challenge to raise money for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC). He has smashed his £5,000 fundraising target, with volunteers collecting donations at the stadium. At the time of writing, supporters have donated £8,700 to Scooby’s online JustGiving page.

Despite Scooby’s 2-0 win prediction not coming to fruition - Pompey collapsed to a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Queens Park Rangers - he’s ecstatic with the amount of money raised. He said the charity improves the lives of serving personnel to no-end.

“I’ve seen the tremendous work the RNRMC does,” he said. “They epitomise the service of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. They don’t leave anyone behind. I just wanted to give something back to the wider forces family.

“I’ve got one job left, and then I’ll be a veteran. They do so much around Portsmouth and Culdrose. I just wanted to contribute and do my part. I know first-hand how they help families, service children who have lost parents, and just the small things.

“They all add up. Any money that people can donate is brilliant. It’s such a worthy cause. Everyone has been so kind and generous. It restores your faith in humanity.”

You can contribute to the fundraiser online here.

Photos via RNRMC

Article published with kind permission from Freddie Webb

By Patrick Lay

West Ham United v Pompey (League Cup 1^st Round) – Saturday 8^th August 2026

When the new season’s fixtures are released, there is always a buzz of anticipation amongst fans as to when are we are playing that team at home and when are we going to that ground. In a change from the usual curtain raiser, this season the EFL clubs would start the 2026-27 campaign with the League Cup 1^st round. It just so happens that Pompey’s first match happened to be at the gigantic London Stadium (the centrepiece of the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics) as we were drawn away to newly relegated West Ham United in the Southern section of the competition.

It is a trophy both sides are yet to win with Pompey’s best achievement being five quarter final appearances whilst West Ham have twice been finalists.

Cup matches always mean an increased away allocation, and it took Pompey fans within one day of going on sale to snap up all 9,000 of our generous ticket allocation as the Blue Army would descend on Stratford which I was lucky enough to be one of at the incredible bargain price of just £10.

I set off early on Saturday morning to make the journey from Birmingham for one of few away games I have longer to travel to than the majority of our fan base. But before I arrived at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, I hopped on the tube for a history lesson into today’s hosts.

Originally West Ham United FC were called Thames Ironworks FC, born out of Thames Ironworks and Shipbuilding Company (hence the club nicknames ‘The Irons’ and ‘The Hammers’) in 1895 with Oxford Blue as their original jersey colour. In their maiden season as a club, their first ever ground was at Hermit Road in Canning Town (about a 15-minute walk from West Ham tube station). Initially they played just friendly and local cup matches before inducted into the recently formed London League in summer 1896.

However, just a few months later the club I understand they were evicted and the site was then converted into Hermit Road Recreational Ground which its still used as today. Thames Ironworks FC moved temporarily to Browning Road over in East Ham. But happier times occurred as the club moved back to Canning Town to the Memorial Grounds (adjacent to Hermit Road) in 1897 and just a year later joined the Southern League.

It was difficult to pinpoint on Google Maps exactly where their interim abode was in East Ham and as it was now around 1pm, I sensibly got off only at West Ham tube station just to photograph the vast Memorial Grounds a short walk from the station. Today the site is still used for sports recreation, most notably East London Rugby Club as well as other football facilities. Pictured below is a view of this facing south where (on the zoomed in photo) there is a great view of the Canary Wharf skyline.

As Thames Ironworks climbed the Southern League and turned professional, due I understand to rules at the time, Thames Ironworks FC folded in 1900, but club chairman and owner of Thames Ironworks and Shipbuilding Company Arnold Hills founded a certain limited company called West Ham United FC who would take their place in the Southern League. Then a few other key changes took place. Firstly, claret & blue became their new shirt colour in 1903. Then the following year the club were on the move again, this time to open market-garden land just off of Green Street we all know.

As West Ham United grew in stature, they were elected to the Football League shortly after the First World War in 1919 (part of the incredible 30 tenure of manager Syd King) and a year in fact before Pompey were first elected. It was back on the District Line for me to Upton Park station to check out West Ham’s iconic former home and surroundings.

As I exited the station onto Green Street, it was great to see how busy the area remains with a great range of different South Asian shops. Plus the open-air and indoor Queens Market renowned for its mixture of fresh produce, fish, meat, textiles and household goods stalls. Ironically this was formed in 1904 the same year when the ‘Happy Hammers’ moved just down the road.

Next door is one of the most hardcore of West Ham pubs called (funny enough) The Queens that was built around the late 1960s. It is still populated by Hammers fans today on matchdays.

Heading south on Green Street (which incidentally is the boundary between West and East Ham), it isn’t long before the telltale sign of where the football ground used to be with new apartment blocks opposite the late Victorian/Edwardian terraced houses on Green Street.

When the football ground opened in 1904, it was originally called ‘Boleyn Castle’ (subsequently The Boleyn Ground) after the neighbouring Green Street House that existed. According to local legend this was frequented by Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. The former football ground was more broadly referred to as Upton Park after the local area itself and operated as one of the most quintessential football grounds in the UK until the club relocated to the London Stadium a decade ago.

As I wondered through The Hammers former ground, there were predictable nods to the club’s routes with road names like Thunderer Street, Shipbuilding Way and Ironworks Way.

Plus of course the blocks were named after club legends, such as one of their former popular managers who in back-to-back seasons won West Ham the FA Cup, (what is now) the Championship and a League final appearance.

Pictured below is a view of Priory Road which ran behind the legendary Chicken Run terrace along the side at Upton Park. I remember queuing on this road in my only visit to the stadium when Pompey won 4-2 in March 2006 in the Premier League, en route to our ‘Great Escape’ that season.

There are obvious mutual connections between ourselves and West Ham most notably from our Premier League era, but I also learnt that HMS Warrior (situated of course in Portsmouth Harbour) was built by Thames Ironworks and Shipbuilding Company during the Victorian era.

Personally, I’ve always liked West Ham (even if it was heartbreaking when they pipped us to promotion to the Premier League at the final hurdle in 1993). Embedded in the proud working-class East End, culturally their fans are of a similar ilk to Pompey with such a partisan and fierce loyalty to their club. With it’s close proximity to the pitch, Upton Park had a real earthiness to it and had a reputation as one of the most intimidating grounds in the country guaranteed to generate an electric atmosphere.

Many fans outside of this part of the world may have forgotten that since the Taylor Report, West Ham had replaced three sides of Upton Park with contemporary all seater stands. In fact the plush new main stand with executive boxes and of course the mock castle facade was completed as recently as 2001 giving them a modern-day all-seater capacity of 35k.

I was very impressed with these re-developments and as a fan of club who getting a modern-day stadium is still at large, I remember thinking what a great example of not needing to relocate and if they also replaced the remaining old (East) stand with something bigger and better to get it to around 40k this would be one of the best football stadiums in the country. But on reflection, the moment London (and this side of the capital in particular), were confirmed as hosts for the 2012 Summer Olympics was the beginning of the end for the Boleyn Ground. More on that a little later!

Moving onto West Ham’s trophy cabinet, whilst playing at Upton Park The Hammers amassed a respectable collection. After losing in the famous ‘White Horse’ first ever FA Cup final at Wembley in 1923, The Hammers went on to collect their first piece of major silverware of some description with the 1940 War Cup. Ironically there was damage caused in the south west corner of the ground and club offices during The Blitz.

Although West Ham were not one of the traditional historic giants of English football, the club really arrived on the scene at the turn of the 1960s. The North Bank became a covered terrace, boosting the atmosphere even further, then in 1964 the club won the FA Cup for the first time before returning to Wembley the following year to secure the European Cup Winners Cup just for good measure. Two further FA Cups would follow in 1975 and 1980 (the latter making them the last club to date from outside the top flight to do so). Then just three years ago, since relocating across to the London Stadium, they can also boast winning the UEFA Europa Conference League.

Despite becoming a household name over the past 60 odd years, West Ham United are yet to be crowned Champions of England making them (all things considered) surely the biggest and most glamorous club not to have won the title so far. Although in 1986 they achieved a highly commendable third place finish behind two star-studded sides in Liverpool and Everton.

Further kudos for The Hammers is that they are currently one of only eight clubs in England who (since being elected to the Football League) have only ever played in the top two divisions. Plus they remain one of a select few clubs yet to lose to non-league opposition in the FA Cup.

As I wondered back through the new apartment blocks, pictured below, it is nice to see that the old centre circle of the hallowed turf remains along with a plaque to mark this and a time capsule for the most legendary of all West Ham legends.

There was still time to wander down to the far end of Green Street to check out two must see sites that are as claret and blue related as they come. Firstly, The Boleyn Tavern on the junction with Barking Road (built in the late Victorian times) which indeed for home games was one of THE pubs for diehard Hammers fans. Thankfully is still also has a match-day popularity for creatures of habit.

Then on the other side of Barking Road is a revered statue not just for fans of the East End club but England fans as a whole. Known officially as The World Cup Sculpture “The Champions”. This of course depicts four of the heroes of the Three Lions 1966 World Cup winning team. Three of which (Martin Peters, Sir Geoff Hirst and Bobby Moore) need absolutely no introduction for their place in West Ham folklore.

It was time to leave my trip down memory lane and catch the tube over to Stratford and savour the Olympic Park again. Something me and my wife have such lovely memories of from the Paralympics fourteen years ago.

On arrival at Stratford station, there is an instant contemporary feel to the area with the artistic Stratford Shoal sculpture in front of the Stratford shopping centre which was installed ahead of London 2012.

Then as you turn left and cross over railway line you pass through the hugely impressive Westfield shopping centre. In sharp contrast to Upton Park, you could be forgiven for not expecting one moment there to be a football stadium just under a mile walk from this vast retail and entertainment complex. Although as pictured below, a directional sign held up by one of the stewards suggests that maybe there is afterall. Plus a pub and dining room called The Cow which is now one of the match day haunts for Irons fans.

It was once I made my way out of Endeavour Square and across the other railway bridge that I felt real goosebumps as memories of 2012 came flooding back. All of a sudden you see the spectacular sites of the London Aquatics Centre on the left and just behind it the ArcelorMittal Orbit 360 (the tallest sculpture in the UK in fact). Then of course the Olympic (London) Stadium itself. What an amazing time summer of honour and togetherness that was for our country that I would love to see much more of again.

As I followed the crowds on Stratford Walk, I took another selfie to rubber stamp my memory of the day. Plus a photo of Waterworks River (facing north) underneath with a party boat of Hammers fans no doubt embroidering their first game of the season.

With so much to pack into the day, there was no time to relax and enjoy the lovely green open spaces on the Olympic Park. So much so that I tactically ate my lunchtime meal deal on the tube en route to East London to save time. I still just about had time to go the extra mile (literally), by heading to the other end of the park to see the fabulous velodrome (Lee Valley VeloPark). But firstly passed by the distinctive looking V&A East Museum which only opened in April this year. For those who know your UK architecture, it reminded me at first glance of the elephant building in Coventry. This cultural, creativity and heritage venue (which incredibly is free admission) is definitely one for the bucket list another time I’m in London.

Lee Valley VeloPark is another fantastic structure that I just about had time to photograph as it was half two and required a sprint into the blazing heat to get to the stadium on time – Sir Mo Farrah and Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, eat your heart out!

After making my way through the security checks on London Way I inadvertently stumbled on the imposing looking Olympic bell.

It was time for my own final lap as I got a close up snap of the stadium’s exterior before getting to my seat for the players entrance with minutes to spare. Never in doubt, hey!

As you first enter the stadium (in my case the lower tier of the Sir Trevor Brooking Stand) you can’t help but be blown away by its magnitude and immersive feeling with the bowl effect. Plus the striking triangular floodlights retained from London 2012 after the stadium was re-roofed for its use for football.

It was time for the new season as the players made their way out to West Ham club anthem ‘I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles ‘over the PA system which was matched equal by the vociferous Pompey Chimes from the 9,000 travelling Blue Army as our players came to greet us in their new yellow and blue away kit.

As the game got underway there was some good attacking play from both sides with Pompey playing without fear against a side who have still retained some key players from the Premier League last season.

Pompey won a couple of corners in the opening minutes but were unable capitalise. Then after six minutes, following some good built-up play from the back, Adrian Segečić played a nice ball through to Colby Bishop who was in on goal, but the Pompey striker was adjudged to have fouled defender Konstantinos Mavropanos as the Hammers were awarded a free kick. There were no clear-cut chances in the opening exchanges, although Nicholas Schmid made a comfortable save from Edson Álvarez’s header following a corner.

Midway through the first half the players broke for a now familiar hydration break which was greeted with boos from the supporters. I have mixed feelings about this as although there is some controversy over this, not least of all with it disrupting the game’s rhythm, I do think in such heat like we’ve had this summer they are a sensible idea.

When play resumed, Pompey continued to attack and on 33 minutes got the crucial breakthrough. From debutant Rocco Shein’s corner, the ball was headed away by Maximilian Kilman only as far as that man Adrian Segečić who chested the ball down and fired a fizzing left foot shot which deflected off Kilman and into the corner of Mads Hermansen’s net as 9,000 Pompey fans erupted at the other end.

Could the upset be on? Pompey continued to press in a bid to double their lead and on 42 minutes Shein won the ball in midfield and let fly from a similar distance to Segečić’s opener, but keeper Hermansen parried before gathering the loose ball.

But what might have been a two-goal cushion saw the game turn on its head within a minute. Hermansen rolled the ball out and patient build up play from the back saw the ball played through to Mohamadou Kanté who after some clever footwork turned both Terry Devlin and Regan Poole to cut back to Taty Castellanos who side footed home a good finish into the corner to equalise.

The leveller gave West Ham the impetus and just two minutes later after some attacking play by Pablo, the ball broke to captain Jarrod Bowen whose long-range shot took a deflection off the head of Conor Shaughnessy to deceive Schmid and put The Hammers in the lead.

It was frustrating to concede twice so near to the interval especially as John Mousinho’s side had applied themselves so well for the majority of the first half and had deservedly been in front. But it was the home side who went into the break with the advantage.

HT: West Ham United 2-1 Pompey

During the half time break it was nice to see a montage of birthdays on the big screen of Hammers’ fans birthdays with West Ham fan Joseph J Jones’ ‘Never Take The East End Out Of Me’ played over them which I understand is a modern-day club anthem as well. A nice and very fitting touch.

When the second half commenced, it was one-way traffic from the home side and just three minutes in they twice may have got their third goal. Firstly, some neat one touches between Pablo and Bowen into the box set up Castellanos, but Devlin got in well to make a crucial block. But The Hammers won the ball back as Kyle Walker-Peters threaded the ball to Pablo and as the ball fell to Lewis Orford, his shot from a tight angle had to pushed out for a corner by Schmid.

The reprieve was short-lived though as on 50 minutes the hosts extended their lead after some good work again by Walker-Peters saw him play the ball through to Bowen to deliver an inviting cross for Castellanos to plant a free header into the corner for his brace as Nuno Espirito Santo’s side went 3-1 up and en route to a place in the next round.

Three goals in seven minutes either side of the break was quite alarming as Mousinho made his first substitution with striker Thomas Waddingham coming on for debutant Luke Brooke-Smith.

Pompey didn’t give up trying to get back into the game and shortly after Ebou Adams squared nicely for Segečić who surged forward but his shot from distance went straight at Hermansen.

Moments later, substitute Waddingham picked up a nasty ankle injury after a challenge by Ollie Scarles as play was stopped whilst he received treatment. So just eight minutes after coming off the bench, Waddingham requested to come off as new midfielder Eoin Kenny replaced him on the hour mark for his first Pompey appearance.

Mousinho coincided this with a treble substitution with further debuts handed to midfielder Odin Bailey who replaced Zak Swanson, whilst Luke Le Roux made way for new striker Marko Milovanović (AKA Marezi). Kenny and Bailey made promising starts with some good runs into the box and efforts on goal.

Segečić looked dangerous every time he burst forward and almost set up Marezi who was unable to direct his header on target after his cross deflected off the back of Mavropanos.

Shortly after the second half drinks break, West Ham made two substitutions themselves with Álvarez being withdrawn for left back El Hadji Malick Diouf. Then Kante was swapped for a certain James Ward-Prowse. Who’d have guessed the Pompey fans would remind him how they feel about him being such a Southampton stalwart.

As time was ticking by for a Pompey comeback, Segečić got another shot in which the Hermansen held. Then Bailey drove a fierce shot just wide of Hermansen’s upright. John Swift was Pompey’s final substitute as the midfielder was brought on for Bishop.

West Ham might have added a fourth in stoppage time when Kilman intercepted another Pompey attack and surged forward from defence to play in Walker-Peters forcing a decent save from Schmid as Bailey back defending got in a good block from Bowen’s follow up. 4-1 would have flattered West Ham in an afternoon where Pompey had some fine attacking play at times considering they were facing such a talented and expensive side with so much Premier League quality. But the home side progressed and ironically for us will now play Southampton away in the second round.

FT: West Ham United 3-1 Pompey

Att: 53,369 (9,000 Pompey fans)

With such a tremendous attendance (a record ever for the League Cup 1^st Round), there is something to be said for having this as a new opening day tradition for EFL clubs. It offers a nice run out for the players before the league itself starts and the chance of course for a cup run of sorts in a major competition (even if there is such a slim chance of clubs outside the Premier League winning it). With such good concessions offered like Saturday for everyone (including in some cases Under 18s only paying £1), this is ideal for kids in the school summer holiday.

Although not every club will draw a club like West Ham away, playing this on a Saturday in August as the first game back since May is always going to attract better gate receipts than in midweek once the league itself has started.

Now I mentioned earlier that I would go more in depth on how London winning the bid to host the summer Olympics effectively saw the end of Upton Park. After a comprehensive look around both the former site earlier and the Olympic Park vicinity, I could have written the entire blog weighing up the pros and cons of this relocation. In fact I could do a 10,000-word final year degree dissertation on the subject and would still feel conflicted. But here is my briefer analysis.

It’s well documented that the London Stadium is still yet to really feel like a football stadium as you’d expect from a structure built originally to host track and field athletics at London 2012. So cue the predictable chants from away fans (not just Pompey of course) that the hosts in a manner of speaking “sold their soul” to play here.

I’ve never been a fan of two-tiered stands behind the goal as I think it breaks up the atmosphere. But owing to the fact that the stadium was constructed for the purpose of track and field Athletics and as part of the Olympic legacy is still used for the World Athletics Diamond League and the London Grand Prix. This means a large gap exists between the lower and upper tiers to allow for the retractable seating in the lower tiers giving it a very detached feeling. The polar opposite to the intimate Upton Park.

Invariably it goes against the grain for fans to see their club relocate. But this is not a new thing as around a third of ‘The 92’ in England have opted to since the Taylor Report. For all the charisma and atmosphere of Fratton Park, if we’re to be pragmatic, it’s highly likely we too would have followed suit if Portsmouth wasn’t so incredibly land starved.

London Stadium is one the best athletics venues in the world, but in it’s current format is far from your regular football stadium. But with the opportunity to increase their attendances by nearly 80% and be more competitive with the big hitters of English football, which club is ever going to shrug their shoulders at this? Upton Park was such a wonderful footballing day out and sorely missed by Hammers fans and visitors, but for context its record ever attendance of 42k was still more than 10k less than Saturday’s record ever League Cup 1^st round attendance.

Such a substantial amount of money was spent on transforming the huge redundant and derelict brownfield site of Lower Lea Valley once London 2012 was confirmed. So the stadium, surrounding developments and lovely new landscaped grounds on site had to still be kept in use. With respect to Leyton Orient or indeed Tottenham Hotspur at one point, it was only West Ham United who geographically and realistically could have used this stadium.

Upton Park was such a wonderful footballing day out with character pouring out of its ears. It is sorely missed by Hammers fans and visitors and many I’m sure would go back there in a heartbeat if they could. But even if they could this would be a much smaller capacity than what is available now. I guess Everton fans (as things stand) are the only ones who are in a position to say which of their old or new addresses they prefer.

There is no easy answer to this unique situation. To make it more of a football stadium, i.e. building a continuous tier at each end, is a non -starter due to the Olympic legacy. In fact just last week London put its name in the hat to host the 2029 World Athletics championships which it would be tailor made for.

My guess is all fans should enjoy the fabulous facilities available in the immediate surroundings, appreciate the wonderful stadium structure which it is and where possible try to create an atmosphere (until there is some other solution for the stadium profile) even if it seems a world apart from the much-loved compact terraces at Upton Park.

After grabbing a much-needed water as I made my way out of the stadium, I decided as I was exceedingly pressed for time before the game to properly enjoy the outdoor tranquillity of the Olympic Park and allowed for the crowds to disperse, it was a no brainer to make the most of the sites again starting with a great close up of the ArcelorMittal Orbit 360.

As well as the panoramic views you can enjoy across the capital (20 mile on a clear day) from the top of this 80-metre sculpture, there is also the 178-metre-long Helix tunnel slide to enjoy. Another bucket list thing for me one day.

I then wandered back up towards the Lee Valley VeloPark to take in (as pictured below), a nice picturesque view of the River Lea (a tributary of course for the River Thames) facing north from Eastcross bridge.

As I grabbed myself a coffee from Brew Street Cafe and Bar - Timber lodge, I felt even more vindicated by having this extra time here as I saw on Google Maps two iconic landmarks as permanent memories of London 2012 which symbolise so much inspiration.

Pictured below, the Olympic Rings situated on a grass mound just before the former Velodrome. Then back over by Eastcross bridge, the Paralympic Agitos.

Whatever people’s opinions are on the London Stadium as a football venue (particularly in the upper tier behind the goal). You can’t fail but to feel inspired by the London 2012 legacy and just how much it has transformed this part of the capital.

As I made my way across on the tube from Stratford and subsequently Birmingham, it was time to look forward to the new league season and hopefully consolidating our status as a Championship club with the visit of Queens Park Rangers on Saturday. Pompey will be looking to avenge our 6-1 capitulation at Loftus Road in March, whilst The R’s will be searching for their first win at PO4 since the final day of the 1999-2000 season.

Meanwhile, West Ham’s quest for an instant return to Premier League starts with a trip to Turf Moor as The Hammers take on fellow relegated side Burnley. PUP PPU.

As the new season beckons, we delve into another edition of Why Pompey.

Memories, reasons why, decisions made, along with just “I was born”.

Have a read through and let us know why you became a Pompey fan in the comments below.

More to come from Pompey fans in this Why Pompey series.

Jason Cromey: I’ve always based it on where you live, where you were born and where you spent most of your time growing up. For me that ends up being about 3 clubs I support. 2 city clubs, 1 town club. Portsmouth, Chichester and Havant & Waterlooville FC.

Stephen Berry: By being born in Portsmouth in 1960, in Sackville Street, Somers Town, that is why I support Pompey and no one else.

Robbie Jones: It was either Portsmouth or foster care.

Dave Gisby: Born there like both sides of the family, only team to ever support, it’s part of who you are, Pompey.

Cheryl Neale: It’s my DNA.

Marcus Cover: Dad, grandfather and uncles! First went to FP in 1963.

Kevin Lason: Born and bred in Portsmouth been supporting pompey since I went to my first game when I was six years old the buzz the atmosphere got me hooked.

Helen Pritchard: With my dad from 1974 at the age of 6 , now passed down to my son, although we have always had the joy of living in an SO postcode! 😂💙

Ian McTeer: In 1972, I was 8, my dad took me as a treat for doing well at something at school. Stood in the North Lower - Portsmouth v Bristol City. I can’t remember the score, just the big blue programme that was 10p, Peter Marinello, Norman Piper and Ian St John the manager.

Darren Trivett: Born in St Mary’s Hospital in 1973 both my parents supported them I’ve supported them ever since.

Philip Smith: 1960 behind Milton End goal. Can’t remember if Uprichard was still in goal but pretty sure Milkins was not far away. Attended games religiously til coming to Oz in 89 and still fanatically interested. PUP.

Kenny Simmons: The 1st game I was taken to was when I was 10 that was back in 1973 and still go now with my sons. PUP.

Austin Brine: Lived in the Eastleigh area all my life, dad from Gosport/Pompey so not by choice it’s in the blood. PUP.

Doc Scrumpy: Born and bred, literally suckled at my mother’s breast. 😂😂😂

Andy Sargeant: Wasn’t born here but have lived here for over 35 years Live very close to Fratton Park. PUP!

Rob Emery: Born into it, from father to son, it’s in the blood.💙 when I was a kid, the whole family went to Fratton Park, especially evening games, aunties, uncles, cousins ,💙🤍❤️

David Harman: My Godfather took me and my brother to every Pompey home match of the 94/95 & 95/96 season … Forever grateful 🙏🏽

Nigel Pfc Dutfield: December 1978 v Reading at Fratton Park 4.0.

Raymond Attword: I was born.

John Hookey: Lived here all my life support your local team, raised to love Pompey from my Dad and will never change Portsmouth til I die.

Kevin Bowden: Grandad was a Pompey fan and took me to my first game aged 4 in 1958, been a fan ever since PUP.

Ashley Haggard: My dad Derek Haggard and my uncle Martin Haggard taking me over as a young child, was never going to be anyone else 🤙 up the blues 🔵⚪️

Suzanne Simmons: Born in Pompey all family are fans its what we grew up with.

Neil Hawkins: Fan of your local team especially when most of your family are season ticket holders.

Sean Lannon: Should be why aren’t you a POMPEY fan.

Archibald Nutsack: When I was just a little boy, I asked my mother, what should I be.....and that was that 💙

Lee Hosey: I went to Fratton Park to see my first every Pompey game - thank you very much for my mate Michael Clifton for taking me, but I can’t remember the year of course too long to remember lol👍 [Michael Clifton: Your welcome mate 👍 and 2002 Championship Winning season! 😃]

Michael Faro: Born & Bred in Bedhampton in 1952 with family throughout Pompey from Eastney, Southsea, Copnor, Buckland & Milton! PUP!

Jon Leahy: Dad worked there in the 80 88 years under Bobby Cambell then Alan Ball School of Excellence.

Martyn Jones: Born there.

Tom Powers: When at school my friend said let’s go watch football, let’s go watch Scum, so I said yes, we couldn’t get tickets but he said I can get free tickets to watch Portsmouth, so we watched Pompey and every week after that. Phew lucky escape😬.

Sarah Roberts: On a first date 16 years ago...shared the Pompey love for 3 years then split...but I still have a season ticket all these years later! 🥰

Susan Turner: I went with my Dad back in the early 60’s.

Mike Hawkesworth: Born there in 1944!

Barry Clarke: Last home game of 77/78 season v PNE, I was 10..Pompey already relegated to Div.4. Lived on IOW, one of my dad’s mates was a season ticket holder in the South stand and invited us to the game. Lost 1 -0 , it didn’t matter , I’d found my football home.

Alf Pharoah: Pompey born Pompey bred always a blue Never a red PUP.

Jess Ferris: Grew up in Pompey, really got into it in college when met some fellow pompey fans and being a girl who liked football was accepted.

Calem Jones: Mitzi Barber Dean Barber ptid went to my first game with you.

Mark Walden: Born into the Blue Army.

Kenneth Churchill: When I came to HMS Vernon in 1970 I come from Kent PUP.

Kingsley Nnadi: It all started in 2003 when my uncle took me to a viewing centre to watch Pompey vs Man United at Fratton Park, Steve Stone with the only goal in the match. Pompey won, I fall in love with the atmosphere, the chant, the buzzing all threw the match and that’s how I become a die hard fan till this day.. 💙💙💪🏿💪🏿 Play up POMPEY.

Martin Parker: 1963 v Scum it’s in your blood.

Billy Miller: Dad took me 1994 when I was 6, remember watching Pompey at home! Watching Sammy Igoe in midfield 💙⚓️

Robert Endean: Born in St Mary’s hospital. My Dad and my Uncle took me to my first home game sixty odd years ago and I was hooked. Moved away in the 80s but continued to go. Stopped going when the criminals took over and only go occasionally now.

Jay Hughes: Brother took me to a game and loved it so went a lot more.

Graham McCloud: My Dad worked on the gates and took me with him, loved it, sat in South Stand near to offices from 1/2 hour before gates opened, until he joined me mid way through 2nd half, no mobiles then he had to tell me where to sit and don’t move. This was Ray Hiron and Nicky Piper Era. Loved it. Never forget it , PUP.

Aaron Stone: I was a Liverpool supporter, 1992, Liverpool Pompey FA Cup, 2 games, then extra time, Liverpool won, I saw how passionate the Pompey team played, as I was young when I chose Liverpool, I soon changed to Pompey, as I was from Pompey , my first ever game to see pompey, I was 13, Birmingham, Pompey won 4-0, what a game that was, Pompey ever since, over 30yrs plus and proud.

Karen Lewis: My Dad took me as a small child in the 80s, I loved the atmosphere the thrill of the game and in that moment a lifelong love of Pompey was created.

Andy McInnes: My two big brothers took me in 1968 and it felt so special and my Nan n Pops got me the 2 Pompey kits of that season, which are still my favourite kits to this day⚽🙏

Judith Gibson: Born in Portsmouth so became my home team....

Nicholas Green: Lived right near Fratton Park, moved over from Gosport. Many scraps in the 80’s with the scummers. Now live in the Midlands, miss the Portsea lads.

Steven Jones: I was born.

Richard Chappell: My partner is from Portsmouth but we live in Gloucestershire she took me to my first game in Dec 2019 and the atmosphere was amazing sat near the front of the Fratton End been hooked ever since then lots of ups and downs but what an amazing group of fans ...PUP.

Michael Jakins: My Dad wasn’t a footie fan. But 2 of my uncles were. One Cambridge Utd and one Pompey. There was huge rivalry between the 2 brothers. I lived near Cambridge and that Uncle took me to matches when I was a boy. His Pompey fan brother kept saying we must get him to Fratton Park. When I was older and driving, I went to Fratton. I was hooked, smitten. Never looked back. When my Cambridge uncle found out he barely spoke to me the rest of his life. He never got over it.

Kevin Shelley: Dad took me to fa cup replay against Fulham in 1968 with Pompey winning 1-0 Mike Trebilcock with the goal in front of a Fratton crowd of 44,050 instantly drawn in hook line and sinker. Pompey till I die PUP.

Commander Andrew “Scooby” Plenty, a Royal Navy officer with more than 33 years of service, is preparing to walk more than 300 miles from RNAS Culdrose Football Club in Cornwall to Portsmouth FC’s Fratton Park, raising vital funds for the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC).

The 15-day challenge, starting on 1 August 2026, combines two lifelong passions - Royal Navy football and Portsmouth Football Club - while supporting a charity that has made a lasting impact throughout his career.

Scooby joined the Royal Navy in 1993 as a Naval Airman 2nd Class Meteorological and Oceanographic Observer before commissioning as an Air Traffic Control Officer in 2001. He now serves as the Air Traffic Management SO1 in Force Generation Naval Aviation Division at Navy Command Headquarters.

Originally from the Isle of Wight, he has lived in Cornwall since joining RNAS Culdrose, where he met his wife, Vicky, who was serving as a WRNS METOC in the Met Office. Married for 30 years, they have two children and two young grandchildren.

Alongside his Naval career, Scooby is Chairperson of RNAS Culdrose FC, Vice-Chairperson of the Royal Navy Football Association and Chairperson of the Portsmouth Armed Forces Supporters Club. The fundraising walk will mark an emotional farewell as he steps down from his chairperson roles.

As Chairperson of a Service Unit Sports Club at RNAS Culdrose FC, Scooby has seen the direct impact of RNRMC funding through improvements to the club’s sports pavilion, creating a more versatile space that benefits Service personnel and the wider Naval community.

Choosing to support RNRMC was an easy decision.

“I’ve seen first-hand the incredible work that RNRMC does across the Naval Service, particularly at RNAS Culdrose,” said Scooby. “I’ve also seen the fantastic support provided by Veterans Outreach Support in Portsmouth. I wanted to give something back to a charity that genuinely improves the lives of serving personnel, veterans and their families.”

While Scooby expects the opening stages along Cornwall’s rugged South West Coast Path to be among the toughest, the challenge has already had a positive impact, improving his mental and physical wellbeing and giving him a renewed sense of purpose through training.

“ I am under no illusions how physically challenging this is going to be,” he admitted. “I’m no spring chicken, but I think the biggest challenge will be mental. The Cornish coastline will test me early on, but I’m glad that’s at the start rather than the finish.”

As a lifelong Portsmouth FC supporter who regularly travels home and away to follow the club, Scooby already knows the moment he is most looking forward to.

“Walking up Goldsmith Avenue and onto Frogmore Road before arriving at Fratton Park will be incredibly special. That’s the moment I’ve been imagining throughout my training.”

Scooby hopes his challenge will inspire others to push themselves in support of the Naval community.

“My advice is to plan early, train gradually and don’t worry if you never feel completely ready. I don’t think anyone is ever 100 per cent prepared for a challenge like this - but that’s part of the experience.”

For Scooby, Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity represents the very best of the Naval family.

“RNRMC reflects the Royal Navy and Royal Marines as a community - looking out for each other, looking after our own and leaving no one behind.”

As he embarks on this remarkable 300-mile journey from Culdrose to Fratton Park, every step will help ensure RNRMC can continue supporting serving personnel, veterans and families whenever they need it most.

If you’d like to support Scooby’s Pompey Pilgrimage, visit his fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/andrew-plenty-1

Hugh and Freddie provide their first impressions of Pompey’s summer transfer business to date as preparations continue for the 2026/27 Championship campaign.

The duo look at the six signings so far, discussing what each player could bring to John Mousinho’s squad and how they could fit into Pompey’s plans.

The episode also reflects on the departures from the club, as well as the potential signing of Hull City’s Abu Kamara which continues to rumble on.

With the Championship season fast approaching, Hugh and Freddie assess how the squad is shaping up, highlighting areas of strength and where further additions could still be needed.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple and Soundcloud: www.linktr.ee/pompeynewsnow

You can support the podcast here.

Portsmouth Football Club, a fundamental part of the only island city in Great Britain.

Ahead of the new season, we recently asked “How did you become a Pompey fan” on our social media channels and responses were aplenty - here’s the first part.

Trevor Bulbeck - My uncle took me to my first match in 1957 and the animal got its teeth into me and been shaking me ever since

Sharon Ratcliff - Born and bred

Michael Dodge - First went with my dad in 1957 against Man City and again to see Blackburn Rovers, that was the last time before he died in October 1958. Been going ever since. During my RAF days was able to see them whenever they played a local team near me. Pup

Steve Beech - My late step father took me to a game stood on a milk crate in the north terrace, I was hooked. My mates at school all supported Liverpool, Man Utd, Chelsea - I was the old Nationwide Div 1 Pompey fan, looking back was the only one in class 🤣.

Pauline Alymer - My dad took me and my best friend to a game in 1963 when we were 12 years old. I can’t remember who we played, or what the score was, but we were both hooked. We later became Pompey Hostesses and played in the ladies football team. Mick Williams was our Manager and trainer.

Kelly Hickman - Born, and grew up, in Grayshott Rd, didn’t really have a choice.😅

Sally Cobb - My husband Nick has always been a Pompey fan and he started taking our son Liam to games from when he was 10 years old and are both still season ticket holders in the North stand lower. Our son is now 34 so he has been going for 24 years and hubby has been going for over 40 years, PUP in the blood 🩵🩵

Richard Archbold - Dad came down here during the war from Sheffield, loved his football. Took me to Fratton Park in 1963. Loved every minute of it, now I work there

Steve Hatcher - Got the Pompey bug in the 1973/74 season after the demise of Guildford City!

David Vaughan - My dad took me in late 40s, he was from Cosham, I’m now into my 80s but Pompey will always be my team. Blue Army👏

Klaus Fekkes - When I visited Portsmouth with my beloved wife Riemke, we stayed at Ibis next to Fratton. I got interested in Pompey and its history. Over the years I followed the results online but never watched a match! Until this year. I watched Pompey Watford (2-2) and Pompey Ipswich (2-0). I enjoyed every minute! Fantastic atmosphere and nice chats with the fans around me at Fratton end. I will defenitely come back next season when visiting my family in Portsmouth! Hopefully watching a top ten team then!

Jane Sawkins - I worked in Weston Harts and supplied the records, to Pompey and they played them at half time! I got free tickets, and have loved Pompey ever since PTID

Phil Hopes - My grandparents from the 30s, my parents from the 40s and I first went with my dad in 1963-64 season as a 4 year old. My own 2 boys both went when they were 3, they’re 41 & 43 now. Every one of us is Pompey born and bred. Pompey is in our DNA. It’s a calling that chooses you and none of my family would have it any other way. Pompey til we die 💙

Russ Gafney - My Dad took me to my first game against Huddersfield in the league cup in 1968 - that was it I was hooked.

Antony Davis - My Dad was born there. Took me aged 12 to watch them in the old Fratton end terrace. I saw Guy Whittingham score 4 goals and was hooked ever since.

Josephine Carse - My Dad used to lift me over the turnstiles from about age 4. Been a fan ever since x

Steve Roberts - I lodged for three years in nearby Walmer Rd as a student at the then College of Technology in1967. The Fratton Park roars enticed me to go and I was hooked from then on. PUP 💙

Steven Tolson-Stainer - Families team and born in Pompey

Jason Cromer - I’ve always based it on where you live, where you were born and where you spent most of your time growing up. For me that ends up being about 3 clubs I support. 2 city clubs, 1 town club. Portsmouth, Chichester and Havant & Waterlooville FC.

David Shepstone - Its where ya born👍 blue blood 😂😂😂

Anthony Robinson - In Australia. Played FIFA and Fratton Park was in the game. Then found out about the fans buying the club and thought what a story! Definitely a club and fanbase I could get around.

Key dates confirmed so far, with pre-season friendlies also to be updated once known.

15/6: Summer transfer window opens

25/6: Pompey return for pre-season training

25/6: EFL 2025/26 fixtures released - 12 midday

25/6: Carabao Cup 1st round draw - 4:30pm

By 2/7, TV selections will be announced in respect of all live broadcast matches to be played before the end of September 2026

5/7 - 12/7: Summer training camp

14/7: Woking (A)

15/7: Aldershot (A)

18/7: Bristol Rovers (A)

25/7: Baffins Milton Rovers (H) * behind closed doors

25/7: Wycombe Wanderers (A) 4pm

29/7: Farnborough (A) - 7pm

By 31/7, TV selections will be confirmed in respect of all live broadcast matches to be played up to, and including, the weekend of 8-11 January 2027

1/8: Darmstadt (A) - 1pm (BST) / 2pm (CET)

4/8: Moneyfields (A) - 7:45pm *

7/8 - 9/8: Carabao Cup 1st round

15/8: EFL Championship 2026/27 KO - QPR (H) 3pm - Full fixtures below

1/9: Summer transfer window closes - 11pm

21/9 - 6/10: International break

By 6/11, TV selections shall be announced in respect of all matches to be played up to, and including, the midweek of 2-3 March 2027

9/11 - 17/11: International break

1/1: Winter transfer window open

9/1: FA Cup 3rd round

1/2: Winter transfer window closes - 11pm

By 5/2, TV selections for matches scheduled for the weekend of 5-8 March 2027 will be announced, followed by weekly announcements looking four-weeks ahead

22/3 - 30/3: International break

TV selections for matches scheduled for the penultimate weekend of the regular season will be announced three weeks in advance

TV selections for matches scheduled for the final weekend of the regular season will be announced the week prior

1/5 (likely moved to 2/5) - Final games of the regular season

TBC: Championship Play-Off Final

* Pompey Academy

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