News & Star column 07.01.21

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With coronavirus cases soaring we all need something to lift the doom and gloom.

And seeing the Blues sitting proudly on top of the League Two table this week was definitely a sight for sore eyes.

It may be nightmarish times as we struggle to cope with the pandemic but United have done their best to provide some cheer.

Their form and energetic displays have, at least, brought some relief from the seemingly endless Covid-19 bad news stories.

Fans are grateful to have had football to hang on to as the rest of their life is put on hold.

Talk of a ‘circuit break’ for football is being resisted, at the moment, and that will suit Blues supporters’ fine.

Whether we watch United on iFollow, listen on the radio, or just read about them on social media or newspapers we are enjoying a sporting stimulus.

Many are commenting they haven’t seen a more committed or motivated set of players for years.

There are no stars or prima donnas, they all slot in and do a job for the team. And when it comes to picking the man-of the-match there are, more often than not, several candidates.

Teenager Taylor Charters edged it in the win over Walsall on Saturday but, as head coach Chris Beech half-jokingly pointed out, it helped he was a local boy making his debut.

The team spirit is excellent and it is no fluke we are top of the table. But, obviously, it is where we are in May that counts.

It is fantastic news that defender Rhys Bennett has extended his contract and now fans will be hoping we see out this month’s transfer window without any unpleasant surprises.

United take on fellow promotion hopefuls Leyton Orient at Brunton Park this Saturday (1pm kick-off) and you can support the club by watching on iFollow. It costs £10 with £8 going into the Blues coffers.

CUOSC are also trying to raise funds with our Carlisle REUnited campaign.

Our Christmas raffle to win a signed and framed shirt belonging to ex-Blues keeper Mark Gillespie was won by Jolene Creighton. You can also still be at Brunton Park in spirit by booking a ‘Face in the Crowd.’

If you have any questions email info@cuosc.org.uk