Carlisle V Exeter at Brunton Park : Match Preview

11 May 2017 12:34

Jabo Ibehre and Jason Kennedy in fitness race for Carlisle

Carlisle boss Keith Curle will give Jabo Ibehre and Jason Kennedy until the last minute to prove their fitness for Sunday's Sky Bet League Two play-off showdown with Exeter.

Striker Ibehre was substituted during Saturday's 3-2 away win over the Grecians - which secured the club's place in the top seven - with a hamstring problem after nursing a spasm beforehand, and is now facing a race against time.

Midfielder Kennedy has been sidelined since the beginning of April by a groin problem but is back in full training and pushing for a return.

That means long-term absentee Mike Jones is the only man definitely not in contention as the Cumbrians attempt to secure a first-leg foothold.

Exeter pair Craig Woodman and Matt Oakley will rejoin the Grecians' squad after injury.

Left-back Woodman has been out since breaking an arm in March and veteran midfielder Oakley has missed the last four games with a hip flexor problem.

Lee Holmes is also at full fitness after an ankle ligament injury but will probably have to settle for a place on the bench.

Robbie Simpson is making good progress after breaking an ankle in February, but the play-offs will come too soon for the striker.


Source: PAR