The VBS Community Stadium was the venue for a hard-fought National League match that saw Sutton United narrowly defeat Carlisle United in a game filled with late drama. The home side, eager to escape the lower echelons of the table, managed to secure their first league victory of the season against a Carlisle side looking to cement their position near the league’s summit.
The first half concluded goalless, a cautious affair punctuated by a yellow card issued to Carlisle’s Stephen Wearne in the 24th minute for a foul, indicative of the underlying tension.
The game’s first goal arrived in the 49th minute when Edon Pruti scored, with Jack Wadham providing the assist. Sutton had taken the lead, injecting fresh impetus into their play.
As time wore on, Sutton manager Steve Morison made tactical changes. Jack Wadham, having assisted the opening goal, was replaced by Siju Odelusi in the 63rd minute, and Mo Dabre was substituted for Lewis Simper. Carlisle manager Mark Hughes responded by introducing Georgie Kelly for Callum Whelan in the 55th minute, followed by David Ajiboye and Josh Grant in the 69th minute.
Sutton’s pressure resulted in a second goal in the 82nd minute when substitute David Ogbonna, who had replaced Brandon Njoku only moments before, extended their lead. Jack Sims provided the assist, seemingly putting the game beyond Carlisle’s reach.
However, Carlisle mounted a late challenge. In the 94th minute, deep into added time, substitute Georgie Kelly, assisted by Terell Thomas, scored a goal for Carlisle. Ultimately, it proved insufficient, as Darren Drysdale signalled the end of the match shortly thereafter.
This victory provides a significant lift for Sutton United, elevating them from 22nd to 18th in the National League table with 5 points after six games. Carlisle United, despite this setback, remain in 5th position with 11 points, although their previously unbeaten run has come to an end. This match marked a turning point in the rivalry, with Sutton United securing their first win against Carlisle United, having played twice in the last three seasons.
