Peterborough United have been knocked out of the FA Cup on penalties following a 1-1 draw with Premiership side West Brom.
“We’ve gone toe to toe with a Premiership outfit over 210 minutes.” – Graham Westley’s verdict on his side’s valiant performance against the Baggies.
“Our lads will learn so much,” said Westley. “It’s disappointing to lose the tie but it was a very positive evening for us.”
Posh dominated the opening exchanges, and nearly took the lead twice through Harry Beautyman, who was thwarted first by James Chester, and then by Ben Foster.
Man of the match Martin Samuelsen was too hot to handle for the Baggies’ defence, who looked threatened every time the home side attacked.
It was goalless at Half time, but Peterborough winger Jon Taylor put his side infront after 55 minutes with a well placed strike with his weak foot.
This goal seemed to spark the Premiership side into life, and they equalised 16 minutes later through a Darren Fletcher half volley.
The game became an end to end affair, with the Baggies having more clear cut chances as it was clear the Posh were tiring.
Posh battled on throughout extra time, and almost retook the lead through star man Martin Samuelsen.
The Baggies had a guilt-edge chance to win the game with the last touch in extra time, but Berahino spurned his opportunity.
The game went to penalties, and Samuelsen and Angol both missed for the Posh.
West Brom progressed, despite captain Darren Fletcher missing a penalty.
Few would argue that a Posh victory was deserved following their excellent performance, and they’ve certainly put out a great advert for League One football.
West Brom manager Tony Pulis admitted his side were “fortunate” to leave the ABAX with the victory, and said that “Peterborough deserve a lot of credit for the way they’ve played tonight.”
The Posh will turn their attention to the Play Off push next, and host Bradford City on Saturday.
If the side play as well as they did in both games against West Brom, there’s no doubting their potential to earn promotion from League One.
