It`s Paul to play for in derby trip

CARLISLE manager Paul Simpson has urged his players to seize the day as the fierce battle at the top of League Two intensifies.

Leyton Orient, who host Crewe this afternoon, are already up but the remaining two automatic promotion spots are very much still up for grabs.

Eight points separates Northampton in second and Mansfield in eighth so there is little margin for error. Simpson (inset) and his Cumbrians are fifth as they make the relatively short trip to Barrow today and he said: “Without a doubt these are the sort of games you need to relish, because this is where you want to be at this stage of the season.

“We’ve had a really good season and I look at the crowds that are coming in and I wander around town at times, and there is such a positive feeling to the place.

“That’s what I wanted, and it’s what I want to keep. I hope it gets stronger and that we continue to win.

“That’s why I want everybody to stay really positive, and whatever happens it’s been a big step forward from last season.”

Third plays eighth at the Lamex as Stevenage host Mansfield while Stockport will look to maintain their charge when Rochdale cross Manchester looking to avoid relegation to the National League.

Northampton entertain Harrogate knowing a win could seal promotion and Bradford welcome Gillingham.

There is no doubting the game of the day at the bottom – Hartlepool in 23rd spot face Crawley in 22nd.

A win could move John Askey (inset) and his Pools out of the bottom three with just two games to go. Mat Sadler takes interim charge of Walsall for their home game with Salford after the sacking of Mike Flynn while Tranmere host Grimsby in a mid-table battle with nothing riding on it.

It is a similar story at Doncaster as they host Newport with both sides comfortably safe.

Colchester host Sutton and Swindon go to AFC Wimbledon.