Carlisle Report

Terry Butcher, as expected, named an unchanged side from the one which strolled to a 4-1 win at Somerset Park on Saturday. This means that despite returning to training there was no place for James McFadden and the midfield four were still without Derek Adams – who will miss the opening two games of the season through suspension.

Keith Lasley has a shot

The 350 or so ‘Well fans who made the short journey south passed through some bleak weather but on arrival at the ground, they found a lovely summer evening which was perfect for football.

We made an excellent start to the game and forced four corners within the first eight minutes. From the last of these, taken by Lasley on the left, the ball broke to Stevie Craig on the edge of the box and the young striker made no mistake, slotting high into the net.

Carlisle almost hit back immediately but Gordon Marshall made a point blank save to deny the hosts. This was Carlisle’s only real chance of a half which was dominated by Motherwell. Sadly we have also taken our foot of the gas a little and despite a number of excellent passing moves, we made few clear cut chances.

A first half attack

Scott Leitch tested the ‘keeper with a speculative effort and on the stroke of half time Craig came close to doubling our lead but his shot was well held by the ‘keeper.

The second half saw more of the same and we made a positive start with lots of passing and running off the ball. We survived a brief spell of pressure after Carlisle made a flury of subs and killed the game off with a lovely goal. Pearson and Lasley burst through the offside trap at the half way line and Pearo drew the 'keeper before squaring the ball to leave Keith with a tap in.

Stevie Hammell and David Clarkson both came close to adding to the scoreline but we can be pleased with another good work out and a very comfortable win. The fitness of the players is visibly improving and we will be in good spirits ahead of the visit of Fulham on Saturday.