Steve Evans’ side, who had lost their previous four league games, were desperate for a win to revitalise their promotion push but lacked a cutting edge against their West Country rivals in blustery conditions.

Liverpool academy product Matty Virtue wasted the best opening of a lively first half when he broke clear only to send his low angled drive wide of Brad Young’s right-hand post.

At the other end, Swindon goalkeeper Connor Ripley kept the Gas at bay as he tipped over right-back Tom James’ dipping shot before beating away Fabrizio Cavegn’s powerful close-range effort.

After the break, Swindon came closest to a breakthrough when striker Aaron Drinan teed up Joe Snowdon but his miscue effort was easily saved by Young before substitute Joseph Hungbo curled a shot just wide.

Ian Holloway’s counter-attacking side edged the latter stages of the contest but former Sunderland keeper Young stood firm amid a series of set-pieces for the visitors.