Mark Hughes says Harry McKirdy’s antics backfired as Bromley’s former Carlisle United man was on the receiving end at Brunton Park.
McKirdy taunted Blues fans with his goal celebrations after equalising.
But a fired-up home crowd had the last laugh as Carlisle responded to win 2-1.
It meant a losing return to Cumbria for the forward, who has made little secret of his dislike for Carlisle since his spell with the Blues in the 2019/20 season.
United supporters jeered McKirdy throughout and then cheered when he was substituted, the 27-year-old then involved in verbal exchanges with the Paddock.
McKirdy protests after his first-half booking which followed is goal celebrations (Image: Ben Holmes)
Asked if the McKirdy factor and its effect on the atmosphere had ultimately benefited Carlisle, head coach Hughes said: “Possibly, yes.
“He's a little bit of a spiky character. You can use that to your own benefit.
“Obviously he scored their goal, but I think his reaction to things probably hindered his team more than it helped.”
McKirdy lobbed the onrushing Gabe Breeze to cancel out Stephen Wearne’s opener in the first half.
But any thoughts that he might serve up a repeat of February 2022’s infamous visit with Swindon Town, when he scored and revelled in a 3-0 away win, were dashed when Callum Whelan hit Carlisle’s winner.
The former Hibernian man had been taken off by then, McKirdy having been booked by referee Bobby Madley for his goal celebrations in front of the Warwick Road End.
It was his third appearance and second start for Bromley since joining the club in early February.
He was one of two former Blues players in the Ravens line-up, defender Byron Webster captaining the visiting side. He was among those involved in tunnel exchanges after the game as players and coaches left the pitch.
