Players from the UK's 'first' asylum seeker football team marked the end of an era on the pitch as they played for one last time together before being relocated to different parts of the UK.
Hilltop United FC's poignant farewell took the form of a five-a-side round-robin tournament against Border City Greens (BCG), with one of the Hilltop teams finishing at the top of the table.
Chris Middleton, who has managed the squad for the past year, expressed both pride and sadness as the team played together for one last time.
"60 people will be leaving the hotel next week, which includes some of the players.
"I was gutted, I know the lads were laughing and joking but it was the last time they would ever play together.
"It was a chance to bond with friends one last time.
"They are quite optimistic about where they are going, they are not too downtrodden," he said.
Reflecting on the journey, Chris highlighted the growth of the team from its humble beginnings on a crafted pitch at the back of Hilltop Hotel to evolving into a competitive side that has seen 50 players come through the ranks.
"Although I felt sad I'm elated at what we've done over the year, played lots of matches and made lots of friends everywhere we've gone," he said.
With around 14 of the players staying in Carlisle, Hilltop United FC will still maintain its identity and looks to continue playing friendlies in the future.
For the men staying, their Carlisle footballing journey will continue as Border City Greens will be welcoming them into their ranks.
Drew Rothwell, director of BCG, said: "From a chairman point of view, having spent time with them on multiple occasions I am thrilled to be welcoming the remaining players from Hilltop FC.
"We are always striving to look for opportunities to encourage more people to get active and involved in football for both positive mental and physical health.
"All of the squad have also been welcoming and looking forward to working together for the foreseeable future."
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