A brave defensive performance from Philadelphia Union ensured that they claimed a 0-0 draw against a frustrated New York Red Bulls side in the MLS.

New York dominated the first period, with Fabian Espindola twice wasting opportunities from inside the box as the hosts enjoyed plenty of freedom inside the attacking third of the pitch.

Zac MacMath was forced into action on the stroke of half time when Tim Cahill tested the Philadelphia goalkeeper's reactions with a drilled effort from 25 yards out.

Despite chances being few and far between for Philadelphia, Jack McInerney was inches away from sparking the game into life when he whipped the ball just wide of the post on the hour mark.

The Red Bulls continued to pile on the pressure but every attack they launched was stopped by an inspired visiting defence.

Philadelphia were agonsingly close to snatching a dramatic winner in the closing stages when Sebastien Le Toux rattled the crossbar from long range, but both sides had to settle for a point in the end.