Carlisle United earned a 0-0 draw at Colchester United – so how did we rate the players at the JobServe Community Stadium?

HARRY LEWIS – 8

An outstanding display from the keeper, who showed alertness and good reflexes to make some impressive second-half saves.

TERELL THOMAS – 7

Much improved from Tuesday’s struggles. Thomas’ defending was sound and risk-free and his display was as reassuring as United needed.

SAM LAVELLE – 7

On the right of the central three, Lavelle was part of a resilient unit. Given a couple of tricky moments after break but played his part in clean sheet.

JON MELLISH – 6

Early booking set an immediate test, Mellish then showed plenty of drive to get United into good first-half positions, but was possibly fortunate not to get a second yellow.

ARCHIE DAVIES – 6

Was positive in his first-half movement and positioning, but better final ball could have really opened something up for Carlisle.

CAMERON HARPER – 6

Combined well with team-mates down the left and showed intent to get into some good areas although, again, delivery was not as sharp as it could have been.

HARRISON NEAL – 7

Back in the side, and was part of Carlisle’s good and sharp midfield work in first half, and dug in determinedly for the point after break.

JOSH VELA – 6

His awareness earned him Carlisle’s best chance but he could not take it. Like most, he was better in first half than in the less impressive second.

HARRISON BIGGINS – 6

Won and used the ball very well when United established their dominant spell, but faded after break when Cowley’s side changed and grew more aggressive in their play.

LUKE ARMSTRONG – 6

Made some good runs to put pressure on hosts early on but couldn’t gain any real scoring opportunities before he was replaced.

CHARLIE WYKE – 6

His line-leading and movement was the cornerstone of United’s first-half attacking. In second half little came his way as restocked home defence got back on top of him.

Subs: Dominic Sadi – 6 – Few attacking moments, did his bit defensively.

Jack Robinson – 6 – Tough task in right-sided cameo.

Ben Barclay – 6 – Contributed well to late defiance.

Star man – Harry Lewis – No contest, really. The keeper did his job excellently with good saves, punching and general alertness, and he fully merited the shut-out that came.