Sunderland Under-23s were held to a 0-0 draw with Stoke City Under-23s on Monday evening.
The result at the bet365 Stadium takes the Black Cats up to fifth in the Premier League 2 Division 2, with a play-off place in their hands heading into the final game of the season on Monday.
In a match of few chances, the Lads had to settle for a point apiece against the second-placed Potters.
Jake Vokins was named in the starting XI once again as he continues his push towards full fitness, with Ollie Younger at the heart of defence.
Josh Hawkes and captain Dan Neil supported Will Harris who led the line.
Neil and Hawkes both had long-range efforts early on, but failed to test Robbie Hemfrey in the home net.
At the other end, Anthony Patterson was able to thwart attempts from Will Goodwin and Will Forrester.
Top goalscorer Hawkes once again went close after the interval, as his powerful drive was denied by the ‘keeper.
The Black Cats finished the stronger of the two teams and went close through Ellis Taylor and Harris, but they couldn’t divert their efforts on target, and it ended level on a rain-drenched night in Stoke.
Sunderland: Patterson, Richardson (Wombwell 45), Almond, Younger, Vokins (Hackett 77), Wearne, Wilding, Ellis Taylor, Josh Hawkes, Dan Neil, Will Harris
Subs not used: A Richardson, Trialist, Trialist