Pulis needs vital spark
TONY PULIS has turned Middlesbrough into the meanest team outside the top flight.
Boro’s back four battled their way to another clean sheet – their fifth this season at home.
Only Liverpool, with two goals conceded, have a better record in the four top English divisions.
Pulis’ promotion push will be based on organisation and solid defence not attacking flair.
Points like this, which kept the Teessiders second in the Championship, will be vital in May, although they’ll need to add goals.
No visiting team has scored at the Riverside stadium this season in 450 minutes of trying.
In all, Boro have only lost three goals – racking up seven clean sheets in nine league games.
Keeper Darren Randolph hardly had a save to make as Daniel Ayala, Aden Flint, Ryan Shotton and George Friend snuffed the life out of Swansea.
Pulis (above) said: “We had the chances and we need that spark in the final third to get the goal.
“We needed a break. Swansea defended ever so well and got their heads on things.”
Their best chance was when George Saville’s shot hit the bar. Pulis admitted his side lacked zest and says Championship teams play too many games.
He added: “Games are won and lost in the final third. Were we as bright and sparkly as we’ve been? I don’t think so.
“In the Championship there is more quality now. Better pitches, better stadiums. We are asked to play eight games more than the Premier League and many players play internationals.
“Someone has to look at it. This league has pushed on, better in every way. But play eight games more...
“This is the period now – six to eight weeks – games forced in midweek.
“But don’t forget we are joint top. Don’t forget that.”
Swans boss Graham Potter said: “Happy with a point? Yes. It is not an easy place to come. The stats tell you that.
“Experiencing a side managed by Tony, quality players, good manager, it is a difficult game. It was a test of character.
“We’re delighted to get a point and a clean sheet and the manner we fought for each other and the spirit.
“But we can play better. We are not satisfied. We can grow a lot. Our challenge is to improve certain aspects, on the back of our foundations of spirit and attitude.”
Swans have failed to net in seven of their last nine away games, and Potter admits that has to change.
He added: “Goals... we’d like to improve that. We are trying and flat out in other areas.”
Boro lacked a clinical edge while Randolph was forced to save a closerange Martin Olsson header.