Manchester City's Premier League title challenge suffered an early New Year's blow on Thursday as they were held to a 0-0 draw away to Sunderland, who weathered a second-half storm to preserve their unbeaten home record in the league this season.

City did everything they could to break down their hosts' resistance at the Stadium of Light, but a combination of courageous defending, a raucous home crowd and the occasional slice of good fortune saw them keep a valuable clean sheet.

With City welcoming back midfielder Rodri from injury when he came on as a second-half substitute, Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs pulled off a string of fine reflex saves to keep them out, and the home side had several chances of their own to nick all three points.

The closest City came to a goal was a flicked shot from defender Josko Gvardiol that shaved a post, but Sunderland held firm for a draw that leaves them seventh on 29 points. City remain in second, four points behind leaders Arsenal.