Carlisle United salvaged a dramatic 3‑3 draw against Solihull Moors at Damson Park on 17 January 2026, with both sides netting three times in a fast‑paced National League clash. The match featured early goals from Jake O’Connor and Liam Harper, a brace from Marcus McAllister, and a late free‑kick equaliser, leaving the points shared and the promotion race intact.
Match Overview
The encounter unfolded as an end‑to‑end spectacle, with six goals, numerous chances, and a frantic finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
First Half Highlights
Solihull Moors opened the scoring in the 8th minute when Jake O’Connor turned a corner delivery past Carlisle keeper James Wilson. Liam Harper doubled the lead before the half‑hour mark with a low‑driven finish following a quick one‑two with O’Connor. Carlisle responded quickly: Marcus “Mack” McAllister headed home from a set‑piece in the 34th minute, and Elliot Davis equalised moments later with a long‑range effort that beat goalkeeper Tommy Whitfield, sending the half‑time score to 2‑2.
Second Half Drama
Early in the second half, Carlisle took the lead in the 55th minute as McAllister finished clinically inside the box. Solihull’s resilience showed ten minutes later when Harper curled a free‑kick into the top corner, restoring parity at 3‑3. Despite tactical substitutions by managers Paul Rowe (Solihull) and Tommy Wright (Carlisle), neither side could find a winner in the remaining minutes.
Key Statistics
- Shots: 16 each side; on target – Solihull 8, Carlisle 7
- Possession: Solihull 53%, Carlisle 47%
- Corner kicks: total 23 (Solihull 12, Carlisle 11)
- Man of the Match: Jake O’Connor (2 goals, 1 assist)
- Goalkeepers: Tommy Whitfield made four crucial saves; James Wilson produced several reflex saves.
Impact on the Table
Solihull Moors remain fourth in the National League, three points shy of the automatic promotion places, while Carlisle United sit eighth, eight points behind the play‑off spots. The shared points keep Solihull within striking distance of the play‑off positions but highlight defensive vulnerabilities. For Carlisle, the away draw demonstrates offensive potential but also underscores the need to tighten the backline.
Future Implications
Both managers face strategic decisions ahead. Paul Rowe is likely to bolster his defence, possibly introducing defensive midfielder Alistair Green to protect Whitfield. Tommy Wright may retain his attacking trio while seeking a more compact defensive shape. The 3‑3 thriller reinforces the National League’s competitive balance, where a single goal can swing momentum in the promotion race.
