The Posh Under 18s fell to a 5-1 defeat on the road in their third Professional Development League fixture of the season against Watford.
The Peterborough United Under 18s made the perfect start when Fitzpatrick delivered a precise cross that SHOFOWOKE met with a composed header inside the box to put his side ahead, but Watford responded strongly and turned the game around to claim the points.
Both sides traded early opportunities before Shofowoke’s superb header in the 12th minute gave Posh the lead. Midway through the first half, play was halted for around 20 minutes following an injury to goalkeeper Bucknor, and everyone at Posh wishes him a speedy recovery.
After the restart, McWilliams-Marcano and Fitzpatrick continued to threaten in attack, but Posh were unable to extend their advantage. Substitute goalkeeper Sammour, introduced unexpectedly, produced a string of outstanding saves to ensure Posh reached the break 1-0 up.
At the start of the second half, Posh made a double substitution in a bid to protect their advantage, but Watford equalised in the 48th minute. The hosts went on to add a second, and when Arber was sent off for a foul stopping a counter-attack, Posh were reduced to ten men and Watford took full control, adding further goals. A late penalty put the gloss on the win for the home side.
Lead Under 18s Coach Jimmy Unwin said afterwards: “We knew it would be a difficult game, but I was pleased with the way we started, taking the lead and showing some good play in the first half. However, as we saw again today, taking our chances and scoring a second goal when we’re on top is so important.
"The red card made it tough in the second half, but the players kept going and there were still positives to take. The new players who featured today will definitely learn from the experience, and it’s important we pick ourselves up quickly and focus on the next game.”
Posh: Bucknor (sub Sammour 27min), Bushell, Joseph, Christoudias, Arber, Aikins (sub Crozier 46min), McWilliams-Macrano (sub Dagne 76min), Ndonjang (sub Simmons 20min), Shofowoke (sub Norville 46min), Mlityalwa, Fitzpatrick.