Peterborough United manager delighted as much-changed side make progress in the FA Cup

Goals from Siriki Dembele and Jack Taylor sealed a 2-1 first round win at League One rivals Oxford United to make it nine wins in 10 unbeaten matches.

Ferguson made six changes to his last League One starting line-up and he was delighted with the response of those who were called-up.

Ferguson said: “It’s been a good all round day for us. We managed to get a rest into players that needed it and some minutes into players who needed to play.

“And most importantly we won the game. Despite the changes we wanted to win today. We had many motivations. The players will enjoy an FA Cup run and the finances will help the club. WE also wanted to maintain our momentum.

“We started the game really well and then we stopped passing the ball well enough so Oxford deserved their equaliser. They started pressing us high as without Jonson Clarke-Harris in the side we lacked physicality. He was outstanding when he came on though.

“We changed shape in the second half and we did well to get back in front, and then we ground out the win.

“I’m told Siriki’s goal was well offside, but he still finished it well. Jack’s goal was just more proof of how dangerous he is when shooting. He had three shots in this game, one was deflected over, one was well saved and then he scored. He can shoot off either foot as well.

“I just hope we get a good draw now.”

Stand-in Posh skipper Nathan Thompson limped out of the game just before half-time with a hamstring niggle. Posh are hopeful it’s not serious and he will be able to play in the next League One game at Crewe on November 14.

Ferguson threw 17 year-old Ronnie Edwards on in Thompson’s place the manager described the youngster’s perfomance as ‘outstanding.’

The second round draw will be live on BBC Two and BT Sport from 7pm on Monday (November 9).

Posh are at Cambridge United for their final group game in the Papa John Trophy on Tuesday (November 10, 7pm).