Europa League - Aris Salonika 0 Man City 0:Aris Salonika maintained their 41-year unbeaten home record in European competition by holding Manchester City to a 0-0 draw in their Europa League last-32 first leg.

City, the world's richest club, were the better side but Salonika produced a determined display to make it 13 wins and 12 draws from 25 home games in Europe since making their debut in the now defunct Cup Winners' Cup against Chelsea in 1970.

Roberto Mancini's team could not get their finishing right and were twice denied by Greece goalkeeper Michalis Sifakis.

Sifakis was first called upon in the 15th minute when David Silva fed Edin Dzeko and the keeper thwarted the Bosnian striker from close range.

Aris went close one minute before halftime when a Darcy Neto free kick from the edge of the box flashed narrowly past the post with City goalkeeper Joe Hart stranded.

The home team, who knocked out holders Atletico Madrid earlier in the competition, had to resort to long-range efforts from Neto and Juan Carlos Toja in the second half against City's well-organised back line.

Sifakis produced the save of the night in the 63rd minute when he stretched to palm away a powerful header by Dzeko who also fired wide when well placed.

Aris faded in the later stages but City could not capitalise on their extra pressure and possession.

Mancini felt his side had been hindered by a poor pitch. “I think we had control of the game but this pitch was difficult to play on, and I think if we had scored in the first half with Dzeko things may have changed. But they defended with nine or 10 men behind the ball so it was difficult,” said the City manager.

But the Italian was pleased to see his side keep a clean sheet ahead of next week’s second leg at Eastlands.

“It was better that we won this game. We tried but it was difficult as they defended well, but I think this is a good result. At Eastlands we will have a good pitch to play better football with the ball on the floor.”

Selected Fixtures/Results

Europa League Third Round 1st Leg
Aris Salonika 0-0 Man City (R)

Champions League First Knock-Out Round 1st Leg
AC Milan v Tottenham
Valencia v Schalke 04

Premier League
Birmingham v Newcastle

Scottish Premier League
Aberdeen v Motherwell