Swindon Town have endured a frustrating first half against 10-man Bristol City in what proved a goalless opening 45 minutes at the County Ground.

© Getty Images

Steve Cotterill's side came into the game top of League One and protecting a 16-game unbeaten streak this season.

However, Wade Elliott jeopardised that record after being sent off within just three minutes for an off-the-ball incident with Jack Stephens.

The hosts toiled for much of the half but struggled to make their numerical advantage count, with Michael Smith heading narrowly over from a Nathan Thompson corner on 27 minutes.

Town grew stronger as the half went on, and Stephens surged forward from midfield but dragged his effort just wide of Frank Fielding's goal on the half-hour mark.

Nathan Byrne then curled inches wide as Mark Cooper's men continued to be frustrated by their 10-man rivals.