Jack Lankester’s late penalty secured high-flying Crewe a 1-1 draw against League Two strugglers Carlisle at Brunton Park.

Dominic Sadi opened the scoring in the second minute to give Carlisle a dream start, but after the goal Crewe dominated and got a deserved equaliser in the 82nd minute when Lankester converted from the spot.

Carlisle took the lead when Sadi’s deflected effort found the net after he met a knockdown from Aaron Hayden inside the box.

Crewe had the better chances as they looked for an immediate response, but Mike Williamson’s side remained solid, with skipper Sam Lavelle key to their defensive effort.

The hosts went into half-time with the lead, but the Railwaymen continued to pile the pressure on after the break, struggling to create a clear-cut chance in the early stages.

Crewe were then awarded a penalty late on after a foul from substitute Georgie Kelly and the spot-kick was calmly converted by Lankester to secure a point for the visitors.