Oxford United have been unable to convert their first-half dominance over Newport County into a half-time lead at the Kassam Stadium, as the sides have reached the break level at 0-0.
The League Two leaders, who have created numerous chances, almost broke the deadlock on five minutes, but Dave Kitson fired wide from close range.
Seconds later, James Constable spurned an equally glorious chance when he fired straight at goalkeeper Lenny Pidgeley.
Pidgeley got the better of Constable again midway through the half, racing out to pinch the ball off the striker's toes.
At the other end, Adam Chapman's wayward shot, which missed the target by 30 yards, is as close as Newport have come so far.
