Port Vale lost further ground at the top of the League Two table after being held to a 0-0 draw by struggling Carlisle.

Vale have now failed to win any of their last five league matches and find themselves six points behind leaders Walsall, having played a game more, in second place.

A point for Carlisle sees them move off the bottom of the table ahead of Morecambe.

The Cumbrians had the ball in the net early on through Luke Armstrong, but it was ruled out for a foul on Valiants goalkeeper Connor Ripley.

Down at the other end, Ethan Chislett’s low shot was well saved by Carlisle keeper Gabe Breeze after Ruari Paton had played him through on goal.

After a closely-fought opening 45 minutes ended scoreless, the hosts started the second half brightly with Chislett’s inswinging corner hitting the crossbar and Jayden Stockley heading narrowly over moments later.

The visitors continued to carry a threat though, and Ripley had to be alert to deny Armstrong from close range shortly after the hour mark.

Rekeem Harper’s volley towards goal went agonisingly wide as Vale pushed to break the deadlock, but it was not to be on a disappointing day for Darren Moore’s side.