Wilcox: We needed this performance

Last updated : 22 October 2003 By Luke Thornhill
Manager Brian Laws took charge of the side during the game, despite the death of his ex-wife the day before, but left the post-match interviews to his assistant manager.

Wilcox said: "We came here with a few injuries but the lads who have come in have done a good job for the team.

"I thought young Terry Barwick was excellent in midfield. He won a lot of second ball for us, and kept it nice and simple.

"It's also very pleasing to get both your strikers on the scoresheet. We know we have got plenty of goals in the side, it's just a question of whether we can keep it tight at the back and I thought we did last night.

"We also got a fantastic goal from Sharpy and Beags popped up with a penalty, so overall we're delighted with what was a very good display

"We didn't come here with any fear, but we knew the pressure was on to get a result.

"We needed this performance and this result. Our early season form was excellent without picking up the results we deserved.

"There is also always going to be a spell during a season when you don't play as well - and we haven't played so well in the last three or four games.

"The lads know that, but hopefully this performance, away from home, will kick-start us again for some more good performances and good results."

Wilcox's comments are in stark contrast to the mood in the home camp, with manager Paul Simpson quick to admit that Carlisle got exactly what they deserved out of the game.

He said: "We got the hiding we deserved for the performance we produced. It was a dreadful home performance and what is coming out at the moment is not good enough and it has to change.

"We just have to hope that this is the lowest point of the season. We talked about it before the game that there's no way you can go into any football match with fear because you might as well chuck the points away before you start.

"But we played with fear, we knew that Scunthorpe would be a good side and a tougher challenge than Macclesfield and we've been turned over by a better team.

"The position we are in and the performances over the last two games don't give much hope of a turnaround."