Unambitious City were happy to play most of the game in their own half, content to sit back and rely on the pace of Ade Akinbiyi on the break.
Leeds tried everything they knew to get the breakthrough, but lacked the guile to breakdown a rearguard that often included nine outfield players.
It didn't make for an open flowing game. Leeds tried to lure Stoke out by passing across the back, but having failed, finally resorted to pumping the ball into the danger zone.
Alternatively they tried for slick, one-touch passing but too often it was inaccurate and easily snuffed out by City's massed ranks.
The clearest chance of the opening exchanges came when Frazer Richardson, keen to impress against the team he has twice joined on loan, slipped a deft pass into Brett Ormerod's path.
But before the on-loan striker could get away a shot he was well tackled by Gerry Taggart.
The Northern Ireland international wasn't so accurate when trying to repeat the feat in the middle of the park. He scythed Ormerod down painfully, earning himself a booking.
Neither keeper was being troubled much. Akinbiyi, with five goals this season already, always looked dangerous with his pace and tireless running, but he was well marshalled by Clarke Carlisle.
Things livened up after the break with Ormerod and Jermaine Wright squandering good chances while Gifton Noel-Williams' fierce drive went straight at Neil Sullivan.
Leeds continued to press. Stoke kept nine men behind the ball, but good defensive work from the visitors restricted Blackwell's men to long-range shots.
Most flew wide or high, but a 30-yard drive from Stephen Crainey brought a good save from Ed de Goey.