Portsmouth boss Whittingham defends fans after pitch invasion

Portsmouth manager Guy Whittingham leapt to the defence of supporters who invaded the pitch at full-time at Griffin Park.

Hundreds of away fans stormed onto field at the final whistle after their side conceded two late goals to lose 3-2 against Brentford.

But Whittingham insisted it was done in celebration, given that ownership of the club has been secured by supporters after a long period in administration.

“No-one wants to see that happen but it is not done in a violent way,” he said.

“It is done because they are celebrating the club and I hope people appreciate that, because it’s about the euphoria surrounding things at Portsmouth at the moment.

“The situation at the club has not been going on for the last 13 or 14 months, it’s been happening for four years, and unfortunately things spilled onto pitch at the end.”

Whittingham added: “To have your own supporters run the club is what everybody wanted and hopefully the club can finally turn the corner now.

“We know there is every chance we will be in League Two next season but we know even from that we can build on and push forward again.”

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