FOR once Barry Fry wasn’t joking when he said Blues could expect a very open Peterborough.

And the popular ex-Blues boss, back at St Andrew’s in his capacity as Posh’s director of football, said that they hadn’t kept a clean sheet ‘since the old King died’.

That was a quip, but with an element of truth in it.

In effect, Fry admitted pre-match that there were goals in this game for the taking, more likely for Blues than the visitors.

But it didn’t turn out quite as billed, generating frustration for all concerned apart from Baz, Darren Ferguson and the Peterborough players and supporters.

When Blues were on top – and the first half was the most one-sided in their favour this season – they didn’t make it count.

Some of the swift, incisive, attacking football was lovely to watch.

But all Blues had to show for it was a Marlon King goal, well taken in the 22nd minute after one of the many fine moves.

Two chances were spurned at the beginning of the second half as well and Peterborough hung on – and sure enough, got back in it.

Grant McCann’s unstoppable free-kick brought the scores level in the 61st minute and galvanised Peterborough.

By the end, the St Andrew’s mood was embittered, like it used to be when Blues were in the Championship, had no money worries and were billed as promotion favourites.

At Reading, in Blues’ previous match, they played very good football but also were found wanting when it came to finishing.

Before that Brighton & Hove Albion left St Andrew’s content after a goalless, bore draw and Blues had previously scraped past Leeds United 1-0.

So is there cause for concern?

A little, considering the recent bare facts, but as long as Blues keep their frugal ways defensively, over the course of the season they should come through.

Let’s remember, only two goals have been conceded in seven St Andrew’s league games and both of those were spectacular efforts.

That said, a ruthlessness does have to return.