Stevenage lost 2-1 at League One leaders Portsmouth on New Year's Day.

In front of an official Fratton Park attendance of 18,891 - including 582 who made the trip from North Herts on the first day of 2024 - Paddy Lane gave John Mousinho's home side the lead.

Lane's 12th minute goal was cancelled out when Boro equalised through Louis Thompson's 26th minute effort, assisted by Jamie Reid.

However, 22-year-old Northern Ireland international Lane set up Pompey No9 Colby Bishop, whose 33rd minute goal was to prove to be the winner under the heavy south coast rain.

Boro No4 Nathan Thompson was sent off late on for a reckless challenge moments before Stevenage boss Steve Evans was also sent off.

The result saw Pompey consolidate top spot in the third tier while Boro slipped out of the promotion places.