The draw for the first round of the competition, made on Saturday evening, paired the Cumbrians with the last team they defeated away from home in the league in a controversial match at Sincil Bank last August. Three United stars, Richie Foran, Brian Shelley and Trevor Molloy were sent off and owner John Courtenay was involved in a touch-line scuffle with stewards. Molloy's penalty secured all three points. And United have also been drawn at home in the Second Round of the LDV Vans Trophy, with a match against Stockport County. The match is due to be played at Brunton Park on the 12th November, giving Carlisle three successive home games with Bury to follow in the league on November 23. Loan stars set to extend stay On-loan Leon Osman and Craig Farrell are set to extend their one-month deals which will provide a boost for manager Roddy Collins. Collins is keen to keep his squad together following a run of three games unbeaten. Osman has been the star of the show in the last few matches, following his temporary switch from Premiership giants Everton. He failed to make a first-team appearance with the Toffeemen but is keen to catch the eye of manager David Moyes after breaking through to a place on the bench last season. Farrell has joined Brian Wake as United's joint top scorer with four goals following his successful penalty on Saturday. The Leeds player joined on loan at the same time as Tottenham's John Sutton. The pair were brought in as cover for Richie Foran, who fractured a cheek at Bournemouth and isn't expected to be back until the FA Cup clash against Lincoln. It is not known if Sutton will also extend his stay. Collins said: "Both players are happy here. I had a chat with Craig and he seems to be up for it and Leon is definitely up for it, too. I just need to clear it with the clubs." Collins is also looking to bring in an experienced centre half and has held talks with a player who has played over 500 games in his career. The United boss is facing another defensive crisis with right back Mark Birch joining the walking wounded. He broke his toe against Swansea and joins Lee Andrews on the sidelines. Darren Kelly will be back after suspension at Cambridge tomorrow. Brian Shelley is a slight doubt with a hamstring niggle. Picture from News & Star |
