CARLISLE boss John Ward thinks Martin Ling's Leyton Orient side can beat any team on their day, writes James Randall .

Ward's men face the O's at the Brisbane Road on Saturday and is concerned about his side lining up against Orient winger JJ Melligan, who he manged while he was at Cheltenham.

Ward told the Carlisle News and Star:"On their really good days they can beat anybody, but they have let it slip a bit sometimes.They come into Saturday's game on the back of a good win at Millwall."

He added: "He ( Melligan ) is a dangerous player and I know him well. He can outstrip people and get crosses in, he is a bit of a clever player.

"He can play inside if needs be and he has the ability to find a goal at the back post. He had one disallowed that way against ourselves earlier this season and was probably entitled to be a bit hard done-by.

Ward added: "Hopefully Evan Horwood will give him some problems the other way as well."

With the O's now right back in the play-off race, and Carlisle sitting in forth place, Saturday's clash is a vital game for both clubs.

"Martin Ling will be telling them exactly what other managers will have been saying - that Carlisle are a scalp." said Ward.