Reading supporters have snapped up the first batch of tickets for the mammoth journey to Carlisle in just 25 hours.

The Cumbrians host Reading for the first time since 1983 next month (March 2) in what proves to be a relegation six-pointer.

Sat bottom of League One, Paul Simpson's side has invested heavily in the January transfer market to try and overturn the 10-point deficit they currently have to stay in the third tier.

The Royals are just two points adrift heading into tonight's trip to play-off battlers Stevenage.

Going on sale yesterday, 788 tickets to Brunton Park have been sold, with a fresh allocation on it's way to Berkshire.

Only four teams have averaged more away fans at their matches than Reading so far this season, while some long trips to the likes of Bolton Wanderers and Fleetwood Town are still to come.

Reading beat Carlisle 5-1 in the reverse fixture before Christmas.