As the excitement builds for the new season, Carlisle United’s players and co-owners have shared their ideal opponents for the opening match of the 2024/25 League Two campaign. Paul Simpson’s squad is set to return for pre-season training on Monday, June 24, just two days before the English Football League (EFL) announces the fixture schedule at 9 am on Wednesday, June 26.
Defender Cameron Harper, along with new signings Jude Smith and Terell Thomas, were among those who revealed their preferred first opponents. When asked by the club’s media team, players Taylor Charters, Cameron Harper, Sam Lavelle, and co-owner Nick DeMasi all expressed a desire to face their Cumbrian rivals, Barrow AFC. This potential showdown is particularly anticipated as the Blues look to repeat their double victory from two years ago against a newly managed Barrow under Stephen Clemence.
Jack Armer and Alfie McCalmont opted for a clash with Bradford City, with Robinson specifically hoping for an away game at Valley Parade. Carlisle fans fondly remember their last encounter with the Bantams, making this choice a nostalgic and exciting prospect.
Other players had varying preferences: Tom Piatak II, Jenna Piatak-DeMasi, and Jude Smith named Tranmere Rovers, Crewe Alexandra, Port Vale, and Doncaster Rovers as their ideal opponents. Meanwhile, Ben Barclay and Jack Robinson humorously wished for a match against Manchester United or a Madrid club, highlighting their ambition.
Dylan McGeouch, Anton Dudik, and Dan Butterworth took a more pragmatic approach, emphasizing that the most crucial aspect of the opening fixture is securing the first three points of the season, regardless of the opponent.
Carlisle United’s first game will take place over the weekend of August 10/11, with the regular season wrapping up on May 2, 2025. Fans eagerly await the fixture release to see if any of these dream matchups come true.