Brown set for Carlisle clash

ACCRINGTON Stanley's new signing David Brown is expected to play some part on Saturday in the Reds huge game at Conference play-off challengers Carlisle United. The former Hereford hitman, who scored 22 goal in 49 starts for the Bulls, signed on Tuesday and is keen to be a hit at Accrington.

"I am pleased to be here and back in the North West," said the 26-year-old who lives in Wigan. "I played in the play-offs for Hereford last year and, although we finished 19 points ahead of the third place side, we lost out and it is a lottery. I have just got to make sure I help Accrington get in them and then we will see what happens."

The Reds slipped to sixth place following last week's draw with struggling Forest Green but they are unbeaten in 10 games.Carlisle, on the other hand, have slipped down the league having won just one game in 10. That came at bottom club Leigh on Tuesday and boss John Coleman doesn't know if that is a good or bad thing.

"It might ease a bit of pressure on them or it could be like buses and two come at once - we have just got to make sure we give it our best shot.

"They have lost a couple of players, including Andy Preece, who scored twice against us at our place, and couldn't play at their ground for a month because of flooding so that have had a bad time. I am sure they will bounce back but we have got to make sure we are on top form - and we usually are against the bigger clubs."

The crowds at Brunton park have averaged around 5,000 so it will make for a good atmosphere in what is a huge game for both clubs. Stanley have a two point advantage over Carlisle but United have a game in hand.

"If we can get a win we can put some breathing space between us and them," said skipper Peter Cavanagh.

Coleman has a full strength side to choose from and also has the option of playing Welsh winger Gary Roberts, who got international clearance this week."Team selection will be a headache - but a nice one," said Coleman.