Real Sociedad held by Celta Vigo after missed chances in frustrating La Liga draw

Real Sociedad were denied back-to-back La Liga victories for the first time since January after being held to a goalless draw by Celta Vigo on Thursday.

The hosts dominated the opening period and created several clear opportunities, but Celta goalkeeper Radu produced a series of important saves to keep the visitors level.

Jon Martin came closest to breaking the deadlock early on when his powerful header was turned away by Radu. The goalkeeper was then tested by Mikel Oyarzabal, whose fierce left-footed shot was also saved.

Takefusa Kubo missed an even better opportunity soon afterwards, sending the ball over the crossbar from close range when it appeared the goal was open to him.

Real Sociedad continued to apply pressure as the half progressed. Radu again denied the home side when he stopped an effort from Yangel Herrera, before making another save to keep out Benat Turrientes’ 25-yard strike.

Despite creating enough chances to establish a commanding advantage before the interval, Real Sociedad were unable to maintain the same level of intensity after the break.

Celta Vigo gradually became more dangerous on the counter-attack. Andres Anton was presented with a promising opening but dragged his effort wide, while the match became increasingly physical as the visitors worked to disrupt Real Sociedad’s rhythm.

Celta players Yoel Lago and former Chelsea defender Marcos Alonso were both shown yellow cards during a spell in which the contest became more combative.

Real Sociedad thought they should have been awarded a penalty with fewer than 15 minutes remaining. Goncalo Guedes went down inside the area after appearing to be pulled back by Alvaro Nunez, but referee Victor Garcia Verdura rejected the appeals.

Celta Vigo almost snatched victory late on when veteran forward Iago Aspas tested Real Sociedad goalkeeper Remiro. The home goalkeeper made a crucial save to preserve the draw.

The result was the first goalless meeting between the two clubs since November 2008. It left Real Sociedad frustrated after their first-half dominance failed to produce a win.

Real Sociedad will travel to Elche on Monday, while Celta Vigo face another away fixture at Getafe on the same day.

Related: Marcos Llorente calls time on Spain career after World Cup glory