Jack Armour steered the Cumbrians into a 50th-minute lead but Sam Sherring almost immediately headed Town level before Louis Appéré completed the comeback and secured a first home win in five. Cobblers are now seven points clear of fourth in League Two. Here are our player ratings from Sixfields…
5. Akin Odimayo
His fourth game in a row at left-back and he's not looked out of place in any of them. Highlight of his defensive work was a superb block on Dennis and showed moments of quality in possession despite a less adventurous performance... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
6. Shaun McWilliams
Terrific and relentless before running out of gas after 75 minutes. Back in a slightly more withdrawn role due to Sowerby's absence but still sprung forward with regularity and was full of energy and intensity. No surprise he was forced off with cramp given how much he had run after 17 days without a game... 8 CHRON STAR MAN Photo: Pete Norton
7. Ben Fox
Not at the forefront of the contest but nonetheless played his part in a big home win. Worked hard alongside Leonard and McWilliams to thwart Carlisle in midfield and give Cobblers a base to work from. It was only late on when the visitors built up a head of steam... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
8. Marc Leonard
A more than useful replacement for the unwell Sowerby and he slotted in without any problems, particularly with his tackling and work-rate off the ball. Couple of superb passes down the sides illustrated the quality he provides in possession... 7 Photo: Pete Norton