Paul Simpson has urged the Blue Army to “give us an extra ten per cent” to roar Carlisle United to a memorable play-off victory against Bradford City today.

The Cumbrians need to overturn a 1-0 deficit in their semi-final second leg against the Bantams (Brunton Park, 3pm).

Carlisle’s season boils down to their ability to get the better of Mark Hughes’ side at a packed Brunton Park.

And Simpson says supporters can play a major part in turning the tie in United’s favour.

“Fans can play a huge part if they come in their numbers, like they have done, and back us like they have,” he said.

“I’m asking players can they just give an extra five or ten per cent on what they’ve been doing?

“I don’t expect anybody to try and give more than 100 per cent because I don’t have the mindset that you can.

“But if we can get all our supporters coming in, bringing an extra five or ten per cent of energy, and enthusiasm, and positivity, that has got to go a long way to helping the players on the grass.”

Brunton Park is set for its record play-off attendance as Carlisle aim to clinch a place at Wembley.

They are bidding to reach an EFL play-off final for the first time as they strive for a first promotion in 17 years.

The attempt to galvanise the Brunton fanbase one last time has again seen young fans in the Warwick Road End call to “turn Brunton blue”.

Simpson said he appreciates all such initiatives – and added that he hopes the big crowd today is on good behaviour.

“I don’t care whether supporters are young, old… I don’t know whether I’m middle aged or old now…but if they come and back us we will welcome every single one of them,” he said.

“All I ask is that they come and behave themselves.

News and Star: A fan was detained by stewards after running on the pitch at BradfordA fan was detained by stewards after running on the pitch at Bradford (Image: Richard Parkes)

“Look at last week [the first leg at Bradford]. There were over 20,000 there and only one bloke who got far too excited, ran on the pitch and wasn’t able to watch the next 70-odd minutes of the game which is a real shame.

“I hope everybody comes and behaves themselves, enjoys the occasion and the performance from us, and at the end of it we can all say our thanks for everything that’s been done over the season.”