Play-off rivals Dover and Tranmere earned a point apiece in a 0-0 draw in front of nearly 1,500 at Crabble.

The Vanarama National League contest proved a very competitive affair - the only thing lacking was goals, but Dover had chances to break the deadlock in the final 20 minutes.

Nicky Deverdics' free-kicks created big problems for Tranmere, Sean Raggett heading the first against the crossbar, and then just failed with another effort minutes later.

Raggett then saw another effort from the edge of the box saved by visiting goalkeeper Scott Davies, who then saved on his knees to stop an effort by Stefan Payne.

Mitch Walker did well at the other end saving from Tranmere Steve Jennings in the closing minutes.

The game was held up early in the second half when referee Dean Treleaven was forced off with a leg injury, and replaced by fourth official Andreas Anastasiou who had his hands full as the game got fiesty towards the end with a few heated exchanges.

The tussle between Michael Higdon and Raggett was an interesting one. Raggett starting with a ripped shirt, which got bigger after their first challenge - the defender donning a new one - wearing No.28 in the second half, with the Tranmere striker withdrawn at half-time.

Dover's Sam Magri, who had an impressive game, fired over early on as the visitors started well.

Ricky Modeste's 12th-minute corner caused problems with Tranmere keeper Davies finishing up in the back of the net.

Payne had the best chance of the first half - running between two defenders before shooting wide.

Kinnear Jnr, Modeste and Payne all picked up yellow cards.

Dover: Walker, Magri, Raggett, Orlu, Braham-Barrett (Grimes 82mins), Modeste, Kinnear Jnr, Deverdics, Parkinson, Payne, Miller (Marsh 87mins). Subs not used: Diallo, Pinnock, Crawford.

Attendance: 1,460.