Hail Cesar as Hoops hold City

Manchester City frittered away a decent chance to put pressure on Premier League leaders Manchester United as bottom-placed QPR eked out a 0-0 draw at Loftus Road.

On a day dominated by Mario Balotelli's expected move to AC Milan, Roberto Mancini's side could have done with a moment of magic from the Italy international. Defensive heroics from the hosts and the fine form of Julio Cesar denied City in west London, leaving them four points behind rivals United.

That gap could extend to seven points should Sir Alex Ferguson's side beat Southampton on Wednesday, and City will be kicking themselves for failing to make it five successive league wins.

Copyright (c) PA Sport 2013, All Rights Reserved.