Last updated at 09:00, Saturday, 30 June 2012

Carlisle United will get that Friday feeling after bringing forward one of their League One fixtures by 24 hours.

The Blues have agreed with Shrewsbury to host the newly-promoted side on Good Friday, March 29, at Brunton Park.

The game was originally scheduled for the following day but with both sides also in action on Easter Monday, the Friday fixture will allow an extra day’s rest and preparation.

Carlisle face one of their toughest tests of the new campaign on Easter Monday – a clash with Sheffield United at Bramall Lane – and manager Greg Abbott says the extra 24 hours could be crucial.

“This is something both clubs have agreed and it makes sense for us over what will be a very busy Bank Holiday period,” the Blues boss said.

“This will help in terms of match preparation for both fixtures.”

The game will kick off at 3pm and is subject to the agreement of the Football League.

Abbott, meanwhile, says he is unlikely to add any more friendlies to Carlisle's pre-season calendar.

United currently have a free Saturday on August 11, three days before the campaign kicks-off against Accrington Stanley in the Capital One Cup.

“I'm talking to [managing director] John Nixon about possibly doing something on that day which our fans can get involved in,” said Abbott.

The Blues' final friendly will be the trip to Morecambe on Wednesday, August 8.

First published at 08:58, Saturday, 30 June 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk