GATESHEAD maintained their Conference play-off push with a hard-fought goalless draw at promotion rivals Braintree Town.

Heed goalkeeper Adam Bartlett produced a crucial penalty save with ten minutes left to ensure his side remain three points ahead of their opponents in the final play-off place.

Braintree created the bulk of the opportunities all evening, but Bartlett kept out Matthew Paine's header in the first half and saved Jordan Cox's shot after the interval.

Gateshead looked to be heading for defeat when they conceded an 80th-minute spot-kick, but Bartlett turned Dan Holman's effort onto the post.

The Tynesiders held on for a fourth clean sheet in succession, and are well positioned with two of their three remaining games due to take place at the International Stadium.