Blackburn hold Arsenal in FA Cup

LONDON, Feb 17 (Reuters) Arsenal were held to a 0-0 draw by Premier League rivals Blackburn Rovers in a dour FA Cup fifth round tie at the Emirates Stadium today.

Arsenal, who beat Bolton Wanderers 3-1 after extra time in Wednesday's fourth round replay, had virtually all the possession but lacked the bite to really trouble a well-organised Blackburn side.

Blackburn, who played in the UEFA Cup on Wednesday, losing 3-2 at Bayer Leverkusen, survived some late pressure and a penalty appeal after Arsenal's French forward Jeremie Aliadiere went down under a challenge by Blackburn defender Stephen Warnock.

Cup action continues today with champions Chelsea against second division Norwich City and Manchester United at home to Reading.

REUTERS PDS KN2103