MATCH REACTION: Head boy Gwion proves Peterborough United have strength in depth

Gwion Edwards (centre) celebrates his wining goal for Posh at Rochdale with Tom Nichols (left) and Andrew Hughes. Photo: Joe Dent/theposh.com.

Midfielder Edwards, a half-time substitute for Jermaine Anderson, headed a 90th-minute winning goal as Posh beat Rochdale 3-2 at Spotland on the opening day of the League One season.

The 23 year-old summer signing from Crawley must now be in line for a start when Posh host AFC Wimbledon in the first round of the English Football League Cup at the ABAX Stadium tomorrow (August 9, 7.45pm kick off).

Edwards said: “That was a nice way to introduce myself to the fans. It was great to be able to celebrate a winning goal in front of them as their suppport had been brilliant all game.

Posh substitute Gwion Edwards heads the winning goal against Rochdale. Photo: Joe Dent/theposh.com.

“I thought the chance had gone because I beat the goalkeeper to the ball at the start of the move and tried to dink the ball to a team-mate at the far post, but I hit too hard. It was then just a case of getting into a good position if the ball came back which luckily for me it did.

“It was a great moment for me obviously, but three points for the team was most important. It’s always good to win on the first day of the season as everyone gets such a big lift.

“I was told I wasn’t in the team on Friday, but when that happens you can’t afford to sulk. I knew I would get my chance at some stage and I was determined to make the most of it.

“We have a good squad here. The manager has been at pains to point out that it’s a long season with a lot of games and that everyone will get a chance. You need strength in depth to achieve anything these days as playing Saturday, Tuessday, Saturday can be tough and we have that.

“It’s all about recovering well now to get ready for the cup match. We want to get through as many rounds as possible.

“If I play that’s great and I don’t mind in what position. We all rotate in midfield anyway.”

Edwards scored with a diving header on the opening day of last season in a 1-1 draw at Oxford United.

The London Road End terrace and the Motorpoint Stand will not open for tomorrow’s game to save on costs.

Admission is £15 for adults if purchased in advance or £20 on the day of the match.

Further information is available from www.theposhtickets.com.