Debutant Nick Anderton sets Carlisle on their way to victory

Posted Sunday, January 26, 2020 by PA

Carlisle moved seven points clear of the League Two relegation zone thanks to a 2-1 win over Walsall.

Nick Anderton’s debut strike and an own goal by Saddlers goalkeeper Liam Roberts secured the Cumbrians just their second victory in 11 league games – both of which have come against the Saddlers.

Mat Sadler pulled one back for Walsall early in the second half but Carlisle held on for their first home win since December 10.

The hosts went ahead in the 21st minute. Walsall failed to clear a free-kick from the left and the ball broke in the six-yard box to debutant full-back Anderton and he had time to set himself before driving home.

Walsall should have been level five minutes later when Adam Collin spilled a cross from the right but Elijah Adebayo steered the rebound wide of the near post.

Two minutes before half-time Carlisle doubled their lead. Ryan Loft headed against the crossbar from Elliot Watt’s corner and the ball bounced off Roberts and across the line.

The Saddlers were back in it in the 50th minute when Rory Holden’s corner was headed in by Sadler at the near post.

Walsall finished the game on top but were unable to find a way past the Carlisle defence.