Junior Morias clears snow off the pitch during the match. Photograph: Joe Dent/JMP/Rex/Shutterstock

Steve Evans named new manager as Peterborough sweep past Walsall

This article is more than 6 years old

Evans joins on long-term deal after leaving Mansfield Town
Steven Taylor and Junior Morias sweep snow from pitch

Peterborough have appointed Steve Evans as their new manager a day after his resignation as Mansfield boss.

The move comes after the side came from behind to secure a 2-1 win against Walsall to end a run of four straight draws and move within three points of the League One play-offs. But only after several of their players grabbed shovels to help clear the lines of play as heavy snow descended on the Abax Stadium.

Lower league clubs unhappy at prospect of winter break hitting FA Cup replays

Evans watched from the stands as Peterborough fell behind after nine minutes when Julien Ngoy capitalised on hesitation from Jonathan Bond before rounding the goalkeeper to tap into an empty net.

Peterborough had the chance to level from the penalty spot when Jack Fitzwater hauled down Jack Marriott, but Marcus Maddison’s effort was well-saved by Liam Roberts. However, Omar Bogle equalised when he pounced on a loose pass to slot home just before half-time, with Jack Baldwin’s deflected header seven minutes into the second half putting the hosts ahead before snow threatened to cause an abandonment with 15 minutes remaining.

The referee consulted both managers as the playing surface was covered by a blanket of snow, but in a desperate bid to ensure Peterborough held their lead and secured a result, players and staff – including Steven Taylor and Junior Morias – shovelled heavy snow off the pitch before playing out the remainder of the match.

Evans, who will be joined by assistant Paul Rayner with both having signed long-term contracts, replaces Grant McCann, who was sacked on Sunday. The chairman Darragh MacAnthony said: “The football club, its staff, academy and first team players need an experienced promotion-winner as first team manager.

“As soon as somebody of the calibre of Steve Evans called to register their interest in the vacant position, there was no time to waste and I made the phone call.

“He is a serial promotion winner, including promotion from League One, has managed multiple clubs in the Championship and has an incredible reputation for getting the best out of his players with a never say die attitude and will to win.”