SCREAMING MADD
Hero James’ stunner seals Canaries win
GARRY MONK’S push for promotion was dealt a blow as Norwich extended a mean streak.
James Maddison was the Canaries’ hero, conjuring a superb first-half strike.
The goal ended a sevengame unbeaten run by Boro.
The Teessiders failed to score with £37million of firepower on the pitch at the final whistle.
But significantly for Daniel Farke’s men it was another clean sheet in the league, adding to their four previous Championship shut-outs.
Boro had not lost for a month, but Norwich haven’t conceded for seven hours 48 minutes in the league.
Only a fine save from Angus Gunn from Lewis Baker’s free-kick kept the record going.
Sleepy defensive play allowed the visitors to claim an early lead with a screamer from Maddison. He smashed home from 25 yards, curling into the top corner after 13 minutes for his second Norwich goal.
Good work from Marley Watkins robbed Dael Fry and teed up opener.
Boro came closest when Britt Assombalonga headed a Marvin Johnson ball across goal but saw his effort scooped clear.
Just before the break Yanic Wildschut could have doubled the lead but sliced high and wide. Monk’s men were pedestrian and failed to get a full grip on the ball.
Norwich foraged well and launched quick attacks through the free-running Cameron Jerome who went clear on goal but was denied by Darren Randolph.
Boro are losing ground on their top-six rivals and need a run of wins to assert themselves.
Not a good time to suffer their first defeat in a Tuesday night league game for six years and 27 games.