This was an outstanding performance from Rovers. The players gave everything today, both in terms of quality on the ball and commitment, and the manager deserves credit for getting the tactics spot on. The 532 formation gave us control in the centre of midfield and some of the passing moves we put together were a delight to watch. Our 'ball players' - Norburn, Hughes, McNulty, McEveley - really relished the greater freedom they were given against higher level opposition and we looked the better side in possession throughout. Even their local radio commented that we looked like the League One team. Micky's decision to go with experience was the right one as none of our players looked phased by the occasion, and the surprising decision to play DMH as wing back was also a success. He was very disciplined defensively in the first half and contributed to our attacks after half time as we pushed for the equaliser.
Peterborough gave the impression of thinking they only had to turn up to win comfortably and Rovers should really have won the game outright today. I doubt they will play as poorly in the reply and there were flashes of quality from them, particularly in the link-up and mobility of the front players. However, there was a real lack of character in their performance which I think we can exploit at Prenton Park.
Individually, everybody played well other than McDonough. McEverley had his best game in a Rovers shirt. The back five worked very well as a unit, and McNulty was imperious as the organiser at the back. Norwood worked his socks off as usual but was not helped by McDonough alongside him, who looked out of his depth against higher class defenders, failing to hold the ball up, losing every header and not really contributing anything. My only criticism today would be that Cook should have been brought on at half time.
However, it was in midfield that we excelled. Jeff Hughes was back to his best and delivered a great ball for the equaliser. Alongside him, Ollie Norburn was outstanding, displaying a range of short and long passing and having several decent efforts on goal. Cole again showed touches of real quality when he came on. Cookie did what Cookie does best, producing a great header for the goal to remind us of what we miss when he is not in the starting eleven.
This was one of the most enjoyable days watching Rovers in a long time and it was great seeing the joy on everyone's faces when we scored the equaliser, which we all knew was the least we deserved.