Callum Whelan’s superb strike in the second minute of stoppage time kept Carlisle’s survival hopes alive with a 1-1 draw at fellow strugglers Accrington.

Sonny Aljofree looked like he had mathematically secured Stanley’s League Two status with a 70th-minute goal, but Whelan blasted home after making space for himself in the area.

The result left Carlisle in 23rd place, four points behind Tranmere and six behind Stanley with two games to go.

It was a scrappy first half in a nervous game. United’s Georgie Kelly headed over early on while Joe Hugill’s low shot was saved by Stanley keeper Michael Kelly.

Aaron Hayden headed into Kelly’s arms just before half-time while the hosts failed to muster a shot on target.

The game burst into life on 56 minutes when Kelly’s strike hit the foot of the post and the follow-up from Stephen Wearne was blocked.

Sean Fusire had an attempt saved by Kelly soon after before Stanley took the lead on 70 minutes with their first real chance, Aljofree firing home from close range at the far post following a Ben Woods cross from the right.

Carlisle did not give up, though, and Whelan had the final word in dramatic style to secure a point for the visitors.