February 11, 2009 11:22pm

THE Socceroos picked a point from Japan's pockets with a 0-0 draw in Yokohama, tightening Australia's grip on a place at next year's World Cup finals in South Africa.

Under huge pressure for long periods, the Socceroos somehow dodged bullet after Japanese bullet to maintain their two-point lead at the top of their Asian qualifying group.

With three of their remaining four World Cup qualifiers at home, Australia's vital away point on a chilly night at Nissan Stadium puts them within touching distance of wrapping up a top two spot in Group One and ensuring direct qualification for South Africa.

While they defended resolutely, Australia can thank Japan's lack of cutting edge in front of goal in large part for their nervy draw.

The tone was set early, as the Socceroos gave away three free-kicks in dangerous positions around the box and created little in the way of attack.

But Japan couldn't capitalise - Shunsuke Nakamura and Yasuhito Endo unable to find a way to trouble Socceroos goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer with pop-gun set pieces.

Wastefulness and waywardness in the final third became continuing themes for Japan, even as the home team smothered Australia like a wet blanket throughout the second half as 70,000 fans roared them on.

Their best chance came in the 70th minute, when Endo's bullet from 20-metres was brilliantly saved by Schwarzer.

Eight minutes later, striker Keiji Tamada couldn't direct a point-blank header under the bar, allowing Australia to escape again.

It became clear it wasn't going to be Japan's night with five minutes remaining when Makoto Hasebe's goalbound shot cannoned off Yoshito Okubo in front of goal, and bounced away with Schwarzer looking beaten.

Despite failing to grab all three points, Japan still remain in a reasonable position to secure World Cup qualification.