As the League One season edges closer to its climax, Cheltenham Town and Carlisle United gear up for a pivotal encounter at Jonny-Rocks Stadium on April 9, 2024.
This match carries significant weight for both teams, especially for Cheltenham Town, who are fighting tooth and nail to avoid the drop. With Carlisle already condemned to League Two, they'll be looking to salvage pride, while Cheltenham aims for a crucial win to boost their survival hopes.
Current Form
Cheltenham's Current Form
Cheltenham's April began with setbacks, suffering defeats to Exeter City and Leyton Orient. These results have left them in the perilous position of 22nd in the table, with a record of 10 wins, eight draws, and 22 losses.
Yet, the gap to safety is slender, with the team just two points adrift of 20th-placed Port Vale and with a game in hand.
The upcoming fixture against Carlisle, followed by a clash with Bristol Rovers, presents an opportunity for Darrell Clarke's men to amass vital points, particularly given four of their last six matches are at home.
Carlisle's Current Form
Carlisle's situation is more dire, with relegation already confirmed following a loss to Northampton Town.
Despite a gallant victory over Peterborough United at the end of March, April has been unkind, marking consecutive losses to Lincoln City and Northampton.
The team's form has been a concern all season, and they hold the league's worst away record.
Team News
Cheltenham Team News
For Cheltenham, manager Darrell Clarke might maintain the squad that faced Leyton Orient, with Aidan Keena and George Lloyd expected to lead the line despite recent struggles.
Joe Nuttall could be an impactful substitute, following his goal off the bench last time out.
Carlisle Team News
Carlisle, under Paul Simpson, faces the absence of Daniel Butterworth due to injury.
Potential changes could see Sean Maguire and Jack Diamond starting as the team recalibrates following relegation, eyeing the future.
Key Players
Cheltenham's hopes could hinge on Aidan Keena finding form, while George Lloyd's involvement upfront is crucial.
For Carlisle, the experienced Sean Maguire could play a pivotal role, along with Jack Diamond, as they seek to end their season on a high note.
Scoreline Prediction
Considering Cheltenham's desperate need for points and their relatively better form, a narrow victory seems plausible.
We expect a hard-fought 1-0 win for Cheltenham Town.
FAQ
What time does the match start? The match is scheduled for 7:45 pm UK time on April 9, 2024.
Where is the match being played? At Jonny-Rocks Stadium, Cheltenham's home ground.
What's at stake for Cheltenham? Cheltenham is fighting to avoid relegation from League One.
Has Carlisle been relegated? Yes, Carlisle's relegation to League Two has been confirmed.
Who won the last meeting between these two teams? Cheltenham emerged victorious with a 1-0 win in the reverse fixture.