BRIAN Horton came away from Peterborough rueing rookie defending and Kevin McIntyreés red card.

After referee Kevin Friend showed Kevin McIntyre a straight red for his 55th minute challenge on Justin Richards, he said: "I thought the refereeés performance was unacceptable on Saturday and we did have a few words.

"A couple of the young lads went to sleep for the first goal, which was really galling because it was so early into the second half. But theyére young and they will make mistakes."

Although Posh were two goals to the good at the time, Horton pointed to the sending off as the moment his teamés challenge was over.

He said: "Once we lost McIntyre our backs were against the wall and it was poor defending throughout the second half that cost us the game.

"Iém disappointed with the goals we conceded but Peterborough are a good side. I like the way they play and I think theyéll finish in the top three this season.

"Theyére strong in every department and thatés what spending money can do for you."

Speaking ahead of his struggling teamés trip to Leicester for the Carling Cup tie, Horton added: "There will be a few changes for Leicester, ités going to be a new-look team.

"I want the players and fans to go and enjoy the game but, honestly, Saturdayés match is more important to me. The league is our bread and butter."