The Gretna-born forward has linked up with the Blues on a one-year contract and became Chris Beeches’ third summer signing. Reilly, pictured above, said: “I was born in Gretna and lived there until I moved up to Edinburgh, so it’s nice to be back home. I had a bit of other interest, but I’d actually spoken to the manager here in January, when he was interested in bringing me to the club.
He added: “I’m very grateful that I’ve got my contract sorted because there aren’t many clubs doing business yet, although the transfer window has just opened, so things might start to move on that score. During lockdown a lot of clubs were saying they were interested without actually offering a physical contract, so once Carlisle offered me something and we got the loose ends tied up I was happy to get it all done.”
The 27-year-old enjoyed a terrific spell with the Doonhamers before he signed for Premiership side Hearts in 2015. A loan spell to Championship side Dunfermline followed, before he then joined St Mirren where he scored 22 goals in 44 games to help the Buddies return to the top flight. Reilly crossed the border to sign with English League One side Bristol Rovers in 2018. After a successful loan spell at fourth-tier Cheltenham Town, the forward will now lead the line for the Blues.
Meanwhile, Dumfries defender Scott Hooper has joined Lowland League side Kelty Hearts. The former Queen of the South youngster has featured for Annan Athletic and Peterhead in recent years.
