Bristol City outfox Posh scouts

Peterborough United were warned about Bristol City’s two scorers last night ahead of their Carling Cup clash. But, despite taking a first-half lead, no amount of homework could save them.

The Evening Post has obtained the Posh’s scouting report on City and can exclusively reveal the extent of the League One newcomers’ studies.

The 16-page team assessment, compiled on the basis of the Robins’ opening-day victory over Blackpool, ran the rule over City’s squad, tactics and set plays.

Of the players on show at Blackpool nine started at Ashton Gate last night and Posh manager Darren Ferguson had the low down on each of them.

The advice?

- Man-mark Michael McIndoe and Nicky Maynard;

- Beware Chris Weale’s long kicks and Lee Johnson’s quick free kicks;

- Look to expose Louis Carey’s lack of pace but watch his attacking headers; and

- Watch the breaks, and Steve Brooker.

The report, compiled by The Scouting Network, labels the Robins’ £2.25 million signing Maynard as a player whose “overall contribution to build-up play was disappointing, often being slow to either show for the ball or react to situations.”

But Maynard was also described as having “the goal-scorer’s knack of finding space in the box” and the ability to spin and shoot with both feet.

The advice to shackle the fleet-footed 21-year-old was to keep him tightly marked as he lacks the strength to shake defenders but neglect him at your peril.

The bad news for Posh manager Darren Ferguson were the facts he already knew - City can win when they don’t warrant it, defend soundly and “always look a threat on the break”.

Ferguson also had to contend with Saturday’s super-sub Steve Brooker. The assessment noted his “aggressive” style, that he “does not allow defenders time to settle,” and is “always looking to get shots away”.

Brooker might “lack the real pace to hurt defenders in behind” but he scored another late winner to end Peterborough’s Carling Cup campaign.

Lee Johnson and Cole Skuse were both described as energetic ball winners, who kept play moving quickly, although their ability to pick more expansive passes was doubted.

McIndoe’s speed, crossing and close control was flagged but, like Maynard, the recommendation was to mark him tightly as his pace comes at the expense of a strong build.

Fellow winger Sproule was also marked as a player who likes to get outside his man. His crossing ability was questioned, but his diligence in tracking back was noted in comparison to McIndoe.

The report,which cost just £80, included diagrams of City’s set up at set plays and gave warning of the headed threat from Carey. But despite the heads up, the Posh were unable to stop the City captain heading in a 53rd-minute equaliser and Brooker connecting with McIndoe’s 85th minute corner to save City from extra time.