Skipper jubilant after securing promotion
Securing promotion away from Fratton Park denied many the chance to join in with the on-pitch revelries.
But there were still almost 4,500 Pompey fans packed into one side of Meadow Lane to celebrate alongside the players.
They rushed onto the turf to mingle with the squad after a 3-1 victory over Notts County guaranteed a top-three finish.
And Michael Doyle was thrilled that they had cause to cheer following a turbulent few years for the Blues.
Pompey’s skipper said: “We’re a fan-owned club, so it was special to see the joy on their faces and they deserve that.
“We were always going to have that level of support and I’m delighted that so many of them were here to see it.
“There have been so many disappointments, but they helped save this football club, so let them enjoy it.
“We’re fortunate enough to be able to go out and represent them on the pitch, although that comes with a lot of pressure.
“But the lads have taken that on their shoulders after falling just short last season and got us over the line.
“I’m looking forward to Saturday now and being able to celebrate with the fans at Fratton Park.
“We’ve got something special going here and we’re going to embrace the challenge of competing in League One next season.”
But it was not just the fans who were over-flowing with emotion once the final whistle had been blown.
Doyle said: “It was great to see the excitement on the faces of the younger players on the balcony after the game.
“I was just stood back and soaking it all up because you don’t know when these moments are going to come again.
“I’m so happy for everyone involved in this football club, including all those who work behind the scenes.
“It’s not just about the players because there are so many people doing the important jobs that the fans won’t always hear about.”