Defences were on top at the JobServe Community Stadium as Colchester played out a 0-0 draw with Carlisle.

Colchester almost scored in the seventh minute when Samson Tovide was released through on goal by Arthur Read but sent a shot wide of the near post.

Carlisle had an equally good chance to score four minutes later.

Josh Vela beat Colchester skipper Tom Flanagan to the ball and found himself in on goal but his low strike was saved by goalkeeper Matt Macey.

Jack Payne’s powerful deflected shot was pushed away for a corner by Harry Lewis early in the second half and Payne wasted a great chance to break the deadlock when he scuffed a shot wide from close range.

Ellis Iandolo made a brilliant last-ditch tackle to deny Carlisle striker Charlie Wyke in front of goal as both sides pushed for a winner in the second half.

Read’s fine first-time 20-yard effort was pushed away by Lewis late on as the spoils were shared.