The Independent
Piquionne's pair sends 'lucky' Grant down Wembley way
They have a saying in Israeli football and media circles, "Avram's arse". It means to be lucky and is a reference to Avram Grant's apparently gilded career, notably his knack of getting plum jobs.
The Guardian
Frederic Piquionne's double gives Portsmouth something to smile about
If it was the reckless hunt for glory culminating in a Wembley win two years ago that pushed Portsmouth to the brink of damnation, this season's continuing FA Cup run may just ensure the club's salvation. The estimated £1.3m they will pocket for reaching the semi-final is paltry compared with the club's colossal debts, of course, but the spirit and style Avram Grant's side have shown in overcoming Coventry, Sunderland, Southampton and now – thanks to a pair of second-half goals from Frédéric Piquionne – Birmingham has ensured the bond with fans has been bolstered rather than battered. "They can break many things, but you cannot break our spirit," rejoiced Grant, whose fortitude in the face of adversity has turned him into a folk hero at Fratton Park.
The Telegraph
Portsmouth 2 Birmingham City 0
For once that weary old FA Cup refrain, 'que sera, sera', acquired an affecting resonance.
Whatever will be in Portsmouth's miserably salutary tale of bankruptcy, or in a season sure to culminate in relegation from the Premier League, their long-suffering players and supporters are, exultantly if scarcely credibly, going to Wemb-e-ley.
The Times
Frederic Piquionne double sends Portsmouth to Wembley
Nobody could ever mistake Fratton Park for Hollywood, but a touch of the big-screen dramatics is creeping into the farce that has been Portsmouth Football Club this season. Plunged into administration nine days ago and due another bout with HM Revenue and Customs on March 15, Ports-mouth’s hazy, crazy journey through the rounds of the FA Cup has lifted the penniless street urchins of the league to the dizzy aristocracy of Wembley with their second cup semi-final in three years..