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Thousands of fans run on pitch as Pompey regain Championship spot after 12 years

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Pompey seal League One title in dramatic fashion as rookie boss celebrates
Pompey seal League One title in dramatic fashion as rookie boss celebrates

THOUSANDS of home fans charged onto the pitch to celebrate Portsmouth sealing a Championship return after 12 years with a stunning late comeback win.

And Tuesday's 3-2 victory over Barnsley also means John Mousinho has clinched the League One title - just 15 months into his first managerial job.

Home supporters went crazy on the pitch after the final whistle eidqiukiqkeprw
Home supporters went crazy on the pitch after the final whistleCredit: Getty
Tino Anjorin was mobbed afterwards by joyous Portsmouth followers
Tino Anjorin was mobbed afterwards by joyous Portsmouth followersCredit: Getty
Supporters engulfed the pitch in celebration
Supporters engulfed the pitch in celebrationCredit: Rex

Supporters streamed out into the middle on the final whistle at famous Fratton Park, with hundreds more of the 19,960 crowd belting out songs in the stands.

After trailing twice, a penalty from Colby Bishop and a dramatic finish from Conor Shaughnessy clinched glory for Pompey in the last seven minutes.

Fans then headed onto the grass - leaving a square space in the middle where players and staff were hailed in wild scenes.

Man Utd icon Rooney seen at Wigan vs Hull supporting ex-Derby assistant RoseniorMan Utd icon Rooney seen at Wigan vs Hull supporting ex-Derby assistant Rosenior

The 2008 FA Cup winners are eight points clear of second-placed Derby with two games remaining.

Bolton, in third spot, were held 2-2 at home by lowly Shrewsbury.

That leaves Wanderers three points adrift of the Rams.

Pompey's triumph is a remarkable achievement for 37-year-old Mousinho.

The ex-Brentford, Wycombe and Burton defender quit as Oxford United player-coach in January 2023 to take the Portsmouth job.

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Manager John Mousinho enjoys his amazing achievement
Manager John Mousinho enjoys his amazing achievementCredit: Rex

Pompey chief executive Andrew Cullen said Mousinho's leadership and motivational skills were major reasons for the bold appointment - on a long-term contract.

Devante Cole had stunned Portsmouth fans by stabbing his 18th league goal of the season for Barnsley in the sixth minute.

Kusini Yengi soon smashed Pompey level.

Talks set for huge shake-up that could see Community Shield played ABROADTalks set for huge shake-up that could see Community Shield played ABROAD

But with the Tykes remaining a threat on the break, John McAtee coolly slotted the visitors in front just before the hour.

Eventually, however, hungry Portsmouth turned it around.

Sub Christian Saydee was tripped for Bishop to slot a spot-kick equaliser.

And Shaughnessy was the surprise matchwinner on 89 minutes.

Fans hail Conor Shaughnessy after his 89th-minute winner
Fans hail Conor Shaughnessy after his 89th-minute winnerCredit: Rex
Colby Bishop hails his match-turning late penalty
Colby Bishop hails his match-turning late penaltyCredit: PA

Ian Tuckey

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