BORO’S NEW BOYS RATED
What we learned from this match
Ben Gibson wore a protective mask and led by example. He was on hand to congratulate Martin Braithwaite after the debutant’s strike levelled the game face after he sustained an injury last week and once again, he was Boro’s defensive shield.
His leadership skills were visible throughout. With the attendance down and with three stands empty, you could hear the players barking out orders to each other.
Gibson was chief amongst those talked throughout, encouraging and assuring. Leading.
It might be a new season but it’s the same old drill, with Gibson standing out again.
AN OPENER PERFECTLY POISED While Boro were ending their summer on a high, next week’s opponents Wolves welcomed Leicester City to Molineux.
They won 1-0 but according to those in attendance the scoreline failed to tell the story of the afternoon. It could – perhaps should – have been more.
“Wolves were excellent value for the victory and spurned a host of other chances,” wrote Tim Spiers of the Express and Star.
“Pre-season has been mixed in terms of results and performances. But Wolves saved their best – in both aspects – for last to serve as the perfect preparation for next Saturday’s visit of Middlesbrough.
“Leicester were poor, it must be said. And they’re a week behind Wolves in terms of readiness for the league campaign.
“But take nothing away from Wolves who looked fresher and played with more creativity and freedom than they have under Nuno so far.
“In fact the scoreline flattered the Foxes who were second best throughout.”
With one team installed as the bookies’ favourites and the other the great unknown as we go into the Championship season, Boro’s opener at Wolves had an intriguing look to it from the moment the fixtures landed. It’s now perfectly poised.
Two managers who have been backed by bold owners – one team with the nous and experience; the other somewhat wildcard hopefuls.
It’s an opener to get the pulses racing. Football, it’s good to have you back.