NEW Portsmouth loan signing Liam Lawrence today said it was an ‘experience’ to play under the management of Roy Keane.

The Republic of Ireland international looked lively in his debut for Pompey on Saturday in their 0-0 draw against the Blues at Fratton Park.

Lawrence, who might have to miss a few games in December after his complicated loan deal runs out and before he can sign a permanent deal when the transfer window opens in January, refused to elaborate when asked about being part of Keane’s squad at Sunderland.

“It was different,“ said Lawrence. “I’m not saying any more.

“We did well against a team third in the table and we‘ll be fine.

“I expected the atmosphere to be down, but it is completely the opposite and I‘ve gone to Portsmouth to play football and to help move them up the table.”

Town legend Ray Crawford got his wish when his beloved Blues were held by his home town club.

“I’m happy,” said Crawford, who still lives in Portsmouth and attends most home games having joined them as a boy before moving to Portman Road to win England caps and help Town to the First Division title.

“It was a fair result with both teams having chances although I was a little disappointed with some of the delivery from Ipswich. Their crosses and corners could have been better.”

Four places stood out for Crawford, who went on: “You could see as soon as he came on that Connor Wickham has got a special presence about him.

“He doesn‘t need to look at opponents around him - he knows he is good enough to deal with them.

“And Jason Scotland may not score as many goals as I did, but his hold-up play was excellent.

“Gareth McAuley was magnificent at the back and I though young Luke Hyam was really good in his role ahead of the back four.“

And Portsmouth? “I was impressed with them after they were able to bring new players in.

“They now have plenty to work on to move up the table.“