Match Preview | Carlisle (A)

Forest Green Rovers are set to embark on a 512-mile round trip to Carlisle.

The hosts have made a mixed start to the season, picking up two wins from their opening seven matches.

Robbie Savage will be looking to improve on his last visit to Brunton Park, as FGR aim to end a winless run in Cumbria dating back to 2021.

Here’s all you need to know ahead of Rovers’ trip to Carlisle before today’s 19:45 kick-off.

The Opposition - Carlisle

Nickname - 'The Blues'

Year Founded - 1896

League Position - 12th

Carlisle United are into their second season in the National League, having returned to the fifth tier in 2025 following 20 years in the EFL.

The Blues currently sit 12th in the League after their opening seven fixtures.

Carlisle will be hoping to continue their impressive form against Rovers at Brunton Park.

Last time out, Elliot’s men secured a point against Southend United in Saturday's late kick-off, with Georgie Kelly scoring a late equaliser.

It has been an inconsistent start for the hosts, with disappointing defeats to newly promoted Worthing and current leaders Boreham Wood.

Overall, the Cumbrian side have recorded two wins, three draws and two defeats from their opening seven matches.

The Manager – Rob Elliot

Rob Elliot was appointed Carlisle United head coach in May 2026, following Mark Hughes’ departure from the Cumbrian club.

The former goalkeeper made 191 appearances during his playing career, with the majority coming during spells with Charlton Athletic and Newcastle United.

Following Mike Williamson’s departure, Elliot was brought in as caretaker manager of Gateshead in October 2023, kickstarting his managerial career.

He went on to take charge of Crawley and later return to Gateshead before eventually landing the Carlisle United job in 2026.

One to watch – Georgie Kelly

Georgie Kelly signed for the Blues in February 2024 from the then-Championship outfit, Rotherham United.

During his time in Yorkshire, he scored just six goals in 48 games.

The Irishman has already been involved in six goals in seven National League matches, including two in Carlisle’s previous game against Southend United.

Kelly found the net 13 times for Carlisle last season, playing a key role in their play-off push.

The former University College Dublin UCD forward will be a player Savage will hope sees little of the ball on Tuesday.

Head-to-Head

14/2/26 - FGR 1-3 Carlisle (Mingi 52’)

18/10/25 - Carlisle 4-2 FGR (Clarke 26’, Bunker 53’)

22/1/22 - FGR 3-0 Carlisle (Feeney OG 16’, Stevens 52’, Matt 77’)

2/10/21 - Carlisle 0-2 FGR (Matt 29’, Cadden 32’)

2/2/21 - Carlisle 1-2 FGR (Collins 60’, Bailey 75')