And although Premier League City will start as clear favourites, Pearce knows the Iron have nothing to lose from their trip west.
He told the MCFC website: "We are on a hiding to nothing, being the Premiership team and at home, but you need a home draw and preferably against someone in the leagues below you.
"Little Ern we call him (Laws) because it ties in with his short, fat hairy legs, his wig and his tightness!
"We had a few years together at Forest and he has done a decent job wherever he has been, he has grafted away and got a few promotions under his belt. He has done okay."
City were knocked out of the Carling Cup by Doncaster, and Pearce is keen to avoid a repeat shock on Saturday.
He added: "We know that if we don't approach the game in the right manner then we will get beat.
"As luck happens I have seen Scunthorpe play this season when they met Doncaster and we will know what they are about."
