Portsmouth's John Mousinho on late win over Carlisle United

And the manager of League One’s leaders said he expects the Cumbrians to climb the table based on their display at Fratton Park.

Mousinho’s unbeaten side won 1-0 at the death thanks to Conor Shaughnessy’s header.

But the Pompey boss was honest in his overall post-match assessment.

He said: “I’m pleased we got the three points but just a bit disappointed we nicked it for the first time this season.

“It’s the first time we probably didn’t deserve the result.

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“It’s a brilliant bonus, we all know we can do a lot better – I’m sure when the dust settles I’ll be a lot happier.

“In the first half we looked a threat and really nullified Carlisle in terms of their threat.

“Them going longer to Joe Garner was a real problem for us at times but I thought we dealt with it well.

“On the back of that, attacking-wise we were excellent, we created some really good chances and [by half-time] were in control of the game.

“Unfortunately in the second half we lost control of the game, lost our shape a bit, got sloppy and the game became open.

“Carlisle can consider themselves unlucky not to come away with at least a point.”

Mousinho said Joe Garner, left, caused his side problems (Image: Barbara Abbott)

Pompey keeper Will Norris denied Dan Butterworth a 90th minute Carlisle goal with an outstanding stop.

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Three minutes later Shaughnessy headed home a Jack Sparkes’ corner to send Fratton Park wild.

On his keeper, Mousinho, speaking in a club interview, said: “When he’s been called upon he’s been brilliant. He’s kept us in the game with his sharp reflexes.

“In the second 45 he had more to do than he has in previous games but when called upon he’s made the saves.

“Sometimes you’re going to have days like that against a side who are very dangerous – they [Carlisle] beat Bolton 3-1 a couple of weeks ago, and I am fairly sure that they won’t be in the current position they find themselves in for long.

“They were very good for large parts of the game.”