Tigers claim rare away point

Hull regained their pride by collecting a vital point in their bid to stay in the Barclays Premier League in a tame goalless draw at Birmingham.

Iain Dowie's side had been thumped 4-1 by fellow strugglers Burnley in their previous outing at the KC Stadium.

But they were far more resolute against Blues in picking up a rare clean sheet and only their fifth away point of the campaign.

It was all the more meritorious given that Birmingham are unbeaten at home since September and have not been beaten by any of the current top six in front of their own supporters.

Hull remain in the bottom three but will be looking to capitalise on having three of their remaining four games at home if they are to survive the drop.

Liam Ridgewell got forward to good effect down the left flank and Barry Ferguson was a calming influence in the centre of the park but clear-cut chances were at a premium for both sides, particularly in the second 45 minutes.

Birmingham started in confident fashion and James McFadden cut in from the left and was only just too high with a powerful 20-yard drive. Roger Johnson's cross picked out the unmarked Bowyer but, from six yards out, he sent his header over the bar.

Blues enjoyed the bulk of possession but on-loan keeper Joe Hart again proved his worth five minutes before half-time.

Andy Dawson's overlapping run ended with a cross to the near post and Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink's header was destined for the far corner of the net until Hart intervened with a fine reflex save.

Blues had claims for a penalty rejected when McShane appeared to shove Jerome as he challenged Duke for a high ball from Gardner's centre.

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