Struggling Bolton were forced to settle for a 0-0 draw after Manchester City refused to bow to pressure at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday.
The Trotters, battling to escape the relegation zone, produced a typically aggressive and energetic display as they searched for a crucial Premier League win.
El-Hadji Diouf hit his target when he delivered in a corner after seven minutes but Gretar Steinsson's header rebounded off the post.
The hosts suffered a blow in the final minute of the first half when Ricardo Gardner was carried off on a stretcher with suspected broken ribs.
Ivan Campo looked far from happy when substituted in the 63rd minute, the Spaniard trudging off down the tunnel.
City had a chance late on as Felipe Caceido had a shot blocked on the line by Joey O'Brien but referee Andre Marriner blew for an infringement in the box.