The Dallas Cowboys scored a field goal with 11 seconds of the first half remaining to take a 3-0 lead into the halfway stage of their tight NFL clash with the Houston Texans this evening.

The Cowboys were given a chance to make progress early in the first quarter as Ryan Fitzpatrick's pass towards Arian Foster was intercepted by Orlando Scandrick.

Dallas worked their way downfield, but the move broke down just 12 yards from the endzone when the ball was fumbled and recovered by the Texans.

The Cowboys lost the ball again in the second quarter as Dwayne Harris fumbled it on a punt return, and once again Houston were the first to react to regain possession.

They were unable to make the most of it once more, however, as they were forced into another punt with half time approaching.

Just as it looked as if the match may be going into the break still locked at 0-0, Dan Bailey knocked over a 33-yard kick to give Dallas the narrow lead at half time.