Carlisle United fell to a 2-0 defeat to Stoke City in the Carabao Cup first round – how did we rate the players?

HARRY LEWIS – 6

Proactive work in the first half included some good saves. Unable, though, to shut down set-piece goal that got Stoke in front.

AARON HAYDEN – 5

Stuck to his task against the dangerous Koumas, but conceded the free-kick from which Stoke took advantage.

TERELL THOMAS – 5

Made some good interceptions as United dug in, but Blues were more stretched after break and centre-backs struggled to contain Ennis.

JON MELLISH – 6

Drove United forward early on and came closest to getting them back in the game, while defensively it was a tough night against Potters’ livewires.

ARCHIE DAVIES - 7

A bright spark going forward down the right, Davies was positive and had a couple of chances when United were at their best, though some set-pieces could have been better.

JACK ELLIS – 6

The Cumbrian let nobody down in a left wing-back role, showing good attacking willingness before being switched to right later.

BEN BARCLAY - 5

His aerial strength and aggression helped protect United in the opening stages but it remains a short-term midfield option and Stoke's middle men were too fleet-footed in the end.

HARRISON NEAL – 6

Barclay's role allowed Neal to be more forward-thinking than is sometimes seen, could have had an assist had Wyke’s finishing been accurate, while he tested Fielding with a couple of positive attempts.

JOSH VELA – 6

One or two promising moments as he broke through midfield, but his impact on the game grew more sporadic as Stoke gradually took control.

CHARLIE WYKE – 5

Did not exactly receive heaps of service but failed to take one good chance late in the first half and United needed an opportunity like that to go in.

DANIEL ADU-ADJEI – 5

Had little joy against Stoke’s defence and, however hard he worked, this was not a night of impact from the young loanee.

Subs: Ben Williams – 6 – Willing outlet on left.

Luke Armstrong – 6 – Worked his way into some good areas without end result.

Dan Butterworth – 5 – Couldn’t add late spark.

Sam Lavelle – 6 – Late defensive introduction.

Star man – Archie Davies – Showed good appetite in his work down the right and some of his attacking contributions were among Carlisle’s brightest moments.