Bristol City keeper Dean Gerken dented Newcastle's promotion charge with a defiant display as the Robins earned a 0-0 draw at St James' Park.

Gerken, who was only in the side because Adriano Basso injured himself during the warm-up, produced fine second-half saves to deny Danny Guthrie and Kevin Nolan inside a minute as the Magpies had to make do with a point at home for the second time in four days.

Marlon Harewood had earlier hit the post and Steven Taylor and Kevin Nolan both headed against the crossbar, but the Championship leaders were simply unable to break down their opponents on a frustrating afternoon.

Newcastle stay three points clear at the table of the table on a day when the home fans again made their feelings known about owner Mike Ashley a day after Kevin Keegan was awarded £2million in damages for constructive dismissal.