Blackburn Rovers took away a point in a match that never really got going.

The first half yielded very little in terms of clear-cut chances, with both defences looking more than comfortable.

Franco Di Santo had the better of the chances for the home side, while Liam Lawrence and Dean Whitehead were both kept out by Paul Robinson at the other end.

Rovers started the second the much brighter, but lacked quality, pace and a cutting edge in the final third.

Andy Wilkinson had a great chance to send the visitors ahead, but gave Blackburn a reprieve as he sliced his shot wide.

Heeding the warning sign, the home side then stormed down the other end and nearly took the lead on three occasions.

Ryan Nelsen saw his over head kick turned round the post, El-Hadji Dioufs cross come shot was tipped over and Steven Nzonzi saw his strike clatter the woodwork.

As the pace slowed Stoke came back in to it, and Dean Whitehead fluffed a golden opportunity.

Ricardo Fullers good work down the left saw him beat Gael Givet, but upon squaring the ball Whitehead sliced his effort well wide.

Back came Rovers, who despite possession couldn't find any creativity to carve any openings.

Brett Emerton enjoyin the best effort as his drive from range sailed just wide.

Returning James Beattie then shot over from inside the box, as the game ebbed away towards the finish line.

The home side enjoyed the better of the latter stages but couldn't convert of the half chances that came their way.

Chris Samba almost taking it at the death, but his headed attempt rolled wide and it ended with both sides taking away a point.