Sampdoria have earned a valuable point in their battle for Serie A survival with a goalless draw at home to AC Milan.

Delio Rossi's side are now four points above the relegation zone, while Milan remain in seventh place.

© AP Photos

The home side started strongly, but Andrea Poli, Eder and Mauro Icardi all squandered good opportunities to make the breakthrough.

Sampdoria goalkeeper Sergio Romero did well to keep Mbaye Niang's effort out at the start of the second half before the striker fired wide on the hour.

Despite late chances for Mathieu Flamini and Philippe Mexes, Milan were unable to find the decisive goal as the hosts held firm for a point.