BURY held their own at home to play-off hopefuls Brentford to get their first point on the board in the opening match of the League One season.

And the Gigg Lane faithful went home wondering what could have been after referee Carl Boyeson waved away David Worrall’s fierce claims for a late penalty.

The Shakers winger looked to have been scythed down in the box after Andy Bishop had got in behind the Brentford defence to put him clear, only for Boyeson to point for a goal kick.

Stand-in boss Peter Shirtliff will settle for the point though after his side snuffed out the threat from Uwe Rosler’s powerful team.

Bury were forced to weather a storm at the start of each half against the stronger, more athletic team without ever giving away any clear-cut chances.

And it was the classier Gigg Lane outfit, clearly more comfortable on the ball, that came closest to scoring after finishing both halves on top.

Steven Schumacher’s fierce drive was deflected inches wide on 39 minutes and Mark Cullen had a snap shot from six yards blocked at the back post after the second-half substitute latched on to a flick-on from a Schumacher corner.

Only burly striker Clayton Donaldson looked likely to score for the Bees, hitting the side netting in the final minute to ensure both sides went home with a point.