On 15 February, Syracuse University students attended our clash against Colchester United as part of their visit to Lockerbie.
Here's their take on the day, written by Kaitlin Campbell and Harrison Calder.
It’s important to keep the relationship between Syracuse and the town of Lockerbie going, as it allows us to continue to honour the lives that were lost that day in December of 1988.
The experience in Carlisle strengthened the ties between the university and the community. Our tour guide, a Pan Am 103 Responder and football advocate, provided insight into both the tragedy’s legacy and the unifying spirit of the sport.
Matchday at Brunton Park was more than just a sporting event - it was a full experience that started long before kick-off. Being from Syracuse University, no one knew what to expect, but we were welcomed with open arms at Brunton Park. We received a tour and got the lay of the land.
It was clear, though, that the stands were about to be packed, and we saw that in the tailgating scene. Immediately, people knew we were from Syracuse University and they were eager to talk with us, showing us the ropes of a football match.
With food stands decorating the park’s exterior, there were plenty of options to fuel us before cheering on Carlisle. The obvious choice to many was the fish and chips, which warmed everyone up. As soon as you step into the arena itself, immediately you join in on the chants and the adrenaline rush.
The players filed in, and fans waved flags, showing their united front behind Carlisle. From toddlers just starting to walk, to the fans that have been supporting them their entire lives, everyone screamed “United” when the players needed it most. There were smiles from cheek to cheek, everyone excited just to be there. When half-time struck, people were bringing back the excitement - ready to give it their all. While the temperatures were quite cold, the stadium was lively.
The camaraderie behind the sport shows the strength in the team and the brand. It is clear that Carlisle United is vital for the fans attending - not just entertainment, but for the friendships and memories it has made.
Looking around, you never saw a person alone: attesting to the true united front of Carlisle United. As an outsider looking in, the game was practically a family reunion, in the sense that everyone was having fun, simply enjoying each other’s company. There was never a dull moment in the stadium.
Having the ability to attend one of the matches showed me what the sport is truly about, proving that it forever will be more than just a sport to Carlisle United fans. While I was hesitant about the chilly temperatures, it was hard to notice when you were surrounded by an electric crowd.
The atmosphere surrounding these matches extends far beyond the whistle. Carlisle United is more than just a football club—it’s the heartbeat of the community. But once the match began, all eyes were on the players. The energy of the fans translated to the field, motivating the players through each move.
The game itself was filled with excitement. We were welcomed to the roaring of new Head Coach Mark Hughes, who was coaching his first match for the Blues at Brunton Park.
The opponent Colchester United, is at the middle of the table and has traveled to northern England as the favourites. This however, did not deter Carlisle.
The Blues had a very effective game plan, including dominating in all facets of the game in the second-half. By the final whistle, Carlisle had more shots, shots on goal and corners than Colchester.
Though Carlisle didn’t net a goal in the 0-0 draw, you could tell it was an important change for the club. The creativity was there, and the defence stepped up big.
The ensuing match was the same result. The Blues had more shots, shots on target and corners than Gillingham, again resulting in a 0-0 draw.
The community ignites together under the success of the club, and back-to-back draws can create those levels of energy. Town members will make an entire day out of this match, getting tickets, food and hoping to see their team be victorious.
It’s become something that allows for friends, neighbours and the overall people of Carlisle to bond over 90-minutes on the pitch at Brunton Park.
The Blues will look to continue to add points and jump up the table to fend off relegation. But no matter what the final results come out to be, these supporters will always have Carlisle United on their sleeve.
