But the game came to life in the 20th minute when Coventry had a penalty claim. Michael Hughes crossed to Kevin Kyle, only for the striker to be wrestled to the ground by Damien Delaney. Coventry appealed, but referee Barry Knight waved away their appeals.
Hull then had the best chance of the half ten minutes later. A good cross by Delaney found Barmby eight-yards out, but the veteran's strong header was saved well by goalkeeper Dimi Konstantopoulos.
Coventry had won their last two matches because of strong second-half displays, and continued with the habit, taking a 50th minute lead. Half-time substitute Stephen Hughes moved down the right and floated an inch-perfect cross to McKenzie at the back post, who headed the ball past Matt Duke from six-yards to score his second goal of the season.
But Hull fought back and after defending well against Coventry pressure, they equalised through Barmby. Full-back Sam Ricketts sent a teasing cross to the near post, and Barmby made up for his earlier miss with a header. Konstantopoulos got a hand to it, but it wasn't enough to keep out the equaliser.
The Tigers' hopes of pushing for a win took a blow in the 67th minute when Ricketts received a second booking. After picking up a card in the first half for a foul on Kyle, Ricketts held back Gray.
Hull went on the defensive, bringing on Andy Dawson and David Livermore for Stuart Elliott and Barmby.
Coventry put on a late surge, but despite several targets, they failed to test the Hull goal and the visitors hung on to earn their first point of the season.