Portsmouth's player of the season Matt Clarke has warned Sunderland that he and his team-mates are confident of turning the tie around after their 1-0 first-leg play-off defeat.
Ahead of the fifth meeting between Pompey and the Black Cats this season, the home side need to recreate the impressive performances that saw them top the table for long periods of the campaign.
"It’s up to us to take the game to Sunderland, doing whatever we can to win the game and go through," said Clarke, speaking to Portsmouth FC’s official website.
"There wasn’t a lot in the first leg, which was lacking many clear-cut chances, and we know we can go toe-to-toe with them.
"We’re obviously aware that nothing less than a win will do and the next goal in the tie will likely be important."
Portsmouth have already beaten Sunderland in a high-stakes game this season, when they came out on top in a penalty shootout at Wembley to lift the Checkatrade Trophy.
Clarke expects a good atmosphere from the Pompey faithful at Fratton Park, which has sold out for tonight’s game.
"These games have so much riding on them, so you can understand if the atmosphere gets a bit tense at times," he added.
"But we’re hoping that with the second leg game being at home on Thursday evening, it will work to our advantage.
"I remember when we played Plymouth in the play-offs at Fratton Park a few years ago and there was some atmosphere that night."
Portsmouth vs Sunderland team selector: Risk McGeady? Maguire to start? Pick your team
Sunderland vs Portsmouth: A story of red cards, penalties and a simmering rivalry
