Promotion-chasing duo Preston and Sheffield United remain level on points after battling out an uninspiring goalless draw.
United's Brian Howard hit a ferocious 20-yard drive that was saved by Preston keeper Andy Lonergan.
The home side should have taken the lead when Stephen Elliott's cross found Jon Parkin but he back-heeled wide.
Stephen Quinn did have the ball in the net for the visitors but it was ruled out as Danny Webber was offside.
Preston manager Alan Irvine:
"It wasn't a good game. I didn't expect it to be. It was always going to be very tight.
"Sheffield United are very effective away from home. They have the third best away record.
"We are down to our last 14 outfield players. We have asked the players to play out of position and I think they deserve a great deal of credit for that.
"I thought January would be a really difficult month. As it turned out it's not been a bad month."
"I have not been able to see it (the disallowed goal) again yet. I thought it hit somebody on the way through. I felt as if there was a deflection.
Sheffield United assistant manager Sam Ellis:
"I definitely thought it was a goal. The players are told not to argue with officials and we try not to, but it is very difficult sometimes with the attitude they show.
"He probably didn't know himself at the end, which is probably why he came out with the answer that he would not say.
"Preston is a difficult place to come. They have a good record. We felt we had the better of the game. You have to be pleased with that."
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