7pm 8 November 2023
Cumberland FA, Senior Cup, Second Round
Aspatria 1 Carlisle United XI 4 (att 750)
The interest and scope of county cups varies across the country. The Cumberland version has the advantage of encompassing all the local FA's Saturday teams, from those at at the very bottom up to and including EFL side Carlisle United.
Technically it's Carlisle United's first team, although the reality is, unsurprisingly, a little different. Apparently they fielded a strongish team in the opening round, yet still needed penalties to see off Northern League Carlisle City.
United's manager had made no secret of his intention to field the youth team for the visit to Cumberland County League Aspatria. His fear was the potential for senior players to pick up injuries playing on the rugby pitch at Bower Park.
Aspatria's regular home ground, a pitch in a public park, was never going to be capable of hosting this tie. Rather than give up home advantage entirely the club borrowed the local rugby union ground, which is floodlit, enclosed and has a large stand.
The game certainly caught the local imagination, with a large crowd seemingly not discouraged by the prospect of seeing Carlisle United's youth team.
The biggest cheer of the night was for the game's opening goal, when Aspatria went ahead after 15 minutes. It was a little against the early run of play, and suggested it might be close encounter.
Carlisle equalised shortly before half time, and the youngsters' superior fitness was a factor as they became increasingly dominant after the break. Two quick goals about midway through the half put them out of sight, before a late fourth rounded off the evening.
They may have lost but overall it was a good night for Aspatria. The large crowd, including many youngsters, showed how much interest there can be in local football, and the event was very well organised. Hopefully the £2 admission charge, a bargain, will have boosted the club financially as well.
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