Sheffield United go in at half time goalless with Rochdale after a first 45 minutes in which both sides had opportunities to break the deadlock.
Dale, searching for a first victory over the Blades, were nearly ahead inside five minutes as captain Ian Henderson saw a shot from a tight angle blocked by the home defence.
However, they could have fallen behind within a matter of moments as Jose Baxter's header drifted just over Conrad Logan's crossbar.
As the half progressed, the visitors continued to push for an opener and Henderson and Stephen Dawson both went close for Keith Hill's men.
Matt Done then brought a good save out of Blades keeper Mark Howard as the newly-promoted Lancashire club continued to enjoy the better of the early exchanges.
Sheffield United then went close twice in as many minutes, with Jamie Murphy and Baxter squandering chances to score.
With the interval approaching, Neill Collins failed to keep his header down from the centre of the area after rising highest at a corner for the hosts.
Chris O'Keefe
