A defeat away at the league leaders, with a sold out away end, was followed up with a home win against another promotion rival on Tuesday night. A result that should give the team a confidence boost ahead of another promotion clash at Forest Green this weekend.
Firstly, Saturday’s defeat to Rochdale. A game where we certainly nullified the attacking threat of the opposition but also struggled to offer too much attacking threat ourselves.
The plan was clear from the off to allow Rochdale to have possession in their back line and hit the press as they try to play through midfield. A classic away game smash and grab tactic. For the most part this worked but we failed to make the most of our breaks and we were undone by a bit of slack defending from a set piece as Dan Moss scored the winner prior to half time.
Tuesday then saw the visit of Scunthorpe United to Brunton Park. A much calmer game than the contentious away game but not one without incident. Elliot Embleton capped a bright individual start with a goal with some help from Iron’s keeper Rory Mahady as his deflected effort found the bottom corner.
A miscontrol by Ryan Galvin then let Callum Roberts in to equalise before half time. Galvin recovered well from this and almost scored his first goal for the club in the second half.
David Ajiboye continued his recent improved form with a second half brace. His first bundling the ball home after Morgan Feeney had headed Embleton’s free kick back across the box. His second was a much more individual effort as he cut inside on his left and curled the ball past a despairing Mahady.
Alfie Beestin’s late deflected effort let to a few nerves late on but we held on for a league double over the visitors.
In Trust news our new gazebo banner had its first user on Tuesday night as a fan used the QR code on it to join the Trust. It was also nice to chat to many of you about the club as we do every home game.
If you haven’t seen us we are located just below the big screen in the Fan Zone.
We also have a few seats remaining on our bus to Hartlepool on Wednesday, February 25. Seats are priced at a very reasonable £25. Carlisle United Supporters' Trust members also receive a ten per cent discount.
Our aim is to arrive at the opposition ground around 90 minutes before kick-off allowing you time to grab a drink or some food should you wish to do so.
You can book your place via our online shop at https://www.cust.org.uk/shop/
Our travel options for Halifax away on March 24 will be out soon so keep an eye on our socials for updates.
Onto another test at Forest Green Rovers. Up The Blues!
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