MK Dons and Derby County head into half time at 0-0 at the Stadium MK in the Championship's early kickoff.

The Dons started brightly with some good interplay in the midfield putting Simon Church through on goal, but the Welsh forward was ruled offside before putting the ball in the back of the net.

Scott Carson than came to Derby's rescue after Church had a chance within the six-yard box, but his volley was well saved by the Rams goalkeeper over the bar.

Chris Martin was released down the other end moments later but the Scot could not beat Dons goalkeeper David Martin, who saved with his feet.

Church had another chance to put the hosts in front midway through the first half after Dean Lewington flashed the ball across the box, but the 26-year-old could not stretch out enough to direct the ball towards goal.

Tom Ince came close for Derby five minutes before the break but his lofted shot was too high and floated over the bar, leaving both sides goalless at the break.