BEES HELD AFTER CARLISLE EQUALISER

Barnet once more got themselves into a winning position only to be denied three points by conceding a late goal in a 1-1 draw against Carlisle United at Brunton Park.

An individual effort by Jean-Louis Akpa Akpro had given the Bees an early lead only for Carlisle to level with an equally spectacular strike by Shaun Miller in the 85th minute.

Star forward John Akinde was introduced as a substitute in the 74th minute but did not finish the match, leaving the field of play in time added on as a precaution with a possible hamstring injury.

Barnet’s starting line-up was unchanged from the side that was narrowly defeated by table-topping Exeter City in midweek at The Hive.

In the eighth minute, Shaq Coulthirst flicked the ball on into the path of Akpa Akpro and with a deft flick the striker escaped the clutches of the Carlisle defense and sped goalwards. His first effort hit the post but keeping his calm, Akpa Akpro netted the rebound.

This goal jolted the Cumbrians into life but the Bees would stay strong to repel the hosts for the entire first half. In fact, Akpa Akpro could have extended Barnet’s lead but he headed over the bar when well positioned.

Jamal Campbell-Ryce was set up by Coulthirst and David Tutonda was inches away from making contact as the ball sped across the box, with the Bees being good value for their lead at the interval.

When the whistle sounded for half-time, it was clear the visitors had frustrated the home crowd such was their reaction to what they had seen.

Barnet again had opportunities to take charge of the fixture early in the second half, but a second goal would prove elusive.

With five minutes of normal time remaining the hosts leveled. A long ball delivered to the edge of the Barnet penalty area was controlled by Miller, who then expertly hooked the ball over his shoulder and into the net to earn Carlisle a well-deserved point.