Eastleigh manager Matt Gray is demanding a response from his players when they host Carlisle United at Silverlake Stadium this Saturday. The Spitfires are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2-1 defeat away to Sutton United on Tuesday night.
Gray described the performance at Sutton as "disappointing and flat," marking the first such instance in eight games. He has since spoken to the squad about drawing a line under the loss and moving forward. "We're looking forward to bouncing back from Tuesday's performance and result," Gray said. "I want a response from the team after Tuesday night."
That response will be tested against a Carlisle side known for bringing strong travelling support. "They're one of the biggest clubs in the division, with a massive fanbase, they'll bring quite a few down here," Gray acknowledged. Despite that, the Eastleigh boss is confident in his own team's ability. "We certainly don't fear anyone. We respect them, and we'll certainly respect Carlisle, and what they've got to hurt us," he added.
Gray's belief is rooted in Eastleigh's solid home form. The Spitfires are unbeaten in their last four games at the Silverlake, a run that includes a creditable 1-1 draw with league leaders Boreham Wood. Gray pointed to that performance as evidence his team can compete with the division's best. He believes they have players who will worry the Carlisle defence. "We've got players that can hurt any team in this league. We've shown that at home, and we need to show it again," Gray stated.
Eastleigh currently sit 14th in the National League table with 11 points from eight matches, one place and one point above 15th-placed Carlisle. Their recent form reads one win, two draws, and two defeats from the last five outings.
The club also confirmed the short-term signing of goalkeeper Jamie Searle on Friday. The former New Zealand international, who has played for Barnsley and Forest Green Rovers, is eligible to feature against Carlisle. Searle provides cover following an injury to first-choice keeper Joe McDonnell. Eastleigh will be hoping to replicate the defensive resilience shown in the Boreham Wood draw, where Temi Eweka scored a late equaliser, and secure a positive result to climb the standings.
Looking ahead, Gray emphasised the importance of the home crowd. "Our supporters have been brilliant at home, and we'll need them again," he said. The match kicks off at 3pm on Saturday.
Background and full detail: Yahoo
