Last updated 13:20, Wednesday, 07 May 2008

IT IS undoubtedly disappointing not to have secured automatic promotion. But to finish in the play-offs for the Championship having gone through near-bankruptcy, then climbed back up progressively both on and off the field, is a tremendous achievement.

Emerging star: United’s Gary Madine

We should acknowledge this, irrespective of the outcome.

Carlisle need, however, to recover some form if they are to make a fist of the play-off games, which they are quite capable of winning.

It was a disappointing end to the season, but a great effort by John Ward and the team overall.

Also, given an average age of 24 in the team plus Garner back and an emerging star in Gary Madine, the future looks very bright and considerably brighter than recent post.

Well done to all involved -a credit to the division both in terms of commercial and playing management.

JOHN RICHARDSON
Carlisle