Former Barnsley boss Valerien Ismael could not inspire West Brom to their first win at Oakwell for 74 years on his return to the club.
Albion, currently positioned 18 places above Ismael's old employers, were forced to settle for a goalless Championship draw at his old stomping ground, extending the club's winless run in the South Yorkshire town to a 19th visit.
The sorry record - stretching back to 1947 - was maintained courtesy of some determined backs-to-the-wall defending by the hosts with Callum Brittain, Carlton Morris and Michal Helik all making excellent goal-line clearances, while visiting defender Cedric Kipre also rattled the frame of the goal.