Carlisle United's Rob Elliot has denied that fatigue was a problem in their opening-day defeat to Worthing, instead pointing to structural and mental resilience issues. The team's fitness has been questioned by some fans, but Elliot says that the physical data from the game was positive. He pointed to the need for greater mental resilience and a better reaction to setbacks as key issues. Elliot also dismissed the idea that the team's pre-season schedule had left them undercooked. The team is currently 16th in the National League with 0 points from 1 game, and is 3 points behind leaders Harrogate Town. Their next fixture is against Eastleigh at home on February 20, 2027. Elliot said that the team needs to learn to adapt to the expectation of winning and to be mentally resilient. He also emphasized the need for the team to stick to what works and to implement changes that will push the club forward in the long term.