Boro Mania

Didier Digard made a successful return from injury for the reserves tonight as Boro beat Manchester City 2-0 at the Riverside.

Digard played just over an hour and looked sharp and comfortable, surely putting himself in contention for the Arsenal game. It was young winger Adam Johnson who shone brightest for the second string, scoring one and looking threatening throughout. Johnson is too good for reserve team football and really does need to find a way into the Boro first team soon.

Manchester City started the brighter but wasted a few good chances, in particular Valeri Bojinov who twice screwed horrible shots wide.

Boro took the lead, somewhat against the run of play, and it was Johnson who provided the touch of class to light the game up. Cutting in from the right flank he curled a superb left footed shot past England keeper Joe Hart.

Both sides went close after Johnson's goal, Josh Walker and Johnson testing Joe Hart. Bojinov bringing a good save from Ross Turnbull in the Boro goal.

Digard was replaced on 65 minutes by young midfielder Richard Smallwood and Boro doubled their lead shortly after. Impressive left back Joe Bennett swung a low cross into the box and Josh Walker was on hand to sweep it home to give Boro the victory.

A good run out for a number of first team players, importantly Didier Digard came through unscathed and puts himself in the frame for the run in. The only downside to the evening was the early loss of Chris Riggott to injury, no news yet on how bad it is though.

Man of the match - Adam Johnson