Middlesbrough won 2-1 in a hectic game at Sheffield United to go top of the Championship table.
Tommy Conway and Riley McGree scored in the first half at Bramall Lane to steer Boro on course for a victory that took them two points clear of Coventry in second – and seven clear of Ipswich in third – although the Tractor Boys have a game in hand.
Patrick Bamford pulled one back for the Blades late in the second half but debutant Joe Rothwell then saw red to end any hopes of a comeback. The Blades remain eight points off the play-offs.
For Middlesbrough it is six wins in a row, and they head to Coventry for a blockbuster next Monday night, live on Sky Sports.
Middlesbrough make it six wins in a row
The breakthrough came in the 19th minute when Luke Ayling, Morgan Whittaker and McGree combined well to set up Conway, who produced a fine finish.
The visitors went 2-0 up in the final minute of the half when Hackney’s drive struck Michael Cooper’s right-hand post, the ball bounced up and McGree was quickest to react, heading the loose ball into the unguarded net.
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Tommy Conway scores the opening goal for Middlesbrough at Sheffield United
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Riley McGree puts Middlesbrough 2-0 up just before half-time
As the home side looked for an early second-half goal to inspire a revival, an inviting ball across the face of goal from Callum O’Hare was just too far in front of the lurking Bamford.
Bamford did pull a goal back in the 73rd minute, controlling a great ball into the area from Hamer before beating Brynn from 12 yards.
Rothwell, who came on as a substitute at the start of the second half, was shown a red card in the 80th minute following a reckless challenge on Alan Browne and that all but ended any hopes of getting anything from the game.
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Patrick Bamford scores to give Sheffield United hope with 17 minutes to play in their Championship clash with Middlesbrough.
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Joe Rothwell was sent off in Sheffield United’s Championship clash with Middlesborough.
Hellberg on Boro going top: I’m aware of the table
Middlesbrough boss Kim Hellberg:
“It was an amazing game of football, back and forth, a lot of chances and a lot of bravery in the way both teams played. It was a high-quality game and exactly the kind of football we all love. A top game.
“We knew they would come out with a lot of energy. It was a Monday night game here, a big crowd, and they’ve had strong home results, playing good football and scoring a lot of goals. After 10 or 12 minutes we got into the game better, took control, and from that point I think we were brilliant. I’m very happy with the players’ performance.
“We talked a lot about their pressing at home. They’re one of the most difficult teams to play through when they press aggressively here. That gave us the opportunity to use our quality, being active and brave on the ball and trying to play our football.
“After the first 10 minutes we found our way into the game. It became an open away game, but I love that we always try to be in charge and stay brave. There was some absolutely brilliant football from the players, a real joy to watch.
“We’ll work as normal [ahead of the trip to Coventry]. Develop the team, work together, and keep trying to improve every day. Of course I’m aware of the table, I look at it, but the focus is on learning from this game and getting better. Pressure is nothing new for us.”
