Cup run magic for Pompey

PORTSMOUTH veteran Hermann Hreidarsson ranks this season’s magical FA Cup run as a greater achievement than winning the competition two years ago.

Hreidarsson was one of three survivors from the 2008 team who helped defeat Birmingham 2-0, earning a place at Wembley for the semi-finals and writing a new chapter in the campaign of chaos at Fratton Park.

Pompey have the threat of a nine-point deduction hanging over them for entering administration, with their chances of survival in the Premier League already slim.

Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs are also trying to wind the club up but Avram Grant’s players have given themselves something to play for and are within sight of silverware.

‘‘Without a doubt it’s a greater achievement than two years ago,’’ said Hreidarsson.

‘‘Even though we beat Manchester United away that season, with the changes of personnel at the club and everything else going on, it’s a great achievement.

‘‘It’s been frustrating because we didn’t know who the owners were or what was going on. There have been negative vibes and doom and gloom throughout the season.

But, when you go over the white line, you concentrate on playing football.’’ Returning to the national stadium will offer a reminder of where it started to go wrong for Pompey.

From the team that defeated Cardiff, the likes of Glen Johnson, Sylvain Distin, Lassana Diarra, Sulley Muntari and Niko Kranjcar have moved on, but, without former owner Alexandre Gaydamak’s backing, the club have been in financial turmoil and are looking for their fifth owner this season.

‘‘It’s difficult to describe the last two years,’’ Hreidarsson said. ‘‘It’s probably inevitable with the players that we signed, unless you have really deep pockets. You need money in the club and, where it’s gone wrong, I’m not sure.

‘‘Of course it annoys me but, with what is going on at other clubs as well, it makes you wonder who is running them. How does it always end like this?’’ Against Birmingham, Frederic Piquionne’s two secondhalf goals made the difference, with the Frenchman determined to prove himself while on loan from Lyon.

‘‘I am not young and this year is very important for me,’’ he said. ‘‘I am 31 now but I am not finished. I want to show everyone in France that I am not finished. I am trying to play well here and I want to stay in England.’’ At the final whistle there was an outpouring of emotion from players and manager Grant.