Karanka fury as hosts snatch draw

to my players that he had fouled Calum.

“It was frustrating. The linesman had the same view, he must have seen the push.”

That was the first of two penalties to wipe out two hard-earned leads. It was cruel – especially as Boro looked the more composed and organised team throughout as Leicester problem. They need survival and on yesterday’s evidence, that target will be achieved.

Their gameplan under Karanka is not the most expansive. Solid defence, pack the midfield and rely on the spontaneity of Adama Traore and the proven striking instincts of Negredo.

The Spaniard has been the target of some criticism from Boro fans. Not, however, from his manager.

“I work with him every day,” said Karanka. “Both finishes today were excellent.”

Negredo is 31 now and is not getting any quicker. But his radar is in working order, no question. Two chances, two goals. He could not have done more in his lone role.

He started and finished the move for the first goal as he released Gaston Ramirez and was then on the end of the cross to fire past Ron-Robert Zieler.

Leicester were stunned, Boro were composed. And it took the intervention of referee Mason to give Claudio Ranieri’s men a lifeline in the 34th minute.

Riyad Mahrez made his one worthwhile contribution by converting the spot kick. Even so, Boro were not dispirited. They continued to look the better team – as Ranieri conceded.

“I am just happy with the character we showed, to keep fighting to get something out of the game even though we are in a bad moment,” he said.

Boro restored their lead in the 71st minute when the lack of pace in the Leicester central defence of Morgan and Robert Huth was exposed.

A long through ball from Adam Forshaw sent Negredo clear to coolly beat Zieler.

But in the third minute of stoppage time, Leicester produced one last assault and Morgan, upfield to reinforce his attack, provoked an ill-judged challenge from Marten de Roon.

No debate this time as Islam Slimani’s spot-kick left Leicester relieved and Boro cursing their luck.

“I am proud of my players but frustrated we did not win,” said Karanka. “And, yes, I am