Carlisle United players hail travelling fans

Carlisle United duo Mark Gillespie ‏and Paul Black ‏have paid tribute to the club's travelling supporters following last night's 1-1 draw at Colchester United.

The Cumbrians had lost their opening three games of the League One season by an aggregate score of 13-1.

However, that did not stop 197 visiting fans from turning up to see their side at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, which is 358 miles from Brunton Park by road.

"Fans were different class great point for us now we have to build on that! #cufc #onwardsandupwards," tweeted defender Black.

Carlisle are next in action on Tuesday night, when they host Leicester City in round two of the League Cup.

Goalkeeper Gillespie, who helped his side upset Blackburn Rovers in the first round, is hoping that a win against the Foxes will kickstart United's season.

He tweeted: "Good point that. Thanks to the fans that travelled! Bring on Leicester Tuesday another upset and we can start to turn things around! #cufc"

Despite their continued attendance, Carlisle supporters remain firmly spilt regarding their feelings towards boss Greg Abbott, whose position at the club appears to be far from stable.

The 49-year-old, who is currently the third longest-serving professional manager in English football, admitted last week that squad confidence had hit "rock bottom" following the 4-0 home loss to Coventry.