Peterborough United manager Robbie Savage has taken responsibility for an embarrassing 5-0 FA Cup defeat to Reading, with his own son Charlie among the goalscorers. The former Wales international admitted his side were weak and fragile as their winless run continued in front of their home supporters.
Charlie Savage Adds to Father’s Misery
Saturday evening’s FA Cup first-round encounter at the Weston Homes Stadium provided an extraordinary family storyline, but it was Reading midfielder Charlie Savage who emerged with the bragging rights. The 23-year-old scored his side’s third goal against a Peterborough team managed by his father, Robbie.
Reading took the lead after 26 minutes when Daniel Kyerewaa found the net, before former Peterborough striker Jack Marriott doubled their advantage with a close-range header. Charlie then struck in first-half stoppage time, finding the net with a deflected effort from the edge of the penalty area.
The midfielder celebrated in front of the travelling supporters while his father watched from the Peterborough dugout. Substitute Jamie Reid added two second-half goals to complete a comprehensive victory for Leam Richardson’s side.
The result was particularly painful for Peterborough, who have not won since beating Leicester City on 10 October. Savage’s team sit 22nd in League One, with Saturday’s heavy defeat adding to the pressure following their disappointing run of results.
Savage Admits Embarrassment After Heavy Defeat
Speaking to the Peterborough Telegraph after the match, Savage made no attempt to disguise his disappointment. The Peterborough boss accepted responsibility for both his team selection and tactical approach.
“I’m devastated. It’s not acceptable, it’s embarrassing. It’s on me, I pick the players and I pick the tactics.”
Savage was particularly critical of his players’ failure to compete physically against their League One rivals. He admitted that Reading had dominated important areas of the pitch despite Peterborough having an extra midfielder.
“We couldn’t win headers, duels or second balls. We played four in the midfield and they only had three, but they ran the midfield with one less player and we couldn’t stop crosses.”
The 52-year-old also revealed that several players had been fortunate to remain on the pitch, having already used all five substitutions. His frustration was evident as he questioned the overall contribution of his squad.
“At times, it looked like we were playing with seven or eight. I would have taken off more if I could.”
Savage confirmed that Peterborough’s players would report for training every day during the coming week as they attempt to address their shortcomings. With the club now eliminated from both the FA Cup and League Cup, improving their League One position has become an immediate priority.
Peterborough next face Luton Town in the EFL Trophy on 17 November before travelling to Plymouth Argyle in the league four days later. Meanwhile, Charlie Savage and Reading can look forward to Monday’s FA Cup second-round draw after an emphatic victory that will be remembered for more than just the scoreline.
