It’s a vital League One game for both clubs. Posh are flying high and favourites for automatic promotion, while the Cobblers are in the middle of a relegation dogfight.
Form is supposed to go out of the window in a derby, but the journalists who watch the teams on a regular basis are also expecting a Posh win, judging by their player ratings.
The Peterborough Telegraph’s chief sports writer Alan Swann has marked the Posh players out of 10 based on their contributions to the season so far and Northampton Chronicle sports editor Jeremy Casey has done the same with the Cobblers’ players.
View their scores for each likely starter here...
5.
CENTRE-BACK: MARK BEEVERS (pictured) v LLOYD JONES: Beevers is a very consistent central defender whose experience of winning promotion from this division could be crucial in the coming games. Defends his box well. Former Luton Town man Jones is growing in stature every week. His partnership with Horsfall will be crucial for the Cobblers at London Road. A draw 8-8. Photo: Midlands
6.
MIDFIELD: REECE BROWN (pictured) v BRYN MORRIS: Brown at his best is quick-witted and an accurate, tidy passer of the ball. Dovetails well with Jack Taylor. He’s suffered some weak games this season though. Portsmouth loanee Morris has undoubted quality and can pick a pass, but his problem is seeing enough of the ball to have a sustained impact. A draw 7-7.
7.
MIDFIELD: JACK TAYLOR (pictured) v RYAN WATSON: His manager says Taylor is the best midfielder in League One and he was certainly up there until his recent injury. Tackles well, passes well and can score goals. Watson has been one of the top players for the Cobblers all season. Creative, hard-working and the team’s biggest goal threat. Posh win 9-8.
8.
MIDFIELD: JOE WARD (pictured) v SHAUN MCWILLIAMS: Ward has shown good pace and set up numerous goals this season, but still occasionally doesn’t appear to trust his skillset. Links up well down the right with Thompson. McWilliams always relishes a physical battle. Will be ready to mix it with the Posh midfield, although his distribution at times can be erratic. A draw 8-8.