Carlisle United ended a frustrating run of three defeats with an outstanding performance to win 2-0 at Tranmere.
Two goals from top scorer Kristian Dennis – who moved into double figures for the season – were the ingredients for Carlisle’s best performance of the season.
United were given a flying start by Dennis when he scored his ninth of the season after only 41 seconds.
It was a smart move, too, with Jack Armer and Callum Guy involved before Jack Stretton drove in a low cross which Dennis reached with a sliding finish.
The visitors thought they had scored again after 13 minutes when Stretton was ruled offside after he put in a rebound following Ross Doohan’s excellent stop to deny Taylor Charters.
Although Carlisle always looked the sharper side Tranmere did have their moments and went close to levelling with a deflected effort from Josh Hawkes.
Then it needed a fine save from Tomas Holy to keep out a header from Kieron Morris which appeared destined for the top corner.
Nine minutes after the restart Carlisle’s second proved more than enough of a cushion.
A new training ground routine at a free kick worked a treat but Stretton was brought down in the box and Dennis sent Doohan the wrong way from the spot.
The win moved Carlisle above their opponents on goal difference and back into the play-off berths.
However there may be a price to pay with more injuries mounting as Charters and Guy were among those taking knocks.
