January 2010

The Cumbrians secured a well deserved 2-1 advantage to take back to Brunton Park, thanks to a late header from substitute Joe Anyinsah, who was ably assisted by former Leeds star Ian Harte.

The win was no more than Greg Abbott’s side deserved, who will still be wary of a Leeds United side who have overcome a similar scenario in recent years.

In an identical position to May 2008, Carlisle led Leeds 2-1 at the halfway stage of the League One play-offs, only for the Yorkshiremen to prevail 2-0 at Brunton Park.

It all means that the tie is delicately poised for the second leg on Tuesday February 9.

Carlisle broke the deadlock in the 21st minute when Graham Kavanagh thumped home a right foot finish from 10 yards.

Jason Crowe levelled matters with his first goal for Leeds (pictured) in the 56th minute, but Carlisle were not to be denied.

Harte went on to remind Leeds fans of the good old days with one of his famous left foot free kicks, only this time to the detriment of his former club.

With just six minutes remaining, Anyinsah met his delivery with an unstoppable header to swing the tie in favour of the Cumbrians.

Johnstone’s Paint Trophy’s sponsorship manager Teresa Hardwick added: “The tie is delicately balanced, and there’s still so much more football to be played.

“We know from experience that the area finals always throw up drama to the last kick, so we are just looking forward to another exciting game at Brunton Park.”

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