Carlisle United captain Morgan Feeney has demanded an immediate response from his teammates after a heavy 5-2 home defeat to Woking. The loss at Brunton Park on Saturday leaves the club 19th in the National League with just 10 points from their opening 10 games.

Feeney, speaking to reporters after the match, was scathing in his assessment of a second-half performance that saw Carlisle concede four goals after being level at the break. 'Not good enough by a large margin second half,' the 27-year-old defender said. He pointed to a lack of intensity, effort, and responsibility across the pitch as the team failed to win duels and gave Woking too many chances.

Captain's verdict

Morgan Feeney insisted the standards displayed after halftime would not be accepted at the football club. He said the squad must be stronger, more aggressive, and more demanding of each other. 'We hold our hands up as a group of players,' Feeney stated. 'We need to do better for the football club, for the fans, for the city, for the manager and for the owners sitting up there.'

He acknowledged there have been positive moments this season but believes recent performances have fallen short. The captain called for a quick rectification of the issues, with attention now turning to the next fixture.

Context and consequences

The defeat marked Carlisle's fifth game without a win, a run that includes two draws and three losses. It increased the pressure on head coach Rob Elliot with the team sitting just one point above the relegation zone. The club's defensive record shows they are yet to keep a clean sheet this season, having conceded 19 goals.

Feeney believes the group can turn things around but stressed action is needed now. 'It's about who's going to step up - myself, other players, who's going to do that for the team and the football club,' he said. The immediate opportunity to respond comes away to AFC Fylde on Tuesday evening. Fylde currently sit third in the table, making it a formidable challenge. Check the latest standings for the full league picture.

Carlisle's next match is away to AFC Fylde on Tuesday at 19:45 BST.

Read the full report at Carlisle United Football Club