Its been going on for years, Pompey have had quite a few religious players, I would imagine the one most people know of is Linvoy Primus. Since the story came out, not sure exactly when but it was either our League 1 winning season or our first season in the Premiership we've done pretty well so no complaints from me.
I think the thing Linvoy says about it is very true, they dont pray for a result, they pray for a good performance and let the result take care of itself.
Its not uncommon for praying to go on at a football club, when I did the Nou Camp tour when I was in Barcelona last year the have a chapel to pray at on the way to the pitch. I imagine when Pompey eventually move there will be a purpose built place for the group to pray in.
Jen