This was not a good advertisement for the Premier League. No goals, few thrills, and little in the way of attacking flair.
The teams managed only five shots on target between them.
Portsmouth, who have a dreadful away record, would be the more satisfied with a one-point reward for their long journey to the North East.
The game emphasised the need of both teams for scoring power.
Middlesbrough have failed to score in open play in their last four games, the Carling Cup win over Everton was via a penalty shoot-out.
No Middlesbrough striker has scored in open play in over seven hours, so there is no question over the priority of manager Steve McClaren when the transfer window opens next month.
Middlesbrough began the game as though they were suffering a hangover from their Carling Cup tie. Pompey were the more enterprising side though they failed to cause any serious problems for goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.
Middlesbrough improved after the break and piled on fierce pressure after Portsmouth were reduced to ten men with Tyneside-born winger Steve Stone ordered off for a second bookable offence.
Pavel Srnicek looked shaky in the Portsmouth goal, but Middlesbrough failed to take advantage.
Overall, the standard of passing from both sides was very disappointing.
The crowd vented their frustration and many fans made their way to the exit signs before the final whistle.
Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp said: "We dominated the game at times but we are finding it difficult to score.
"We played good football, but we lacked the most important thing, that is putting the ball into the back of the net." Redknapp reflected on the general lack of goalscorers: "If anyone knows a striker who can score 35 goals please give me a ring. Everyone is trying to find a striker." Redknapp thought the second booking of Stone that led to his red card was harsh.
"When has Steve hurt anyone? He runs up and down and works his socks off. I would not mind if he made wicked tackles.
"I cannot afford to complain about the referee. Christmas is coming and my wife might not get a Christmas box.
"I was fined £3,000 recently for criticising a referee."