The 2003-04 campaign delivered a devastating end to an era for Carlisle United as The Cumbrians finished a crushing 23rd in the Third Division, resulting in their relegation and the loss of their 76-year Football League status. The turbulent season saw a managerial change with player-manager Paul Simpson taking over from Roddy Collins, but the side could not arrest their slide, becoming the first former top-flight club to fall into the non-league fifth tier. The struggle for goals was acutely felt, with Craig Farrell and Brendan McGill sharing the top scorer spot with just seven goals each in a dark year that marked a historic low point for the club.