MATCH REACTION: McCann backs Leo after first red card of teenager's career

Posh midfielder Leo Da Silva Lopes trudges off the pitch after his red card against Oxford while manager Grant McCann issues instructions to striker Junior Morias. Photo: Joe Dent/theposh.com.

Da Silva Lopes received his marching orders in the 86th minute when Posh were 2-0 down. He picked up two yellow cards for fouls in the second-half of Posh’s third successive League One defeat.

The teenager was heckled by some Posh fans as he left the pitch.

But McCann said: “For 20-25 minutes Leo looked like the player who started the season so well.

Posh midfielder Leo Da Silva Lopes challenges Oxford's Chris Maguire for possession. Photo: Joe Dent/theposh.com.

“Obviously he’s made a couple of rash tackles in the game, but he’s committed to the club. He’s a very passionate young man.

“Posh fans should realise what a talent they have in their team. For a player to come through our under 14 academy team, to play 35-40 first team games in a season is a great achievement.

“Sure he’s had a dip in form like so many other players, but he has an unbelievable future in the game.”

Da Silva Lopes has also collected 10 yellow cards this season. He will be suspended for Tuesday’s (March 14) League One match at Chesterfield.

Posh felt aggrieved referee Mark Haywood didn’t show a straight red card to Oxford’s Everton loanee Conor McAleny after he threw Jack Baldwin to the ground in the first-half. McAleny, who was cautioned, went on to score the decisive second goal.