Gillingham's run of 48 league games without a goalless draw ended in Saturday's dour stalemate at the Britannia Stadium.

In a match of few genuine chances, Gillingham dug in to stop the recent flow of goals against as Barry Ashby returned from injury to partner Chris Hope at the heart of their defence.

Relegation-threatened Stoke, managed by former Gills boss Tony Pulis, saw their best hope of a goal disappear when ex-Gill Ade Akinbiyi limped off in the 59th minute with a suspected thigh strain.

Paul Shaw nearly won the game for Gillingham deep into second half stoppage time but his volley flew inches wide.

Attendance: 12,746.