Middlesbrough failed to put pressure on Championship leaders Coventry City after Kim Hellberg's side drew 0-0 with Blackburn Rovers.

Boro were on top for most of the proceedings at Ewood Park, obtaining 71.3% of possession, but they failed to score with any of their 12 shots as Coventry could now go nine points clear at the summit when they face Swansea City later on Saturday.

Luke Ayling tested Balazs Toth early on during a scramble in the Blackburn box following a corner, while Aidan Morris fired wide of the target from close range as Boro started on the front.

Alan Browne raced through on goal for Boro shortly after the half-hour mark, but saw his shot blocked after cutting back onto his left foot, while David Strelec was brilliantly kept out by Toth on the stroke of half-time.

It was a more sluggish start to the second half from both sides, though it was still Boro who looked more threatening as Morris managed to hit the target in the 58th minute, but could not find a way past Toth.

The visitors threw everything they had at a winner, with the final chance in the fifth minute of stoppage time falling the way of Adilson Malanda, though his header was off target as Blackburn held on for a draw.

Data Debrief: Cashin leads resolute defence

Boro produced 1.5 expected goals (xG) from their 12 shots, three of which were on target, while Blackburn accumulated 0.32 from their five attempts at home.

While Boro's promotion hopes took a hit, it could prove to be a vital point in Blackburn's relegation fight. And the hosts were led defensively by Eiran Cashin, who won the joint-most duels for his side (six), including all four of his aerial duels, while also recording the most clearances (10) and joint-most interceptions (two).

The last five Championship meetings between Blackburn (one) and Middlesbrough (two) have produced just three goals, with this season's reverse fixture also finishing 0-0 at the Riverside.