Sheffield United cut the gap at the top of the English second division to three points as they were held to a 0-0 draw at Preston North End on Friday.

After a dour match with few chances United had to settle for a draw that takes them onto 53 points from 24 matches behind leaders Reading who visit bottom club Millwall on Saturday.

The point moved Preston up two places into sixth position -- the final playoff spot at the end of the season -- but they were fortunate not to concede a last minute penalty.

United's

dangerous midfielder Phil Jagielka was clearly brought down in the area by Adam Nowland but the referee waved played on to the bemusement of manager Neil Warnock.

Preston striker David Nugent, who had earlier pledged his future to the club despite reported interest from watching Everton manager David Moyes, was taken off after 83 minutes.

United are 14 points clear of Watford and Leeds United in the race for the two automatic promotion places. On Saturday Watford visit Burnley and Leeds go to Wolverhampton Wanderers.