TEN-MAN Burnley were forced to hold on to a 0-0 draw against struggling Doncaster Rovers in today's Championship fixture at Turf Moor.
The Clarets, who welcomed back Steven Caldwell from suspension with Michael Duff dropping to the bench, made a slow start and were then reduced to 10 men when striker Steven Thompson was sent off for a second bookable offence in the 31st minute.
The first booking came after a scuffle with Matt Mills and the second was for a late tackle on the same Rovers player, although Premier League referee Steve Bennett's decision for the second caution seemed harsh.
Jason Price had the best chance in the first-half for Doncaster, volleying wide from 35 yards after Brian Jensen had only headed the ball into the striker's path as he raced out of his area to clear a through ball.
Wade Elliott also limped off for the Clarets to be replaced by Alan Mahon.
Chris McCann had a header saved by Neil Sullivan after the interval and Chris Eagles fired wide.
But again Doncaster looked closer to breaking the deadlock, with Paul Heffernan lashing the ball over the bar from a good position before Jensen had to make a fine double-save from substitute James Hayter in injury-time.
As well as lifting Doncaster off the bottom of the table, the draw means Burnley have slipped below Sheffield United to fifth position ahead of Monday's televised trip to Barnsley.
Clarets (4-4-2): Brian Jensen; Graham Alexander, Clarke Carlisle, Steven Caldwell, Stephen Jordan; Wade Elliott (Alan Mahon 34), Joey Gudjonsson (Michael Duff 79), Chris McCann, Chris Eagles; Robbie Blake (Ade Akinbiyi 58), Steven Thompson. Subs not used: Diego Penny, Martin Paterson.
Doncaster (5-3-2): Neil Sullivan; James O'Connor, Matt Mills, Sam Hird (James Hayter 38), Shelton Martis, James Chambers; Richie Wellens, Brian Stock, Martin Woods; Jason Price (James Coppinger 72), Lewis Guy (Paul Heffernan 72). Subs not used: John Spicer, Gareth Taylor.
Referee: Steve Bennett (Kent).
Attendance: 12,173.
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