We started confidently, bossing the game until the Shackell red card. There's no doubt in my mind that both fouls were bookable, the second one he let his man get goal side and hauled him back. Prior to this he had looked imperious and I felt he would be a key figure. After that Carlisle took control and at times looked a very decent side indeed without creating much other than a Gilkes saved free kick in the first half.
Tactically we set out from the start to play within ourselves to cope with the 20 degree temperatures, the aim presumably being to keep something in the tank for later and to nick a 75' plus winner. This approach was unsurprisingly reinforced after the red card.
Carlisle bossed the second half but around the 65 minute mark we started to assert ourselves going forward, especially through Harry. Unfortunately, shortly after that Carlisle scored and it was only after that that we really created chances with a Rowe volley superbly saved, a Harry cross tipped over and a couple of scrambles from set pieces. As we searched for the equaliser Carlisle had a couple of great chances to wrap it up - a badly fluffed 2 v 1 and then a shot against a post. Some great last ditch defending too, especially from Bossie.
I thought all our ten played well, with Andrade and Harry the main threats going forward.
The ref was ok till the aftermath of the red card. Perhaps the reaction to it annoyed him and he decided to stamp his authority on us. The booking of Bolger was one of the pettiest things I have seen, totally unnecessary, and it incensed Danny (and us) even more. After that he seemed to be a homer, and Carlisle started to indulge in the dark arts (the ball boys may get headhunted by Danny for their behaviour later on!).
My first match of the season and I have to choose this one! It was the prefect storm - a very hot day, playing with ten for an hour, and a slick pass and move opposition. Two of those things we could have handled, but not three.
Two areas of concern: another goal from distance with no one closing down, and more importantly yet another first half sending off. How many is that now under the Cowleys (going back to Wood v Sutton... also on a very warm day)? It needs looking at, and whatever the reason for it something needs to change.
A final irony. Carlisle watered the pitch to the point that players were struggling to keep their feet, and water was clearly visible, especially in the second half. Was it not against Carlisle that Danny flipped because we had forgotten to water the pitch? Be careful what you wish for!
Great Imps support, a very different atmosphere to my previous visits to Brunton Park. Also surprising how many Imps on the train back to Newcastle at 17.45, including a handful who obviously live in the Tyne Valley.
