Ladies and gentlemen of Portsmouth, and to all Pompey fans across the world. I am asking you to do something morally wrong. Frankly, it's not just morals that conflict with this decision, it's every good and pure thing in the world that is screaming no. But, the sportsman in me is telling me that I must say two words I never thought I'd say.
Support Southampton.

Now that I've gone and said prayers of forgiveness to every god and deity in existence I feel that I must explain myself.

History tells us that in a glorious April of 1900 Portsmouth won the South Coast Derby twice in three days. Who could forget the very first edition of the match up with the Saints? Portsmouth took that one too, 2-0 on 6 September 1899.

Then there were the post war dark ages when Southampton took 14 to our 4.

But in 2004 things changed. And no one felt the difference more than Southampton did in the 2004-05 season. After 27 years on top Southampton fell from the Premiership not too long after a 4-1 thrashing by Portsmouth. It's safe to say that their football hasn't recovered since then and after "good ole 'Arry" left 'em holding the bag there were slim odds recovery would come soon.

When the end of May comes knocking, if news isn't good for Pompey after the pain and disappointment that comes with relegation has worn, some will see a bright side. Two chances to beat Southampton come to mind. I don't have to tell you that the emotions felt in a derby match are strong ones, be it Liverpool-Everton, Arsenal-Fulham, or Portsmouth-Southampton, but ours seem a tad bit more special than these twice a season fixtures. A South Coast Derby is a rare occurrence and when it does come around it never disappoints.

And that is why I am writing this article today. I know that we hate them but I also know that the bad blood shared between our two clubs isn't all bad. The Saints, as I'm sure you know, are facing financial difficulties. So much so that the attendance at their final three home games could very well decide the future of the club. I encourage, no, I urge all Portsmouth supporters that can, to go and show your support for Southampton FC. .

It's not fun and it won't be easy but it's the right thing to do, because let's face it, we South Coast clubs have to stick together.