Football: Matt attack

MATT ROBINSON struck in the first three minutes to help leaders Oxford keep ahead of the chasing pack with a win over bottom club Carlisle.

An Andy Crosby penalty before half time sentenced Carlisle to their 12th consecutive league defeat, though Richie Foran gave them some consolation with a late spot-kick.

Oxford were straight into the visitors, and when Dean Whitehead's third-minute cross was only half cleared Robinson latched onto the ball to fire past Matt Glennon.

Carlisle were soon looking to get back on terms, with Foran testing Andy Woodman from 20 yards.

But the Cumbrians were guilty of wasting their chances when they had Oxford on the back foot, with William McDonagh failing to properly get hold of Kevin Gray's cross and Woodman was able to parry.

The leaders finally responded with a Whitehead shot just over the bar before a controversial decision handed Oxford the chance to extend their lead.

Steve Basham went down in the area under a challenge from Lee Andrews and the referee awarded a penalty, with Crosby netting his third goal from the spot this season.

Whitehead saw a 25-yard effort tipped over by Glennon and when the same player floated in the corner Crosby's header was well stopped by the Carlisle keeper.

Carlisle never gave up hope of a revival, and Simpson shot wide from the edge of the box.

Woodman was again alert to keep out Tom Cowan's powerful effort, and 12 minutes before full-time the visitors were rewarded with a goal.

Kevin Henderson was clear on goal but was brought down as he tried to take the ball round Woodman, who was lucky to be given only a yellow card. Foran converted from the spot for his fourth goal of the season.

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