Grant McCann’s side probably shaded the contest in Cumbria but had to be content for a point in a game that saw them finish a man light after Jay McGrath earned a second yellow card.
Rovers had the better chances throughout but couldn’t take any of them – Kyle Hurst and Jordan Gibson coming closest. They also had a late scare when Carlisle thought they’d snatched the win but thankfully the offside flag quickly came to their rescue as spoils were shared.
Here’s how we rated the Rovers players at Brunton Park:
9. Kyle Hurst 6
A quiet first half with minimal involvement. Came to life second half and saw a speculative, dipping shot just after half-time tipped over by Carlisle's goalkeeper. Another effort, just before he went off, also came close. Photo: Tony Johnson
10. Luke Molyneux 6
Possibly lucky to stay on the pitch for a reckless lunge in the first half that thankfully only earned a booking. One of many to improve second half without the end product we've come to now expect. Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD
11. Billy Sharp 4
Shorn of chances on a tough afternoon. His best involvement came early on when he took too long before pulling the trigger. Only touched the ball 15 times before being hooked midway into the second half. Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD
12. Joe Ironside 6
Added real presence at the top end of the pitch when he came on. Photo: Tony Johnson