Savage starts Peterborough reign with 4-1 win and Trophy qualification

Robbie Savage began his time as Peterborough United manager with a 4-1 victory over Ipswich Town Under-21s on Tuesday, securing a place in the last 32 of the Jersey Mike's Trophy. BBC Sport reported that Harry Leonard scored twice as Peterborough struck four times within a 10-minute spell during the first half.

Watch the highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYlRVkRkZuo

The result left Peterborough with six points from their opening two group matches. It also settled qualification for holders Luton Town, whose five points from two games were enough to guarantee progress following Peterborough's win. Both clubs now have knockout football secured before completing their group schedules, according to the BBC's competition round-up.

Savage arrived from Forest Green Rovers to replace Luke Williams in his first managerial job in the English Football League. The League Paper reported on October 2 that the 51-year-old had signed a long-term contract. Williams had departed after a 2-0 loss to Doncaster Rovers, with Peterborough in the League One relegation zone. The appointment therefore came amid difficulties in the league.

In remarks to the club carried by The League Paper, Savage identified attacking football and developing young players as central reasons for taking the position. He said he had studied Peterborough's approach for years and wanted his teams to pursue a winning goal rather than settle for a draw. He also outlined plans to trust his coaches to deliver training sessions while attending them himself.

His move followed managerial spells at Macclesfield and Forest Green. The League Paper reported that he guided Macclesfield into National League North in March 2025 before joining Forest Green that summer. His first season there ended with an extra-time defeat by Boreham Wood in the National League play-off semi-finals. Peterborough's existing coaching staff were to remain following his appointment.

Elsewhere in the Trophy's southern section, BBC Sport reported that Aaron Collins scored three times as MK Dons beat Brentford Under-21s 7-1. Wycombe also booked a knockout place, with two goals from Emre Tezgel helping them defeat Bristol Rovers 4-1.