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...
9.
v Nottingham Forest (a), 1976 Brian Clough’s side battered Posh in a third round tie on New Year's Day, but could find no way through a Chris Turner inspired defence. Posh followed a 0-0 draw in front of over 31,000 fans at the City Ground with a 1-0 home win courtesy of a Jon Nixon (pictured) goal to book a mouthwatering fourth round tie against Manchester United at Old Trafford. Photo: Midlands
10.
v Manchester United (a), 1976. Posh lost that tie at United 3-1, but a huge travelling support enjoyed a great day out. United were 2-0 up early on and sealed the win with a brilliant volley from Gordon Hill. John Cozens (pictured) had pulled a goal back for Posh before half-time.
11.
v Manchester United (a), 1976: Posh may have lost at Old Trafford, but the reception given to Posh manager Noel Cantwell (an FA Cup winning Manchester United skipper) was magnificent. Posh were also applauded off (right) by the 56,000 crowd at the end. Photo: Peterborough Evening Telegraph
12.
v Newcastle (h), 2002: Posh come back from 2-0 down to draw level at 2-2 before losing 4-2 in front of the Sky TV cameras at London Road. An own goal and a David Farrell strike (pictured) got Posh fans excited before Newcastle were awarded a controversial late penalty which Alan Shearer despatched.