Michael Smith’s Brace Leads Sheffield Wednesday to Victory

Michael Smith’s spectacular 25-yard strike propelled Sheffield Wednesday to a comeback victory over Championship bottom side Portsmouth. The hosts took the lead just before half-time when defender Connor Ogilvie converted a corner kick at the back post, putting Portsmouth ahead. However, Sheffield Wednesday started the second half with renewed energy leveling the score through Josh Windass. He netted his third league goal of the season, finishing from close range after a knockdown from Smith.

The turning point came when Smith delivered a stunning first-time strike into the top right corner, flipping the game in favor of Wednesday against his former club. Despite being last season’s League One champions, Portsmouth continues to struggle in the Championship, remaining winless at home this season and failing to secure a victory in their last six league games at Fratton Park.

Portsmouth, missing captain Marlon Pack for the first time this season began brightly but wasted a golden opportunity when Michael Smith intercepted a pass but couldn’t get his shot on target. The hosts came close to scoring with Callum Lang’s free-kick but Wednesday keeper James Beadle made a crucial save and Pol Valentin later cleared a goal-line effort.

Portsmouth’s Ogilvie ultimately broke the deadlock with his well-placed shot from a corner. However, Windass’s equalizer ten minutes into the second half set the stage for Smith’s sensational goal which thrilled the 2,137 traveling fans. Despite Portsmouth’s efforts to find an equalizer including a missed opportunity by Lang late in the game, the home crowd expressed their frustration at the final whistle.

Portsmouth manager John Mousinho acknowledged his team’s shortcomings while Sheffield Wednesday’s Danny Rohl praised his side’s resilience and the significance of their comeback. He emphasized the importance of continuous improvement as they climbed the league standings.