Carlisle United v Bradford City

After some flirtations with relegation out of the EFL for Carlisle, they now find themselves back in the play-offs for the first time since 2016/17, and with a chance to get themselves back into the third tier for the first time in a decade.

However, Bradford stole a march on the Cumbrians with a 1-0 win at the University of Bradford Stadium last weekend. Back when Carlisle were last in the League Two play-offs, Bradford were in the League One play-offs, pushing for a place in the Championship.

Both sides certainly see their natural home as being above the fourth tier, and with either Salford City, or a Stockport County side experiencing an injury crisis awaiting the winners in the final, whoever goes through here will surely fancy their chances of earning promotion in next week's play-off final.

The Carlisle United v Bradford City bet builder tips for this match make for a tasty 5/2 selection for you to get your teeth into.

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Work to do up in Cumbria

The first leg in Bradford did not go as Carlisle United would have hoped, but a one-goal deficit is anything but impossible to overcome. The host’s goal was a moment Paul Simpson’s side will not want to look back on, making a mess of simple route one football to let Jamie Walker through in a great goal scoring position. An uphill task within 20 minutes of kick-off.

Carlisle did ask questions of Bradford throughout the game though. Joe Garner came close to a spectacular opener. Ryan Edmondson headed a golden chance over in the second half. Plenty of success was found switching the ball out to wing-back Jack Armer when high and wide. 

It was a strong defensive rear guard that prevented Carlisle from getting back into the tie before the conclusion of the first leg. The Cumbrians have to carry the belief that they can get the job done at their Brunton Park home this Saturday afternoon.

Carlisle United team news

It looks like Carlisle could well have the same group of players to choose from, with the addition of striker John-Kymani Gordon who has returned from his suspension. Key defender/midfielder Jon Mellish serves the final game of his suspension this Saturday.

The defence should remain unchanged, goalkeeper Tomas Holý behind the trio of Corey Whelan, Paul Huntington and Ben Barclay. Jack Armer should retain his place at left-wing-back, Joel Senior should start at right-wing-back but may still be fighting for match fitness. Barclay or Jordan Gibson can take his place in the team if needed.

With Mellish out, the midfield trio should contain Owen Moxon, Callum Guy and Alfie McCalmont, though Taylor Charters could be in line to provide fierce competition to McCalmont. The most intrigue could come with the frontline.

Any draw will do

Bradford City were far from convincing in the first leg at Valley Parade, but should be pleased that they are taking a lead to Brunton Park. Jamie Walker’s goal was one of only two shots on target they had all game, both of them coming in the first half. 

An inability to hold possession could have cost them if not for the defensive performance of centre-back Sam Stubbs and goalkeeper Harry Lewis. 90 minutes of that again this Saturday and Bradford fans may be left with no fingernails.

The Bantams should be even more pleased that they haven’t got to need a win up in Cumbria. Brunton Park is a venue that they historically have not fared well at. Bradford’s last victory over Carlisle there was way back in 1985. The West Yorkshire outfit have avoided defeat in just one of their last nine trips up there. A draw will do, and they may well have to dig in to get it.

Bradford City team news

Business as usual for Bradford City. Mark Hughes may choose the same team for a third game in a row as the Bantams prepare for what should be a serious battle up at Brunton Park. That would depend on one player pulling through though.

Harry Lewis will stay in goal, behind the back four of Liam Ridehalgh, Romoney Crichlow, Sam Stubbs and Brad Halliday from left to right. Alex Gilliead, Adam Clayton and Richie Smallwood can form the midfield in Bradford’s 4-3-3, with Jamie Walker on the left, Scott Banks on the right, and top scorer Andy Cook leading the line.

A change may be forced though after Jamie Walker was brought off after 65 minutes at Valley Parade. If he is not available to start, expect one of Emmanuel Osadebe, Matt Derbyshire or Thierry Nevers to take his place on the left-hand-side.

Carlisle United v Bradford City Cheat Sheet

Should Jamie Walker be fit to play, Owen Moxon and Ben Barclay look great options for fouls. The Scot draws over three fouls per game, and with no room for sentiment in the play-offs, if he does play but isn't fully fit, Carlisle will surely look to take advantage by throwing their weight around. These kind of dark arts are usually needed to squeeze through what is an incredibly competitive play-off in League Two this season.

Joe Garner also draws a high number of fouls for the Cumbrian side, and he will be up against Brad Halliday and Sam Stubbs on the right-hand side of the Bradford defence. With both making just under a foul per game, and having nine and five cards respectively, they look good options for fouls or bookings, especially with Carlisle likely to be on the front foot.

Carlisle must score, so shots from their players are always a good option, with Omari Patrick looking the pick of the bunch, managing a nice, round, 2 shots and 1 shot on target per 90.

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Carlisle United v Bradford City bet builder tips

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