The Peterborough United second string, including first team manager Darren Ferguson, overcame Southend United 5-0 at London Road in the latest Totesport Football Combination League fixture.

Ferguson sprung a surprise by naming himself in the centre of midfield and he was excellent throughout, forming an effective partnership alongside Dean Keates. Ferguson was replaced after 72 minutes.

Dominic Green had the first opportunity of the game on seven minutes, but his shot struck the crossbar while a good run from trialist Elliott Omuzosi created a chance for Shaun Batt, but his shot was saved.

James McKeown made an excellent save on 32 minutes to keep the scores level before Posh opened the scoring with a fine free-kick from Dean Keates.

Posh were awarded a spot-kick on 50 minutes after Omuzosi was fouled by Herd after a mazy dribble with Keates stepping up to send the goalkeeper the wrong way from the spot.

Keates saw a free-kick tipped over the crossbar before Shaun Batt saw two shots saved from close-range. On 58 minutes, a superb through ball from Ferguson picked out Edward Adjei, who took a touch before rifling the ball into the top corner to make it 3-0.

Keates went close to extending their advantage but was denied by goalkeeper Joyce but moments later the experienced midfielder had a hand in the fourth, his corner was flicked on by Sam Gaughran and Batt was on hand to convert from close-range.

Tommy Rowe saw a fierce shot saved before Batt was upended in the box on 87 minutes by Clayton to give Keates the chance to complete his hat-trick from the spot and he coolly slotted the ball into the back of the net.

Posh: McKeown, Omuzusi, Day (sub Piergianni), Ferguson (sub Austin), Gaughran, Lee, Green (sub McCrae), Rowe, Adjei, Batt, Keates. Unused subs: Newell, Cole.

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