Peterborough United manager fears an ‘absolute mess’ of a home playing surface could hinder the club’s promotion bid

Ferguson described the London Road pitch ‘an absolute mess’ after tonight’s 0-0 League One draw with Bristol Rovers (January 26).

It was only the fifth point in 11 matches Posh have dropped at home this season, but Ferguson reckons the pitch is becoming tough to play on.

Weekend snow, freezing temperatures and heavy rain didn’t help the Posh groundstaff ahead of this game. It took a big effort to get the game on at all.

“We have a big tent over the pitch between games, but I don’t think it’s making a difference,” Ferguson stated.

“The referee wasn’t impressed when he arrived at the ground because there was ice on the pitch initially, but after a look around he passed it fit. It was touch and go for a while though.

“The groundstaff, some younger players and other staff had worked hard to get the game on so credit to them for that, but we have to find a way of making it better.

“It was an absolute mess tonight and the fearful thing is I can’t see it getting any better. At least we have 10 days without a game on it now so hopefully that will help.

“Matbe the weather will improve soon, but it’s very hard to play on. I know we’ve done well on it to beat MK Dons and Charlton so we can’t use the pitch as an excuse, but it’s not helping us.

“Siriki Dembele went around the goalkeeper tonight, but couldn’t keep his feet.”

Posh are next at home against Crewe on February 6 and then host Ipswich on February 9.