The match itself was merely a starter, with the main course saved for after the final whistle.
Tuesday night’s title-securing success over Barnsley meant a home encounter with Wigan could be a stress-free affair.
And nobody inside Fratton Park seemed to mind too much at seeing the hosts lose 2-1, for there was still plenty of reason to cheer.
Once the action had been completed, a stage was quickly erected and the players could receive their medals before skipper Marlon Pack lifted the League One trophy aloft.
It was a goosebump-inducing moment savoured by those inside the stadium, including a delighted John Mousinho.
The Blues boss said: “It was the most important part of the day and it was absolutely amazing – it made for a special afternoon.
“After the highs of Tuesday night, we were able to follow it up with that and again it was here at Fratton Park.
“It would have been nice to lift the trophy off the back of a win, but I suppose you can’t have everything!
"It was the most important part of the day and it was absolutely amazing – it made for a special afternoon."
“I’m sure it will create a lot of special memories and that’s the way it should be because it’s the culmination of a very successful season.
“It was also important for all the lads to be able to celebrate on the pitch with their families, who have supported them and made sacrifices.”
Some poor defending allowed Luke Chambers and Josh Magennis to net for the Latics before Kusini Yengi grabbed a late consolation.
Mousinho said: “I thought Wigan deserved to win because we were really poor for the first 45 minutes.
“We didn’t get the press right, but it was actually a lot more than that and the first goal really summed us up.
“I thought we looked alright in possession and not very good out of it. When we lost the ball, we were punished.
“We looked much better and more aggressive after the break, although it was an awful second goal to concede.
“We did get one back from Kusini and created plenty of chances, but just could not find that equaliser.
“There’s disappointment because we wanted to go out on a high at Fratton Park. Ultimately, though, it doesn’t matter too much.”
