´óÏó´«Ã½

Middlesbrough missed the chance to go back to the top of the Championship following an entertaining goalless draw at Stoke.

Gary Rowett's Potters created numerous clear-cut chances but failed to breach the most watertight defence in the English Football League - who have conceded just eight league goals so far this season.

Stoke's front three of Benik Afobe, Tom Ince and Saido Berahino all had decent chances to find the back of the net.

Home goalkeeper Jack Butland made excellent saves to deny Jordan Hugill and Jonny Howson as the visitors pushed for a late winner.

Boro would have gone back to the top of the second tier with a win after Sheffield United lost at Nottingham Forest earlier in the day but they now sit third behind the Blades and new leaders Norwich, who thumped Sheffield Wednesday 4-0.

Despite the lack of goals there was plenty of attacking endeavour from both sides, with Martin Braithwaite and Stewart Downing both forcing good saves from Butland in the first half, while Boro goalkeeper Darren Randolph had to be alert to keep out a Ryan Shawcross header.

Hugill should have put Tony Pulis' men ahead when he was played in on goal but England goalkeeper Butland did well to get out and divert his effort around the post.

Randolph prevented a cross from substitute James McClean reaching fellow sub Peter Crouch as the two teams had to settle for a point apiece.