Carlisle v Barnet: surprising the neutrals

Shaq a ‘Coul’ finisher – thisislocallondon.co.uk

We might only be in September, but it is not too early to compare the performances of League Two teams with pre-season expectations. Carlisle United and Barnet have surprised the neutrals for different reasons.

Carlisle haven’t shrugged off the poor form in the second half of last season that cost them promotion. Carlisle have conceded 59 goals in 32 League Two games since the turn of the year, including the play-off tie with Exeter. A lack of pace in defence has been problematic, Mark Ellis having had a torrid time, especially at Lincoln while left-back Danny Grainger hasn’t looked his old self.

Barnet have a sharp enough attack to suggest that they could take advantage of those shortcomings. They have scored 11 goals in seven games so far this season and that is without much game time for recent signing Dave Tarpey, who has picked up an early injury and John Akinde, their undisputed talisman for the last three seasons.

Their new talisman is Shaquile Coulthirst, who already has seven goals to his name in all forms. Coulthirst has struggled at previous clubs such as Southend and Peterborough but spoke to Daniele Accurso about how he has improved at the Hive and staying sharp later on in games. He has scored five League Two goals so far this year – only Reuben Reid has scored more.

Unfortunately for the Bees, Reid did damage late on Tuesday for Exeter, who completed a late comeback. Barnet played well for 70 minutes that night but their late collapse might suggest to Rossi Eames that some fresher legs are needed at the back.

The defence he picks is likely to face two of Richie Bennett, Hallam Hope and Shaun Miller, but neither present the most daunting of opposition. Bennett has struggled to step up from the National League, despite the long ball system that would theoretically suit his height. Hope offers little more than raw pace while Miller is yet to get off the mark, though he has had a few close shaves.

Right now, all the pressure is on Keith Curle’s Cumbrians, who would have expected to hit more than one point per game. Barnet have beaten two of the biggest clubs in the division, which suggests that they thrive most when all eyes are on the opposition.

The Football Lab’s Verdict: 1-2