News & Star column 30.01.20

News & Star masthead

Blues fans are walking on air this week. After two consecutive league wins – for the first time in over a year –life is suddenly looking much rosier.

There’s now a 10 point gap between United and the one relegation place and, at last, we seem to have a team we can be proud of.

The Brunton Park faithful really got behind the side as they ground out a hard-earned win over Walsall on Saturday. But, if we are honest, they would have been happy to settle for a point at Forest Green on Tuesday.

To blow Rovers away 4-1 in the manner we did with one of our best away league performances for years was a very pleasant surprise – and a real reward for the 97 hardy Blues fans that made the decision to travel into deepest Gloucestershire on a winter’s night.

It was also a boost for all those who parted with £10 to take the rare opportunity to watch the Blues ‘live’ on ‘iFollow’. I dare say it was money well spent.

Winger Nathan Thomas was the hero of the hour scoring the first hat-trick by a Carlisle player for over three years. His second, a wonder strike from 30 yards, must surely be a contender for goal of the season.

January signings, Lewis Alessandra, Nick Anderton, Joshua Kayode, Elliot Watt and Max Hunt have all made an impact. And with head coach Chris Beech hinting of more arrivals fans will be keeping a careful watch on the transfer window until it closes tomorrow (Friday) evening.

The Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) are running a survey that will be of interest to Blues away fans.

They believe Away Fans Matter and want to capture supporters’ experiences ‘on the road’.

The aim of the survey – the largest of its kind in the country – is to improve the lot of travelling supporters. The data collected will be discussed with clubs and authorities. To take part go to: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/awayfans-2019-20

CUOSC’s own recent survey of members on a wide range of issues has been forwarded to the club. About 15% of our membership took part offering many differing opinions.

The next meeting of Carlisle United Supporters Groups will be held on Monday. CUOSC representatives will be in attendance.