Carlisle United manager Paul Simpson has thanked fans for the support following the 3-0 loss to Blackpool last week, a game in which he received abuse from some fans following the final whistle.
There were some ugly scenes after the full-time whistle as the Cumbrians were easily beaten by Blackpool, and Simpson was evidently frustrated as he targeted supporters in his post-match interview.
Within that interview with BBC Radio Cumbria and the News & Star, the manager used some choice language, which he has since apologised for after yet another disappointing performance on the road from the blues.
Carlisle now host Northampton at home on Saturday which will be a big game to hopefully get back on track in the league. With the Blues currently sat in 22nd and winless in the league since October, now would be the perfect time to get a win on the board and to respond well to last Saturday’s events.
That being said, it is in no means an easy match-up with fellow newly-promoted side Northampton in flying form at the minute. The Cobblers currently sit in 12th in League One and have won four of their last five matches, their best run of the season.
Manager Jon Brady will be looking to make it five wins from six as his side travel to Brunton Park, however Paul Simpson expects a positive response from his players.
In an interview with the News & Star, Simpson emphasised the importance of the fans despite his side’s recent poor run of form.
“I’ll be honest, every single week I look forward to coming out at Brunton Park. That’s not me talking rubbish, I really do,”
“The supporters have been superb since February 2022 – they have been top class.
“I don’t expect anything different [today]. I am certainly not going to let a very, very small minority who were the culprits last weekend cloud my view of what brilliant support we’ve got.
“I just want them to come and back the players, that’s all I’m looking for.
Three points could see the Cumbrians climb out of the relegation zone if results around them also go their way, Simpson also noted the importance of putting a couple of wins together over the Christmas period.
“It’s about finding the first win, to get on a run you have to do the first one.
“I always say the first goal of your season’s important. Now, because of the run we’re on, we need to get that first win to give you a chance of two consecutive wins, then three.
“Let’s start by focusing on one, trying to get the result this weekend that gives everybody a lift, makes everybody’s weekend better, takes everyone into the 23rd which is the proper start of those Christmas fixtures.”
Writer’s View
Carlisle have to respond following last week’s events and putting a solid performance in today would do just that. They couldn’t be playing Northampton at a worse time though, with Brady’s side playing their best football of the season in recent weeks.
With an overhaul expected in January, the players really need to prove their worth in the coming weeks and an improved performance is expected as a result.
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