Fratton Park endured its fourth 0-0 draw of the season as promotion-chasing Portsmouth failed to break down AFC Wimbledon.

Pompey striker Marc McNulty and Dons midfielder Sean Rigg were the only two players to have shots on target during a timid 90 minutes.

However, the game started at a frantic pace as Sheffield Wednesday loanee Caolan Lavery drilled a low cross towards the near post but Portsmouth winger Gareth Evans failed to poke in.

The Dons had early chances too and even had the ball in the back of the net, but a flick on to George Francomb's free kick was deemed offside.

Rigg caused Brian Murphy handling problems with a blasted effort in the fifth minute - before the match lost its momentum.

Ade Azeez's acute angle attempt in first-half stoppage time was a rare moment of excitement after the lung-busting opening.

Pompey rallied after the break, McNulty, on loan from Sheffield United, jumped two tackles and cut onto his favoured right foot but his powerful shot was deflected over.

Burgess nodded wide and sub Kyle Bennett blazed over but the hosts could not elevate themselves into the automatic promotion places.