CARLISLE United will play in the National League next season after suffering relegation out of the Football League for only the second time in their history.
A 3-2 defeat at Cheltenham on Saturday confirmed United’s fate – which many fans had ultimately accepted several weeks ago.
Speaking after Saturday’s defeat, manager Mark Hughes, who was only appointed at the start of February, said: “It’s going to be difficult for the club and everybody connected, but the key is that we bounce back very, very quickly.
“We got to the last but one on Saturday and I don’t think anybody gave us any hope of getting that close to the end of the season and still being with a chance of staying up. Up to a point we were affected in a positive manner, but the ultimate aim was to clearly stay in the league and we haven’t been able to do that.”
On Saturday evening chairman Tom Piatak issued a statement on behalf of the board and ownership group.
He said: “We are deeply sorry. This is a painful day for everyone connected to Carlisle United. The frustration and anger felt across the fanbase is fully shared by us.
“As owners, we take responsibility – and we are committed to correcting what has gone wrong and rebuilding this club with urgency and purpose.”
It was then announced on Monday that sporting director Rob Clarkson had left the club with immediate effect.
The Blues play their final match of League Two football tomorrow afternoon against Salford City at Brunton Park, kick off is at 3 pm.
