- This week I spoke with Simon Clarkson, who is chair of the Carlisle United Supporters Group (@CarlisleUtdSG) ahead of tomorrow’s game. Here is what he had to say about Carlisle, and his predictions for the game.
How’s your season been so far?
More downs than ups unfortunately. Too many games where we’ve been ineffective in front of goal and conceded poor goals. The change of manager (to ‘head coach’) in November, saw personnel and tactical changes. Boosted by a cup run and the sale of young players, this will hopefully see improvement for the rest of the season.
Best player?
If you’d asked me two weeks ago, there would have been no doubt I would have said the 17 year old, Jarrad Branthwaite. However, he was sold to Everton. Invariably at our level your best players are often loanees from higher levels, so in that regard I’ll go for Elliott Watt. A midfielder from Wolves. A great passer of the ball.
Pantomime Villian?
Harry McKirdy is our leading goal scorer and yet has had his issues with some of the fans, especially on social media. He can be unplayable on his day, frustratingly this tends to be mostly in big games. He has a swagger that you either like or you don’t.
Favourite ever player?
Dean Walling. An absolute legend. A goal scoring centre back who specialised in headed goals from corners. Every Carlisle fan chanting his name ” Deano, Deano, Deano” as he strode up for a corner. Real gentleman too.
We have already played once this season, how did you rate that clash?
An even game that we nicked at the end with a McKirdy header. Both teams tried to play football properly and it produced a good game. Hoping for the same (and result) on Saturday.
Last season you finished just outside the play-offs, what has changed to see you battling at the other end of the table?
A real dose of much needed financial sobriety after previous overspend. The majority of out of contracted players were released and most players signed on short term deals. The big change and risk was to rely heavily on the loan market to give us a decent striker. We took 3 on loan and none of them have been particularly successful.
Where is the best place for away fans arriving early to get a pre-match pint?
Beer is available in the ground. For those with time, in the proximity of the ground there is the Beehive pub and the rugby club.
Predictions for the weekend?
A tight game with us sneaking it again 2-1.
Finally, one random fact about your club?
Brunton Park is the largest football stadium in England which is not all-seated.
Many thanks to Simon for answering those, we wish them the best of luck for the rest of the season.
