Downing is Boro’s golden oldie

STEWART DOWNING rolled back the years to inspire Middlesbrough to a victory that took them into second place behind new Championship leaders Leeds.

The former England winger, now 34, scored Boro’s second goal and was far too lively for an Ipswich side that has yet to win under new manager Paul Hurst, in any competition.

Mo Besic, the Everton midfielder in his second loan spell on Teesside, fired Boro ahead in the 12th minute. His first effort was blocked by a defender but the rebound sat up perfectly for the Bosnian to have another go.

Downing doubled the lead four minutes later when he benefited from a misplaced pass by Luke Chambers, the Town captain. It allowed Downing to cut in from the right to score via a deflection.

‘The first half an hour was as good as we’ve played all season. We moved the ball quickly,’ said Boro manager Tony Pulis. ‘It was lovely having Mo back to the tempo he played for us last year. When he plays that way he makes other people play.

‘It’s our third game on the bounce away from home and that’s tough. The team have done absolutely fantastic. I’m really pleased but it’s 11 games. Another five or six and then we can take a view.’

Ipswich, who made two changes at half-time, perked up after the break though dominant Boro could have extended their lead. George Friend, who had seen a firsthalf effort saved, went close, as did Jordan Hugill, who should have had a penalty for a push.

The defeat means Hurst, who left Shrewsbury in the summer to succeed Mick McCarthy, has no wins from 11 games and his side are stuck in the relegation places.

‘We were much better in the second half,’ said Hurst. ‘But it was too late by then.’