Carlisle United defender Brad Nicholson says the togetherness within the squad and the growing connection with the supporters have been important factors behind the Blues' recent improvement in form.
United have put together a strong run of results following a difficult start to the season, with Nicholson pleased to see the hard work behind the scenes beginning to show on the pitch.
“Like we all know, we didn't have the best start, but we all knew in camp that it would get better,” he said.
“The lads are buzzing, there's a great buzz around the place. We're starting to see that with the fans now as well. The fans are getting right behind us, which always helps.”
The defender also reflected on the memorable 3-0 victory over Harrogate Town, when Carlisle were reduced to nine players but held on to secure an important result.
Nicholson, who was part of the defensive unit alongside Morgan Feeney and Kenton Richardson, said the experience was one the players would remember for a long time.
“It was great. It'll be remembered forever. It's something that doesn't happen. It was crazy, to be fair, but we loved it.
“There's nothing tactical to it. There's nothing the gaffer can say that's going to help us, apart from a willingness to keep the ball out of the net. Everyone to a man was brilliant that day.”
That result helped strengthen the bond between the players, staff and supporters, with Nicholson believing the team have continued to build on that feeling in the weeks since.
“After the Harrogate game, what happened brought everyone together – the fans, staff and players. We all got in a good huddle at the end of the game and the gaffer spoke. It just brought us together that little bit more.
“Since then, we're just together as a group. As a back three, we don't feel like conceding, which obviously helps the front line because they don't have to feel like they've got to score four or five to win the game. We're starting to really enjoy it.”
Competition for places has also increased as players return from injury and the squad continues to strengthen. Nicholson believes that depth can only be a positive for the team.
“It's class. It's a good thing for the gaffer, but it's also not so great because it's going to give him a couple of headaches. But I'm sure there are worse things to have headaches about.
“It's nice to know that once someone gets injured or comes off the bench, we're either getting stronger or we're not getting weaker.”
Nicholson has also been pleased with the partnership developing alongside Morgan Feeney in defence, praising the captain's influence both on and off the pitch.
“He's brilliant. He's a leader on and off the pitch. The things that a lot of fans won't see are the things he does off the pitch for the club. He's always sorting things out, he's non-stop, but on the pitch, he's even better.
“I know that if the ball goes round me, he's going to be there sweeping up. I'd like to think he knows the same – I'll always cover him when it's needed. We're starting to build that relationship now and it's becoming strong.”
The Blues welcome Boston United to Brunton Park on Saturday, with the fixture carrying extra significance for Nicholson, who once featured for the Pilgrims.
The defender has fond memories of his time at Boston, having experienced promotion and a memorable fight for survival during his spell at the club.
“I enjoyed every minute at Boston. We got to a play-off final, lost that, and then got to a play-off final and won it. We got promoted and then had that great escape. I had nothing but success there and I loved every minute.
“I've got people there that I'll stay in contact with forever. Staff-wise, the chairman especially, he'll hold a special place. He was always there for me, always when I needed things family-wise. It's a club that holds a special place for me.”
While Nicholson will come up against familiar faces on Saturday, his focus is firmly on the task in hand as Carlisle look to continue their recent progress to make it nine matches unbeaten.
“The relationship's growing day by day, week by week. I think it starts with the Harrogate game. That brought everyone together as a fanbase, club, players and staff, and we're growing on that week by week.”
