Keith Curle revealed the unlikely part played by Del Boy Trotter and the Two Ronnies in Carlisle United's return to form.

The Blues manager said he showed classic clips of the comedy heroes to his squad in the build-up to Saturday's win at Yeovil.

Curle said he wanted to lighten the mood at Brunton Park after a gloomy run of form - but also insisted there was a hidden message in the footage.

After United's much-needed 2-0 victory, which included a first goal for 701 minutes, Curle said: "During the week, we had our video analysis, but we also changed the theme of it.

"Rather than it being in any way critical, we made it humorous.

"We've been showing them comedy clips - old-school classics. But there was a subliminal message in all of them, in terms of expecting the unexpected."

Curle said he picked out eight comedy clips to show his players, including the memorable Only Fools and Horses scene where Del Boy falls through the bar.

"That was the message for our defenders - things can happen, be prepared for it," he said.

"There was also the Two Ronnies [sketch] when he goes in and asks for fork handles.

"The subliminal message there was communication - do we fully understand what we're asking for? And if you don't understand what you're being asked to do or what's required of you, ask.

"The Del Boy one with the chandelier, too. Simple instructions, one more turn, next thing - whack.

"That's the message - something that looks simple to someone, to somebody else watching, that's a comedy moment."

Curle said it was the first time he had used such an unusual idea at the training ground.

The manager told the News & Star: "I just needed to get a reaction.

"It paid off - there was a very light-hearted atmosphere and relaxed attitude around the group.

"The only thing I did say to the players was if humour didn't work, next week it was going to be porn!"

It was winger John O'Sullivan who ended Carlisle's record-breaking run without a goal.

His first Blues strike in the 15th minute at Huish Park was followed by Reggie Lambe's effort early in the second half.

The latter goal came moments after Yeovil's Ben Whitfield had been sent off for a challenge on Tom Miller.

United, whose new signing Samir Nabi impressed as a second-half sub, went back into the play-off places with six games to go.

Their first win in eight put them seventh, two points clear of the chasing pack.

Curle added: "The pleasing thing is we've won away from home, scored goals, kept a clean-sheet, and have Jabo Ibehre and Jason Kennedy back in the fold and squad.

"Positive signs at the right time, hopefully."