'I'm embarrassed' - Harrogate boss after 3-0 defeat by nine-man Carlisle

Published6 hours ago

Carlisle United's task before their game against in-form Harrogate Town - 10 places and 11 points better off than them in the National League - looked a difficult one.

And although the Blues took an early lead against the visitors, who were on a five-game winning run, they then had former Arsenal player Miguel Azeez sent off after just 14 minutes.

Their mission became even more difficult when they were reduced to nine men after 30 minutes when fellow midfielder Harvey Bunker was also shown a straight red card.

It meant Carlisle were two men light with 60 minutes to play against the side sitting second in the National League table.

However, rather than wilt, Rob Elliot's men actually added to their lead immediately after half-time despite being two players down.

They then wrapped up a stunning 3-0 win that will be talked about by the fans at Brunton Park for years to come - but is likely to haunt everyone connected with Harrogate.

Town's manager and co-owner Simon Weaver accused his side of "believing the hype" their winning run had produced.

When asked to sum up his emotions, he told BBC Radio York: "Embarrassed to be honest.

"We came into it with brilliant form but it looked like as a team and a collective we believed the hype coming into the game.

"However, going down to 10 men and then nine men the emphasis was on us to show the required quality on the ball that we have done all season up to this point and we're certainly disappointed and fell well below the standards set so far this season.

"We looked well off it. We didn't handle the situation. Full credit to Carlisle, they deserved to win but we have to look at our performance."

The Sulphurites, who travel to Forest Green on Saturday, are now 10 points off runaway leaders Boreham Wood.

'There was no luck - I'm immensely proud'

Emotions in the other dressing room could hardly have been more contrasting.

"I don't think they appreciate what they've just done," Elliot told BBC Radio Cumbria.

"There was no luck. It was just superb performances and I'm immensely proud.

"I'm hoping it's a catalyst for us to unite and make sure we carry on that momentum. If we can produce this every week then we become a monster and be unstoppable.

"It epitomised what I want from the staff, the players and the club.

"When you are reduced to playing for pure passion, heart, desire and energy it becomes evident of what it means."

The former Newcastle goalkeeper said it was "the most incredible" game of his playing or managerial career and said the players would be given an impromptu day off on Thursday before they play at Altrincham on Saturday.

Follow Carlisle United on BBC Sounds

Pre-match, post-match and topical Blues content

Subscribe and listen for everything you love about Carlisle United

Related topics

Football

National League

Carlisle United

Harrogate Town