Another massive game for the Blues this Tuesday night as they take on third-place Scunthorpe. A game that, for some, will be vital to see if the Blues are up for it against fellow playoff challengers should Carlisle and Scunthorpe finish in one of those spots, or will it be another damaging blow to fit the perspective that Carlisle just can’t beat the big hitters? For Scunthorpe this is a chance to create a gap and be in the mix with York and Rochdale.
How are both teams doing?
Carlisle United: Mark Hughes will be hoping to grab a win and perhaps try and change the narrative that his tactics just can’t compete with the big hitters in this division, but many argue that Saturday proved he is capable of doing that, but not all agree. From my perspective it was a tiresome performance again; Rochdale didn’t even need to break a sweat and bang in a goal.
Another goal conceded by a lack of concentration at the back. Now the Blues were the better side overall, but that, in my view, shows our problems: even when the opposition drops off, we don’t capitalise on opportunities.
Scunthorpe United: Andy Butler’s side hasn’t lost a league game since the 29/11/25, and in that time they have won eight league games in nine and have only conceded eight goals in that time. A solid win against fellow playoff chasers Southend would put them equal on points with Carlisle and secure their seventieth win of the season.
It was another showcase of the quality in the Scunthorpe defence and what they can show going forward. Butlers side is starting to get a conversation of perhaps there’s an overlooked side by some, and they need to be seen as a big threat to the likes of York and Rochdale.
Previous Meeting and Prediction
The last time both sides met was in October, with Aaron Hayden grabbing the winner. It was a tough game for the Blues despite Boyce being sent off for the home side. Lots of big personalities in the match would see eight yellow cards and, of course, the previously mentioned red card, and it seems that could be back on the table for Tuesday night.
Right, I normally get accused of being too negative with my predictions, so I’m going for a Carlisle win this week, and no, it’s not because of feedback….
No, I’m wholeheartedly going for a Blues win; there just seems to be that buzz for a Tuesday night game under the lights at Brunton Park. A 2-1 win for the Blues.
Blues News
Well, not a great deal has happened since Saturday to report on, apart from the club’s goal of the month award opening up. Luke Armstrong has two nominations, and Georgie Kelly and David Ajiboye have been nominated as well. It is, of course, a fan vote, so cast yours, and of course, there is a small compilation of the goals to remind you.
That’s all for this match preview. We’ll be back like a terrible terminator for a huge game on the weekend. Come on, you Blues!
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James Denwood
Writer covering Carlisle United and the National League Follow @james_cufc2000 on X for more views