Both Middlesbrough and Blackburn Rovers missed a chance to create some gap between themselves and the danger zone as they played out a 0-0 draw at the Riverside last weekend.

However the draw served to extend Sam Allardyce's unbeaten run since taking charge at Ewood Park to eight games in all competitions. This little tidbit was of little consolation because the relegation trapdoor does remain open for both sides.

The game started with both sides staying behind their lines determined to defend at all costs. This fact was borne out by the statistic that Stewart Downing had Boro's only chance in the entire first half.

Keith Andrews had a decent chance for the Rovers in the 20th minute, but was denied by Brad Jones in the Boro goal. Jones also had to be alert to foil Roque Santa Cruz's effort minutes later.

Just before the break, Vince Grella volleyed inches wide of the upright in what was easily the best chance of the game.

After the interval, Tuncay Sanli came close, while Josh Walker was unable to beat Ryan Nelson in the Blackburn defence. Benny Mc Carthy was replaced with Jason Roberts, who instantly caused problems for the Boro defence.

Jones was forced to make good saves in the dying minutes as the game ended in a stalemate.