A home tie against lower-ranked opposition was the preferred Posh option, rather than an away game at a gifted League One rival, albeit one currently struggling at the wrong end of the table.
But you never know the game might match the drama of the most memorable Posh FA Cup ties that I’ve witnessed...
5.
v Brighton (h), 1986. Football on snow, an Errington Kelly goal assisted by a block of ice and five minutes from a place in the sixth round for John Wile’s limited side. Posh drew 2-2 at home and lost the replay 1-0 to a Dean Saunders goal. Wile is pictured at a snowbound London Road. Photo: Midlands
6.
v Leeds (h), 1986. Earlier that season Posh had beaten Second Division Leeds United at London Road in a dramatic contest. Full-back Martin Pike (pictured) was forced into goal for the final 10 minutes following an injury to John Turner and Leeds midfielder Scott Sellars was sent off as Posh clung onto a 1-0 lead given to them by Greig Shepherd. Photo: Midlands
7.
v Aston Villa (a), 2018. Grant McCann’s finest moment as Posh boss as his side overturned an early deficit to win 3-1 at Villa Park against an admittedly weakened home side selected by Steve Bruce. Posh were superb though with Jack Marriott (2) and Ryan Tafazolli (goal pictured) scoring the late goals. Photo: Midlands
8.
v Aston Villa (a), 2018: Centre-back Ryan Tafazolli celebrates his FA Cup goal for Posh in a 3-1 win at Aston Villa. Photo: Midlands