Carlisle United take on Carlisle City in Cumberland Cup semi-finals

Carlisle City FC will face local rivals Carlisle United in the Cumberland Cup semi-finals.

Current holders Carlisle United, who recently announced the return of Paul Simpson as manager, will take on their neighbours Carlisle City for a place in the final of this season’s Cumberland Cup.

The Blues were handed a tricky away trip to Gillford Park to take on Jim Nichols’ men in what promises to be an action-packed semi-final against the non-league outfit.

United have fielded a youthful side in the competition so far and found it difficult to get past a stubborn Cleator Moor Celtic in a hard-fought quarter-final encounter at Cleator.

It would be an extra-time winner from Bollad on 104 minutes that would break Celtic hearts and secure a last-four place for United.

Now Simpson’s Blues will make the short trip to Gillford Park and go up against a determined Carlisle City, who are currently sitting 11th in the EBAC, Northern League Division Two.

City eased past Workington Reds in the quarter-finals of the county cup with two goals in two minutes (70+72) from young Jordan Palmer at Gilford Park.

Jim Nichols’ side includes a number of former Carlisle United players including Dan Kirkup, Jordan Holt, Keighran Kerr and Kieron Olsen. The City manager knows how much of a big opportunity this is for his players.

“It’s a big game for the club and a great opportunity for the lads to test themselves against full time professionals.

“For a lot of our players, Carlisle United are their former club so that adds a little more interest to it.

The two sides regularly meet in pre-season encounters and always produce plenty of drama, goals and excitement as well as playing some exciting football that is a credit to the Non-League side and Jim Nichols.

“As a club in this competition, it’s always the draw you want, an opportunity to get the only full time side in the competition. We have had some good pre-season games against Carlisle United since I’ve been at the club and the relationships on and off the pitch between the clubs are positive.

“The Cumberland Cup is a competition that a club of our stature always has a chance to win, and I personally would like to see my club’s record improve in the competition.

City’s chairman Brian Hall has had a massive task on his hands keeping the club afloat during difficult times caused primarily by the Covid restrictions placed upon the club.

Working closely with club secretary and close friend, Martin Denovellis, the Sky Blues continue to push boundaries in order to ensure club football from senior to junior level through the promotion and support of local businesses.

“It’s always an occasion to relish when we face United as sadly it doesn’t happen all that often.

“All of our players and supporters are very much looking forward to it.

“We always approach the Cumberland Cup with great respect as it is a trophy with a long history and a prestigious cup to go in the cabinet of the lucky winners.”

Encouragement and support for the local Non-League side reaches far beyond the city walls with fans travelling from all over Cumbria and indeed Scotland.

Club chairman Hall lives and breathes Carlisle City. However, he takes no credit for the club’s success, instead praising the numerous volunteers and match day staff who all pull together to keep the club going and remain an essential part of the local community.

Last season City, were extremely unlucky not to gain promotion at the end of a stop-start season which saw Nichols’ men produce win after win as they went on an amazing unbeaten run that would see the Sky Blues sitting top of the league at one point.

“There are some strong family links currently between us and Carlisle United.

“Our skipper Josh Simpson is the nephew of Paul, the new United manager.

£And Paul’s brother Peter was both a player and manager at City as he led us out of the Northern Alliance league.” Brian Hall, Carlisle City FC Chairman

In the other semi-final, fellow Carlisle side Pirelli will be at home to Penrith-based Wetheriggs United.

Their quarter-final ties brought victories over Workington Athletic and Kirkoswald respectively.

“We can confirm that the Cumberland FA County Cup semi-final v Carlisle United will be played at Gillford Park on Tuesday 22nd March kick Off 7.30 pm.

“Full details of admission prices etc will be publicised early next week .

“Anyone wishing to sponsor the game please get in touch (01228) 523777.” Carlisle City FC spokesperson

The semi-final tie between Carlisle City FC and Carlisle Utd will take place on Tuesday, March 22nd with a 7.30pm kick-off at Gillford Park, Carlisle.

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