Harrogate Town v Carlisle United - Simon Weaver’s men hoping to start and finish the job against Cumbrians

When Harrogate first hosted the League Two match, on December 29, they were ahead inside the first minute, through Connor Kirby, only for it to be abandoned after ten when referee Martin Coy decided the pitch he had earlier passed fit was now too icy.

Still, it gave the Sulphurites encouragement they can compete with their top-of-the-table opponents.

“It won’t be all down to, ‘You must score in the first 45 seconds,’ like we did on that occasion but you never know how that game would have panned out,” said Harrogate manager Simon Weaver.

“We’ll just be looking to be on the front foot like we were the other day (at Cambridge United on Saturday) when we went a goal up again.

“Even though we were a goal down at Oldham we started the game well. It’s just about being positive.

“They’ve got good experience, good quality and a good manager (Chris Beech) who’s looking to drive them on so we’re looking to just get really immersed in the moment and give it our best shot.”

Dan Jones, Will Smith and Joe Cracknell are all out injured but Weaver can hardly claim a lack of options after handing out five debuts to January signings at the Abbey Stadium.

Last six games: Harrogate Town LWLWLL; Carlisle United WDLWWW

Referee: S Stockbridge (Tyne and Wear)

Last time: First meeting.

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