Caretaker manager Gavin Skelton admitted it was “frustrating and disappointing” to suffer the defeat that left Carlisle United second bottom of League Two.

The 1-0 loss to Tranmere at Brunton Park saw the Blues go four games without a goal or a point.

Rod McDonald’s own-goal was enough for the visitors, who had not won or scored away from home in the league until facing United.

Skelton felt the way United started the game had given them something to build on, but he admitted they did not create enough to get back into the game after the own goal.

“We felt it was a perfect platform [at half-time] for us to go on and win the game by the odd goal or a second one,” he said.

“You readdress, and the first five to 10 minutes of the second half was a big period, when we were perhaps a bit too deep and that gave them a bit of joy.

“It’s probably handball on the touchline and they break and it’s an own goal. I felt that in the first half we were in control; it was a tight game against a good side. I really did believe but it never quite happened second half.

“It’s frustrating and disappointing. I don’t think there was too much in the game. We had a lot of attempts but didn’t work their keeper or get them on target enough.

“That’s the confidence thing – we had crosses but didn’t have the conviction or belief to work the keeper and punish them.”

Skelton and caretaker No2 Eric Kinder made three changes to the side with McDonald, debutant keeper Mark Howard and Jordan Gibson coming back into the side.

The Blues, though, have now gone six hours of football without scoring as the risk of relegation grows.

Skelton conceded that the goals shortage was “a worry” but the Cumbrian believes one moment can spark an improvement.

“There were a lot of positives to come out in terms of their effort, commitment and how they stuck together,” he added.

“Once we get a goal, and I know we keep saying it, it’ll change. People might not believe it but it does. A lot’s in the head.

“I don’t think they could have given any more. It’s just that final bit, the ball bobbling around the box, someone to go and smash it.

“We wanted it to be perfect. We were a bit edgy. [The players] will have to stand up and be counted. They’re the only ones that can turn it, assisted by people, if they keep working hard, and believe that they’re the ones that can turn it around.”

Skelton, interviewed immediately after the game, did not comment on the prospect of him remaining in caretaker charge for Tuesday’s trip to Newport.

But that seems the most likely outcome as United continue their search for a long-term successor to Chris Beech.