Peterborough 1 Blackpool 0

Last updated : 19 April 2003 By Footymad Previewer

Peterborough United never looked back after grabbing an early lead through David Farrell and Blackpool, forced to fight a rearguard action, rarely seemed capable of getting on terms.

Leon McKenzie set up Farrell's unstoppable 13th minute left foot effort and the combination almost produced a second on the half-hour. Farrell again beat Phil Barnes, but this time the woodwork intervened and the ball rebounded into the goalkeeper's arms.

Posh became more and more comfortable as time went on and boss Barry Fry was delighted, commenting: "We haven't won three in a row since getting back into Division Two and I see no reason why we can't win out next three games as well.

"The lads have done tremendously well since Christmas despite horrendous injuries and even for this game I had to make five changes." Apart from a first minute shot from Scott Taylor that flashed a couple of feet wide of Mark Tyler's left hand post, Blackpool were hardly in the race and had to survive a torrid spell in the first half injury time.

Andy Clarke and McKenzie wasted home openings before Leam Richardson was booked for a foul on Farrell - and together with Ian Hughes - was replaced by Chris Clarke and Jamie Milligan at the start of the second half.

Matthew Blinkhorn, on for Richard Walker in the last 20 minutes, a final throw of the dice for Blackpool boss Steve McMahon; failed to add any fresh threat and only Chris Clarke provided a late scare when he reached Mike Flynn's long throw, but couldn't direct his header.

McMahon was scathing of his side afterwards, saying: "It was a poor game and at times like watching paint dry. I was embarrassed by our display and will have some serious questions to ask."