Most of the chances fell to the home side, but the best chance of the match fell to Montrose in the 47th minute when midfielder Martyn Fotheringham dribbled past two Elgin defenders but failed to beat Renton from six yards.
Elgin striker Martin Johnston struck the post in the 62nd minute after a Fraser Bremner cross picked him out and his right-foot shot had Andrew Reid well beaten.
Elgin's front two had the Montrose defence on the back foot most of the game, and if it had not been for Montrose keeper Reid pulling off some terrific saves, it could of been three or four.
But it was the visitors who nearly stole it right at the death when subtitute Duncan McLean broke clear of the defence but failed to trouble Renton with a weak shot.