Ajaccio were held to their fifth draw in eight games by Strasbourg at the Stade François-Coty on Wednesday.

The Corsican side should have had all three points sign, sealed and delivered after a blistering opening salvo had the Strasbourg defence turned inside out.

Brazilian striker Lucas was the islanders main culprit, wasting three gilt-edged chances to open the mark.

The visitors, winless and second-from-bottom in Ligue 1, weathered the storm and aided by an Ajaccio side low on ideas and led by a rejuvenated Mickaël Pagis it was Strasbourg that finished the first half the stronger.

After the break Ajaccio again tried to push home their home town advantage but Strasbourg's defence held-firm.

The draw does little for either side with Strasbourg in need of points to avoid being cut adrift with Metz at the foot of the table, while Ajaccio bright start to the season is in danger of petering out altogether after defeat last weekend.

Ajaccio: Porato - Jabi, Laurenti, Antonio Carlos, Collin - Chafni, Rodrigo (cap), S. Ziani (Edson 77), Andre Luiz (Robin 77) - Saïfi, Lucas

Strasbourg: Cassard - Deroff, Haggui, Kanté, Boka - Lacour (P. Farnerud 72), Johansen, Si. Keita (Arrache 21), Le Pen (A. Farnerud 87) - Carlier, Pagis (cap)

Ref: J. Cailleux