Brunton Park Diary - October 2011
16/10/11 19:56
Oct. 1st (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 3 BURY YOUTH 1
The Youth team continue to go from strength to strength as two from Alex Salmon and one from Josh Todd secure the points.
WALSALL 1 CARLISLE UTD 1
The Saddlers enjoyed the better of the first half chances and on 33, Paterson clipped the ball to the far post where Grigg lost his marker and left Collin with no chance as he guided his header into the net. A good penalty shout was waved away when Berrett was toppled after beating two men as United came back into it. The second 45 was nearly all Carlisle with Noble’s half-hit volley, Berrett had a couple of good chances, Miller’s header brought a great save out of their keeper and Zoko’s spin and shot went just wide of the far post. It took a spectacular Matty Robson special to get a share of the points as his 35 yard free kick sang into the top corner.
Player Ratings: Collin 6, Tavernier 4, Michalik 6, Livesey 5.5, Murphy 8, Robson 6, Thirlwell 4.5, Noble 5.5, Berrett 6.5, Miller 6, Loy 5. Subs: Zoko 8.5 (star man), McGovern 6
Oct. 3rd (Mon)
A few rumours start that United are looking to sign John Shaw on loan with view to permanent deal in January from Gateshead. Shaw recently scored two hat tricks in consecutive games for Gateshead.
Thirlwell’s departure from the game at Walsall is explained as a problem in his calf muscle, which might keep him out for two weeks. In addition, Andy Welsh had to pull out of training last Friday with a tear in his calf muscle that will keep him out for approximately six weeks. Simek is about 7-10 days away from returning to training.
Oct. 5th (Wed)
KILMARNOCK RESERVES 3 CARLISLE UTD RESERVES 2
A Carlisle United reserve and youth side fought well in a behind closed doors friendly at Kilmarnock. It’s reported that Carlisle used the game to run the rule over former Celtic and Norwich midfielder Mark Fotheringham along with two other trialists. The 27-year-old is a free agent after a spell in Cyprus with Anorthosis Famagusta and was Norwich’s captain in the Championship less than three years ago. The former Scotland Under-21 international became the youngest debutant in Celtic’s history when, aged 16 years and 204 days, he played in a 0-0 draw with St. Johnstone in 2000.
Where has it all gone wrong for Mr. Vincent Pericard since leaving Carlisle for Swindon with Havant & Waterlooville being the latest club to take a punt on his talents on the 29 year-old following his release in the summer.
Oct. 8th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 0 BURNLEY YOUTH 1
The Youth team’s fine run of five straight wins where they collected 17 goals comes to an end against fellow high fliers Burnley.
CARLISLE UTD 2 BRENTFORD 2
Honours even in an exciting match that saw United recover from another sluggish start and a 1 goal deficit to take a deserved lead early in the second half through Berrett’s shot and an own goal from Brentford’s earlier scorer. Unfortunately, they couldn’t hold out for the three points and Taiwo’s error allowed an equaliser just two minutes from time.
Player Ratings: Collin 5.0, Tavernier 6.2, Livesey 6.6, Murphy 6.8, Robson 6.8, Taiwo 6.0, McGovern 7.0, Noble 6.0, Berrett 6.4, Miller 7.4 (star man), Loy 6.2. Subs: Zoko 7.0.
Oct. 12th (Wed)
CARLISLE UTD RESERVES 9 WETHERIGGS 0 – CUMBERLAND CUP 2ND ROUND
Goals galore for the boys in blue as Curran (3), Salmon (2), Lynch, Symington, Beck and McGlen earn a comfortable win.
United: Gillespie, McGlen, Kavanagh, O'Halloran, Minor, Symington, Lynch, Todd, Zoko, Salmon, Curran. Subs: Potts, Beck.
Oct. 13th (Thu)
Last season it seemed to be the red half falling over themself to lend players, now it’s the sky blues of City offering the same.
19 year-old Jeremy Helan, who can play in defence or midfield, arrives on a one-month loan deal from Manchester City. The Frenchman joined City from Rennes in November 2008 and was one of six Academy graduates to make the trip to Poland for their pre-season tour. Helan has also gained international experience with the French U16, U17 and U19 sides.
Oct. 15th (Sat)
YEOVIL 0 CARLISLE UTD 3
Overzealous referee tries to reduce the score draws on his pools coupon by sending a player off in first half stoppage time (and breathe) Part 1. United always seemed likely to finally break their away jinx at Huish Park against lowly Yeovil and the superiority counted in the second half as Noble’s drilled shot from the edge of the area, Mc Govern’s well taken first league goal after springing the offside trap and Danny Livesey’s far post header meant a long and happy journey home.
Player Ratings: Collin 8.5 (joint star man), Tavernier 7.5, Livesey 8.0, Murphy 7.5, Robson 6.5, Taiwo 7.0, McGovern 6.5, Noble 7.5, Berrett 7.0, Miller 8.5 (joint star man), Loy 7.5.
Oct. 16th (Sun)
Carlisle United pick up an award at the North West Football Writer's awards dinner in recognition of the club's Johnstone's Paint Trophy success in April.
Oct. 18th (Tue)
The third round of the Cumberland Cup sees United given a trip to St. Bees. The game will take place on Saturday 12th November at 1pm.
Simek’s return from injury is put back another 3 weeks following a calf strain picked up in training.
Oct. 22nd (Sat)
MORECAMBE YOUTH 1 CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 2
In a game moved to Carlisle due to the state of the Morecambe pitch, goals from Lynch and Salmon gave Carlisle a slightly fortunate victory to send them second in the table behind Walsall. Having beaten them 7-1 earlier in the season, the game was a bit of an awakening for certain members of the squad.
CHARLTON 4 CARLISLE UTD 0
Overzealous referee tries to reduce the score draws on his pools coupon by sending a player off in first half stoppage time (and breathe) Part 2. With three second half goals slotted in either side of this game, Carlisle had put Charlton exactly where they wanted them by the end of the first half with a 3 goal head start and the ensuing complacency. Unfortunately, Abbott’s best laid plans were holed by Robson’s undeserved second yellow and there was no way back from there. Take away the crazy individual mistakes that caused the goals and overall we didn't play too bad.
Player Ratings: Collin 5.00, Tavernier 4.33, Livesey 6.00, Murphy 6.00, Robson 3.67, Taiwo 5.00, McGovern 4.33, Noble 4.67, Berrett 3.33, Miller 6.67, Loy 7.00 (star man). Subs: Zoko 5.00, Curran 4.00, Michalik 6.33.
Oct. 25th (Tue)
CARLISLE UTD 3 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 2
A Miller tap in from Livesey’s saved header, Loy’s fine angled drive and a Noble shot through a crowd of players was enough to complete a storming second-half comeback from the Cumbrians that sent them bouncing back into the top 10. To say that there were mixed fortunes for our two former players would possibly be the biggest understatement since someone described Hitler as a “bit of a bad lad”. Ben Marshall scored a peach of an opener for the Owls and was the driving force behind most of their best work as Collin did his best Billy The Fish impression in the first half to keep the Blues in the game. Still wearing his number 14, Beer Machine looked out of sorts and managed (harshly) to be sent off for two yellows in the process.
Player Ratings: Collin 8, Tavernier 8, Livesey 9 (joint star man), Murphy 7, Michalik 8, Taiwo 9 (joint star man), McGovern 8, Noble 7, Berrett 8, Miller 9 (joint star man), Loy 8.
Oct. 26th (Wed)
Reports from the BBC say that London-based property tycoon Baron Bloom wants to buy Workington Football Club. I don’t think he flies a bi-plane and twirls his moustache during interviews but you never know……
Oct. 27th (Thu)
Drinks Machine is charged with improper misconduct by the FA after seemingly aiming a head butt at the official on his sending off.
Oct. 28th (Fri)
United post a trading profit of £105,365 for the financial year 2010/1 despite a fall in turnover brought on in the main from takings in cup matches being just £435,000 for the season, down from £963,000 for 2009-10. With over a dozen players arriving on loan during the season to cover transfers and injuries, it’s not surprising that the club paid out an extra £156,000 in loan fees and wages alone.
Oct. 29th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 3 ACCRINGTON YOUTH 1
“Two goals from Mark Beck and an injury time finish from Josh Todd were enough for the Youth team to maintain their push at the top of the table as they had to overcome a first half deficit to grind out their win against Accrington Stanley this morning.”
CARLISLE UTD 3 OLDHAM 3
A terrific comeback from 3-0 down just before half-time by the Blues and necessitated by another suspect performance by the official with Oldham’s account started with another highly dubious penalty. A second half double from Zoko was completed with the game every bit in Jimmy Glass territory with an audacious back heel in the 94th minute.
Player Ratings: Collin 6.4, Tavernier 7.2, Livesey 7.0, Murphy 7.8, Michalik 5.6, Taiwo 5.4, McGovern 7.0, Noble 7.0, Berrett 6.4, Miller 8.6 (star man), Loy 7.6. Subs: Zoko 8.4, Robson 5.0
Oct. 30th (Sun)
The televised draw for the Eon FA Cup First Round hands Carlisle a trip to either Alfreton Town or Lincoln City. Both teams are currently struggling in the relegation zone of the Blue Square Premier and with the likes of Josh Gowling in their line-up, it’s not exactly surprising. The first game ended 1-1 with the replay on November 1st.
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 3 BURY YOUTH 1
The Youth team continue to go from strength to strength as two from Alex Salmon and one from Josh Todd secure the points.
WALSALL 1 CARLISLE UTD 1
The Saddlers enjoyed the better of the first half chances and on 33, Paterson clipped the ball to the far post where Grigg lost his marker and left Collin with no chance as he guided his header into the net. A good penalty shout was waved away when Berrett was toppled after beating two men as United came back into it. The second 45 was nearly all Carlisle with Noble’s half-hit volley, Berrett had a couple of good chances, Miller’s header brought a great save out of their keeper and Zoko’s spin and shot went just wide of the far post. It took a spectacular Matty Robson special to get a share of the points as his 35 yard free kick sang into the top corner.
Player Ratings: Collin 6, Tavernier 4, Michalik 6, Livesey 5.5, Murphy 8, Robson 6, Thirlwell 4.5, Noble 5.5, Berrett 6.5, Miller 6, Loy 5. Subs: Zoko 8.5 (star man), McGovern 6
Oct. 3rd (Mon)
A few rumours start that United are looking to sign John Shaw on loan with view to permanent deal in January from Gateshead. Shaw recently scored two hat tricks in consecutive games for Gateshead.
Thirlwell’s departure from the game at Walsall is explained as a problem in his calf muscle, which might keep him out for two weeks. In addition, Andy Welsh had to pull out of training last Friday with a tear in his calf muscle that will keep him out for approximately six weeks. Simek is about 7-10 days away from returning to training.
Oct. 5th (Wed)
KILMARNOCK RESERVES 3 CARLISLE UTD RESERVES 2
A Carlisle United reserve and youth side fought well in a behind closed doors friendly at Kilmarnock. It’s reported that Carlisle used the game to run the rule over former Celtic and Norwich midfielder Mark Fotheringham along with two other trialists. The 27-year-old is a free agent after a spell in Cyprus with Anorthosis Famagusta and was Norwich’s captain in the Championship less than three years ago. The former Scotland Under-21 international became the youngest debutant in Celtic’s history when, aged 16 years and 204 days, he played in a 0-0 draw with St. Johnstone in 2000.
Where has it all gone wrong for Mr. Vincent Pericard since leaving Carlisle for Swindon with Havant & Waterlooville being the latest club to take a punt on his talents on the 29 year-old following his release in the summer.
Oct. 8th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 0 BURNLEY YOUTH 1
The Youth team’s fine run of five straight wins where they collected 17 goals comes to an end against fellow high fliers Burnley.
CARLISLE UTD 2 BRENTFORD 2
Honours even in an exciting match that saw United recover from another sluggish start and a 1 goal deficit to take a deserved lead early in the second half through Berrett’s shot and an own goal from Brentford’s earlier scorer. Unfortunately, they couldn’t hold out for the three points and Taiwo’s error allowed an equaliser just two minutes from time.
Player Ratings: Collin 5.0, Tavernier 6.2, Livesey 6.6, Murphy 6.8, Robson 6.8, Taiwo 6.0, McGovern 7.0, Noble 6.0, Berrett 6.4, Miller 7.4 (star man), Loy 6.2. Subs: Zoko 7.0.
Oct. 12th (Wed)
CARLISLE UTD RESERVES 9 WETHERIGGS 0 – CUMBERLAND CUP 2ND ROUND
Goals galore for the boys in blue as Curran (3), Salmon (2), Lynch, Symington, Beck and McGlen earn a comfortable win.
United: Gillespie, McGlen, Kavanagh, O'Halloran, Minor, Symington, Lynch, Todd, Zoko, Salmon, Curran. Subs: Potts, Beck.
Oct. 13th (Thu)
Last season it seemed to be the red half falling over themself to lend players, now it’s the sky blues of City offering the same.
19 year-old Jeremy Helan, who can play in defence or midfield, arrives on a one-month loan deal from Manchester City. The Frenchman joined City from Rennes in November 2008 and was one of six Academy graduates to make the trip to Poland for their pre-season tour. Helan has also gained international experience with the French U16, U17 and U19 sides.
Oct. 15th (Sat)
YEOVIL 0 CARLISLE UTD 3
Overzealous referee tries to reduce the score draws on his pools coupon by sending a player off in first half stoppage time (and breathe) Part 1. United always seemed likely to finally break their away jinx at Huish Park against lowly Yeovil and the superiority counted in the second half as Noble’s drilled shot from the edge of the area, Mc Govern’s well taken first league goal after springing the offside trap and Danny Livesey’s far post header meant a long and happy journey home.
Player Ratings: Collin 8.5 (joint star man), Tavernier 7.5, Livesey 8.0, Murphy 7.5, Robson 6.5, Taiwo 7.0, McGovern 6.5, Noble 7.5, Berrett 7.0, Miller 8.5 (joint star man), Loy 7.5.
Oct. 16th (Sun)
Carlisle United pick up an award at the North West Football Writer's awards dinner in recognition of the club's Johnstone's Paint Trophy success in April.
Oct. 18th (Tue)
The third round of the Cumberland Cup sees United given a trip to St. Bees. The game will take place on Saturday 12th November at 1pm.
Simek’s return from injury is put back another 3 weeks following a calf strain picked up in training.
Oct. 22nd (Sat)
MORECAMBE YOUTH 1 CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 2
In a game moved to Carlisle due to the state of the Morecambe pitch, goals from Lynch and Salmon gave Carlisle a slightly fortunate victory to send them second in the table behind Walsall. Having beaten them 7-1 earlier in the season, the game was a bit of an awakening for certain members of the squad.
CHARLTON 4 CARLISLE UTD 0
Overzealous referee tries to reduce the score draws on his pools coupon by sending a player off in first half stoppage time (and breathe) Part 2. With three second half goals slotted in either side of this game, Carlisle had put Charlton exactly where they wanted them by the end of the first half with a 3 goal head start and the ensuing complacency. Unfortunately, Abbott’s best laid plans were holed by Robson’s undeserved second yellow and there was no way back from there. Take away the crazy individual mistakes that caused the goals and overall we didn't play too bad.
Player Ratings: Collin 5.00, Tavernier 4.33, Livesey 6.00, Murphy 6.00, Robson 3.67, Taiwo 5.00, McGovern 4.33, Noble 4.67, Berrett 3.33, Miller 6.67, Loy 7.00 (star man). Subs: Zoko 5.00, Curran 4.00, Michalik 6.33.
Oct. 25th (Tue)
CARLISLE UTD 3 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 2
A Miller tap in from Livesey’s saved header, Loy’s fine angled drive and a Noble shot through a crowd of players was enough to complete a storming second-half comeback from the Cumbrians that sent them bouncing back into the top 10. To say that there were mixed fortunes for our two former players would possibly be the biggest understatement since someone described Hitler as a “bit of a bad lad”. Ben Marshall scored a peach of an opener for the Owls and was the driving force behind most of their best work as Collin did his best Billy The Fish impression in the first half to keep the Blues in the game. Still wearing his number 14, Beer Machine looked out of sorts and managed (harshly) to be sent off for two yellows in the process.
Player Ratings: Collin 8, Tavernier 8, Livesey 9 (joint star man), Murphy 7, Michalik 8, Taiwo 9 (joint star man), McGovern 8, Noble 7, Berrett 8, Miller 9 (joint star man), Loy 8.
Oct. 26th (Wed)
Reports from the BBC say that London-based property tycoon Baron Bloom wants to buy Workington Football Club. I don’t think he flies a bi-plane and twirls his moustache during interviews but you never know……
Oct. 27th (Thu)
Drinks Machine is charged with improper misconduct by the FA after seemingly aiming a head butt at the official on his sending off.
Oct. 28th (Fri)
United post a trading profit of £105,365 for the financial year 2010/1 despite a fall in turnover brought on in the main from takings in cup matches being just £435,000 for the season, down from £963,000 for 2009-10. With over a dozen players arriving on loan during the season to cover transfers and injuries, it’s not surprising that the club paid out an extra £156,000 in loan fees and wages alone.
Oct. 29th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 3 ACCRINGTON YOUTH 1
“Two goals from Mark Beck and an injury time finish from Josh Todd were enough for the Youth team to maintain their push at the top of the table as they had to overcome a first half deficit to grind out their win against Accrington Stanley this morning.”
CARLISLE UTD 3 OLDHAM 3
A terrific comeback from 3-0 down just before half-time by the Blues and necessitated by another suspect performance by the official with Oldham’s account started with another highly dubious penalty. A second half double from Zoko was completed with the game every bit in Jimmy Glass territory with an audacious back heel in the 94th minute.
Player Ratings: Collin 6.4, Tavernier 7.2, Livesey 7.0, Murphy 7.8, Michalik 5.6, Taiwo 5.4, McGovern 7.0, Noble 7.0, Berrett 6.4, Miller 8.6 (star man), Loy 7.6. Subs: Zoko 8.4, Robson 5.0
Oct. 30th (Sun)
The televised draw for the Eon FA Cup First Round hands Carlisle a trip to either Alfreton Town or Lincoln City. Both teams are currently struggling in the relegation zone of the Blue Square Premier and with the likes of Josh Gowling in their line-up, it’s not exactly surprising. The first game ended 1-1 with the replay on November 1st.
Brunton Park Diary - September 2011
16/10/11 19:55
Sep. 1st (Thu)
Following his release by Watford a week earlier, Aldred links up with John Ward once again at Colchester.
Sep. 3rd (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD 1 MK DONS 3
The Dons showed why they top the table in the early stages of the season with a lesson in finishing and punishing errors. United’s best move of the first half saw McGovern finding space and his cross for Welsh saw his near post heel-flick drop just wide of the target. Just as in the cup game, the last kick of the first half saw the defence fail to clear leaving MacDonald to nod in the first. A Tavernier error allowed the visitors to break at pace and four passes took them from defence to attack. Gleeson supplied the killer pass for Bowditch to tap home from close range. Miller’s fine header on 53 from Berrett’s free kick tight got the crowd interested again as they poured forward in search of an equaliser. It was not to be and Lewington restored their two-goal cushion with a confident finish into the bottom corner from another good move.
United: Collin, Tavernier, Livesey, O'Halloran, Robson, McGovern, Thirlwell, Taiwo, Berrett, Welsh, Miller. Subs: Zoko, Noble and Curran.
Sep. 9th (Fri)
Kevin "too good for the conference" Gall starts training with Workington Reds and is in their squad for the weekend.
Sep. 10th (Sat)
TRANMERE YOUTH 1 CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 3
A fine performance against a previously unbeaten Tranmere side with Jordan Parker saving a penalty for United on 8 minutes with this then followed by goals from Mark Beck, David Symington and Josh Todd. With Burnley getting beat last week, everybody has dropped points with Carlisle just 3 points off the top of the league.
Morecambe take apart the then league leaders Crawley 6-0 thanks to a Danny Carlton hat-trick and with Jason Price playing up front alongside him. Carlton goes on to win the Division Two ‘Player of the Month’ award for September.
CARLISLE UNITED 1 HARTLEPOOL UNITED 2
Defensive mistakes were yet again punished in what was otherwise a reasonable performance.
The Cumbrians thought they'd broken the deadlock on eight minutes when Tavernier skipped through three challenges before cutting the ball back into the danger area. Zoko arrived late and he was stunned when Flinders got a vital touch to his rasping effort to divert it onto the bar. O'Halloran’s weak clearance was punished by Gary Liddle for an early lead and after also hitting the bar, it was 2-0 on 41 when Boyd’s fine 22 yard volley found the roof of the net. Loy converted his own, earned penalty after being tripped in the box but they couldn’t find a way through in the remaining 18 minutes.
Player Ratings: Collin 5.75, Tavernier 7.00, Michalik 7.00, O'Halloran 5.25, Robson 5.00, Thirlwell 4.25, Taiwo 5.75, Noble 5.50, Zoko 6.25, Loy 7.00, Miller 5.88. Subs: Welsh 5.67, McGovern 7.33 (star man), Curran 5.00
Sep. 13th (Tue)
TRANMERE ROVERS 1 CARLISLE UTD 2
Back to winning ways and helped by an early goal started when Robson and Berrett exchanged quick passes on the left with the resulting cross leaving Miller with the easy task of stabbing it in from close range. Further pressure was rewarded when Loy’s ‘Cruyff turn’ in the box ended with a clip on the heels and Berrett scoring the penalty. A bit of early second half pressure from Tranmere helped by a barge on Collin not spotted by the referee reduced the deficit however Carlisle still had the better chances through Loy and Zoko keeping Tranmere to mostly long-range shots.
Player Ratings: Collin 7.33, Tavernier 6.50, Michalik 7.67, Murphy 7.67, Robson 7.33, Thirlwell 6.00, Noble 7.17, Berrett 7.33, Zoko 7.50, Loy 8.67 (star man), Miller 7.67.
Sep. 14th (Wed)
GATESHEAD 0 CARLISLE UTD RESERVES 2
A goal either side of half time from ex-Oxford United trialist forward Alex Fisher was enough for an experienced United side in this behind-closed-doors friendly. Fisher has linked up from the Glenn Hoddle Soccer Academy for a couple of weeks.
United: Gillespie, McGlen (Kavanagh 55), Livesey, O'Halloran, Swinglehurst (Minor 60), Taiwo (Todd 46), Mckenna, McGovern (Lynch 55), Welsh, Curran (Salmon 70), Fisher.
Sep. 16th (Fri)
Newcastle agree to allow Tavernier to extend his stay with United until after the Exeter City away game on 5 November 2011.
Sep. 17th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 1 BLACKPOOL YOUTH 0
Striker Mark Beck bagged the only goal of the game in the first half to earn United a hard-earned victory against Blackpool.
CHESTERFIELD 4 CARLISLE UTD 1
Few realised at the time that a caught-on-TV bust up at a League Cup defeat to the Saints between Di Canio and Leon Clarke would precede a defensive horror show from United at the B2Net stadium with the now on-loan Clarke helping himself to a trouble-free hat trick. Chesterfield scored with the first attack of the game and despite a gifted equaliser for Miller, things quickly fell apart at the back against a limited Spirite team. To make matters worse, Miller limped out of the game before half-time with a groin injury. They must have thought Xmas had come early.
Player Ratings: Collin 5, Tavernier 6 (star man), Michalik 5, Murphy 4, Robson 4, Thirlwell 5, Berrett 4, Noble 5, Zoko 5, Loy 5, Miller 5. Subs: Welsh 5, McGovern 5, Curran 4
Sep. 20th (Tue)
Miller’s injury is revealed as a very small tear in his left groin with a two-week recovery period. Paddy Madden has been able to remove his air-cast boot and should return in approximately five or six weeks’ time. Simek is progressing slowly with no rush now that Tavernier is at the club for a further two months.
BLACKBURN RESERVES 2 CARLISLE UTD RESERVES 1
Another behind closed doors friendly this afternoon proved a useful run out with Mark Gillespie outstanding in goal.
Fisher scored with a header from a great cross from Andy Welsh when 2-0 behind to set up a close finish.
United: Gillespie, Symington, Livesey, O'Halloran, Swinglehurst, Mckenna, McGovern, Taiwo (Todd 46), Welsh, Curran, Fisher.
Sep. 21st (Wed)
United are drawn at home to Wetheriggs United in the second round of the County Cup. The Penrith based side currently sit in third place in Division One of the Westmorland Association Football League and knocked Carlisle out in the third round of the competition in 2009-10.
Sep. 24th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD 1 STEVENAGE 0
Featuring a new formation with five across the back, Carlisle are comfortably too good for a Stevenage side showing very little up front. Six years after his winner against them in the Conference Play-Off Final at the Britannia Stadium in Stoke, that man Murph once again breaks Herts’ hearts.
Player Ratings: Collin 6, Tavernier 6.5, Michalik 7, Livesey 7.5, Murphy 8.5 (star man), Robson 6, Thirlwell 6, Noble 7.5, Berrett 5, Zoko 7.5, Loy 7. Subs: McGovern 5, Curran 4.
Sep. 27th (Tue)
Lubo is called up for international duty for the third time this season as Slovakia prepare to face Russia at home and Macedonia away on the 7th and 11th October respectively.
United defender Steven Swinglehurst (19) goes on a one-month loan to Evo-Stik Premier League side Kendal Town.
Sep. 30th (Fri)
The club decide that Alex Fisher isn’t any better than their current strikers and part their ways after a three-week trial.
Ex-loanee defender Gary Borrowdale joins Dagenham & Redbridge on loan.
Following his release by Watford a week earlier, Aldred links up with John Ward once again at Colchester.
Sep. 3rd (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD 1 MK DONS 3
The Dons showed why they top the table in the early stages of the season with a lesson in finishing and punishing errors. United’s best move of the first half saw McGovern finding space and his cross for Welsh saw his near post heel-flick drop just wide of the target. Just as in the cup game, the last kick of the first half saw the defence fail to clear leaving MacDonald to nod in the first. A Tavernier error allowed the visitors to break at pace and four passes took them from defence to attack. Gleeson supplied the killer pass for Bowditch to tap home from close range. Miller’s fine header on 53 from Berrett’s free kick tight got the crowd interested again as they poured forward in search of an equaliser. It was not to be and Lewington restored their two-goal cushion with a confident finish into the bottom corner from another good move.
United: Collin, Tavernier, Livesey, O'Halloran, Robson, McGovern, Thirlwell, Taiwo, Berrett, Welsh, Miller. Subs: Zoko, Noble and Curran.
Sep. 9th (Fri)
Kevin "too good for the conference" Gall starts training with Workington Reds and is in their squad for the weekend.
Sep. 10th (Sat)
TRANMERE YOUTH 1 CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 3
A fine performance against a previously unbeaten Tranmere side with Jordan Parker saving a penalty for United on 8 minutes with this then followed by goals from Mark Beck, David Symington and Josh Todd. With Burnley getting beat last week, everybody has dropped points with Carlisle just 3 points off the top of the league.
Morecambe take apart the then league leaders Crawley 6-0 thanks to a Danny Carlton hat-trick and with Jason Price playing up front alongside him. Carlton goes on to win the Division Two ‘Player of the Month’ award for September.
CARLISLE UNITED 1 HARTLEPOOL UNITED 2
Defensive mistakes were yet again punished in what was otherwise a reasonable performance.
The Cumbrians thought they'd broken the deadlock on eight minutes when Tavernier skipped through three challenges before cutting the ball back into the danger area. Zoko arrived late and he was stunned when Flinders got a vital touch to his rasping effort to divert it onto the bar. O'Halloran’s weak clearance was punished by Gary Liddle for an early lead and after also hitting the bar, it was 2-0 on 41 when Boyd’s fine 22 yard volley found the roof of the net. Loy converted his own, earned penalty after being tripped in the box but they couldn’t find a way through in the remaining 18 minutes.
Player Ratings: Collin 5.75, Tavernier 7.00, Michalik 7.00, O'Halloran 5.25, Robson 5.00, Thirlwell 4.25, Taiwo 5.75, Noble 5.50, Zoko 6.25, Loy 7.00, Miller 5.88. Subs: Welsh 5.67, McGovern 7.33 (star man), Curran 5.00
Sep. 13th (Tue)
TRANMERE ROVERS 1 CARLISLE UTD 2
Back to winning ways and helped by an early goal started when Robson and Berrett exchanged quick passes on the left with the resulting cross leaving Miller with the easy task of stabbing it in from close range. Further pressure was rewarded when Loy’s ‘Cruyff turn’ in the box ended with a clip on the heels and Berrett scoring the penalty. A bit of early second half pressure from Tranmere helped by a barge on Collin not spotted by the referee reduced the deficit however Carlisle still had the better chances through Loy and Zoko keeping Tranmere to mostly long-range shots.
Player Ratings: Collin 7.33, Tavernier 6.50, Michalik 7.67, Murphy 7.67, Robson 7.33, Thirlwell 6.00, Noble 7.17, Berrett 7.33, Zoko 7.50, Loy 8.67 (star man), Miller 7.67.
Sep. 14th (Wed)
GATESHEAD 0 CARLISLE UTD RESERVES 2
A goal either side of half time from ex-Oxford United trialist forward Alex Fisher was enough for an experienced United side in this behind-closed-doors friendly. Fisher has linked up from the Glenn Hoddle Soccer Academy for a couple of weeks.
United: Gillespie, McGlen (Kavanagh 55), Livesey, O'Halloran, Swinglehurst (Minor 60), Taiwo (Todd 46), Mckenna, McGovern (Lynch 55), Welsh, Curran (Salmon 70), Fisher.
Sep. 16th (Fri)
Newcastle agree to allow Tavernier to extend his stay with United until after the Exeter City away game on 5 November 2011.
Sep. 17th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 1 BLACKPOOL YOUTH 0
Striker Mark Beck bagged the only goal of the game in the first half to earn United a hard-earned victory against Blackpool.
CHESTERFIELD 4 CARLISLE UTD 1
Few realised at the time that a caught-on-TV bust up at a League Cup defeat to the Saints between Di Canio and Leon Clarke would precede a defensive horror show from United at the B2Net stadium with the now on-loan Clarke helping himself to a trouble-free hat trick. Chesterfield scored with the first attack of the game and despite a gifted equaliser for Miller, things quickly fell apart at the back against a limited Spirite team. To make matters worse, Miller limped out of the game before half-time with a groin injury. They must have thought Xmas had come early.
Player Ratings: Collin 5, Tavernier 6 (star man), Michalik 5, Murphy 4, Robson 4, Thirlwell 5, Berrett 4, Noble 5, Zoko 5, Loy 5, Miller 5. Subs: Welsh 5, McGovern 5, Curran 4
Sep. 20th (Tue)
Miller’s injury is revealed as a very small tear in his left groin with a two-week recovery period. Paddy Madden has been able to remove his air-cast boot and should return in approximately five or six weeks’ time. Simek is progressing slowly with no rush now that Tavernier is at the club for a further two months.
BLACKBURN RESERVES 2 CARLISLE UTD RESERVES 1
Another behind closed doors friendly this afternoon proved a useful run out with Mark Gillespie outstanding in goal.
Fisher scored with a header from a great cross from Andy Welsh when 2-0 behind to set up a close finish.
United: Gillespie, Symington, Livesey, O'Halloran, Swinglehurst, Mckenna, McGovern, Taiwo (Todd 46), Welsh, Curran, Fisher.
Sep. 21st (Wed)
United are drawn at home to Wetheriggs United in the second round of the County Cup. The Penrith based side currently sit in third place in Division One of the Westmorland Association Football League and knocked Carlisle out in the third round of the competition in 2009-10.
Sep. 24th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD 1 STEVENAGE 0
Featuring a new formation with five across the back, Carlisle are comfortably too good for a Stevenage side showing very little up front. Six years after his winner against them in the Conference Play-Off Final at the Britannia Stadium in Stoke, that man Murph once again breaks Herts’ hearts.
Player Ratings: Collin 6, Tavernier 6.5, Michalik 7, Livesey 7.5, Murphy 8.5 (star man), Robson 6, Thirlwell 6, Noble 7.5, Berrett 5, Zoko 7.5, Loy 7. Subs: McGovern 5, Curran 4.
Sep. 27th (Tue)
Lubo is called up for international duty for the third time this season as Slovakia prepare to face Russia at home and Macedonia away on the 7th and 11th October respectively.
United defender Steven Swinglehurst (19) goes on a one-month loan to Evo-Stik Premier League side Kendal Town.
Sep. 30th (Fri)
The club decide that Alex Fisher isn’t any better than their current strikers and part their ways after a three-week trial.
Ex-loanee defender Gary Borrowdale joins Dagenham & Redbridge on loan.
Brunton Park Diary - August 2011
16/10/11 19:52
Aug. 6th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD 0 NOTTS.CO 3
Not exactly the best start to the season and made doubly worse by a bad injury to Simek not to mention the smug face of Lee Hughes being involved in most of the goals. The first had a hint of controversy as Murphy was the recipient of an off-the-ball shoulder charge although exponents of the ‘man’s game’ felt he went down rather easily.
Player Ratings: Collin 3.00, Simek 3.50, Michalik 3.67, Murphy 4.00, Robson 2.33, Thirlwell 3.00, Taiwo 3.17, Berrett 2.67, McGovern 2.83, Curran 1.67, Zoko 3.17. Subs: Welsh 3.92, Loy (star man) 4.67, Noble 4.00.
Aug. 9th (Tue)
OLDHAM 1 CARLISLE UTD 1 (4-2 to Carlisle after pens) – CARLING CUP 1ST ROUND
Carlisle get Saturday’s shocker out of their system in a game of two halves. United never looked back after the introduction of Welsh and a switch to 4-2-3-1; taking control of the game. McGovern scored a goal of real class to send the tie into first extra-time and then penalties. In a rare outing, Livesey played well and Taiwo held his own filling in for Simek at right-back.
United: Collin, Taiwo, Livesey, Murphy, Robson, Thirlwell, Noble (Welsh 46), Berrett, McGovern, Zoko, Curran (Loy 86).
As reported by the Daily Mail (so it must be true), Southampton and Middlesbrough both sent scouts to watch Zoko at Oldham. It also repeated that Wigan, Sporting Gijon and Swansea had shown previous interest.
The quacks pronounce that Simek’s scan has shown a hip-knack tear that will not only put paid to his amusing “I’m a lady” impression in the United dressing room but will take approximately 8 weeks to heal.
Aug. 10th (Wed)
Michalik starts for Slovakia against Austria in Klaugenfurt, becoming the third Carlisle United player to be capped whilst playing for the club. Slovakia won the match 2-1 with Lubo making an excellent last ditch tackle in injury time to preserve the win.
With the rumour mill in full overdrive, the latest spin has the club in talks with former Liverpool, Sunderland and Coventry right back Stephen Wright about a short term deal.
Aug. 11th (Thu)
James Tavernier, Newcastle United’s up and coming 19-year-old attacking full-back, joins Carlisle on an initial one-month loan. Tavernier starred in all three games for Newcastle in their pre-season tour of the States and knows Abbott from his former days as a Leeds United youth player. He went out to and impressed on loan at Gateshead in the Blue Square Premier Division last season. Although mostly used as a right-back, Tavernier can play centre-back and left-back as well.
A rare and potentially interesting trip to West Ham comes out of the hat for United in the 2nd round of the Carling Cup but only if the bubble blowers navigate their way past Aldershot…… but let’s not count any chickens.
Aug. 13th (Sat)
United find out that they will start their defence of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy in front of 25-30 home fans, two ball boys and a steward called Frank in a game down the M6 at the home of Accrington.
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 5 ROCHDALE YOUTH 0
Highly-rated right-back Lance McGlen captains the side in a 5-0 thrashing of Rochdale thanks to first-half goals for Will James, Mark Beck twice and debutant Alex Salmon and then a 5th in the second half courtesy of a 30-yard pile-driver from Dave Symington.
BURY 0 CARLISLE UTD 2
League One new boys Bury were shown that the higher level will be no picnic as Carlisle cruised to a comfortable win to put the season back on track. Taiwo nearly scored on 10 minutes when Robson carried the ball from his own half, found him on the overlap and his dinked shot bounced back off the base of the upright and into the goalkeeper’s hands. Carlisle finally took a deserved lead on 68 minutes as Berrett’s 22 yard shot wrong-footed Bury’s hapless keeper. The second came deep into time added on when Welsh was left in space on the left and picked out the run of Liam Noble, who was able to bury the ball from the edge of the box.
United Player Ratings: Collin 7.00, Tavernier 8.00, Michalik 8.50 (star man), Murphy 7.00, Robson 6.50, Thirlwell 5.00, Taiwo 6.75, Berrett 5.00, McGovern 4.00, Loy 3.00, Zoko 6.00. Subs: Welsh 6.50.
Aug. 17th (Wed)
French striker Oumare Tounkara is linked with a move to Brunton Park. The Sunderland frontman signed for Oldham Athletic on a season-long loan in August 2010, joining team-mate Jean-Yves M'Voto at Boundary Park. He made 46 appearances for the Latics, scoring seven goals.
Last season’s loan star Ben Marshall signs for Wednesday on loan until January, backing comments made from the club over a potential return being dead in the water. What has most of the United faithful scratching their heads is that he would be playing at Championship level if once more loaned out by parent club Stoke City. Owls fans think the main factor in Marshall coming to Hillsborough (other than finance) is Gary Megson’s close friendship with Tony Pulis.
Aug. 20th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 0 PRESTON YOUTH 1
An early first half goal was enough to see Preston through as the visitors edged a tight game with United failing to take their chances after the break.
CARLISLE UTD 2 BOURNEMOUTH 1
In a game full of action that swung from end to end, the new home kit voodoo finally ended. The first came on 49 minutes when Berrett swung in a free kick and Murph got there to stab it past Flahavan. Taiwo slid in to claim the glory when he got a touch just as it reached the goal line. The Cherries were back on level terms on the hour when McGovern tackled from behind, and the referee pointed to the spot as the Carlisle players reacted angrily to what was a controversial decision. Former Blues loanee Harry Arter stepped up to score from the spot. Tavernier’s fine cross set up the eventual winner as he found Curran, who then drilled the ball back from near the bye-line and off Byrne and into the net.
United: Collin, Tavernier, Michalik, Murphy, Robson, Thirlwell, Taiwo, Berrett, McGovern, Curran, Zoko. Subs: Loy, Welsh.
Aug. 21st (Sun)
According to the Middlesbrough local press, Abbott looks to be close to ending his long summer hunt for a new frontman by swooping for 28-year-old Miller, who has been told he can leave the Championship club.
The 6ft 2in striker, who has three Scotland caps and cost around £500,000 when he joined Middlesbrough under former boss Gordon Strachan from Aberdeen in January last year, is understood to have held discussions with the Blues. The ex-Hearts, Dundee United and Bristol City player is still awaiting his first goal for the Teesside club having made just 13 appearances and had modest loan spells with Notts. County and Scunthorpe last season, managing two goals in seven games for the Magpies and one in 18 for Scunthorpe.
Aug. 23rd (Tue)
Lee Miller as predicted completes his move to Brunton Park from Boro on a 2 year contract for an undisclosed fee but supposedly nominal. An Aberdeen fan’s posted verdict on Miller:
“- Big target man type, wins a lot of headers from long balls, expert at backing into defenders, flopping to the ground and winning a free-kick. Fairly slow and lethargic looking (bit of an easy target for abuse when things aren't going well). Very good technique when the ball is played in to his feet. Good at holding the ball up. Pretty good finisher, but isn't a poacher and won't be a prolific scorer. He's more of a target man who you can build play around than a goalscorer. Still scores the odd screamer now and then.
Overall: will probably split your support in half. One side will appreciate what he does outside of the box/his hold up play; the other side will think he's a complete waste of space due to the lack of goals and his lack of pace.”
Lubo earns another call up to the Slovakia squad following his praised performance in the recent win against Austria. With World Cup qualifiers against Eire and Armenia, the big central defender will miss 3 Carlisle games including the Carling Cup 2nd round tie against either West Ham or Aldershot, the MK Dons league game on September 3rd and the 1st round of the JPT against Accrington Stanley on the 7th.
Barrow move up to 5th in the Blue Square Premier after a 4-0 thrashing of fancied Fleetwood including a hat-trick for former Blue Andy Cook.
Aug. 24th (Wed)
“Where are they now” part 328. Last season’s not-so-successful loanee Oliver Norwood temporarily joins Scunthorpe. Tom Aldred’s loan spell at Inverness Thistle comes to a premature end only 4 games into a 6 month loan spell.
Aug. 25th (Thu)
Murphy looks set to miss the Orient game following a back spasm during training.
Aug. 26th (Fri)
Second-year youth striker Adam Gill joins Penrith on an initial one-month work experience package as part of his development. The deal can be extended further if it proves to be successful for both parties
Aug.27th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 7 MORECAMBE YOUTH 1
The Youth team’s ‘feast or famine’ season continued with a demolition of Morecambe with a hat-trick from Salmon against his former team mates plus other goals coming from Beck, Jones, Brough and an own goal. Despite the result, after the game Kinder told the lads “I am disappointed.” There’s a tough man to please.
The team also featured the debut of trialist Liam Woodhouse, a youth player at Newcastle United last season.
LEYTON ORIENT 1 CARLISLE UTD 2
In a game that featured a fine debuts for Stephen O'Halloran coming in for the injured Murphy and new signing Lee Miller plus a first start for wide man Andy Welsh, United just about deserved all three points against a previously fancied Orient side still searching for their first. It was done the hard way, coming back from 1-0 down following Smith’s header into the top corner on 53. Miller finished off the good work of Noble and Zoko for the equaliser on 69 before completing the storybook ending five minutes from the end sweeping the ball in after Matty Robson had thumped a free kick against the bar and Curran had brought a great reaction save out of the O’s keeper.
Player Ratings: Collin 6.00, Tavernier 6.83, Michalik 7.00, O'Halloran 9.00 (star man), Robson 7.67, McGovern 6.00, Taiwo 5.67, Berrett 6.33, Thirlwell 6.00, Welsh 7.00, Miller 7.67. Subs: Noble 8.17, Zoko 7.33, Curran 6.50.
Aug. 30th (Tue)
ALDERSHOT 2 CARLISLE UTD 0 - CARLING CUP 2ND ROUND
United crashed out at the second hurdle of the despite creating the better chances early on through O'Halloran powerful header scrambled off the line, Berrett’s shot that struck the offside Zoko and a Curran half chance. Aldershot took the lead with the last kick of the first half when a weighted ball over the top was neatly taken by Rankine. He took two strides before stroking a precise shot into the bottom corner. Spurred on, Aldershot created the better of the chances in the 2nd and sealed the game when Straker carried the ball from the half way line into the box, crossed low and Livesey’s shin sent the ball past Collin.
United: Collin, Taiwo, Livesey, O'Halloran, Robson, McGovern, Berrett, Noble, Welsh, Zoko, Curran. Subs: Loy, Thirlwell.
Aug. 31st (Wed)
Deadline day sees Joe Garner head the direction of Watford on a 2-year deal from Forest for an undisclosed fee, ironically as a part-replacement for the departed Graham. He scored a mere 10 goals in 55 appearances while at the midlands club.
CARLISLE UTD 0 NOTTS.CO 3
Not exactly the best start to the season and made doubly worse by a bad injury to Simek not to mention the smug face of Lee Hughes being involved in most of the goals. The first had a hint of controversy as Murphy was the recipient of an off-the-ball shoulder charge although exponents of the ‘man’s game’ felt he went down rather easily.
Player Ratings: Collin 3.00, Simek 3.50, Michalik 3.67, Murphy 4.00, Robson 2.33, Thirlwell 3.00, Taiwo 3.17, Berrett 2.67, McGovern 2.83, Curran 1.67, Zoko 3.17. Subs: Welsh 3.92, Loy (star man) 4.67, Noble 4.00.
Aug. 9th (Tue)
OLDHAM 1 CARLISLE UTD 1 (4-2 to Carlisle after pens) – CARLING CUP 1ST ROUND
Carlisle get Saturday’s shocker out of their system in a game of two halves. United never looked back after the introduction of Welsh and a switch to 4-2-3-1; taking control of the game. McGovern scored a goal of real class to send the tie into first extra-time and then penalties. In a rare outing, Livesey played well and Taiwo held his own filling in for Simek at right-back.
United: Collin, Taiwo, Livesey, Murphy, Robson, Thirlwell, Noble (Welsh 46), Berrett, McGovern, Zoko, Curran (Loy 86).
As reported by the Daily Mail (so it must be true), Southampton and Middlesbrough both sent scouts to watch Zoko at Oldham. It also repeated that Wigan, Sporting Gijon and Swansea had shown previous interest.
The quacks pronounce that Simek’s scan has shown a hip-knack tear that will not only put paid to his amusing “I’m a lady” impression in the United dressing room but will take approximately 8 weeks to heal.
Aug. 10th (Wed)
Michalik starts for Slovakia against Austria in Klaugenfurt, becoming the third Carlisle United player to be capped whilst playing for the club. Slovakia won the match 2-1 with Lubo making an excellent last ditch tackle in injury time to preserve the win.
With the rumour mill in full overdrive, the latest spin has the club in talks with former Liverpool, Sunderland and Coventry right back Stephen Wright about a short term deal.
Aug. 11th (Thu)
James Tavernier, Newcastle United’s up and coming 19-year-old attacking full-back, joins Carlisle on an initial one-month loan. Tavernier starred in all three games for Newcastle in their pre-season tour of the States and knows Abbott from his former days as a Leeds United youth player. He went out to and impressed on loan at Gateshead in the Blue Square Premier Division last season. Although mostly used as a right-back, Tavernier can play centre-back and left-back as well.
A rare and potentially interesting trip to West Ham comes out of the hat for United in the 2nd round of the Carling Cup but only if the bubble blowers navigate their way past Aldershot…… but let’s not count any chickens.
Aug. 13th (Sat)
United find out that they will start their defence of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy in front of 25-30 home fans, two ball boys and a steward called Frank in a game down the M6 at the home of Accrington.
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 5 ROCHDALE YOUTH 0
Highly-rated right-back Lance McGlen captains the side in a 5-0 thrashing of Rochdale thanks to first-half goals for Will James, Mark Beck twice and debutant Alex Salmon and then a 5th in the second half courtesy of a 30-yard pile-driver from Dave Symington.
BURY 0 CARLISLE UTD 2
League One new boys Bury were shown that the higher level will be no picnic as Carlisle cruised to a comfortable win to put the season back on track. Taiwo nearly scored on 10 minutes when Robson carried the ball from his own half, found him on the overlap and his dinked shot bounced back off the base of the upright and into the goalkeeper’s hands. Carlisle finally took a deserved lead on 68 minutes as Berrett’s 22 yard shot wrong-footed Bury’s hapless keeper. The second came deep into time added on when Welsh was left in space on the left and picked out the run of Liam Noble, who was able to bury the ball from the edge of the box.
United Player Ratings: Collin 7.00, Tavernier 8.00, Michalik 8.50 (star man), Murphy 7.00, Robson 6.50, Thirlwell 5.00, Taiwo 6.75, Berrett 5.00, McGovern 4.00, Loy 3.00, Zoko 6.00. Subs: Welsh 6.50.
Aug. 17th (Wed)
French striker Oumare Tounkara is linked with a move to Brunton Park. The Sunderland frontman signed for Oldham Athletic on a season-long loan in August 2010, joining team-mate Jean-Yves M'Voto at Boundary Park. He made 46 appearances for the Latics, scoring seven goals.
Last season’s loan star Ben Marshall signs for Wednesday on loan until January, backing comments made from the club over a potential return being dead in the water. What has most of the United faithful scratching their heads is that he would be playing at Championship level if once more loaned out by parent club Stoke City. Owls fans think the main factor in Marshall coming to Hillsborough (other than finance) is Gary Megson’s close friendship with Tony Pulis.
Aug. 20th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 0 PRESTON YOUTH 1
An early first half goal was enough to see Preston through as the visitors edged a tight game with United failing to take their chances after the break.
CARLISLE UTD 2 BOURNEMOUTH 1
In a game full of action that swung from end to end, the new home kit voodoo finally ended. The first came on 49 minutes when Berrett swung in a free kick and Murph got there to stab it past Flahavan. Taiwo slid in to claim the glory when he got a touch just as it reached the goal line. The Cherries were back on level terms on the hour when McGovern tackled from behind, and the referee pointed to the spot as the Carlisle players reacted angrily to what was a controversial decision. Former Blues loanee Harry Arter stepped up to score from the spot. Tavernier’s fine cross set up the eventual winner as he found Curran, who then drilled the ball back from near the bye-line and off Byrne and into the net.
United: Collin, Tavernier, Michalik, Murphy, Robson, Thirlwell, Taiwo, Berrett, McGovern, Curran, Zoko. Subs: Loy, Welsh.
Aug. 21st (Sun)
According to the Middlesbrough local press, Abbott looks to be close to ending his long summer hunt for a new frontman by swooping for 28-year-old Miller, who has been told he can leave the Championship club.
The 6ft 2in striker, who has three Scotland caps and cost around £500,000 when he joined Middlesbrough under former boss Gordon Strachan from Aberdeen in January last year, is understood to have held discussions with the Blues. The ex-Hearts, Dundee United and Bristol City player is still awaiting his first goal for the Teesside club having made just 13 appearances and had modest loan spells with Notts. County and Scunthorpe last season, managing two goals in seven games for the Magpies and one in 18 for Scunthorpe.
Aug. 23rd (Tue)
Lee Miller as predicted completes his move to Brunton Park from Boro on a 2 year contract for an undisclosed fee but supposedly nominal. An Aberdeen fan’s posted verdict on Miller:
“- Big target man type, wins a lot of headers from long balls, expert at backing into defenders, flopping to the ground and winning a free-kick. Fairly slow and lethargic looking (bit of an easy target for abuse when things aren't going well). Very good technique when the ball is played in to his feet. Good at holding the ball up. Pretty good finisher, but isn't a poacher and won't be a prolific scorer. He's more of a target man who you can build play around than a goalscorer. Still scores the odd screamer now and then.
Overall: will probably split your support in half. One side will appreciate what he does outside of the box/his hold up play; the other side will think he's a complete waste of space due to the lack of goals and his lack of pace.”
Lubo earns another call up to the Slovakia squad following his praised performance in the recent win against Austria. With World Cup qualifiers against Eire and Armenia, the big central defender will miss 3 Carlisle games including the Carling Cup 2nd round tie against either West Ham or Aldershot, the MK Dons league game on September 3rd and the 1st round of the JPT against Accrington Stanley on the 7th.
Barrow move up to 5th in the Blue Square Premier after a 4-0 thrashing of fancied Fleetwood including a hat-trick for former Blue Andy Cook.
Aug. 24th (Wed)
“Where are they now” part 328. Last season’s not-so-successful loanee Oliver Norwood temporarily joins Scunthorpe. Tom Aldred’s loan spell at Inverness Thistle comes to a premature end only 4 games into a 6 month loan spell.
Aug. 25th (Thu)
Murphy looks set to miss the Orient game following a back spasm during training.
Aug. 26th (Fri)
Second-year youth striker Adam Gill joins Penrith on an initial one-month work experience package as part of his development. The deal can be extended further if it proves to be successful for both parties
Aug.27th (Sat)
CARLISLE UTD YOUTH 7 MORECAMBE YOUTH 1
The Youth team’s ‘feast or famine’ season continued with a demolition of Morecambe with a hat-trick from Salmon against his former team mates plus other goals coming from Beck, Jones, Brough and an own goal. Despite the result, after the game Kinder told the lads “I am disappointed.” There’s a tough man to please.
The team also featured the debut of trialist Liam Woodhouse, a youth player at Newcastle United last season.
LEYTON ORIENT 1 CARLISLE UTD 2
In a game that featured a fine debuts for Stephen O'Halloran coming in for the injured Murphy and new signing Lee Miller plus a first start for wide man Andy Welsh, United just about deserved all three points against a previously fancied Orient side still searching for their first. It was done the hard way, coming back from 1-0 down following Smith’s header into the top corner on 53. Miller finished off the good work of Noble and Zoko for the equaliser on 69 before completing the storybook ending five minutes from the end sweeping the ball in after Matty Robson had thumped a free kick against the bar and Curran had brought a great reaction save out of the O’s keeper.
Player Ratings: Collin 6.00, Tavernier 6.83, Michalik 7.00, O'Halloran 9.00 (star man), Robson 7.67, McGovern 6.00, Taiwo 5.67, Berrett 6.33, Thirlwell 6.00, Welsh 7.00, Miller 7.67. Subs: Noble 8.17, Zoko 7.33, Curran 6.50.
Aug. 30th (Tue)
ALDERSHOT 2 CARLISLE UTD 0 - CARLING CUP 2ND ROUND
United crashed out at the second hurdle of the despite creating the better chances early on through O'Halloran powerful header scrambled off the line, Berrett’s shot that struck the offside Zoko and a Curran half chance. Aldershot took the lead with the last kick of the first half when a weighted ball over the top was neatly taken by Rankine. He took two strides before stroking a precise shot into the bottom corner. Spurred on, Aldershot created the better of the chances in the 2nd and sealed the game when Straker carried the ball from the half way line into the box, crossed low and Livesey’s shin sent the ball past Collin.
United: Collin, Taiwo, Livesey, O'Halloran, Robson, McGovern, Berrett, Noble, Welsh, Zoko, Curran. Subs: Loy, Thirlwell.
Aug. 31st (Wed)
Deadline day sees Joe Garner head the direction of Watford on a 2-year deal from Forest for an undisclosed fee, ironically as a part-replacement for the departed Graham. He scored a mere 10 goals in 55 appearances while at the midlands club.