Both Crewe Alexandra and Southend United failed to find the net during the opening 45 minutes at Gresty Road this evening.
The home side had the better of possession, but their wingers in particular were wasteful in wide areas.
Reported Manchester United transfer target Nick Powell had the first meaningful effort on target when his strike from distance was parried to safety by Southend goalkeeper Cameron Belford in the 23rd minute.
As the half drew to a close the away created the best opportunity of the half. Sean Clohessy produced a cross for Kane Ferdinand, but the cousin of Rio and Anton was unable to keep his headed effort from flying over the crossbar.
Visiting Southend have won the two previous meetings between the clubs this season.
