John Ward insists Carlisle will remain "strong and positive" after their automatic promotion bid suffered a setback with defeat to Southend.The Cumbrians manager saw his side beaten by Lee Barnard's late header as third-placed Doncaster narrowed the gap to just two points.

"We have a subdued dressing room but we will regroup. We will be strong and positive," said Ward. "A point would have been a decent outcome but we are still second in the table and it's a case of trying to win the next two games.

"Results have been relatively kind and we know it's still in our hands and that's the important factor."

Carlisle completed the game with 10 men after defender David Raven was sent off for a late challenge on Nicky Bailey midway through the second half

Ward said: "I will take a look at the video but we have to abide by the decision. I think it was a bit harsh and I'm not condemning Raven because he is not that kind of player."

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