Ellis Taylor scores stoppage-time winner for Harrogate to beat ailing Carlisle

Rock-bottom Carlisle’s Sky Bet League Two survival hopes were significantly dented as they conceded deep in stoppage-time on their way to a painful 1-0 defeat at Harrogate.

A fairly drab affair appeared destined to end goalless until former Sunderland winger Ellis Taylor netted a deflected 20-yard volley to decide matters in favour of the home side.

Saturday’s loss, coupled with 22nd-placed Tranmere’s 2-1 victory over Bromley, means the Cumbrians are now six points adrift of safety at the foot of the table – albeit with a game in hand.

After Dean Cornelius shot wide for Harrogate early on, Carlisle threatened through Cedwyn Scott, who missed the target with a header, before Sam Lavelle was denied by home goalkeeper James Belshaw following a scramble at a corner.

Carlisle goalkeeper Gabriel Breeze then had to be alert to prevent Taylor from converting Ben Fox’s cross on the stroke of half-time.

Terell Thomas put the visitors’ best chance of the second half over the bar, with Breeze then tested by headed efforts from Jasper Moon and Cornelius and Bryn Morris’ curler.

Taylor struck in the fifth minute of stoppage to break Carlisle hearts.