Peterborough United manager Darren Ferguson: ‘Fans in the ground is an extra motivation, but Rochdale are dangerous’

Posh received a standing ovation from a small home crowd after beating West Ham United Under 21s in the Papa John’s Trophy on Tuesday night, the first London Road game to be played in front of supporters this season.

Even around 750 fans in the ground generated a decent atmosphere and Posh expect to have the maxium permitted 2,000 for the game against a dangerous Dale side.

Team news will be of great interest tomorrow with Idris Kanu, Harrison Burrows, Mo Eisa and 17 year-old Ronnie Edwards all pushing for a place ahead of players who have been regulars during a run of four defeats in five League One matches.

Ferguson said: “Even a small number of fans made a big difference.

“That was obvious at Portsmouth last weekend when their fans generated a great atmosphere. I’m confident it will be the same for us this weekend.

“There weren’t many at the West Ham match, but the players still received a lift. The fans gave us energy despite the pouring rain which is why we went to applaud them at the end of the match. Making the supporters happy is an extra motivation and their presence will help us on Saturday.

“The players said it felt like there were more inside the stadium tha there actuall was against West Ham so I am sure it will be a good atmosphere against Rochdale. We are looking forward to seeing them again and we want to win again for them.

“Obviously we need to start winning again and if we play to our best form we have a good chance at the weekend, but Rochdale are a team I like. They play an expansive style and they will have periods of possession so it’s important we don’t get spooked by that. They have enjoyed some good results away from home and play well on the counter attack.

“I watched their recent 4-0 win at Plymouth and I wished I hadn’t as they were that good.

“But Saturday, as always, is about getting our performance right. If we do the result we want will follow.

“Players are pushing for a place. Idris Kanu played with a great deal of power and poise against West Ham, while Ronnie Edwards was simply outstanding.

“Ethan Hamilton was very good as well. There’s a player in there. He just needs to be more confident in himself.”