Two sensational saves from Bristol Rovers keeper Kevin Miller denied Oxford three points at the Kassam Stadium.
The home side went into the game in second place, boasting an impressive home record which has seen them win six and draw one of their seven homes matches, conceding just two goals in the process.
For large parts it looked as though they would record their seventh home victory, but Miller had other ideas.
After a dour first half, Oxford striker Steve Basham headed over from close range when he should have done better.
And after Basham had headed onto the bar it looked only a matter of time before Oxford took the lead.
On 53 minutes, a Matt Robinson cross from the left was met by a powerful header from big striker Julian Alsop, whose efforts were destined for the back of the net.
However, Miller dived full stretch to his right, and somehow deflected the ball over the bar with the inside of his right arm. It was a quite sensational save, as good as you will see at this level.
And if that was not enough when Alsop flicked the ball into the path of Basham with just five minutes to go, the Rovers keeper dived to his left to keep out Basham's effort on the line.
Although they pushed forward looking for a late winner, Oxford could find no way through a determined Rovers rearguard.
The visitors rarely threatened the Oxford goal, their closest call coming when Oxford skipper Andy Crosby was forced to head off his line when goalkeeper Andy Woodman had fumbled a Sonny Parker cross.
Rovers Manager Ray Graydon said afterwards: "I am very pleased with the way the lads stuck at their task today, it was an outstanding point.
"Kevin Miller had a very good game today, that is why I brought him here. He came and took crosses everywhere in his penalty area and relieved a lot of pressure from our defenders." Oxford Manager Ian Atkins said: "We had ample chances to win the game, but it was just one of those days.
"Their keeper brought off some magnificent saves and sometimes you just have to hold your hands up and say 'we were not going to score'."