Pools Academy backed up their win over Grimsby Town on Saturday with a hard-fought point at Carlisle United on Tuesday afternoon.

Alex Cross and Graeme Clark’s side travelled to the North West on the back of a 1-0 home win over Grimsby, where Kian Foreman got on the scoresheet.

The game struggled to get into a rhythm until Pools forward Julius Hounsell had his shot saved well after good work from Josh Flint.

However, at the other end, Carlisle pounced on a defensive error and took the lead on 25 minutes.

The hosts searched for a second though Harry Conyard, returning from suspension in the Pools goal, pulled off three excellent saves before the break.

Jacob Penprase and Foreman were introduced for the second half, and it was Penprase who helped Pools find a leveller.

The winger stepped up to take a corner, which Lincoln Pawlak converted at the back post to make it 1-1.

Penprase and Foreman both saw opportunities to take the lead on the counter-attack, while Hounsell struck narrowly over the bar, though the points were eventually shared in Cumbria.

“I’m delighted with the players,” said Alex Cross at full time.

“They’ve backed up good performances against Doncaster and Grimsby with another good performance today.

“Sometimes it’s difficult to find consistency with young players but the past three games have been excellent.

“On another day, we come away with all three points, particularly with that second half display.

“They ran through brick walls for each other, their never-say-die attitude was superb and we are collectively looking forward to the next game.”

The Academy side are straight back in action on Saturday with a trip to Harrogate Town.