Portsmouth

EFL fans have been left baffled over Portsmouth’s goalkeeper substitution.

Keeper Nicolas Schmid was forced off after suffering a first half injury.

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And he was replaced by deputy Ben Killip, with the pair sharing an embrace as they switched over.

It was an eye-cathcing sub as Schmid and Killip bore a striking similarity with one another.

They both have curly blond hair and beards, prompting confusion for viewers at home.

One reacted saying: “I swear Portsmouth just bought on a stunt double for their keeper. Absolute doppelganger.”

Another added: “Should have just swapped them at half time without anyone knowing.”

A third wrote: “Bit unfair cloning your starting GK, Pompey.”

And another commented: “Had me questioning my sanity.”

The incident took place during Portsmouth’s 0-0 draw with Southampton in the South Coast derby.

Shortly afterwards the match was interrupted by a pitch invader, who made it as far as the halfway line and appeared to gesture towards the away fans.

Saints also aimed a cheeky dig at their rivals by unveiling a provocative tifo before the match, showing James Beattie celebrating a goal against Pompey in 2003.

Since the turn of the century the two sides have only played each other on 10 occasions, and during the entire 1990s they only met once in the FA Cup.

There were only three derbies during the 1980s and in the 1970s they played four times – and in total the two clubs have only met 72 times in 125 years.

“The last derby was in 2019, and that was a long time for the grudge to be held,” added Farmery.

“There’s a lot of build-up over a long period of time and because that boil doesn’t get the chance to be lanced often enough, that contributes to the ferociousness of the rivalry.”

Southampton club historian Duncan Holley believes the fact that Saints have traditionally finished higher in the football pyramid has also fuelled the rivalry.

“In the past 64 seasons, Saints have only been below Portsmouth in finishing terms on seven occasions,” he said.

Holley said that relative success annoyed Portsmouth fans and “by the time the 1960s ended there was a lot of animosity coming from Portsmouth to Southampton”.

He added: “Saints fans then retaliated and decided to match the feeling, and that’s how it all became.

“There is always rivalry between any neighbouring town, and this was initially a friendly competitiveness, but that really petered out. It’s become a bit of a cult and I see it as one of the strongest derbies around.”

A new study has uncovered that one particular UK coastal city is a burgeoning hot spot for summer staycations, with Aqua’s analysis finding that it’s among the cheapest destinations for a weekend away

Brits eager to soak up the summer sun are eyeing weekend staycations, with many on the hunt for the most budget-friendly spots within the UK.

Aqua, a credit card company, has divulged its top picks for the most economical UK destinations. Portsmouth emerges as a standout choice, boasting a blend of rich history, stunning scenery, and affordability.

Aqua highlights: “From the historic charm of the Spinnaker Tower to the vibrant waterfront at Gunwharf Quays, this coastal city offers plenty to see and do without breaking the bank.”

This south coast haven is celebrated for its naval heritage and picturesque docks, ranking high among the UK’s top three cost-effective staycation locations.

According to the research by Aqua, holidaymakers can snag a night in Portsmouth for a mere £108, narrowly undercutting Eastbourne’s £112 lodgings, and trailing just behind Blackpool’s even more modest £82 rate, reports the Express.

But it’s not all about the savings; Portsmouth’s enchanting historical quarters, especially the charming Old Town with its traditional cobblestone lanes, are drawing more and more Brits to discover its unique allure.

One Tripadvisor reviewer highlighted the area’s charm, mentioning the opportunity for a “nice walk to do and view the old town” and commending it for being “very well maintained,” which “gives an idea of what it was like.”

This view was shared by fellow travellers, with one visitor describing it as “a lovely place for a chilled walk away from the hustle and bustle of the city. A great selection of pubs, shops and places to eat.”

For holidaymakers wanting a blend of heritage experiences and seaside relaxation, Portsmouth proves an excellent destination. The city offers walkable streets and numerous budget-friendly or complimentary attractions, alongside the obvious coastal pleasures.

The Millennium Promenade connects major waterfront spots via a spectacular seaside route packed with family attractions including the Historic Dockyard, the Spinnaker Tower, and nearby Southsea Castle.

The Historic Dockyard features engaging exhibitions and legendary vessels such as HMS Victory and HMS Warrior, creating an excellent full-day experience for youngsters and grown-ups alike.

Budget-conscious visitors will appreciate that several on-site museums offer joint admission deals, enabling guests to discover various exhibitions.

A brief walk leads to the Spinnaker Tower, which provides spectacular panoramas across Portsmouth Harbour and the Isle of Wight. Thrill-seekers can experience the glass-floor skywalk.

Entry fees remain affordable, with reductions frequently offered for advance online purchases. Southsea Castle, built for Henry VIII, is nestled within stunning grounds and houses a modest museum that delves into its tumultuous past, including the accidental explosion that caused significant damage to the castle.