Rangers 0-0 St Johnstone
Last updated on .From the section Football
St Johnstone claimed a point in Steve Lomas's first match in charge as Scottish Premier League leaders Rangers were held at home.
Steven Davis's free-kick that, saved by Saints keeper Peter Enckelman, was the only chance of note in the first half.
Murray Davidson and Francisco Sandaza were both denied by Rangers keeper Allan McGregor as the Perth side started the second half brightly.
Enckelman blocked from Nikica Jelavic's header to keep the hosts at bay.
Rangers' lead at the top of the table is cut to 10 points and Celtic could reduce that to seven if they win their game in hand against Dunfermline on Wednesday.
Saints remain fourth, now nine points behind Motherwell, after becoming the third SPL team this season to avoid defeat at Ibrox.
After a tight opening of few chances, Rangers threatened when Jelavic and Davis combined but the former's shot was well blocked by Frazer Wright.
Moments later, a free-kick by Davis was claimed at the second attempt by Enckelman.
Opportunities continued to be at a premium for the remainder of the first half as Rangers struggled to make the most of their superior possession.
St Johnstone started the second half on the front foot and Davidson flashed a shot wide.
Davidson then tested Allan McGregor with a header, the keeper doing well to palm the ball over.
Another Rangers free-kick, this time by Kyle Lafferty, trundled into the arms of Enckelman as the home crowd's frustrations continued.
Sandaza then got into a scoring position only to see his tame effort saved by McGregor.
Rangers manager Ally McCoist sent on John Fleck in place of Matt McKay in an attempt to change the pattern of the game.
Kirk Broadfoot crossed for Jelavic and the striker's header was well blocked by Enckelman.
Fleck blasted in a shot that was blocked by Jody Morris before the Saints captain was replaced by Carl Finnigan, Rangers' Kane Hemmings then coming on for Alejandro Bedoya.
With Marcus Haber on in place of Sandaza to partner Finnigan, the visitors were still intent on trying to nick a winner in the closing stages but remained stubborn in defence.
Fleck's corner was headed wide over by Carlos Bocanegra and Steven Anderson made an important challenge on the speedy Hemmings as Saints held firm.
