Defending champion Salgaocar SC survived some anxious moments before holding host Prayag United SC to a goalless draw in a sixth round encounter of the I-League at the Salt Lake Stadium here on Saturday.
The first session saw insipid exchanges, as both teams engaged in a struggle for control of the midfield.
The scoreline thus remained barren. The home side had a good opportunity in the 21st minute when New Zealander Kayne Vincent got himself free inside the box on a midfield though-pass. But United failed to taste success as Vincent's left-footed volley was brilliantly saved by Salgaocar custodian Karanjit Singh.
United tried to step up the offensive after the break but its efforts, despite creating opportunities in the Salgaocar box, failed as the strikers appeared hesitant.
Vincent had the brightest chance in the 60th minute when referee A. Rowan awarded United a penalty. But Vincent — a foul on whom had fetched the penalty — faltered again and made a feeble attempt from the spot which Karanjit saved.
Enjoying greater ball possession United kept up the pressure and almost earned the break in the 88th minute but for a timely tackle by Salgaocar defender Biswajit Saha, who prevented Ghanaian striker Yusif Yakubu form firing in his attempt from close.
United SC, which beat Hal SC 2-0 in the earlier round, has 10 points from six matches, while Salgaocar has seven from six outings.
