Neill's goalscoring response

And no-one was more delighted than Rovers boss Graeme Souness who has done a magnificent job in defending the Australian international full-back all week.

"A performance like that makes him a better footballer and a better man," said Souness after the 2-1 victory at Fratton Park.

"He showed he's a man with his attitude. You've got to give him a special mention. It has been a difficult week for him but he did very well."