Mark Hughes believes Carlisle United could not have hoped for a better build-up as they prepare to take on League Two leaders Port Vale at Brunton Park.
Momentum building at just the right time
The Cumbrians are bidding to continue their survival push after back-to-back wins gave renewed hope to their battle against relegation. With a £10 ticket offer expected to bring in a bumper crowd, the stage is set for one of Carlisle’s biggest games of the season.
Hughes said the mood in the camp is positive as they gear up to face Darren Moore’s high-flying side, who have won five of their last six matches to go top of the table.
“We’ve had the best possible build up to the game really. After two wins back to back after such a long period, why wouldn’t we be in good shape to go up against, at the moment, the best team in the league? We couldn’t have scripted it any better really.”
Second-bottom United know a win could bring them within three points of safety if Accrington Stanley lose at Salford. However, defeat, coupled with wins for both Accrington and Tranmere Rovers, could leave Hughes’ men facing almost certain relegation.
Hughes urges players to embrace the occasion
Despite the pressure, Hughes is encouraging his players to enjoy the big-game atmosphere rather than fear it. He highlighted how, during his own playing and managerial career, the bigger the game, the more he relished it.
The head coach is hoping that same attitude will inspire his squad to raise their level against a Port Vale side boasting in-form Swiss striker Lorent Tolaj, who has scored five goals in his last three matches, and the experienced Jayden Stockley.
Hughes admitted that Moore’s side have found the perfect blend this season, praising their recruitment and squad balance. He described football success as part science, part luck, and credited Moore for assembling a team that has clicked at exactly the right time.
Writer’s view
Hughes says the build-up couldn’t have been scripted better, but in truth, it could: Carlisle could already be safe. They’re scrabbling for points, and they probably won’t find them here.
Still, credit where it’s due — momentum (if two wins in five is described as momentum) has returned at just the right moment. If United can channel the energy of a packed Brunton Park, survival could yet remain within their grasp, especially given that looming Accrington fixture.
