Jon Stead scored twice to help Notts County get their promotion push back on track as his double downed Reggie Lambe and his Carlisle United teammates 2-1 at Meadow Lane.
After losing to rock-bottom Barnet at the weekend, Kevin Nolan's side responded in excellent fashion with veteran forward Stead the star of the show.
He put Notts County ahead in the 19th minute when he collected a smart pass from Lewis Alessandra and although his shot hit goalkeeper Jack Bonham it looped into the net.
And he then made it 2-0 in the 35th minute when he reacted quickest during an almighty goalmouth scramble.
Keith Curle's side had their moments and came close to pulling a goal back before the break when Hallam Hope cut in from the left and bent a shot inches wide of the post.
Hope then hit the post in the second half before substitute Mike Jones saw a deflected drive hit the top of the bar.
Jamie Devitt did eventually pull a goal back with a fierce strike from the edge of the box, but County held firm for a much-needed win.
