With the signing of Chris Conn-Clarke announced this week it has added some much needed quality in the attacking midfield department for Mark Hughes’ side. That signing has also had people look at the strength in depth that the Cumbrians have and today I’m going to be look at that myself.
Mark Hughes has the fortunate dilemma of having at the very least two players for every position and I’ll be looking at where they all fit in and what our strongest eleven is in this article.
A Closer Look At The Squad
Goalkeepers
In the goalkeeping department, the blues have one of the best keepers in the league in Gabe Breeze and he is one of the first names on the team sheet every week. His back up is Harry Lewis who despite his mixed performances in his time at Brunton Park is a a solid option if something was to happen to Breeze.
Defenders
At full-back, Archie Davies is first choice right-back and has performed well so far this season and as back up Mark Hughes can call upon the speedy wing-back Josh Williams, Jack Ellis who’s been playing midfield mainly and even Josh Grant can fill in if needed. Cameron Harper is first choice left-back and has been a solid performer so far this season, his back up is new signing from Manchester United Sam Murray who has played a couple of times this season in Harper’s absence but is still finding his feet.
In the centre of defence Carlisle United have depth as well. Club captain Terell Thomas had started most games under Mark Hughes until his recent injury, Morgan Feeney has captained the side in his absence and impressed many with his performances. Bevis Mugabi had been solid alongside Thomas until his injury but Aaron Hayden came in to replace him and scored the winner against Scunthorpe last weekend. All four are great options to have for Mark Hughes.
Midfield
The midfield is an area where I still think Carlisle could do with an experienced holding midfielder but there is still a lot of depth in those positions. Jack Ellis has been starting as the holder in midfield this season and his back up is experienced and versatile mid order Josh Grant.
In there with Ellis is Alex Gilliead who’s impressed since joining the club on loan from Shrewsbury Town. Stephen Wearne has been starting at the head of that three most of the season but there is a lot of competition for this positions with Callum Whelan, Elliot Embleton, Ethan Robson and Harvey Macadam all waiting in the wings and performing well when being called upon. New signing Chris Conn-Clarke is also added to these ranks and you’d think he will be starting in place of Wearne going forward.
Attack
On the wing Mark Hughes had options with Junior Luamba and David Ajiboye both offering pace and width down the right. Both players have played a lot this season but are yet to make that position their own. On the left Hughes has talisman Regan Linney who is the clubs top scorer so far this season with nine goals, forgotten man Jordan Jones can do a job on the left in the event of Linney’s absence.
Up top Carlisle have three standout strikers to choose from as well as Regan Linney who can play through the middle as well. Luke Armstrong started the season well and has four goals and two assists to his name so far but in recent weeks Georgie Kelly has been leading the line and has impressed, Kelly has three goals and one assist so far this season. The other striker is a forgotten man in Charlie Wyke, he’s been injured since the middle of last season and we don’t know when he’ll be back but when he’s fit he is an excellent option to have as well.
What Is The Cumbrians Strongest Team?
This is going to be the starting eleven that I think is the strongest not who I think Mark Hughes will pick. Hughes will have a closer insight than me obviously but I’m going off what I’ve seen and who I think will do the best jobs in their positions.
GK – Gabe Breeze
RB – Archie Davies
CB – Morgan Feeney (C)
CB – Bevis Mugabi
LB – Cameron Harper
CDM – Jack Ellis
CM – Alex Gilliead
CAM – Chris Conn-Clarke
RW – Junior Luamba
LW – Regan Linney
ST – Georgie Kelly
Do you agree with my strongest team? Please let us know in the comments.
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This weekend, Carlisle United announced the signing of attacking midfielder Chris Conn-Clarke from League One side Peterborough United.
The Northern Irish midfielder signs for the Cumbrians on a short term loan deal until January with an option to extend the deal if all goes well.
Who Is Chris Conn-Clarke?
The 23-year-old began in his career at Glentoran before moving to Burnley in 2018. Conn-Clarke was loaned to Chorley in his spell at Burnley but only appeared twice before returning. The midfielder then got a permanent move to Fleetwood Town in 2021 but found starts hard to come by and had multiple loan spells with Altrincham before a loan move to Waterford in 2022 and 2023.
In 2023 Conn-Clarke got a permanent move to Altrincham after impressing on loan where he appeared 46 times and scored 23 goals in the National League, which saw him win the National League player of the year award. That season then led to League One side Peterborough United signing the midfielder in 2024 but has recently fell out of favour.
He has also represented Northern Ireland at under-17, under-19 and under-21 level but is yet to make is debut for the senior team.
Where Will He Play?
Conn-Clarke will most likely play at the front of a midfield three and play where the players like Stephen Wearne and Elliot Embleton usually do. The 23-year-old will want to thread passes but also make intelligent runs and stretch the defence to create space for other forwards in the team.
His link up play at Altrincham was one of his strong points and he will aim to recreate that at with Regan Linney and the other forwards at Brunton Park.
What Has Been Said?
Head coach Mark Hughes, speaking on the club website, said: “He’s a player with real quality in the final third — composed, creative, and clinical when it counts.
He brings with him a proven track record at this level, and his experience, along with his technical ability, makes him a valuable addition to the squad.
“We’re confident that his presence will make a significant impact, not just in terms of goals and assists, but in the overall dynamics of our attacking play.”
The Blues’ head of football operations Marc Tierney saluted United’s owners, the Piatak family, for their backing to get the deal done.
“Both the club and Chris were fully committed to making this move happen, and thanks to the fantastic support from our owners, we were able to get the deal over the line,” he said.
“We’d also like to thank Peterborough for their professionalism — they’ve been a pleasure to work with throughout the process.
“Chris is a player who really excites us. He’s got genuine quality on the ball, creativity in the final third, and a strong work ethic that will complement the team.
“He offers something a bit different, and we’re looking forward to seeing him link up with the manager, the coaching staff, and his new teammates.”
My Opinion On The Move
I do think he fits the profile of a lot of players already at Brunton Park and I would’ve liked to see us address the holding midfielder role as well but with that being said when a player of his quality becomes available and with his links to Marc Tierney, Altrincham and Regan Linney the move makes a lot of sense.
The move makes sense for both parties, for Carlisle it’s another quality addition in the attacking third of the pitch, his goal contributions could be the difference this season and his history of playing with Linney at Altrincham means they know how each other tick and could form a great partnership for Mark Hughes’ team.
For Conn-Clarke it’s a chance to get some real game time and prove that Peterborough dropped the ball with him and show everyone that he’s still the same player that was comfortably one of the best in the National League last year.
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On Saturday, Carlisle United get their FA Cup campaign underway, the Cumbrians welcome fellow National League side Boston United to Brunton Park as both sides aim to make the first round of the FA Cup.
Graham Coughlan’s side have had an upturn in form as of late and will be a tough test for Mark Hughes’ side.
How Have Both Teams Been Performing?
Carlisle United have had a mixed last five games, they have lost three and won two. Mark Hughes’ side have had a hard run of fixtures which included a trip to York where they were well beaten 5-0, they then were beating at home 2-0 by in form Rochdale but managed to pick up a couple of wins against Hartlepool at Brunton Park and away to Altrincham and last time out they ended Scunthorpe United’s unbeaten run with a hard fought 1-0 win.
Boston have had an upturn in their form lately and their last five games reflect that. The Pilgrims are unbeaten in their last four National League games. They have won two, drawn two and lost one of their last five games. Their last defeat was at home to Boreham Wood and since then they have beaten Braintree at home, drawn with Sutton United and top of the table Forest Green and last time out they beat Gateshead away from home 3-1.
Players To Watch
Lenell John-Lewis
The experienced striker has been a thorn in Carlisle United’s side on previous occasions for his former clubs and has a real eye for goal. The 36-year-old has five goals in all competitions so far this season in a team that has found goals hard to come by.
Gregory Sloggett
The Irish midfielder has been a constant this season for Graham Coughlan’s side and he will look to dictate play in the midfield. He will look to get his foot on the ball and want to dominate the midfield. The 29-year-old has two goals and two assists in all competitions so far this season.
Matty Carson
The attacking full back has been a constant threat for Boston this season, his ability to get up and down the pitch and deliver balls in to the danger area will be something for Carlisle’s defence to take a close look at. The 22-year-old has one goal and three assists in all competitions so far this season.
Zak Mills
The Boston captain is a commanding presence at the back, he can play at right back and centre back and will be a huge threat form set pieces. The 33-year-old experienced defender is a Boston legend and has had experience in the EFL for teams such as Grimsby, Oldham and Morecambe.
A good cup run will be something that Mark Hughes will be looking at and will want to field a strong side in this one. The team pretty much picks itself at the moment especially after the lack of impact changing formations had in recent weeks.
At the back I’d stick with who played so well at Scunthorpe. The midfield picks itself really but Grant has impressed off the bench recently so he may get a start in the cup and Whelan could also come in for same valuable game time.
Up front, Luamba took a bad knock to the head at Scunthorpe so he may be rested and that would mean Ajiboye or Williams comes in for him but Linney and Kelly should start for sure.
My Score Prediction
Carlisle United 3-1 Boston United
I expect the blues to have to much quality in key areas for Boston but we can’t underestimate them as they are four games unbeaten and have steadied the ship after a poor start to the season.
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After back-to-back defeats for Mark Hughes’ side and injuries to Terell Thomas and Bevis Mugabi the manager has called upon summer signing Morgan Feeney to captain the side in the middle of a tough run of fixtures.
Feeney has been one of the stand out performers in his last two games and after concerns over his fitness when he rejoined the club in summer he seems to have found his old form against Hartlepool and Scunthorpe.
A Closer Look At The Player
The 26-year-old came through the youth system at Premier League club Everton. Feeney joined the Cumbrians in 2021 and was a first team regular and captain before he left the club in the summer of 2023 for Shrewsbury Town.
Following his departure from Shrewsbury he rejoined Carlisle United in the summer of 2025 but was injured at the start of the season and was used sporadically by Mark Hughes. The defender has appeared seven times this season but only started twice.
Feeney’s return to the team was an early substitution against Hartlepool after an injury to Bevis Mugabi and he went on to be one of the best players on the pitch in that game and got a goal to go with it. He then went on to captain the blues to their 1-0 win at unbeaten Scunthorpe at the weekend and was colossal at the back alongside Aaron Hayden.
Morgan Feeney’s Attributes
With Feeney’s return to the team and the quality he has shown I think it’s worth talking about because it’s gone under the radar with some people. The 26-year-old’s leadership and mentality is something I think this current side really needed after back-to-back relegations.
Feeney leads from the front and his performance against Scunthorpe in particular highlighted that. He was on the end of every cross Scunthorpe put in to the box, he held the line well and brought the best out of Aaron Hayden as well. Bringing the best of our your teammates and inspiring others is something you love to see from your captain.
Another part of his game I noticed against Scunthorpe was he was constantly at the referee about his dreadful decisions, something you don’t always see from other captains but Feeney once again was leading by example and holding the poor officiating to account.
Morgan Feeney Stats This Season
I have broken down the statistics so far this season with Morgan Feeney in the side. So far this season he has appeared seven times and started twice. Carlisle have had three clean sheets when Feeney has played and have conceded four times. Feeney has scored once and got one assist to his name so far this season as well.
Mark Hughes’ side have kept clean sheets on nearly half of the games Feeney has featured and that can’t be a coincidence. He makes everyone around him defend and player better and he gives our goalkeeper confidence to come for crosses as well as we noticed in the Scunthorpe game.
A fully fit Feeney has to be the first defender on the team sheet and captain in my opinion.
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Carlisle United took home all three points after beating 10 man Scunthorpe United 1-0 thanks to a volley from Aaron Hayden in what was a very gritty affair at the Attis Arena.
Scunthorpe United were unbeaten in the National League coming into this game and a win today could have seen them climb as far as third in the table whereas Carlisle were looking to rebuild some momentum following their 3-1 victory over Hartlepool on Wednesday.
The game started off tentatively with both sides struggling to really trouble the opposition defence, the only real opportunity in the opening 10 coming for Scunthorpe as Oli Ewing was brought down by Jack Ellis near the edge of the United box, but the free kick was hit well over by Callum Roberts. The hosts upped the ante in the following five minutes or so and forced a couple of good blocks from Archie Davies and Morgan Feeney.
Davies was involved at the other end of the field moments later as his whipped corner from the left side met the head of Aaron Hayden just inside the six yard area but he couldn’t get enough contact as the ball slipped off his head and past Rory Watson’s left hand post.
The visitors started to gain a good level of control of the game after this chance and got their reward in the 20th minute as Davies fired another corner into the area and Hayden, brought into the side following injuries to Terrell Thomas and Bevis Mugabi, squeezed in between two Scunthorpe defenders to volley home from close range and give Carlisle an early lead.
The game entered a gritty period following the goal with refeee Greg Rollason dishing out five yellow cards in the first half for a few arguably soft offences from both sides. Scunthorpe, whose last league defeat came against King’s Lynn in the National League North last season, looked to get back into the game and came close to an opportunity as Tyrell Sellars-Fleming brought down a cross in the area before being quickly snuffed out by the goalscorer Hayden.
The sticky nature of the game came to a real head in the 40th minute as Scunthorpe captain Andrew Boyce, already on a yellow card, was shown a straight red for a nasty challenge on Georgie Kelly, catching Carlisle’s number 9 high on his leg as they both went for the ball, this led to the Iron sacrificing Joey Dawson to bring on Jean Belehouan to plug the gap at the back.
Mark Hughes’ side almost doubled their advantage from the resulting free kick, as Feeney met Cameron Harper’s cross but his header rattled the inside of the right hand post before rolling agonizingly across the goal line and being cleared. Carlisle looked to make their man advantage count before half time as Kelly beat Will Evans to a long ball forward and broke into the area, but his initial left footed shot and the rebound were both saved by Watson as Kelly struggled to keep his balance.
Andy Butler’s side were extremely lucky not to be reduced to 9 men just before half time as Evans caught Junior Luamba with a flying elbow as they both jumped for the ball but somehow only received a yellow card. Luamba was taken down the tunnel following extensive treatment on the pitch and reportedly passed out in the dressing room afterwards, we at Paddock Perception wish Junior a quick recovery from what was a really shocking challenge by Scunthorpe’s number 5.
HALF TIME: Scunthorpe 0 – 1 Carlisle
United came out in the second half unfazed by the injury to Luamba and looked to press the advantage, as Harper hit a right footed shot from distance which was comfortably palmed away by Watson. Scunthorpe were especially struggling to deal with United’s set pieces in this game, and the visitors got a fourth chance from one moments afterwards as substitute Josh Grant headed over a Davies corner from close range.
The Iron had one of the best records in the division coming into this game and looked to justify that fact even with 10 men, enjoying a good spell of posession in the early stages of the first half and creating a good chance in the 64th minute as Zain Westbrooke cut in from the left hand side and slipped the ball right to Ewing, but the ex Buxton man fired his shot well over the bar from just inside the area.
Carlisle knew a win in the game would take them back up to third in the table and looked to increase their advantage minutes later as a positive run from top scorer Regan Linney led to him finding Alex Gilliead on the right flank, his cut back found Stephen Wearne around the penalty spot but his first time effort struck his team mate Kelly on the way to goal and deflected out for a goal kick.
The hosts pushed forward in an attempt to find an equaliser in the later stages of the half and applied a good spell of pressure but were being kept at arm’s length by a stout Carlisle backline, before Carlisle fired back themselves with a couple of efforts from Wearne and Kelly being blocked by Scunthorpe defenders.
The Blues were well and truly on the back foot in the closing stages however and Scunthorpe had a half chance in the early stages of stoppage time as a corner fell to Belehouan but his snapshot flew well over Gabe Breeze’s goal. The hosts weren’t done there however and struck the United woodwork in the 92nd minute as Roberts found substitute Declan Howe with an excellent cross and his header bounced off the right hand post before being hacked away.
Carlisle had a massive chance to put the game beyond all doubt moments later as Kelly broke clear of the Scunthorpe defence before sliding the ball left to Wearne, but his left footed strike from 12 yards flew well over the crossbar. Carlisle stood firm for the remaining minutes however to take home a massive victory and climb back up to 3rd and level with Forest Green after their defeat to York earlier today.
FULL TIME: Scunthorpe 0 – 1 Carlisle: Hayden (20′)
Without trying to sound too negative, i feared this game might have seen a repeat of either the York or Rochdale game for us, as Scunthorpe are one of the real heavy hitters of this division and hadn’t lost up until today, with that said, Carlisle played very well indeed today and fully deserved the 3 points.
Scunthorpe going down to 10 men definitely helped us, but even up to that point we were leading and arguably should have been further in front with the chances we had created. We rode out periods of pressure when we needed to and the entire backline was very solid when called upon, something that you’d have struggled to say about us in recent weeks.
We arguably should have controlled the game a bit better in the second half with a man advantage as our midfield struggled to really keep a firm grasp of the match, but against a side as good as Scunthorpe, you absolutely take a result like today. Once again i send my best wishes to Luamba after the nasty challenge on him which i’m still flabbergasted as to how it wasn’t a red card.
Carlisle Player Ratings:
Breeze: 6 – Don’t think he made a single meaningful save in the game but commanded his area well, distribution questionable once or twice but overall a decent game.
Davies – 8: Fantastic set piece deliveries throughout which caused Scunthorpe problems and defended very well down the right hande side too.
Feeney – 8: Led the backline superbly, made a couple of excellent blocks and was a big voice all the way throughout the match.
Hayden – 9 (MOTM): My personal man of the match, should have scored moments before he actually did but took his goal like a forward and won absolutely everything at the back, looks much more comfortable playing next to Feeney.
Harper – 7: Lost out on a couple of physical battles with his man in dangerous areas but generally defended well and threatened going forward too, almost got an assist when Feeney hit the post.
Ellis – 6: A standard Ellis midfield performance, struggled for control at times but worked hard consistently.
Gilliead – 6: Struggled to impact the game at times but used the ball well when he had it and created a big chance for Wearne.
Wearne – 6: Picked up some great pockets of space and the ball well but really should have had a goal to his name, especially with his second half chance.
Linney – 6: Didn’t impact the game as he usually does but was positive with his running as usual.
Luamba – 6: More direct running which i always like to see and worked hard, shame about the injury he suffered as appeared to be growing into the team.
Kelly – 8: Excellent centre forward performance, couple of slack touches in the first half but grew into it as the game went on, held the ball up superbly and should have had an assist to his name when he set up Wearne.
Subs:
Grant – 8: After a poor debut against Solihull he’s been much improved since then, put in some excellent challenges in the second half to break up Scunthorpe’s attacks
Williams – 7: More positive running kept Scunthorpe on their toes as they pushed for an equaliser, looks much better as a winger than a full back.
Armstrong – 6: Worked hard when he came on but didn’t impact the game much in an unfamiliar left wing role.
Whelan – N/A: Not on long enough.
Please note these are Craig’s opinions and nothing official!
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On Saturday, Mark Hughes’ Carlisle United side travel to Glanford Park to take on Andy Butler’s unbeaten Scunthorpe United side. The newly promoted side have got off to flying start on their return to the National League and after a couple of bad results Carlisle got back to winning ways in midweek so it should be a hard fought contest.
The game is the 5.30pm kick off with extended coverage on DAZN and with both sides near the top of the table it promises to be a cracker.
How Have Both Teams Been Performing?
Scunthorpe have eleven points from their last five games and are unbeaten so far this season. They have picked up impressive away victories over York and Southend as well as holding top of the league Forest Green to a draw away from home. They have also beaten Truro comfortably and drawn with Hugh flying Boreham Wood at home in those games.
Scunthorpe are in 4th place in the National League and have games in hand on everyone around them, if they win those games in hand they can go top of the league.
Carlisle have nine points from their last five games and are in third place in the National League. The Cumbrians have wins over Aldershot, Altrincham and most recently Hartlepool in those five games but they also have a heavy defeat to York and a home defeat to Rochdale in those five games as well.
This will be a tough test once again for Mark Hughes’ side and to see if they can be the ones to break Scunthorpe’s unbeaten run.
Players To Watch
Alfie Beestin
Beestin is the man in form right now. The 28-year-old has scored two huge goals in their last two games and has played an important role in their big victories away to Southend and York. His runs from midfield and eye for goal will be something Carlisle’s defence will have to keep a close eye on, especially with the form he is in.
Callum Roberts
Roberts is a player that can play anywhere across the front line and will look to link up play with the other forwards. He will look to get shot off when he can but will also try to put balls in to danger areas for the other forwards. The 28-year-old has two goals and five assists to his name already this season.
Danny Whitehall
Whitehall is Scunthorpe’s main goal threat and is their top scorer so far this season with six goals and he has two assists to go with those goals. The 29-year-old takes most set pieces and can score all types of goals, he already this season has scored tap ins, penalties and long range free kicks.
Declan Howe
Howe is another of Scunthorpe’s main goal threats. The striker has five goals so far this season and has that striker instinct to know where the ball will drop and the ability to take his chances. Scunthorpe have goals all over the pitch so Carlisle’s defence will need to be on the top of its game in this one.
Another player to watch out for is former Carlisle United striker Mark Beck, he may impact the game from the bench at some point.
I think Wednesday showed that this is the formation that works for us. Hughes won’t want to change too much from a winning team unless he has to.
Centre back is tough to predict with Mugabi and Thomas both being taken off injured against Hartlepool but hopefully one of them can make it. Feeney was impressive when he came on against Hartlepool and should start this game regardless of fitness.
Midfield still worries me, the better opposition have exploited that but I think the three Hughes usually goes with is our best three.
I think Armstrong will come in for Kelly despite Kelly playing really well against Hartlepool, I just think he can’t play two games so close together but could impact the game off the bench.
My Score Prediction
Scunthorpe United 3-1 Carlisle United
It’s going to be another tough away game, Hartlepool was good to get back to winning ways but the two games previously when we came up against good opposition we were comfortably beaten and I think this game could be very similar.
I have worries about us defensively although that is helped if Feeney starts and in midfield compared to the top teams in the league we are relatively lightweight and could be exposed again.
I hope I’m wrong.
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Carlisle United bounced back from consecutive defeats with a solid 3-1 win over a battling Hartlepool side, Jermaine Francis’ goal cancelled out Cameron Harper’s opener before goals from Georgie Kelly and Morgan Feeney gave the hosts all 3 points.
Carlisle were coming into this game licking their wounds after being comfortably beaten by fellow heavy hitters York City and Rochdale and their woes almost resurfaced immediately as Hartlepool caught their hosts napping in the opening minute as a superb ball from Jay Benn cut United’s defence to ribbons and found Jermaine Francis through on goal, but Gabe Breeze was alert and was able to quickly smother the huge chance.
The Pools came into this game on the back of a run of just one win in their previous eight outings and were fearing that run would be extended just moments later as Regan Linney pulled off a superb dummy to round Maxim Kouogun on the left flank before cutting the ball back to the onrushing Cameron Harper, who curled an excellent first time effort into the far side just past the glove of Harvey Cartwright in the Hartlepool goal to give Mark Hughes’ side an early lead and marking his 50th appearance for the club with a goal.
Carlisle were looking to reaffirm themselves as challengers at the top end of the table and threatened the visitors moments later as Linney roamed inside before picking the ball up just outside the area and drove a low effort just past the left hand post.
Simon Grayson’s side had struggled for goals in recent weeks but looked threatening going forward in the early stages and almost found another way in in the 10th minute as Luke Charman got in down the left flank but was quickly snuffed out by the retreating Bevis Mugabi, a challenge that left Mugabi with what looked like a pulled muscle, leading to an early change in the United defence as he was replaced by Morgan Feeney.
Carlisle didn’t let this change disrupt them however and should have doubled their lead as the ever dangerous Linney fired in a cross from the left wing to the back post and found Georgie Kelly in an excellent position but he couldn’t get enough contact on the header and somehow glanced the ball wide of the post.
The Cumbrians were well on top in the opening 25 minutes or so of the game, controlling possession while Linney remained a constant threat to Hartlepool with his direct running and passing. They came somewhat close to a second goal in this period as Feeney flicked a Harper corner onto the roof of the net at the near post. Balls into the box were causing Hartlepool problems for large periods of the first half and Kelly found himself in space again as Jack Ellis fired a cross in, but the ex Rotherham man couldn’t generate enough power on the header which sailed comfortably into Cartwright’s arms.
Hartlepool were keen to let United know they weren’t out of the game and an excellent ball in from the right by Benn found Charman, but his effort was superbly charged down by the substitute Feeney.
The visitors had been relatively tight at the back in recent weeks despite their poor form but took a hit to their defensive setup just before the 40th minute mark as Cartwright went down clutching his leg after taking a routine free kick in his own area leading to Adam Smith having to come on and take his place in between the sticks for Grayson’s side.
Smith had little time to get set before he was almost called into action moments later as a reverse pass by Stephen Wearne found the run of Linney in the inside right channel, but his sliding effort went just wide of the post after he was well closed down by the onrushing Smith. Wearne threatened again moments later, breaking down the left flank and firing a low cross in which was turned over by ex Blue Tom Parkes, with the ball almost dropping in over Smith’s head.
HALF TIME: Carlisle 1 – 0 Hartlepool
Despite largely controlling the first half, Carlisle started the second half much like they did the first, and goalscorer Harper completely missed an interception in the middle of the park which led to Charman being played in down the right flank, his shot was initially blocked by a sliding Feeney but the resulting scramble on the 6 yard line eventually fell to Francis, and the Grenadan international made no mistake, slotting into the bottom left corner to level the scoring.
Carlisle looked a bit shell shocked by this and Hartlepool threatened their left flank a couple more times before they had a massive chance themselves to regain the lead in the 54th minute as an Archie Davies corner found Terrell Thomas 6 yards out but he could only direct his header over the bar. The game saw a couple more delays after this as Thomas himself sustained an injury leading to him being replaced by Josh Grant as Ellis slotted in next to Feeney at the back, before referee Simon Mather pulled up with a strain himself, meaning he was forced to switch roles with fourth official Richard Holmes.
This saw the match go into a little bit of a lull with the only sights of goal being a couple of long range efforts from Linney for the hosts that went comfortably wide. Carlisle were starting to get a firmer grip on the game again though and came close to a second goal as a Harper corner was flicked on at the near post by Feeney, but Linney couldn’t get enough on it at the far post to turn it in.
There were still warning signs for the hosts however and Hartlepool almost made another good chance moments later as Charman found the run of Benn down the right flank but his deep cross went just over the head of Francis at the back post, much to the relief of the United faithful.
Hartlepool were made to rue that missed chance in the 77th minute as a superb cross from deep by Harper found Kelly on the penalty spot, and he was able to superbly slot the ball low past Smith to regain the advantage for Carlisle.
Kelly was a nuisance for Hartlepool all game and came close to netting his second moments later as Hartlepool left themselves open while pushing for an equaliser and a counter led to Carlisle’s number 9 picking up the ball 25 yards out, but his curling effort sailed just wide of the right hand post.
Despite a good bit of pressure from the visitors, Carlisle put the game beyond doubt in the 89th minute as Linney picked up the ball about 40 yards from goal on the right flank before firing a lovely ball in which was flicked on by the head of Feeney to double United’s lead and notch his first goal since re-signing for the club in the summer. It could have been 4 in stoppage time as a cross from the byline by substitute Josh Williams found Kelly in the area, but he couldn’t keep the header down. Hartlepool fought to find some way back in but United secured the 3 points which saw them move back up to third in the National League table.
FULL TIME: Carlisle 3 – 1 Hartlepool: Harper (4′), Kelly (77′), Feeney (89′) – Francis (46′)
This was the exact kind of result that Carlisle really needed after two really poor outings against York and Rochdale, and despite a couple of scares and lapses at the back they were well deserving of the 3 points tonight.
The setup and balance looked a lot better from the off and while admittedly Hartlepool weren’t at the levels of the opposition we’ve faced in the last couple of games, they still had good bits of quality in their side and Carlisle largely controlled the game and kept them at arm’s length. The question marks still hang over their defence as some pooor moments of concentration led to an early scare as well as us conceding early in the second half as well.
I think Feeney was excellent when coming on early for Mugabi and i feel more comfortable with the defence while he’s a part of a back two, Wearne returning to his most comfortable position at the tip of the midfield made a big difference too, and he found plenty of pockets of space to cause Hartlepool problems.
We face a massive test against Scunthorpe on Saturday and will probably have to up our game once again from tonight, but if we keep doing the things we did right in this game and get our backline set, we’ll at least be well in the game against them.
Carlisle Player Ratings:
Breeze – 7: A couple of questionable bits of kicking aside, another good game for Breeze, commanding his area well, claiming crosses and making a vital save early on to stop what could have been a totally different game had Hartlepool gotten in front
Harper – 7: A very funny game for Harper, taking his goal excellently and assisting Kelly’s but some erratic defensive work early in the second half let Hartlepool back into the match, still, overall a good game by him.
Mugabi – 6: Did okay before he was withdrawn with injury, good tackle to stop a Hartlepool attack.
Thomas – 5: Still makes me nervous watching him at the back at times, showed glimpses of the quality he has but his distribution was erratic and didn’t cover himself in glory for Hartlepool’s goal.
Davies – 7: Didn’t get forward as much as he usually does in games but linked up with Luamba well at points and did his defensive work really well.
Ellis – 6: Decent game in the midfield for Ellis, couple of sloppy passes but showed great intelligence going forward at times to launch a couple of attacks.
Gilliead – 7: Another good solid display by him, rarely ever has a bad game and uses the ball very intelligently.
Wearne – 7: Great to see him back in his more comfortable role, found some great space and his passing and quick feet kept Hartlepool on their toes all game.
Luamba – 6: Worked hard and showed some glimpses of quality but never really threatened to make anything happen, still think having him in allows for a more balanced side and his positive thinking makes a difference.
Linney – 7: Two great assists for him tonight and his work in the first half especially was superb, question marks over his defensive work however as he left Harper really exposed at points in the second half, not sure whether he was just exhausted but it’s something we need to be wary of especially when under pressure.
Kelly – 8 (MotM): Great performance by him tonight, held the ball up superbly, linked up the play when he needed to and took his goal well. Should probably have had a hat trick if he had been clinical with his headers, but outside of that he was a nightmare for Hartlepoool to deal with
SUBSTITUTES
Feeney – 8: Couple of excellent blocks at crucial moments and dealt with one or two sticky situations very well, great to see him on the scoresheet too.
Grant – 7: Put in a couple of very good challenges after coming on and looked comfortable in the midfield, much better than he was on his debut against Solihull.
Armstrong, Whelan, Williams – N/A: Not on long enough.
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We are working alongside Liam and his YouTube channel Blue Army TV this season to make sure we bring you the best Carlisle United content we possibly can. You can subscribe to his channel and follow him on X, his handles are below:
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On Wednesday, Mark Hughes’ Carlisle United welcome Simon Grayson’s Hartlepool United to Brunton Park.
After back-to-back defeats the Cumbrians will be looking to respond in front of their home supporters. Hartlepool have been on a bad run themselves so they will be looking get back on track as well.
How Have Both Teams Been Performing?
In the last five games Carlisle United have won three and lost two of them. The blues had won four in a row before their recent hammering at the hands of York City and a humbling defeat at home to an excellent Rochdale side last time out at Brunton Park.
In the last five games it’s been a mixed bag for Hartlepool, they have won one, drawn two and lost two in that time. Simon Grayson’s side had gone six games without a win before their win at Gateshead last week and their draw at home to Tamworth last time out.
Players To Watch
Luke Charman
The 27-year-old forward is a player that can play through the middle or out wide of a front three. His runs and ability to run at players will cause the Carlisle defence some problems. Charman has one goal and two assists to his name so far this season in a Hartlepool side that has struggled for goals.
Besart Topalloj
The 24-year-old left-back has been one of the standout performers for Simon Grayson’s side this season. He can get forward and help in attacking areas with dangerous balls in to the box but can also defend very well in a Hartlepool defence that has only bonded five goals so far this season. Topalloj has one goal and one assist to his name so far this season.
Jermaine Francis
The 23-year-old winger will offer pace and trickery going forward for Hartlepool and Carlisle United’s full backs will have to be at their best to keep Francis quiet. The former Braintree and Barnet man is also a full Grenada international and has one goal to his name so far this season but could’ve had more.
Alex Reid
The 30-year-old striker is an experienced goalscorer having scored goals in the EFL for teams such as Oldham and Stevenage as well as goals in the National League for Solihull Moors and Oldham. His ability to hold the ball up and link up play with his fellow forward with cause the Carlisle United defence some real problems if it’s not dealt with. Reid is Hartlepool’s top scorer with three goals so far this season.
Other players to look out for are former Carlisle United players Tom Parkes and Adam Campbell on their return to the club.
After trying five at the back against Rochdale and it failing miserably I think Hughes will revert back to what’s worked well for him the majority of the season so far.
I think he has to drop Terell Thomas after Saturday and keep Morgan Feeney in but I would be surprised if he doesn’t with Thomas being captain.
The team needs width and even though the jury is out with Junior Luamba and David Ajiboye one of them has to play at home to give us that added width and pace.
My Score Prediction
Carlisle United 1-1 Hartlepool United
I think it’s a must win game for the blues but Hartlepool have a strong defence and will come with a clear game plan and it will be up to us to break them down.
Hartlepool have threats up top as well that could hurt us in defence so I expect this to be a close and hard fought game.
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Carlisle United succumbed to their first home defeat of the season and their second loss in consecutive games as a brace from Emmanuel Dieseruvwe gave an excellent Rochdale side all three points at Brunton Park.
Jim McNulty’s side were looking to make it six wins in as many games in this visit to fellow National League big hitters Carlisle and made a perfect start to the game after a long spell of possession led to Sam Beckwith being played in down United’s right flank and his cut back finding Dieseruvwe, who just about squirmed the ball over the line at the near post to give Rochdale the lead.
Rochdale knew a win would see them move, albeit temporarily, top of the National League table and looked every bit the team that their position suggested, dominating possession and controlling the game in the opening 10 minutes or so, with Carlisle really labouring to try and get the ball and struggling to string multiple passes together. The Dale almost doubled their lead in the 16th minute as Tobi Adebayo-Rowling found Connor McBride just inside the area before McBride spun onto his left foot round the challenge of Callum Whelan, but his curling effort struck the foot of Gabe Breeze’s right hand post.
The visitors continued to keep full cotrol of the game, with Harvey Gilmour superbly dictating the play in the middle of the park, United manager Mark Hughes made the early decision to switch away from the 3-5-2 that they’d initially set up with and reverted back to the 4-2-3-1 that they’d used frequently up to this game.
The change did little to impact the flow of the match however and Rochdale had another great chance to double their lead as a short pass from Bevis Mugabi sold Morgan Feeney short and allowed Kevin Berkoe to nip in and square the ball to Devante Rodney, but Dale’s number 10 slipped as he went to unleash a left footed shot towards goal.
The hosts enjoyed a brief spell of possession after the opportunity and Josh Williams, in for his first appearance of the season, drove inside and found Regan Linney on the edge of the area, but the league’s top scorer’s effort was tame and straight into the arms of Oliver Whatmuff.
McBride was causing United all sorts of problems down the other end however and will have been kicking himself as he missed two good chances to extend Rochdale’s lead, first spinning Cameron Harper after latching onto a Dieseruvwe flick on and only finding the hands of Breeze after driving into the area. McBride then pressured Terrell Thomas into a mistake from a long ball over the top before cutting inside onto his left foot but again his effort was easily palmed away by Breeze.
Carlisle’s flanks were looking particularly exposed in this game and Berkoe once again got to their byline before cutting it back and finding McBride, but again he could only fire his effort well over the crossbar at the near post. McBride was causing all sorts of issues for the Blues and the ex Gateshead man popped up again moments later, feeding Kyron Gordon down the right hand side who cut back to Dieseruvwe, but the ball was a little too far behind Rochdale’s top scorer and he could only scoop the ball over the bar.
The Cumbrians were desperately looking to make up for their 5-0 thrashing away to York in mid week and had an opportunity to snatch an equaliser just before the break as Feeney whipped in a cross that found Harper around the penalty spot, but he fluffed his lines and hit a tame effort wide when he probably should have gone with his head.
HALF TIME: Carlisle 0 – 1 Rochdale
The late flourish from Carlisle in the first half did little to deter Rochdale and they came out firing after the break, as Rodney latched onto the ball after substitute Jack Ellis missed an interception and the ex Vale striker played a lovely ball across to Dieseruvwe who took an excellent first touch into the area to get himself away from Thomas before firing into the bottom left corner to double Rochdale’s lead and bag his 9th goal of the campaign.
Carlisle really struggled in this second half to really lay a glove on Rochdale’s defence and the visitors were in cruise control for large parts, with their first half chance coming in the 77th minute as Linney beat a couple of men and got to the edge of the area but his shot was well blocked by Gordon.
McNulty’s men were really in game management mode towards the end of the half, sitting deep and allowing United to have the ball while keeping them at arm’s length, Carlisle mustered a couple of half chances through Stephen Wearne’s long range efforts along with a ball to the back post from Harper that caused a few nerves as substitutes Georgie Kelly and Junior Luamba attacked it but ultimately it did nothing to take away from what was an excellent performance by Rochdale, and a truly dismal one from Carlisle.
Full Time: Carlisle 0 – 2 Rochdale: Dieseruvwe (6′, 56′)
Carlisle: Breeze, Feeney, Thomas, Mugabi (Davies 61′), Harper, Williams (Luamba 46′), Whelan (Wearne 61′), Gilliead, Macadam (Ellis 46′), Linney, Armstrong (Kelly 61′). Subs Not Used: Lewis, Grant
First of all, i’d like to give full credit to Rochdale, who turned up today and put in a thoroughly excellent display, they moved the ball around quickly and efficiently, stretched us around really well, their defence dealt with our disapppointing long ball game, they worked the ball really well into the channels and Manny Dieseruvwe up front was a handful all game and showed why he’s well up there in the scoring charts.
From a United standpoint though, this was another thoroughly dismal display, if Rochdale were more clinical in the first half then it could easily have been 4 or 5 at half time, yes we had our chance at the end of the first half with Harper but honestly it would have been completely undeserved.
I can see why Hughes switched to 3-5-2 to combat Rochdale but persisting with the lackluster midfield setup and the pairing of Thomas and Mugabi didn’t work at all, we looked incapable of finding any real space to exploit and our passing was seriously shocking. The aimless long balls towards Armstrong were easily dealt with by Rochdale’s back 3 and their defence never really looked unsettled by our attack.
Sadly though this is two consecutive games now where we have really been exposed by the better sides in the league and it’s hard to see us competing with the top outfits with the tactics and squad that we currently have at our disposal. As good as Rochdale and York there we showed them too much respect from minute 1 and failed to unsettle them from their gameplans at the very least, and we just allowed them to totally run rings around us.
If we fail to win on Wednesday against a Hartlepool side that are struggling for form at the moment, we’ll then have very tough games against Scunthorpe and Forest Green that currently i struggle to see us winning, which could lead to a five game winless run that will really see the pressure ramp up on Mark Hughes.
Carlisle Player Ratings:
Breeze – 4: Made a couple of simple saves but his distribution was extremely poor today, not helped by team mates not wanting the ball but his kicking would often sail into touch or totally over the head of the entire team.
Williams – 5: A surprise inclusion to the side, did okay a points and looked quite positive running forward but defensively really struggled.
Feeney – 5: Nice to see him back in the starting lineup but struggled today with the rest of the team, began at RCB and moved to RB before moving back to CB as part of a 2 as the game went on, had a tough game against Dieservuwe and was slow to read a couple of passes.
Mugabi – 6 (MOTM): Tough ask for MoTM today again but i actually thought he did largely ok today, made a couple of vital interceptions, let himself down with a poor ball to Feeney in the first half but probably the least culpable of the backline that got cut open on numerous occasions
Thomas – 4: Gave the ball away on multiple occasions with poor passing and headless runs down the middle of the park and got beaten too easily on the left hand side of our defence, is looking more and more like the player that struggled so much last season too.
Harper – 4: Another poor showing from Harper, really weak in the physical battles with McBride and some erratic passing amounted to a poor game for him, left back is a spot that we really need to address.
Gilliead – 5: Worked hard but struggled to get into the game, part of a midfield setup that was completely ineffective today.
Macadam – 3: Looked totally off it, gave the ball away on multiple occasions through a lack of awareness to put us under pressure and offered nothing going forward either.
Whelan – 4: Looks a shadow of the player that we saw for good parts of last season, doesn’t seem to do as well in the advanced midfield position as he does deeper, but his passing and ball retention was sloppy regardless.
Linney – 5: Again was the only one that really had any flair to make something happen and ask the Rochdale defence questions, but his body language was concerning for the majority of the game, not sure if he’s injured or there’s something else going on but his head didn’t look in it for large parts. Was given the sponsors’ MoTM.
Armstrong – 5: Similarly to York, spent the majority of the game chasing shadows and long balls up front and never really had any chance to impact the game but was also beaten consistently in the air by Ebanks-Landell and the rest of the Rochdale defence.
Subs
Ellis – 5: Was better than Macadam but his poor decision to attempt an interception led to Rochdale’s 2nd goal.
Luamba – 5: Barring a couple of moments late on with Rochdale sitting back, never really influenced the game.
Davies – 6: Tough to judge in the situation he came on in but did okay for the most part, always looks to get forward if nothing else.
Wearne – 6: Needs to play in the 10 spot in the midfield for me, at least had a couple of decent efforts from range and found some decent space but struggled for an end product.
Kelly – 5: Similarly to Armstrong, had very little service and didn’t impact the game at all.
Please note these are Craig’s opinions and nothing official!
A Message From Paddock Perception
We are working alongside Liam and his YouTube channel Blue Army TV this season to make sure we bring you the best Carlisle United content we possibly can. You can subscribe to his channel and follow him on X, his handles are below:
X – @blue_army_tv
YouTube – @BlueArmyTVchannel
Another partnership Paddock Perception has is with Carlisle United YouTube channel CU04, they have amazing content on their channel and we are looking forward to working with them this season. You can follow them here:
X – @CU04_YOUTUBE
YouTube – @CU04
Thank you everyone for reading Paddock Perception, your support means everything! Please don’t forget you can follow Dan and Craig on X for more football content:
On Saturday, Mark Hughes’ side welcomes fellow title challengers Rochdale to Brunton Park in a clash of two heavy favourites to be promoted this season.
The Cumbrians will be looking to bounce back from their hammering away to York City on Tuesday meanwhile Rochdale will be looking to extend their winning run to six games.
How Have Both Teams Been Performing?
Carlisle United have won four and lost one of their last five games. Last time out they were demolished by an outstanding York City side 5-0 on Tuesday night.
The blues are in third place in the National League with 23 points from 11 games.
For Jim McNulty’s side they have won their last five games. Last time out they beat Solihull Moors comfortably 4-1 on Tuesday night.
Rochdale are in second place in the National League with 24 points from 9 games.
Players To Watch
Emmanuel Dieseruvwe
The experienced striker is one of the best strikers in the league. He has experience of scoring goals at National League level having scored goals for Hartlepool, Halifax and Salford at that level. His ability to hold up the ball, bring players in to play and feed off are two of his biggest assets. The 30-year-old can score a variety of goals and has seven goals in eight appearances so far this season.
Tarryn Allarakhia
The winger will cause Carlisle full backs heaps of problems if he’s at his best. His trickery and ability to whip balls in to the box for the strikers as well as his eye for goal make him vital to Rochdale’s attack. The 27-year-old has one goal and two assists so far this season.
Devante Rodney
The striker links up well with the other Rochdale forwards and has an eye for goal. The 27-year-old has scored goals in the National League and the EFL for teams like Hartlepool, Port Vale and Halifax and if Carlisle can somehow stop Emmanuel Dieseruvwe they will also have to to pay close attention to Devante Rodney as well because he has three goals and two assists so far this season.
Harvey Gilmour
Gilmour is a great technical player and can find that killer pass in key areas if given the chance. The former Sheffield United, Tranmere, Halifax and Stockport man has three assists to his name so far this season and will be looking to provide chances for the Rochdale frontmen once again.
I think Hughes will revert back to playing with a winger after changing it up against York City and seeing the impact that had on the performance.
The team pretty much picks itself under Hughes but I could maybe see Whelan come in to the midfield and maybe Kelly start ahead Armstrong but that’s the only changes I think Hughes could make.
My Score Prediction
Carlisle United 1-2 Rochdale
I think the it will be interesting to if there is a reaction after the York performance but very much like York – Rochdale are one of the best teams in the league and could expose us in areas similar to how York did.
Rochdale have their big man Mani D back up front as well and he will be a real handful for our defence, I think Rochdale edge this one in a tight game.
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