It was a case of ‘defences on top’ at The Hive this afternoon, as Barnet secured a valuable point against play-off chasing Carlisle United.

Both sides battled hard in a match that was more notable for the tenacity of the Bees performance, as opposed to an abundance of goal scoring opportunities.

The first chance of the game fell to last weekend’s goal scorer Gavin Hoyte.

Luke Gambin’s 20th minute cross found the right back inside the box, but his shot flew high over the bar.

A minute later Shaun Batt burst past his marker on the left wing, before firing the ball narrowly wide of the right post.

Carlisle responded through Jason Kennedy – his 23rd minute shot from distance ended up just wide of Jamie Stephens’ right-hand post.

The opening half of the match was full of endeavour, but lacking in clear-cut chances for either side.

Barnet had the first effort of the second period when Batt’s shot from the right side of the box went high and wide on 47 minutes.

Five minutes later Bondz N’Gala headed an Elliott Johnson left wing cross over the bar.

Carlisle won a corner in the 67th minute – Danny Grainger rolled the ball in to Charlie Wyke, but his shot from distance was high and off target.

Hallum Hope then drilled a low shot straight at Stephens from wide on the left.

Neither side could find a winner in the latter stages of the match, with both managers having to settle for a point a piece at the final whistle.

The Bees travel to local rivals Stevenage next weekend.