The 2015-16 campaign was a dramatic, emotionally charged year for Portsmouth as Pompey finished 6th in League Two, securing their first play-off spot since 2010 under the guidance of manager Paul Cook. Anchored by a joint second-tightest defense and the crucial 11 goals of midfielder Gareth Evans, the season culminated in a thrilling, tense play-off semi-final against rivals Plymouth Argyle, marking a vital step in the club's long-awaited resurgence towards the top tiers of English football.