Darren Ferguson Sacked as Ian Evatt Makes Winning Start with Blackpool
Peterborough United have parted company with manager Darren Ferguson following their 2–1 home defeat to Blackpool on Saturday — a result that marked Ian Evatt’s first win in charge of the Seasiders.
Evatt, taking charge for the first time since replacing Neil Critchley, made an instant impact as his side earned their first away points of the season thanks to a stunning late strike from Scott Banks at the Weston Homes Stadium. The victory lifted Blackpool off the bottom of League One, capping off a strong debut for the new boss.
It proved to be the final straw for Ferguson, with Peterborough confirming his dismissal shortly after full-time. The 53-year-old leaves the club for the fourth time in his career, having returned in 2023 for another stint in charge.
Peterborough United Statement
In a heartfelt message, the club described Ferguson as “the greatest manager in the club’s history.”
“There are too many wonderful moments to mention, but I’ll cherish every one of them,” the statement read.
“He managed this club like it was his own. I’m devastated he’s no longer our manager and will miss our daily football conversations. He’ll always be part of the Peterborough family.”
The statement continued:
“This season has been challenging on all fronts. It’s time for a reset and a new period of growth on and off the pitch. Thank you to our incredible supporters for sticking with us. Goodbye, legend — and thank you.”
Evatt’s Tactical Tweaks Pay Off
Evatt wasted no time stamping his mark on the team, switching to a wing-back formation that saw Andy Lyons drop into a back three, with CJ Hamilton and Zac Ashworth operating wide.
While the new setup didn’t immediately shore up Blackpool’s defence — with Bailey Peacock-Farrell forced into early saves to deny Matt Garbett — the Seasiders struck first when Josh Bowler’s shot was parried into Peter Kioso, the ball rebounding off the defender and into his own net.
Peterborough hit back before the interval, as Garbett reacted quickest to a loose ball from a corner, firing through a crowded box to level the scores.
However, Blackpool showed their resilience in the second half, and with time running out, Scott Banks produced a moment of magic — curling in a brilliant winner to seal a deserved victory.
Peacock-Farrell made another vital stop in stoppage time to protect the three points and hand Evatt the perfect start to his reign.
Leave a Reply