A huge three points for Boro on the road..
Stevenage came away from Brunton Park with a win for the first time in 12 years, thanks to a resilient display, capped off with second half goals from Ben Kennedy and Tom Pett.
It was an almost perfect away performance from Darren Sarll’s side to come away 2-0 winners, helped a little by the unfortunate Carlisle goalkeeper, Shamal George.
Kennedy’s opener came after the keeper fumbled Joe Martin’s corner, leaving the attacker with a welcome tap-in to put Stevenage ahead. Minutes later it was 2-0 as George failed to keep out Tom Pett’s header – an early second half blitz that settled the game.
Darren Sarll named an unchanged starting XI following the win at home to Morecambe on Saturday – a strong show of support for Terence Vancooten in particular with Luke Wilkinson available again after serving his suspension.
There were few chances for either side during the first half, Carlisle looking dangerous early on with the lively Nicky Adams causing problems from out wide. Despite that, Joe Fryer was never tested in goal.
Stevenage’s best chance of the first half came after Joe Martin made strides into the box down the left, before pulling it back for Kennedy whose shot was well saved and out for a corner.
Boro found themselves in good positions during the opening 45 minutes, just that final ball or decision not quite on the money.
Once the two goals went in early in the second half, Carlisle rallied but rarely threatened, the Stevenage backline and midfield shutting down any real chances for the home side.
Stevenage managed the rest of the game and it was deep into the eight minutes of added time when Joe Fryer made his first save of the game - a fantastic reaction stop from close range to maintain his clean sheet and see out the win.
The win moves Boro up to sixth place and see’s Boro record back-to-back wins ahead of Saturday’s home game against Port Vale.
Stevenage return home on Saturday as part of Academy Day. Watch the U18s take on Dagenham at Shepalbury Academy (10:30am) ahead of the main event, Stevenage v Port Vale at 3pm.
The U18s game is free of charge whilst you can save money on the admission price for Stevenage v Port Vale by buying in-advance.