Carlisle 2s suffered a hard-fought 1-0 defeat at home to Newcastle Medics 3s in a physical and demanding match where the hosts struggled to fully pull it all together against a strong visiting side.

From the opening whistle, Newcastle Medics established long spells of possession, putting the Carlisle defense under sustained pressure. Carlisle had a prime opportunity to take the lead in the first half when they were awarded a penalty flick, but DoD Bless couldn't convert from the spot, capping off an eventful afternoon after also picking up a green card.

At the other end, Man of the Match Howard was in inspired form, anchoring the backline with a series of crucial tackles, composed interceptions, and rock-solid defending to keep the match deadlocked heading into the break.

The breakthrough finally came midway through the second half when Newcastle Medics capitalized on an opening to slot home the game's only goal.

Carlisle pushed forward in the closing stages, showing plenty of grit, but ultimately ran out of time against a disciplined Medics defense.

While a tough result to take on home turf, the game highlighted a resolute team effort in a testing match.