Food for thought

CARLISLE almost took a huge bite out of Cardiff thanks to Aston Villa manager Dean Smith and their tasty Premier League chefs.

The League Two club led 2-0 with their ravenous hunger for an FA Cup shock fed by manager Chris Beech and his friendship with Smith.

Jack Bridge and Harry Mckirdy (above) served up the goals, with

Beech revealing the game plan had been cooked up in Birmingham over a top-flight menu.

“We’ve been treated like Premier League players this week,” said Beech.

“We travelled down to train at Aston Villa thanks to Dean Smith. I rang him and he supported us by keeping his chefs back and they cooked us salmon and pasta, so we were fuelled up for the match.

“We stayed at a nice hotel in Cardiff and ate well again. We’re trying to improve standards at the club, they’re little steps, but the boys have had a good 24 hours and filled their boots.

“They gave a positive performance in front of a loud supporter base, and I’m really proud of the football club.”

Cardiff could not have complained. In the first half they were better than in their last match – a 6-1 defeat at QPR – as they trailed only 2-0, rather than by three at Loftus Road.

Bridge headed home after his penalty – awarded for Sol Bamba’s push – had been saved by Adam Collin.

Mckirdy made it 2-0 with an acrobatic header from Hope’s cross.

But Callum Paterson stabbed home the ball soon after the re-start and then Gavin Whyte headed an equaliser.

CARDIFF

CARLISLE