The Pompey Chimes

Richard Bonney became a director at Pompey in 1900 but relinquished his position on the Board to take up the managerial position in 1904 after the departure of Bob Blyth. By trade he was a master tailor and was a member of the old 15th Company Royal Artillery and 'Sergeant' Bonney was was the secretary for the Royal Artillery Football Club that had preceded Pompey.

He worked hard to strengthen his playing staff, signing goalkeeper Fred Cook from West Brom and John 'Sailor' Hunter from Liverpool, but the season ended disappointingly for Pompey.

He spent another busy close season and signed Irish international Harry Buckle and Southampton defender Jack Warner.

The highlight of Bonney's time at the helm came during the 1906/07 season, which saw the visit of Manchester United F.C. in the English Cup and a new record gate of 24,329 was set at Fratton Park. A 2-2 draw meant a replay at Old Trafford and a 2-1 giant killing by Portsmouth.

Bonney's record as manager was 206 played, 99 won, 39 drawn, 68 lost (a win percentage of 48%).