Posh v Middlesbrough Preview

London Road awaits the first game of Mark Cooper`s managerial tenure with eager anticipation.

After the loss to Sheffield United, on his managerial debut, but a game in which Posh performed admirably and probably, as many neutral observers would agree, deserved at least a point, the 1600 traveling fans that day will join the remainder of those at London Road in hoping that Posh can deliver the same level of performance against Middlesbrough.

Midlesbrough, a Premier League side this time last season, have also recently faced managerial upheaval with Gareth Southgate having been replaced by Gordon Strachan. Since being relegated Middlesbrough have sold some of their best players with Huth, Downing and Tuncay amongst those having left. However, they will still provide stiff opposition with the lively young winger, Adam Johnson, probably their biggest threat.

As for Posh, having signed the giant defender, Exodus, during the last week, we`re tempted to believe that barring injuries Cooper will stick with the back four that played so well last week which means that Lee, Griffiths, Bennett and Zakuani will be able to build on the understanding they showed last week.

Up front, Mackail-Smith, Mclean and Boyd will, as usual provide the forward penetration so all that remains is the other trio in midfield. Here at Vital Posh, we`d hope that Diagourage will start and possibly Whelpdale and Frecklington.

With Posh still lurking in the relegation zone and in danger of becoming detached for the safe haven of fourth from bottom, the fixture tomorrow is off paramount importance, but it is one that we can win.
Cooper has had a further week to fix the flaws of the Ferguson set up and if we can keep it tight I suspect the opportunity is there for Posh to walk off London Road, come Saturday evening, narrow victors in a thrilling battle.

Let`s hope I`m right!






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