Striker Jonathan Obika says he feels Morecambe’s grit and work rate were strong following defeat against Portsmouth.
Two goals either side of the half-time break courtesy of Marcus Harness and Connor Ogilvie respectively proved the difference between the teams, although Obika says he was impressed with his team’s performance.
“There was a lot of grit to the performance,” he said.
“I feel like the work rate was strong, but ultimately, we need to score goals and that’s probably what we’re disappointed by.
“Until the second goal, that was the sucker punch, we still looked in the game, it was quite annoying, the ball didn’t quite fall in the box for us, it was bouncing a few times.
“Two away games against tough opposition, but this is what we’re here for, we need to group together and get ready for the next game.”
After sustaining a long-term injury in a pre-season match against Burnley, the 31-year-old made his debut at Fratton Park on Saturday afternoon, much to his delight.
Obika added: “On a personal note, it’s very good to be back, it’s been a while.
“Before the game, they were talking about ‘it’s your debut’ and I would’ve wanted it at the start of the season, but now I have to build up and continue to work hard to stay in the team and do well for the team.
“It was tough, especially knowing it was going to keep me out for three or four months, so mentally you have to stay strong and work hard with the staff who’ve been fantastic and I’m glad I’m back out there.
“I need to get fitter, but that just comes with games, I’ve done a lot of work behind the scenes, but that just comes with games, get that match fitness up and get scoring again.”