Darren Ferguson’s Peterborough United were by no means daunted by the European Champions’ arrival at London Road for a pre-season friendly. The Posh played impressively for the full 90 minutes in a match that will be firmly in the minds of Peterborough fans for years to come. On what was a prestigious occasion in the club’s history, the Posh created sufficient chances to win the game comfortably. In the end, though, the quality of the Red Devils clearly showed and it was this finesse that enabled them to win the game.

Posh started energetically and they had created 3 corners before the 20 minute mark, with Whelpdale forcing United’s Polish goalkeeper into an early save on 17 minutes. The skill of the Manchester United superstars was evident, but it was defender Shane Blackett who put them in their place, nutmegging Da Silva and unleashing a powerful drive. At this stage, just before half time, it was Posh who were the increasingly dominating side, mostly thanks to the efforts of Hyde. The experienced Jamaican put in an excellent performance, outclassing many of the Red Devils’ international players. Mclean fired a rebound over the bar under severe pressure as Posh came very close to the opening goal.

However, it was the visitors who broke the deadlock as a Tevez cross was chested past Lewis by Martin, who was trying to cushion the ball into his goalkeeper’s hands.

The managers changed the sides considerably at half-time, as is the custom in pre-season friendlies. Having squandered a handful of decent chances, Posh began to tire: their tenacity and perseverance taking its toll in the end.

United doubled the lead on 69 minutes and it was a stunning strike from Gibson who let fly from distance and sent a dipping shot beyond the floundering Tyler.

It was a considerable effort from the Posh, who were confident, and tireless in their enthusiasm. The performance will give the team considerable belief for the season ahead, in which they are making their first forays into the challenges of League One.