73 superb photos of Worthing FC's proud day at Carlisle United

Adam Hinshelwood took his team to Brunton Park for their first ever game in the fifth tier of English football backed by nearly 300 fans, who were perhaps not too sure what to expect as the National League campaign began against one of the division’s big hitters and famous ex-Football League clubs.

The Rebels’ cause was not helped by a longer-than-expected journey to the north-west on Friday which ruled out plans for an extra training session.

And at half-time, Worthing trailed 1-0 to a Carlisle side who’d had all the first half’s shots on target and more than 70 per cent of possession.

But Worthing have not got where they are now by surrendering quietly, and their second half fightback was sensational – capped by three goals in just over 20 minutes which, despite a late seocnd for United, were enough to claim the points from their National League debut.

Dom Hutchinson, Razz Coleman De-Graft and Ricky Aguiar grabbed headlines with their fine finishes but it was a real team effort – from the starting XI, to the subs, and the staff and of course the fans – who Worthing’s media team said sounded like ten times their actual number.

It’s only game one of 46 – and the remainihg 45 will throw up plenty of tough tests and probably a fair few off-days. But for now, Worthing can say they’ve arrived in the National League, and a few others who hadn’t taken much notice til now probably should and will.

See 73 pictures from the day – of the action, the fans and celebrations – by club photographer Jay Wrighte on this page and those linked, and see coverage of the win in the Worthing Herald, out on Thursday.