Mark Hughes has urged Carlisle United players and fans to create an electrifying atmosphere at Brunton Park as the club faces three crucial home fixtures that could define their season.
Struggling at the wrong end of League Two, the Blues are in desperate need of points to close the six-point gap to safety. They kick off an 11-day home stand against AFC Wimbledon on Saturday, followed by matches against Bromley and MK Dons.
Hughes Calls for Passion from Players and Fans
Carlisle’s home form has been a major concern throughout the campaign, with just two wins from 17 games at Brunton Park. Hughes, who has drawn all three home matches since taking charge, knows his team must improve if they are to avoid relegation.
“The message is we keep going, and if we’ve got three home games now, we’ve got to be right on our game,” said Hughes.
The manager believes the support of the fans will be crucial in helping the team rise to the occasion.
“We’ve just got to raise the roof, and we do that by getting everybody behind us like they always do. From our point of view, it’s about giving them something to really cheer on, and demand and affect the opposition with the support that we’re getting.”
Struggles at Home Must Be Addressed
Carlisle has struggled for goals at Brunton Park, scoring just 12 in 17 matches – the fewest of any side in League Two. Their inability to take advantage of home fixtures has been a major factor in their position near the foot of the table.
However, Hughes’ side will take encouragement from AFC Wimbledon’s recent away form. The promotion-chasing visitors are winless in their last six away games, drawing five and losing one. Carlisle will hope to capitalise on their opponent’s struggles to secure a much-needed victory.
Injury Concerns Ahead of Wimbledon Clash
Hughes will be monitoring the fitness of striker Matt Dennis, who missed last weekend’s 1-0 defeat at Harrogate Town after reporting hamstring tightness. The forward has undergone further assessment this week, and his availability remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, Georgie Kelly could feature again after making his return from a three-month layoff due to a calf injury. The striker came off the bench in the Harrogate defeat and could play a bigger role in the upcoming fixtures.
Writer’s View
Carlisle United is entering a make-or-break period, and their survival hopes may rest on these next three home matches. Hughes’ rallying call is a reminder that the players and fans must be united in their fight to stay in League Two.
If the team can take their chances and feed off the energy of the crowd, they might just pull themselves back into the survival battle.
