Portsmouth's Shade on 'relentless' Championship

Portsmouth forward Tyrese Shade believes that Saturday's defeat to Stoke City underlines just how relentless the Championship is this season.

That result was Pompey's first loss after a run of six games unbeaten that allowed John Mousinho's side to at one stage climb into the play-off positions.

The Blues are still well positioned in the table, 11th in the standings with just a two point gap to the top eight and a huge 12 points clear of the relegation zone after 15 matches.

Shade scored the opener for Pompey before the Potters found the net twice in the second half at Fratton Park to take all three points.

"That's the cruel side of football," he told BBC Radio Solent.

"We played well for 45 minutes, came out in the second half, dropped a bit of a gear and got punished with, I think, two avoidable goals but it just goes to show how relentless this league is.

"We've got to be a bit harsh on ourselves because there's no way we come off that pitch without a point. We've got to be disappointed, but not to dwell on it too much and just go again."

Shade signed at Fratton Park over the summer, joining from Burton Albion having previously spent time in Hampshire at National League side Eastleigh.

This campaign he has made 11 appearances and registered one assist, with his goal on Saturday his first for the club.

The 26-year-old found himself on the end of a loose ball from a set-piece and then curled one into the far side of the net with his right boot.

"People in my position thrive off goals and it's something I've been working for since I've come in the building," he added.

"I was disappointed the goal didn't count for anything in the end, but for a personal achievement, I'm chuffed."