r00fie1
Well-known member
Three 8s at brilliant Boro come from behind to win at Birmingham
How the players rated in Boro's win at St Andrew's
www.gazettelive.co.uk
Marcus Bettinelli - 7
Nothing he could do about the goal, but deserves huge credit for an important save two minutes before Britt equalised for Boro. Scott Hogan went very close to doubling the host's lead, but for Bettinelli's outstretched foot.
Anfernee Dijksteel - 6
A tough afternoon for the Dutchman who we shouldn't forget is playing while not quite 100%. He struggled to deal with Jeremie Bela early on and he provided the goal and every other Birmingham chance in a bright 25 minutes. But credit to Dijksteel, he stuck to the task and Bela was withdrawn second half as Boro took over.
Dael Fry - 7
Another solid outing. Had a brilliant battle with Scott Hogan throughout and but for getting the wrong side once early on, he dealt with him very well. So commanding against Birmingham's long-ball bombardment.
Paddy McNair - 8
The most composed player on the pitch. Strong in the tackle and brilliant in possession, he regularly set off Boro on attacks down the left-wing.
Marc Bola - 7
Another solid showing from Bola. Nothing threatening came from Birmingham's right wing and he also played the ball into Assombalonga for Boro's first.
Sam Morsy - 7
Could have perhaps helped Dijksteel a bit more early on as Bela threatened. But he otherwise mopped up a lot of second balls well as Fry and McNair won their headers.
George Saville - 7
Typical hard-working midfield display from Saville, getting involved as much as he could in a game where the midfield where often like a tennis net with the ball hammered back and forth over them. Great anticipation and run into the box to put Boro ahead.
Lewis Wing - 7
At times sloppy in possession as he looked short of match practice/fitness. But you can't argue with the outcome of two goals, even if both might have been saved by the goalkeeper.
Marcus Tavernier - 6
One of his more disappointing outings of late. The long ball style of the game didn't suit him and most of Boro's threatening moments came on the left with him out
Marvin Johnson - 8
Superb showing once again. Another assist to his name and a display that summed up Boro overall as he regularly ran and chased everything to help his team.
Britt Assombalonga - 8
A close shout but probably just edged man of the match in what was a superb, battling centre-forward display. He never stopped from minute one as a lone striker, hassling defenders and breaking in behind off their shoulders. A proper centre-forward's goal too, as he rolled his marker and then played a crucial role in the fourth.
