Peterborough United head into a huge showdown with rivals Northampton Town this weekend looking to build on a valuable midweek win. PUFC ended a run of four consecutive defeats in all competitions, beating Reading away from home in League One.
Jimmy Jay Morgan and Harry Leonard both scored their fourth goals of the season to get Posh back to winning ways. However, they are still in 21st place and within the relegation zone, one point away from safety.
Luke Williams has overseen five wins and four defeats in his nine games since taking charge at London Road. This is his first Nene derby.
As for Northampton Town, they make the short trip to Peterborough United to advance from 15th in the third tier. Kevin Nolan has had a steady season so far, recording 24 points in his 18 games.
The Cobblers performed well to frustrate promotion chaser Huddersfield Town on Tuesday, drawing 1-1 at Sixfields. Nesta Guinness-Walker gave Nolan’s side an early lead before Leo Castledine leveled the score 27 minutes later.
Nolan will be looking to emulate the 4-0 thrashing of Posh which he oversaw in April this year. The boss himself called it one of the highlights of his management career so far.
Head-to-head record between Peterborough United and Northampton Town
Here, a handful of our writers make their predictions for the game…
James Ray
“This is a huge game for Peterborough United and Northampton Town. With bragging rights up for grabs, both groups of fans will demand strong performances from their side.
“PUFC also need to get one back on the Cobblers. That was an embarrassing display in the last iteration of this derby, but the importance of this match will not be lost on Luke Williams.
“Kevin Nolan and his colleagues have been the toughest side this season, but Posh have shown defensive improvements since the management change. They still have great attacking quality, so it will be a real test of the visitors’ mettle.”
“I think if Northampton want to have a chance they have to keep it ugly. Posh will try to play their way and if they are given the space to do that they will have success.”
“I can see it being a close game that could go either way, but I think the hosts might have the edge as a more lively attacking unit.”
Prediction: Peterborough United 2-1 Northampton Town
Harry Mail
“Peterborough United have seen an upturn in results since the arrival of Luke Williams, with PUFC looking more efficient under the former Swansea City man.”
“It has been a tough season overall for the Posh so far and they will want to find some more consistency. They will see this weekend as an opportunity to get out of the drop zone.
“Northampton Town will be in a confident mood at the moment. NTFC are unbeaten in their last three games in all competitions.”
“The Cobblers have only lost once in their last five and that was against high-flying Cardiff City, so I think they will at least get a draw at London Road.”
Prediction: Peterborough United 1-1 Northampton Town
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