Ebbsfleet United bowed out of the FA Cup on Saturday as goals at crucial times sent Carlisle United safely through to the second round.

Both sides had chances in the first half as the Fleet looked to match their League 1 hosts. Phil Walsh had a header saved for the visitors and Lanre Azeez also went close.

At the other end, Preston Edwards saved well to deny Liam Noble, Peter Murphy and former Everton striker Danny Cadamarteri. The Fleet had a penalty appeal turned down when Walsh appeared to be fouled and although Carlisle were dominating possession, they lacked a cutting edge.

However, disaster struck for the visitors on the stroke of half-time when Carlisle debutant David Symington put the hosts in front.

Liam Daish’s side came out in search of an equaliser and they found one on 58 minutes when substitute Nathan Elder, pictured, netted with his first touch.

The hosts, though, regained their lead three minutes later through Noble. Ebbsfleet committed players forward but James Berrett’s superb 30-yard strike put Carlisle 3-1 up and ended the tie as a contest. Worse followed when Joe Garner headed home a fourth.

There was still time for Joe Howe to net a consolation goal for the Fleet in stoppage-time.