ACCRINGTON Stanley fell behind early in the first half during Saturday's 4-1 victory over Portsmouth at the Wham Stadium despite having numerous chances to take the lead themselves.

Ellis Harrison's own goal levelled things before the half time break and then a Colby Bishop double and a Dion Charles goal gave Stanley all three points.

Stanley boss John Coleman was pleased to see his side overcome a set back early on in their match.

"We spoke about this and we have to take setbacks in our stride," said the Stanley boss.

"Another big difference today was at 1-1 our keepers made an unbelievable save and that gives everyone a lift. If that goes in then we’re 2-1 down, head’s do go down, it’s human nature. "Joe has to get big credit for that save."

Joe Bursik was handed his first league start in a Stanley shirt as Dimitar Evtimov was dropped to the bench following some uncertain displays.

The Stoke City loanee played in last Tuesday's Leasing.com Trophy win over Bolton Wanderers and repaid his manager's faith on Saturday with a fine save when the score was level at 1-1.

"He’s been knocking on the door for a while, to be honest," Coleman said.

"He did really well on Tuesday and Dimi has just been coming into a decent bit of form himself.

"He was picked today because we thought that the wind was going to have a part to play and his kicking is very good, that was the main reason but he’s a good goalkeeper too obviously."

Bishop and Charles' displays were massive highlights for the Reds and the Stanley feels like the pair will only get better.

"I know the two of them are only going to get better," added Coleman.

"I’ve worked with them the last couple of weeks sitting them down talking to them and showing them clips, asking their opinion and having a good discussion.

"It’s not just me telling them what to do. It’s a guided discovery and I really enjoy that, especially with the strikers and sitting down with the both of them highlighting what they can do better and what they are doing well. "It’s pleasing when it comes off and they get the goals."